SanTan Sun News: Community - Jan. 9, 2016

Police,

ex-chief go ‘over the edge’ for Special Olympics

One hundred and thirty-eight people rappelled down the side of the 27-story CityScape Building in Phoenix on Dec. 12.

Why would so many decide to skip using the elevator? Special Olympics would be the answer. “Over the Edge” was organized by Special Olympics of Arizona through the Law Enforcement Torch Run. Participants signed up and committed to raise $1,000 for the “opportunity” to go over the edge of the building.

Among those rappelling was former Chandler Police Chief Sherry Kiyler, who led the 15-person Radical Rappellers. The team raised more funds—$33,000—than any other team in the state for the fourth consecutive time. Kiyler herself collected more than $11,000.

The Chandler Police Department’s Chief Sean Duggan, Cmdr. Bryan Cox and Lt. Dave Ramer also participated.

“You want to make sure the ropes work; that’s one of the first things I thought of,” Duggan quipped. “I was the first one to go over. It was an incredible sensation for such an amazing, worthwhile cause.”

They received contributions from the Chandler Law Enforcement Association, the Chandler Lieutenants and Sergeants Association, Team 905 and various

Herbal Wellness Center promises help for chronic conditions

BY SRIANTHI PERERA

Herbal Wellness Center, a dispensary for medical marijuana, was scheduled to open Jan. 8 at the intersection of Arizona Avenue and Hunt Highway in an unincorporated area of Chandler.

Individuals who have state-issued medical certification may purchase strains, edibles and concentrates from the dispensary.

“The one thing that sets us apart is the quality,” said Dan Schmink, company spokesman. “We’re known for having the best medication in the state.”

The company was established in 2013 in Phoenix, where it now serves a few thousand patients. For several months, it had wanted to extend its services to the Southeast Valley to make it convenient

for patients who traveled long distances to obtain their medication, Schmink said.

However, finding a City-approved site in Chandler proved to be difficult.

While there are a few dispensaries in Gilbert, Tempe and Mesa, Chandler does not have any within its city boundaries.

Chandler planning manager Kevin Mayo said that the City’s zoning code has outlined protections to separate a dispensary or a cultivation site from a certain distance to various facilities. They include schools, day cares, worship centers, residential developments and even another dispensary.

“Based on those separation requirements and the things contained within our use permits in the section of the code for medical marijuana facilities,

other supporters. In addition, Modern Woodmen of America matched the $2,500 raised for a total of $5,000.

The CPD’s participation marks the continuation of a three-decade relationship with the Special Olympics, Duggan explained. The Law Enforcement Torch Run is a worldwide grassroots movement of law enforcement professionals dedicated to raising funds and awareness for Special Olympics.

“The torch run, that’s probably our largest endeavor,” he said. “We raise money throughout the year. There’s the ‘Fuel of Dreams’ where we pump gas and raise money.

“There’s ‘Tip a Cop’ and a percentage of that goes to the Special Olympics. We also had a ‘Shred It’ event where the public brings in documents and they’re shredded in a very secure manner. There are multiple events.”

Kiyler has been a dedicated member of the Law Enforcement Torch Run for more than eight years.

The Chandler Police Department has been an active partner with Special Olympics through the Law Enforcement Torch Run for many years, participating as “Guardians of the Flame” and raising funds as well as awareness for the cause.

“It’s our responsibility not only to

Library to launch the first TEDx in the city

BY SRIANTHI PERERA

Chandler plans to spark deep discussion and create community when it hosts its first TEDx event later this month.

TEDxChandlerPublicLibrary will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 30, at the Downtown Chandler Library, 22 S. Delaware St. The topic is “Four Ls: Language, Literature, Linguistics and Learning.”

“Chandler is an exciting and vibrant city with a really diverse population in terms of everything—in terms of ethnically and socio-economically,” said librarian Phyllis Saunders, who proposed the idea and pursued registration on behalf of the Chandler Public Library.

“Also, in terms of thoughts and ideas, one has to be able to come together and learn from each other and learn from

different people,” she said. “So this seems like a good way to make that happen.”

The half-day event will be hosted by Arizona Republic reporter, Storytellers founder Megan Finnerty.

Six speakers are billed to speak: Carrie Gillon, an ASU professor in linguistics; Tom Leveen, a young adult author; Michelle Martinez, an ASU professor in media studies; Marshall Shore, Arizona’s “hip historian;” Kaitlyn Fitzgerald, a recent graduate of ASU, and Joanie Judd, a literacy expert from the collaborative literacy project, Read On Chandler.

“We will have space for people to hang out and have discussion and converse about the things that have been sparked by the speakers,” said Cynde Cerf, information specialist at Chandler’s Cultural Affairs Department.

FEATURE STORIES

Chandler Rotary Club boosts hopes of Valley veterans community Page 6

Serenity at Fulton Ranch opens luxurious model villas business Page 22

Second grader raises $2,000 for Phoenix Children’s Hospital youth Page 27

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keep the community safe, but to help our citizens,” Duggan said. “This is one of the many opportunities out here.”

