SanTan Sun News;12-5-15: community

‘Bad

guys doing

good’ Stormtrooper

group looks forward to ‘The Force Awakens’

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

Dressing up as a Stormtrooper as part of the 501st Legion is more than just play to Chandler resident Michael Betsko. It’s an opportunity to coax a smile out of the most cynical people.

Members of the local Dune Sea Garrison and its parent organization, 501st Legion, put their costumes to good use taking part in charity events like the MS Walk and visits to children’s hospitals.

“I’ve been to Phoenix Children’s Hospital twice,” Betsko said. “I’ve done Comicon, obviously, Make-a-Wish Foundation, some fundraising events. Just yesterday, I was at an event— Clara’s Run—for a young girl who passed away last year.”

The garrison, which has been around for 12-plus years, is especially popular now with the Friday, Dec. 18, release of “Star Wars: The Force Awakens,” the seventh episode in the film series. The latest chapter is cloaked in mystery, save for a few trailers.

Prospective members of the garrison or legion must be 18 and own a high-quality costume, which can cost more than $1,000 and take about 50 hours of manpower to create. For information about the group, visit www.501st.com or www.

Home

for

the holidays

City allows the Gil family to keep their son’s emotional support pig

BY MICHELLE TALSMA EVERSON

Just in time for the holidays—and after a three-month legal scuffle—the City of Chandler has ruled that the Gil family is allowed to keep Maggie, a pet pig that serves as a therapy animal for the family’s 9-year-old son, Julian.

The issue began in August when the City received an anonymous complaint about the pig. Initially, the City told the family that Maggie would have to leave because their property is not zoned for livestock. But, according to the family, Maggie is not livestock—she’s an emotional support animal for Julian, who has Asperger’s Syndrome.

The complaint opened a months-long back and forth between the family’s legal team and the City of Chandler. On

Nov. 17, Maggie was approved to stay with the Gils.

“The City of Chandler has approved the Gils’ request for a reasonable accommodation under the Federal Fair Housing Act,” said Matt Burdick, communications and public affairs director for the City.

“The City took the time necessary to investigate the complaint and reviewed information submitted in support of the Gils’ reasonable accommodation request. This outcome was reached through a fair process that balances the child’s rights under the law along with the rights of neighboring property owners.”

According to the City’s official

duneseagarrison.com.

“I’ve been with them just about a year,” Betsko said “I love it. It’s fantastic. You can’t get any better than working with the kids. The smiles on the kids’ faces make it all worth it.

“Plus, you get to wear the armor, which is really exciting—right—for any lifelong fan.”

He said it took a while for his wife to wrap her head around the concept, but she eventually grasped it.

“My kids, they’re not fazed by seeing dad in a Stormtrooper costume anymore,” he added. “They got used to it when they saw a roomful of them getting geared up.”

His young children even have gotten into the game. During a recent “Star Wars Reads” program at the Hamilton Library, one son donned authentic Jango Fett gear while the other one was Kylo Ren.

“I bought that [Jango Fett] from another garrison member,” he said.

As for “The Force Awakens,” the 40-year-old Betsko is looking forward to next year’s film, “Rogue One: A Star Wars Story,” a story that’s set between Episode Three (“Revenge of the Sith”) and Episode Four (“A New Hope”) said he.

Locals encouraged to take

BY MICHELLE TALSMA EVERSON

Last year, 265 Arizonans were killed and another 3,146 injured because of impaired drivers, according to recent statistics.

To combat startling numbers like these, Desert Car Care Center of Chandler and MADD (Mothers Against Drunk Driving) Phoenix are launching their annual “Tie One On For Safety” campaign to remind community members to always have a designated driver. Both groups support this cause, especially during the holiday season.

“Tie One On For Safety is MADD’s longest public awareness campaign, and between Thanksgiving and New Year’s there is a higher potential for impaired driving crashes and fatalities—all during a time that is meant for family and friends,” said Beverly Mason Biggers, Arizona

program manager for MADD.