For more information on Special Olympics and ways to be involved

TEDx is an initiative of TED, a nonprofit organization devoted to Ideas Worth Spreading, usually in the form of short, powerful talks of 18 minutes or fewer. Many of the talks are given at an annual conference in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

TEDx provides licenses to thousands of individuals and groups who host local, self-organized events around the world. Organizers have to pick the topic, find volunteer speakers suitable to the topic and comply with a dozen other rules to be true to the initiative. The speeches cannot last more than 18 minutes. Also, two to three pre-recorded TED videos have to be shown during the event.

Saunders said that she had no trouble

with the movement, visit www. specialolympicsarizona.org.

Executive Editor Christina FuocoKarasinski contributed to this story.

finding the speakers, as everybody she asked agreed to speak. “It’s very prestigious,” she said.

“It’s addictive,” too, said Cerf, who has been watching TED videos to choose the ones to show and can speak to its “cool following.”

She added: “It’s one thing to watch it in a computer, but quite another to come to one.”

Only 100 people may participate in the event, and registration for the Chandler one is closed because it reached the limit in 48 hours.

However, the license allows the library to organize 11 more TEDx events through the year. So if you miss this one, there’ll be others from which to choose.

Visit www.TEDxChandlerPublicLibrary. com for more information.

DEADLINES FOR SANTAN SUN NEWS: JAN. 23

The deadline for news and advertising is 12 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 14, for the Saturday, Jan. 23, issue of the SanTan Sun News. All news must be submitted to News@ SanTanSun.com by that day to be considered for the next issue or by filling in the “submit a news release” form on the newspaper’s website at www.SanTanSun.com. To send an item for consideration in the SanTan Family Fun, email it directly to STFF@SanTanSun.com. Send advertising files and information to account reps or contact Ads@SanTanSun.com. For deadline information, visit SanTanSun.com and click on “About us” or call (480) 732-0250 for advertising rate details.

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Bahama Buck’s Chandler plays Santa to Cardon patients

Bahama Buck’s Chandler, assisted by Aqua Tots Chandler, delivered a sleigh full of goodies on Dec. 23 to Cardon Children’s Medical Center in Mesa for its Toy Closet program.

“We have tremendous customers, and Aqua Tots was a great help,” said Colleen Bennett, owner of Bahama Buck’s Chandler.

“They all pulled together and helped us fill up the Toy Closet for those kids that needed something good to happen to them while they were in the hospital, and Cardon has a special place in our family for the help they gave us in the past.

“Next year, Bahama Buck’s is planning on making it an even bigger event, involving more of the business around where we are located.”

Each person who donated toys was entered into a contest to be an honorary elf who helps deliver toys. A former Cardon patient, Rebecca Zeimet was the winner

The Toy Closet at Cardon is stocked with new, unused toys to help pediatric patients find joy in their hospital experience. These toy-filled havens are located next to patient treatment rooms. After any procedure or treatment, children take a trip to the Toy Closet so they can choose a toy as a reward for their bravery.

Bahama Buck’s is the nation’s premier tropical dessert franchise featuring the

helped deliver gifts. Submitted photo

“Greatest Sno on Earth,” as well as their famous, fresh blended tropical smoothies. Founded in 1990, Bahama Buck’s is dedicated to creating the “Ultimate Tropical Dessert Experience” for each guest. Its innovative approach to the dessert industry offers guests a flavorful taste of paradise in an island-inspired atmosphere.

Visit www.bahamabucks.com for more information and connect with Bahama Buck’s Chandler at www.facebook.com/ bbaz1114

Matthew’s Crossing director to speak at Democratic Club meeting

The Sun Lakes Democratic Club will host its first meeting of the year at 7 p.m. Monday, Jan. 11, and will feature Jan Terhune, executive director of Matthew’s Crossing, as one of two guest speakers.

Pati Urias of the Children’s Action Alliance joins Terhune, who will speak about her organization’s work and the club’s monthly contributions of food and money.

Urias is the communications specialist for the CAA, an “independent voice for Arizona children working to improve

children’s health, education and security.”

At all club meetings, nonperishable food items are collected for Matthew’s Crossing food bank from 6:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the west parking lot. Through November, 2,139.5 pounds of food and $376 were collected.

The Sun Lakes Democratic Club meets the second Monday of each month in the Navajo Room at Sun Lakes Country Club, 25601 Sun Lakes Blvd. Refreshments are served. For more information, call Tom Amrhein at (480) 895-1162.

Volunteers needed to prepare tax returns

Volunteer tax preparers are needed for the City of Chandler’s Earn Income Tax Credit campaign, in partnership with the Internal Revenue Service. The campaign offers free tax return preparation to households with an annual income of $54,000 or less.

Volunteers helped prepare 1,841 tax returns last year, resulting in approximately $1.96 million in federal

refunds for Chandler residents. No experience is required for volunteers, who will receive free IRS processbased tax law training in January at various locations. Tax professionals can earn continuing education credits for volunteering.

Info: Tricia Helbing at (480) 782-4358, patricia.helbing@chandleraz.gov or www. chandleraz.gov/vita.

there’s only kind of a few places in Chandler that meet the requirements of that,” Mayo said.

Marijuana has proven to be an effective painkiller, has anti-inflammatory properties, restores appetite, helps sleep and creativity, alleviates depression and even helps to lose weight.

Similar to the Phoenix location, the new dispensary is poised to cater to patients of all ages, including children, veterans and adults with various chronic conditions.

Schmink said that the dispensary does not carry a “one size fits all” concept, and instead tries to find individual solutions. One way that’s possible is from the strains that the company cultivates.

At its 28,000-square-feet growing facility in Phoenix, the plants are bred and interbred for genetics in a scientific process that’s tracked at each step and

compared with earlier results so that the most effective, highest quality medications are developed, according to Schmink.

“Just like (Charles) Darwin, who had all of those different plants and different flowers they took through generations, we basically do the exact same thing. Only, instead of trying to give a variation, we look for what symptoms are relieved,” Schmink said.

For example, if an individual has chronic pain and trouble sleeping, a particular strain will allow him or her to have pain relief, sleep better and restore energy.

“At the same time, the person will feel better, feel happier and uplifted without any side effects,” he said.

For more information, call (602) 9033665 or visit www.herbalwellnesscenter. com. The center is located at 26427 S. Arizona Ave., Chandler.

Volunteers needed for Chandler’s Crisis Response Unit

Chandler Fire, Health and Medical is seeking volunteers to serve on its Crisis Response Unit, a group composed of trained professionals, master’s-level interns and volunteers who support the department’s social service efforts.

Applicants must attend an orientation meeting 7 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 19, at the CFHM headquarters, 151 E. Boston St. The orientation will include an overview of the crisis response program, the fire department’s service philosophy and a question-and-answer session. Volunteers must be 21 years old or older.

Crisis Response team volunteers are partnered with professional social workers and public safety personnel to provide crisis intervention and resource and referral services, as well as emotional support to individuals and families who have experienced a traumatic event. These events could include serious injury accidents, assaults, robberies, domestic violence, homicides, suicides, drowning and structure fires. On the crisis scene, the two-person team is able to fully focus on victim advocacy, social and

emotional needs of the family and the individual in crisis, while the police and CFHM personnel attend to law enforcement, medical emergency and fire suppression needs.

“The support our Crisis Response volunteers provide to the families and victims affected by tragedy is invaluable,” said Chandler Fire Chief Jeff Clark. “It takes dedication, professionalism and a lot of compassion and understanding to serve in this role. Our fire and police personnel are always grateful for their assistance in a time of crisis.”

Selected applicants will be required to attend Regional Crisis Intervention Academy training and specific CFHM and Police Department training, including ride-alongs, driving and blood-borne pathogen safety training. Volunteers are also required to attend quarterly meetings for continuing education opportunities and servicecall discussions. Additional details are online at www.chandleraz.gov/fire.

To attend, call (480) 782-2120 or email chandlerfire@chandleraz.gov.

Chandler Rotary Club boosts hopes of Valley veterans

A “Hooked on Healing” motorcycle ride to benefit the Phoenix Chapter of Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing and the Arizona Stand Down Alliance is being sponsored by the San Tan Crown Rotary Club, Saturday, Feb. 26. Registration begins 7:30 a.m. at the Chandler Harley-Davidson dealership followed by three stops before arriving at American Legion Post 35 at 3:30 p.m. Ride organizers have laid out a 100-mile round trip starting with a pancake breakfast at the Chandler Harley-Davidson dealership at 6895 W. Chandler Blvd., and dinner, games, prizes and awards at American Legion Post 35 at 2240 W. Chandler Blvd. Highlights of the day include cash prizes of up to $1,000 as well as raffle prizes.

Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing

assists injured veterans with physical, mental and spiritual rehabilitation, by engaging them in the basics of fly tying, rod building, casting and practical catch and release fishing skills.

Arizona Stand Down is an alliance of communitybased organizations that provide annual, one- to three-day events that bring together the homeless and at-risk military veterans, connecting them with services ranging from health care, mental health services, clothing, meals, emergency shelter, transitional and permanent housing and other services and resources.

Registration is $25 per motorcycle and $10 per passenger and includes an inaugural ride patch. Raffle tickets are $5 for the first 200 bikes. Info: info@healingvets.org, www. healingvets.org, or (480) 339-0247.

Man charged with murder after claiming victim was an intruder

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

A 19-year-old Chandler man was charged with second degree murder after shooting an acquaintance on New Year’s Eve.