“We could end drunk driving deaths tomorrow by simply not getting behind the wheel after drinking or using drugs—legal, illegal and over the counter medicines.”

The event is dedicated to Chandler Police Officer David Payne, who was part of the East Valley DUI Task Force and supported the 2012 event.

While on duty on Oct. 31, 2014, Payne was hit by a drunk driver and killed.

The official kick off date is Tuesday, Dec. 15, at Desert Care of Chandler, located at 95 N. Dobson Rd. Then, through Dec. 31, community members can come in and sign the Pledge to Drive Sober and receive a “Tie One On For Safety” MADD decal, a free set of windshield wiper blades and a voucher

Betsko is thrilled that his children are into “Star Wars,” a movie he saw as a “young guy.”

“My parents showed it to me,” he said. “When I was in college, I picked it

back up. A lot of us got together and geeked out watching a lot of it. That’s when video games were really big. That became a bit of a driver. It was a common core for us.”

DaVita Healthcare slated to move into Chandler

BY KERRY FEHR-SNYDER

A Fortune 500 company has picked northwest Chandler over five other sites to build a new specialty pharmacy that serves patients with kidney disease, cancer, hepatitis, hemophilia and multiple sclerosis.

DaVita Healthcare expects to open its 75,000-square-foot facility in northwest Chandler near Chandler Boulevard and Ray Road in February, said DaVita vice president and general manager Neil Prezioso. It expects to employ about 550 workers within five years.

“We like Chandler for its different geography and time zone and its labor force,” he added.

The company is based in Texas and operates nearly 3,000 kidney dialysis centers throughout the country. Its specialty pharmacy will employ pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, patient care representatives and nurses. As a specialty pharmacy, DaVita will distribute specialty drugs to patients with end-stage liver disease and other complex medical disorders with a

referral from their physician.

DaVita considered sites in Ohio, Tennessee, California, Colorado and New Jersey before selecting Chandler. Each city, offered DaVita financial incentives to establish operations, Prezioso said.

Chandler Economic Development Director Micah Miranda said DaVita is the latest addition to a “strong development” scene.

“We are seeing great activity around the (Santan Loop) 202-101 corridor,” he said.

He noted the expansion of Wells Fargo campus, which will employ 12,000 workers, and the expected development of Covance’s product testing facility at Gilbert and Ryan roads into a business park.

• Compounded Medications including HRT/Bio Identical Hormones

• Pet Meds

• Prescription Medications

• High quality Vitamins/Supplements

• Metabolic Detoxification

• We accept most insurance plans

School seeking match for ill seventh grader

Santan Junior High School seventh grader Mia McPoland was diagnosed at 6 weeks old with a rare illness called Diamond Blackfin Anemia, which prevents her bone marrow from producing red blood cells.

Mia’s only cure is a bone marrow transplant with the help of Be the Match, the world’s largest bone marrow donor registry. Mia’s three sisters have been tested but are not matches. The family is hoping someone from the public can help.

Be The Match and United Blood Services will be at Santan Junior High from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday, Dec. 14, to seek a match.

Blood donors must be 18 years old and can sign up at www.cusd80.com/sjhs.

Participants can also get a simple cheek swab for a possible marrow match. This procedure is free for those between the ages of 18 and 44 years old. Persons “overqualified,” or older than 45, may consider ordering a home swab test kit for $100. Child care will be available during the donation process.

Santan Junior High is also raising funds in Mia’s honor. The schools goal is $5,000 or $3.60 per student. That would pay for 50 potential matches to be added to the Be the Match registry. Donate online with a credit card directly to Be the Match through the SJHS website www.cusd80.com/sjhs.

For more information contact, Kim Vradenburg at (480) 883-4607.

Meet Your New Neighbors

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.

• Wellness classes including diabetes education

for 20 percent off any repair or service up to $100 through Jan. 31, according to a campaign spokesperson.

“We lost a great man and public servant last year to a DUI incident,

Chandler Police Officer David Payne,” said Frank Leutz, CEO of Desert Car Care of Chandler.