Nathaniel Donn Thomas initially claimed to have shot and killed an intruder but an investigation revealed otherwise, according to the police report released Jan. 1.

The report notes that Chandler police responded to a home invasion 9-1-1 call at 8:06 a.m. Dec. 31 in the 400 block of North Coronado. Thomas told officers that he was making breakfast when he heard a noise on his second-floor patio.

He said he then saw an unknown male entering his residence through an unsecured sliding glass door. Thomas said that the man had an “angry look” and reached into his sweatshirt. According to Thomas, he perceived this as a threat and shot him.

His roommate, Natalie Carriedo, heard the noise and went into the living room. Thomas asked her to return to the

bedroom. Both later went to the police department to give statements.

The victim was unidentified until a woman showed up on the scene saying her son, Gage Bodenheimer, had been shot. She learned about it from another witness who had stayed the night with several of Thomas’ friends.

According to witnesses, Thomas unloaded the gun and then approached Bodenheimer with a gun as a joke to wake him up. Thomas said Bodenheimer woke up, sat up and reached for the gun, causing it to go off. This contradicted a witness’ account that Bodenheimer was sleeping when the incident occurred

Thomas told police that he was well versed in guns, having taken his first firearm safety course at age 5, and practiced shooting regularly. He knew how to unload the firearm, but couldn’t explain how Bodenheimer had been shot if the gun wasn’t loaded.

Operation Welcome Home looking for nominations

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

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

Veterans should be Chandler residents

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

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

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

Learn how to reduce the risk of falling

Dr. Erica Williams, a clinical associate professor in ASU’s Speech and Hearing Department, is the featured speaker 12:45 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 14, at the Ed Robson Branch Library, Lecky Center, 9330 E. Riggs Rd., Sun Lakes.

She will discuss how the body maintains balance, the role that the inner ear plays, interactions with hearing and strategies that can be utilized to reduce

the risk of falling. Falls are a leading cause of injury in older adults, and also carry a significant financial impact.

Real-time captioning will be provided and the meeting room is looped for hearing accessibility. Parking is available in the church lot next to the library.

Info: Liz Booth at halib72@gmail.com, Regina Milgroom at reggiefaith@gmail. com and Scott Sjolin at (602) 652-3000.

Spencer slated to speak at Republican Club meeting

The Sun Lakes Republican Club will feature a presentation entitled “Corruption & Public Office,” with Judicial Watch Southwest Projects Coordinator Mark Spencer at its regular meeting at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 12, in the Arizona Room of the Sun Lakes Country Club, 25601 N. Sun Lakes Blvd., Sun Lakes. The public is invited to attend.

Judicial Watch Inc., a nonpartisan educational foundation, promotes transparency, accountability and integrity in government, politics and the law.

Through its educational programs, Judicial Watch advocates high standards of ethics and morality in the nation’s public life and seeks to ensure that political and judicial officials do not abuse the powers entrusted to them by the American people. Judicial Watch fulfills its educational mission through litigation, investigations and public outreach.

Spencer has been the Southwest projects coordinator for Judicial Watch since 2012. He facilitates investigations, development and community outreach, media relations, Freedom of Information Act requests and litigation support for the nonpartisan, nonprofit government accountability group.

Interviewed many times

He has been interviewed by local, international and national cable news outlets, has been quoted in numerous print publications, including The New

York Times, The Washington Post, The Nation, The Arizona Republic and Phoenix Magazine, and has participated on radio talk shows across the country. Some topics discussed included illegal immigration, police suicide and border violence. While still a sworn first-responder, he partnered with the Federation for American Immigration Reform and Judicial Watch to provide frontline law enforcement perspectives on illegal immigration and government corruption.

Former PLEA

president

For 14 years, Spencer was an executive board member of the largest police association in Arizona, the Phoenix Law Enforcement Association. He was the president of PLEA from 2007 until 2011 and, along with the PLEA board of trustees, served more than 2,300 rank-and-file Phoenix police officers and detectives.

Red Cross encourages blood donations during National Blood Donor Month

During January, which is National Blood Donor Month, the American Red Cross encourages people to roll up their sleeves to give blood to help maintain a sufficient blood supply for patients.

Spencer has lived in Phoenix since 1975, graduated with honors with a finance degree from Northern Arizona University in 1985, met his wife, Shannon, in 1986 on a summer project in Bangkok, Thailand, and was the top overall police recruit from the Phoenix Regional Police Academy in 1987.

In 1993, Spencer completed his graduate degree in exegetical theology from Western Conservative Baptist Seminary. During his police career he received the Phoenix Police Department’s Medal of Merit, the Police Chief’s Unit Award and the Protect & Serve community leadership award from RequireThePrior.org.

His retirement from the Phoenix Police Department in January 2012 ended a 25-year career in which Spencer and the PLEA team cultivated powerful community partnerships and facilitated bipartisan support for rights of Arizona law enforcement.