“He was part of the East Valley DUI Taskforce and helped us get the message out the year before this tragedy and we

Search all homes available

will continue to spread this message to honor him.

“Accidents involving alcohol are preventable and, with all of the options for a designated driver, an accident related to DUI should be a thing of the past. We ask the community to make this commitment to themselves, their family and friends.”

“Officer Payne should be here and my brother, Scott, should be here, but they’re not,” Biggers added. “Let’s pledge to always use a nondrinking designated driver and keep the joy in the holidays.”

This local effort is part of MADD’s

national campaign.

“Started in 1986, Tie One On For Safety is MADD’s longest-running and most visible public awareness project. The name comes from the phrase ‘tie one on,’ which is slang for drinking alcohol. But at MADD we use the phrase to remind everyone that drinking and driving don’t mix,” cited the national MADD website.

To learn more about the Tie One On For Safety campaign, visit www. desertcarecare.com or call the business at (480) 726-6400. To learn more about MADD Phoenix, visit www.madd.org/ local-offices/az.

Tips to keep your family and friends safe this season

• Promote the nondrinking designated driver concept in party invitations.

• Host parties that provide alternate transportation or accommodations

• Have bedrooms and your sofa ready for those who need to spend the night.

• Provide plenty of food, yet avoid too

New Science for Age Old Problem – PAIN

East Valley clinic provides solution for Sciatica pain sufferers

WIth the arrival of S grows longer and many people start spending more time working on their backswings, backstrokes, backhands, backyard gardens. They also might be spending more time with backaches.

Novocur Pain Management

Clinics now offers regenerative procedures, such as Amniotic Allograft Injections to help patients heal acute or chronically painful joints and tissue. Amniotic Allograft injection is non-steroidal and works to rebuild tissue and joints instead of break it down.

Epidural injections are one of the most effective treatments Novocur uses to quickly relieve sciatic pain. A skilled physician who specializes in pain management performs this advanced procedure safely with the help of x-ray guidance. The medication is carefully injected directly around the nerves that cause the pain to reduce inflammation and provide fast relief.

many salty snacks, which tend to make people thirsty and drink more.

• Designate a nondrinking driver before any celebration begins.

To learn how Novocur can help end the pain from sciatica or many other types of pain, call 480-855-6686 or go to novocur.com

Regenerative proteins, growth factors and stem cells are found in amniotic fluid and tissue. The donor tissue is processed into liquid form, then Novocur injects the fluid into the joints or tissue where it helps reconstruction of damaged soft tissues (muscle, tendon, ligaments, cartilage and joints). The inflammation process that coincides with pain syndromes is also reduced.

It’s important to note the amniotic fluid/tissue is donated from only live birth planned C-sections. Painful and arthritic back, neck, knee, shoulder and hip joints, as well as tendonitis, bursitis, plantar fasciitis, irritated nerves, muscle tears and repetitive injuries are commonly treated with Amniotic Allograft injection. For more information call Novocur at 480.855.NOVO (6686) or visit www.Novocur.com.

Notice of Decision document, Maggie can remain in the Gils’ home as long as the family (specifically Julian) stays within the same residence and maintains their property according to City code. If they move to another house they will have to refile a new accommodation request with the City.

When the original story about the family’s battle to keep Maggie made news, the family began to receive an outpouring of support online and in person.

“We are thankful for all the love and support that we have received from so many people in Chandler and neighboring cities and all over the world,” said Arlene Gil, Julian’s mom.

“[Through this experience] we have learned that there are so many wonderful supportive people all over the world,” she continued. “Don’t ever feel you are alone because there is always someone to lend a helping hand, kind words of encouragement and support. Do not give up on things that are important to you.”

think about it anymore.”

She also noted that the family is grateful to their legal team, including John Schill and Jason Karpel.

As for what the future holds, Gil said she and her family—including Maggie— are happy to return to life as normal.