Spencer is the author of “A Moment in Time” and is the founder and codirector of Bema Investments (www. bemainvestments.org), a nonprofit corporation which teaches JudeoChristian leadership principles and facilitates charitable outreach efforts.

Maricopa County Supervisor Denny Barney will provide his report on the state of the county. Info: www.slgop.org or contact Mike Tennant at (480) 8020178.

Since 1970, National Blood Donor Month has been observed in January to not only honor blood and platelet donors, but also to help increase donations during the winter months. Maintaining a sufficient blood supply for patients is difficult at this time of year because extreme winter weather and seasonal illnesses often impact donor turnout.

Blood drives in Chandler are scheduled for:

• 1 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 11, at the Chandler Gilbert Family YMCA, 1655 W Frye Rd.

• 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 13, at Earnhardt Ford, 7300 W. Orchid Ln.

Volunteer donors are the only source of blood for those in need of transfusions during transplants and other surgeries. Donors with all blood types are needed, and especially those with types O negative, A negative, B negative and AB blood.

To make an appointment to give blood, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit www.redcrossblood.org or call (800) RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Info: www.redcross. org/prepare.

Volunteers needed to provide tax help to Native Americans

Last year 2,296 Arizonans gave back to their communities as volunteers, providing free tax services by preparing more than 86,000 federal and state of Arizona individual income tax returns through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance and Tax Counseling for the Elderly Programs.

“The IRS and its partners are looking for volunteers who are interested in taking a little time to learn about taxes and then helping others by preparing federal and state income tax returns for free,” said IRS spokesman Bill Brunson.

“Volunteers are certified to prepare simple, non-business tax returns for people with low to moderate incomes. People of all ages and backgrounds are welcome to volunteer. There is a role for anyone who is interested and wants to help give back to their community.”

For residents of the East Valley, there is an opportunity to volunteer nearby to provide free tax help to the Gila River Indian Community and its employees.

Anyone can be a volunteer and volunteers are needed to help at this site as tax return preparers and quality reviewers. The site coordinators may also

prepare returns.

All volunteers will be provided with free training materials on how to prepare basic individual income tax returns and how to file them electronically. Instruction will cover both federal and Arizona individual income tax returns.

Training is usually held in January and volunteers generally study online with Link & Learn Taxes to obtain their volunteer certification. The Link & Learn program is an interactive course that teaches all of the basics needed to prepare simple income tax returns accurately for individuals. Classroom training may also be offered. Once certified, volunteers generally spend three to four hours per week volunteering in February, March and April. Last year, Arizona families received more than $95 million in federal refunds using the VITA/ TCE programs to prepare their taxes.

To volunteer for the Gila River Indian Community free tax help site, send an email to elizabeth.bohnee@theplfc. com. More information about the IRS volunteer tax preparation program is available at www.irs.gov, keywords “Tax Volunteer.”

It’s time to vote for Chandler’s

Neighborhood Excellence Awards

The nominations are in and it’s time to select the winners for the 2015 Neighborhood Excellence Awards. The complete applications and the online ballot are now available at www. chandleraz.gov/connect.

Mayor Jay Tibshraeny launched the Neighborhood Excellence Awards program as a way to recognize neighborhoods and their leaders for working to improve their community and inspire others to be more active and involved.

Nominations were received for the following categories:

• The Neighborhood Leader of the Year Award will honor an individual that has inspired positive change both social and physical in the neighborhood through leadership. It recognizes individuals who have sought out resources through education and have encouraged leadership in others.

• The Best Revitalization Story Award

will recognize a neighborhood that was diminished socially or physically and where residents collaborated and took positive actions to unify and rejuvenate their neighborhood.

• The Best Neighborhood Event Award (one-time or ongoing) recognizes a neighborhood that helps strengthen its community through a one-time or ongoing neighborhood event that encourages participation and promotes ongoing communication.

• The Most Active or Engaged Neighborhood Award will recognize a neighborhood where neighbors are actively engaged in activities that promote neighborliness and communication structures in place.

Voting will be open through Friday, Jan. 22, and the winners will be announced at the Mayor’s State of the City Address, Thursday, Feb. 18.

ARCHITECTURAL EXCELLENCE

The draft General Plan is a refinement of the current plan and fine tunes the policies that guide future development and redevelopment.

City of Chandler

The General Plan includes policies on conservation and environmental planning, meeting evolving energy needs and ensuring future water resources.

A General Plan establishes land use policies that guide growth and land development. A draft of the updated plan is available for public review online at www.chandleraz.gov/GPupdate.

Chandler’s Draft General Plan available for review

INFORMATION PROVIDED BY THE CITY OF CHANDLER COMMUNICATIONS AND PUBLIC AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT.

One year ago, Chandler initiated a community process to update the City’s General Plan. This plan helps guide and shape the city’s future as it reaches buildout and continues to mature. A draft of the updated plan is available for public review online at www.chandleraz.gov/GPupdate and at Chandler libraries, Planning Division offices and City Hall. We hope you will take a look at the Draft General Plan 2016 and provide your feedback. Comments can be submitted online via the website, emailed to david.delatorre@chandleraz.gov, or mailed to the City’s Planning Division, c/o David De La Torre, Mail Stop 105, P. O. Box 4008, Chandler, AZ 85244-4008.

Chandler has been recognized for its strong neighborhoods, diverse housing, quality employment opportunities, great schools, abundant recreation, and shopping amenities. In other words, Chandler is a wellrounded community where residents don’t just live, but build a life.

The overarching goal of the updated General Plan is to ensure that the high standard of community building set by past plans and decisions are upheld going forward. The draft plan is a refinement of the previously adopted General Plan approved by voters in 2008. It provides the foundation for all City planning related to development and provides the policy framework for making decisions about how land should be used.

Citizen Oversight

A 23-member Citizens Advisory Committee representing diverse interests and experiences was appointed by the City Council and has worked closely with staff and Partners for Strategic Action, a community planning and design firm, to prepare the draft General Plan. Additionally, regional agency stakeholders participated on a Regional Resource Team and provided guidance at key process milestones.

Public Involvement

Residents played an important role

in developing the draft plan, providing their input and opinions on what the community should look like in the future. Citizens, landowners, officials, agencies and interested stakeholders participated in 48 public events. The public involvement process included online opportunities for comment through a project website and a variety of in-person presentations made to various organizations, groups and City commissions. Public meetings, open houses, drop-in charrettes, visioning workshops, and unique opportunities such as planning labs at the City museum and 16 presentations to elementary and high school students also were held. Going forward, a series of public meetings have been scheduled to discuss the draft plan and obtain input from the community. A Jan. 21 meeting will focus on draft policies regarding Chandler’s North Arizona Avenue growth area. Additional meetings will review major policy changes in the entire document.

City planners attended various community events to obtain input from residents on what the community should look like in the future.

Future Meetings

• Tuesday, Jan. 19, 6 p.m., Environmental Education Center, Painted Desert Room 112, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd.

• Thursday, Jan. 21, 1 p.m., Main Police Station, Community Room, 250 E. Chicago St. (This meeting will focus on North Arizona Avenue)

• Tuesday, Jan. 26, 1 p.m., Desert Breeze Police Substation, Community Room, 251 N. Desert Breeze Blvd.

• Wednesday, Jan. 27, 6 p.m., Main Downtown Library, Copper Room, 22 S. Delaware St. A 60-day review period began Dec. 21 and will be followed by two public hearings with the Planning & Zoning Commission in March. The plan will go before the City Council for approval in April and be voted on by the public in August.

Guiding Principles

The General Plan is a compilation of policies, text, graphics and maps that must be used collectively to understand how development will be managed. The plan is organized around three guiding principles

GRAND OPENING!

Upscale, intimate community of only 15 homes in one of the best infill locations on quaint lots in Chandler Square footage range from 1,970 – 2,300 Prices from $339,700. 1 and 2 story homes available

The responsibilities of Planning Manager Kevin Mayo include managing the implementation and administration of the City’s General Plan and related development ordinances and City codes.

and core values of equal importance that together work to implement the community’s vision for Chandler: Strategic Community Building: Policies are identified that relate to the community’s overall development pattern and physical character. These include policies on community placemaking, connecting people and places, growth areas, building a world-

City of Chandler

Residents played an important role in developing the draft plan, providing input at public meetings, planning labs, open houses, drop-in charrettes and visioning workshops.

class economy, healthy Chandler, and conservation, rehabilitation and redevelopment.

Focused Stewardship: Recommendations are made to protect Chandler’s resources while continuing to create a quality community. The General Plan includes policies on conservation and environmental planning, meeting evolving energy needs, and ensuring future water resources.

City had state’s first ‘general plan’

Arizona municipalities are required by state law to adopt General Plans and have them ratified by voters every 10 years. The current General Plan was adopted on June 26, 2008, and ratified at the General Election held Nov. 4, 2008.

Chandler had Arizona’s first land use plan in 1912. This plan was developed

by the City’s founder, Dr. A.J. Chandler, and created a central town square and business district surrounded by residential neighborhoods. We have had more comprehensive plans, similar to the modern General Plan, since at least 1976. Chandler has been working over the past year to update the 2008 plan, which will go to voters for approval in August.

“This new plan is a refinement of the current plan that has served the

Strong Community Foundation: How Chandler will develop and maintain safe, state-of-the-art physical infrastructure to support community development also is addressed. The General Plan includes policies on public services and facilities, public buildings, and financial sustainability.

Chandler’s population growth has been slowing and will continue to slow

Chandler had Arizona’s first land use plan in 1912. This plan was developed by the City’s founder, Dr. A.J. Chandler, and created a central town square and business district surrounded by residential neighborhoods.

as developable land diminishes. Today, 85 percent of Chandler’s land is already developed. As the land supply dwindles, careful attention to undeveloped land and redevelopment is critical. It is important to build on community assets, learn from the past, and make the best possible decisions about Chandler’s future. Chandler’s General Plan 2016 will guide those decisions.

community extremely well over the past decade,” said Mayor Jay Tibshraeny. “The focus has been on updating and fine-tuning the polices that guide future development and redevelopment and protecting Chandler’s resources to sustain the community’s continued progression and maturation.”

The Draft General Plan is available for review on the project website, www.chandleraz.gov/GPupdate.com.

And, while she may be suffering from Alzheimer’s, it in no way diminishes the place she holds in people’s hearts. The gifts and contributions she has shared. The story she has to tell.

At Chandler Memory Care, our goal is to help her continue her story with a decidedly different approach to caring for those with memory loss.

In keeping with the sustainable ethic, the City is striving to reduce paper, and thus, comments are encouraged to be submitted via the website using an input form. Printed review copies of the plan are available at Chandler libraries, Planning Division offices and City Hall. For more information, contact David De La Torre at (480) 782-3059 or david. delatorre@chandleraz.gov.

Resident-centered, activity-based programming provides a supportive lifestyle tailored to her specific needs.

City of Chandler Insider

EMPLOYEE PROFILE

Kevin Mayo—Planning Manager

With his short hair and business attire, you’d never guess that the City’s planning manager used to be a “surfer dude” with flowing blond locks.

Kevin Mayo has been with the City 15 years, the last seven years as its planning manager. He grew up in Manhattan Beach, California, and counts among his accomplishments the missing of only four morning swells while attending Mira Costa High School. He started at the City as an intern in the Economic Development Division while attending ASU and moved to the Planning Division in 2001. His responsibilities include managing the implementation and administration of the City’s General Plan and related development ordinances and City codes. He works with a small team of planners and support staff that process all zoning, land use, annexation and General Plan-related development requests, and perform architectural and site design analysis, including signage review.

“Nearly everything you see built in Chandler went through this division in some fashion or another for review and approval,” Mayo explained.

Recent years have seen planning

staff evaluating and updating various City codes, development standards and policies and simplifying processes. Examples include amending Chandler’s parking and loading regulations to provide more flexibility and easing zoning rules for backyard solar installations.

Currently, planning staff are working on changes to site development standards that would encourage the redevelopment of underutilized commercial buildings. Also underway is the updating of the City’s General Plan, which guides growth and development within the city.

“It always amazes me what this small team is able to accomplish,” Mayo said.

“As the economy improves, we’ve seen a steady increase in workload, especially items processed administratively. And while the work can be demanding and stressful, we never miss an opportunity to joke around and have fun.”

Mayo counts among his proudest personal accomplishments his marriage to his wife, Kristen, and their raising of two healthy boys, Cayden, 7, and Ryan, 5. He is an avid outdoorsman and owns two Jeeps, including the Cherokee Chief his parents purchased new in 1978.

“I enjoy getting away from it all and reaching places that most Americans will never see,” Mayo said. “Whether

rock crawling, playing in the dunes, blasting through the snow or simply cruising down the trail, my family and I ensure that many of the roads we travel in life are not paved.”

One of the experiences Mayo

recently checked off his bucket list involved his love of four-wheeling. He joined three generations of his family to tackle the infamous Rubicon Trail in California’s Sierra Nevada mountains. “It was awesome,” Mayo exclaimed.

Civilian motor school

The Chandler Police Department’s Traffic Unit hosted its first Civilian Motorcycle Training at Hamilton High School on Saturday, Dec. 12. The training involved a number of “problems” and techniques taught to police motorcycle officers. Submitted photos

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of a problem called “The Intersection” in an effort to force a student to look at him while completing it. This concept is referred to as “head and eyes.” Participants heard this term yelled to them many times during the course of the day.

Officer E. Cuthbertson shares a lighter moment with a student. Attendees ranged in experience, skill level and the type of motorcycle they operate.

Perfectly placed in the heart of downtown Queen Creek, enjoy amazing access to walking trails, shopping, and restaurants! With a wonderful selection of move-in ready homes available, owning your dream home can be possible sooner than you think!

Ford presents new Transit Connect van to Matthew’s Crossing food bank

Matthew’s Crossing food bank in Chandler has received a new, custom-wrapped Transit Connect van courtesy of Ford Motor Co. The vehicle has 104 cubic feet of cargo space and is capable of carrying 1,470 pounds, which equals more than 1,100 meals per vehicle per trip.

“The first step in creating a better world is helping to fulfill the most basic needs of our neighbors,” said Christie Mildner with Ford Motor Co.’s Phoenix Region. “More than 48 million Americans live in fear of going hungry each day and these vehicles will deliver meals—not just during this season of giving but throughout the year.”

Chandler Vice Mayor Kevin Hartke, Matthew’s Crossing’s Jan Terhune and Ford Motor Co.’s Christie Mildner check out the new Transit Connect van that will aid the Chandler-based food bank in getting food to those in need in 2016 and beyond. Submitted photo

Nationally, Ford has deployed dozens of Transit Connects as part of its Mobile Food Pantry program. A handful of them are located in Phoenix, and they are responsible for distributing more than 6 million meals over the past five years.

“With its nimble handling and fully adaptable cargo space, the Transit Connect makes an ideal option for food transportation,” Mildner added. “This unit can be used for the collection of nonperishable goods received from local food drive efforts as well as for picking up fresh produce, meat and dairy items from local grocers with the goal of

D.M.D., M.D.

getting food to those who need it most.”

Last year, Matthew’s Crossing served 48,000 individuals and provided 17,000 emergency food boxes. Store pickups increased from 14,121 pounds of food in 2013 to 249,222 pounds in 2014.

“The new Transit Connect will enable us to pick up even more food in 2016 and beyond,” said Jan Terhune, the food bank’s executive director. “Currently, Arizona is one of the worst states in the nation for childhood hunger with more than one in four children not knowing where their next meal will come from. We are forever grateful for community partners like Ford.”

PayPal Chandler hosts holiday party for ICAN Youth

ICAN youth enjoyed their annual holiday party in December, which was sponsored by PayPal Chandler and featured 5 tons of real snow and a sledding hill. Participants also made gingerbread houses, had a marshmallow war, made ornament necklaces and participated in reindeer games.

In addition to underwriting the event and providing employee volunteers, PayPal Chandler also donated more than 400 holiday gifts for ICAN youth.

“At PayPal Chandler, we encourage our employee champions to come together to make a difference in the local community,” said Karen Marshall, vice president of global operations, North America. “We’re also very committed to providing support to the six causes that

were selected for 2016 by our teammates. Supporting ICAN’s holiday party was one of the chosen projects this year—helping to collect more than 400 toys/gifts for youth in need and volunteering at the event.”

ICAN is a free, family-centered youth service that provides a full complement of programs to equip youth to achieve personal and academic success by tackling substance abuse, gang involvement and juvenile delinquency. ICAN is accredited by the National Council on Accreditation and was recently named “Outstanding after School Program” by the Arizona Center for After School Excellence. Info: call (480) 821-4207 or visit www.icanaz.org.

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

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

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

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

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

Earn a voucher to the Waste Management Phoenix Open by giving blood

More blood transfusions are required in January than any other month of the year. That’s why The Thunderbirds are thanking those who donate blood through Jan. 15 to United Blood Services with a voucher for a free ticket to the Waste Management Phoenix Open.

In addition to an immune disorder, Gilbert teen McKindree suffers from Diamond Blackfan Anemia, a rare disease that prevents her body from producing red blood cells. She is alive today because of regular blood transfusions.

“Thanks to blood donors, our family is complete,” said her mother, Aimee. “I’m not sure I have the words to express my gratitude to them. Their generosity helps to take away the fear of losing her.”

UBS encourages blood donors to visit the Chandler Donor Center, 1989 W. Elliot Rd., 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursdays and 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. All blood types

are needed, but Type O-negative is in greatest demand.

Other temporary locations for donating in Chandler are:

• 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 10, in the Bloodmobile at the Chandler First Assembly of God, 532 W. Ray Rd.

• 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday, Jan. 11, in the Ballroom of Solera Chandler, 6360 S. Mountain Blvd.

• 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Monday, Jan. 11, in the Cotton Room of the Tumbleweed Recreation Center, 745 E. Germann Rd.

• 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 13, in the Bloodmobile at Chandler Penske Automotive Group, 7450 W. Orchid Ln.

• 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 14, in the Bloodmobile at Avnet Logistics, 60 S. McKemy Ave.

• 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday, Jan. 15, in the Bloodmobile at Qualcomm, 5740 W. Chandler Blvd.

To make an appointment, call (877) UBS-HERO or visit www.BloodHero. com.

Chief Duggan appointed to executive committee of the IACP

Chandler Police Chief Sean Duggan has been appointed to the executive committee of the International Association of Chiefs of Police. He is one of 47 executive committee members of the IACP, the world’s largest association of law enforcement executives with more than 25,000 members in 121 countries.

“Chief Duggan was chosen as a

member of the executive committee, because he exemplifies a high level of commitment to the association’s values and to the law enforcement profession,” said IACP President Terrence M. Cunningham, chief of the Wellesley, Massachusetts, Police Department. “I look forward to working with Chief Duggan in the year to come.”

The editors of the SanTan Sun News are seeking residents of the Southeast Chandler community to contribute to our publication. We have been delivering the news of the area to 30,000 driveways for more than 17 years. As a writer for the SanTan Sun News you would be compensated for reporting on local stories in your community. Professional writing experience is required. If you might have an interest in joining our stable of talented community journalists, please send your resume and writing samples to Christina@SanTanSun.com.