Gil added that Julian is very relieved that Maggie is officially home to stay. “He is happy that he does not have to

City

“We are just going to go back to our quiet life,” she said. “Filled with routines and love and laughter.”

Councilwoman Ellen to run for re-election

Chandler City Councilwoman Nora Ellen filed the paperwork formally declaring her bid for re-election in 2016.

Ellen, a real estate broker who has served on the Chandler Chamber of Commerce’s board of directors, said she wants to continue promoting policies that have created thriving businesses and safe neighborhoods.

“It’s been a privilege and joy serving Chandler as we strive to make our city the best place to live, work and raise a family,” Ellen said.

Recalling her first term, Ellen said she is particularly proud of having initiated Chandler’s “Operation Welcome Home” program to honor veterans during a public ceremony.

“Those who put their lives on the line to protect our freedoms deserve our highest respect and appreciation,” she said.

“I would be thrilled and humbled to have the support of the people for a second term to carry on those efforts.”

Ellen serves on the Chandler Airport Commission and has been a member of mayor’s Four Corner Retail and Neighborhood Advisory committees. She has lived in Chandler for 12 years and has two married children and one grandchild.

She can be reached at (480) 496-7114.

Cooper’s Chance Animal Rescue receives national

Cooper’s Chance Animal Rescue is the latest recipient of a national vaccination grant courtesy of GreaterGood.org and Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica Inc. in partnership with The Animal Rescue Site. Cooper’s Chance is a no-kill animal rescue organization founded in 2006 in Chandler.

“Animal rescue organizations like the Cooper’s Chance Animal Rescue are charged with the daunting task of keeping the animals in their care healthy and happy until they find forever homes,” said Albrecht Kissel, BIVI president and CEO. “We hope that

vaccination grant

by sharing our expertise and providing financial support to these organizations, they are better able to fulfill their missions.”

“Partnering with BIVI on this program means that we are able to provide groups like Cooper’s Chance Animal Rescue with the tools needed to succeed,” said Liz Baker, executive director of GreaterGood.org. “We look forward to seeing the impact the program will have on the lives of local shelter pets in Chandler.”

Info: www.cooperschance.org or www.greatergood.org/a-shot-at-life.

Donate a toy and get a free ride in a fire truck

Toys are being collected by the Chandler Fire, Health & Medical Department for disadvantaged children in the community.

The toy collection point at Chandler Fashion Center is near the valet parking area outside of the food court on the south side of the mall. An adult must accompany all children 6 years of age and younger on their ride. CFHM also requests that donated toys not be battery operated.

Chandler firefighters and volunteers will help deliver all donated toys to the Chandler CARE Center, where they will be presented to disadvantaged children who have been identified through the staff

at each Chandler Unified School District elementary school.

“Chandler residents have been very generous and supportive of our Toy Drive through the years, and the Toy Ride at Chandler Fashion Center is always a great time,” said Jeff Clark, CFHM chief.

“Our firefighters have a lot of fun giving rides to kids and their parents. And the donated toys make Christmas more joyful for a lot of Chandler children.”

Toy donations can also be dropped off in the lobby of the Fire Administration Headquarters at 151 E. Boston St. through Dec. 15 or at any Chandler fire station.

SFR Ad Layout 10x6.6-11232015.pdf 1 11/23/15 11:39 AM

Info: www.chandleraz.gov/fire.

Red Cross encourages blood donations during holiday season

Blood donations often decline from now to New Year’s Day when holiday festivities pull people away from their donation appointments. Seasonal illnesses, such as colds and the flu, can also have a serious impact on blood donations. The American Red Cross encourages individuals and organizations to give something that means something this winter by making a lifesaving blood donation or hosting a blood drive.

Blood drives in Chandler are scheduled for:

• 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5, at Koinonia Mennonite Church, 2505 N. Dobson Rd.

• 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 13, at the American Legion Hall, 2240 W. Chandler Blvd.

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 prepare taxes

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.

Last year, volunteers helped prepare 1,841 tax returns resulting in approximately $1.96 million in federal refunds for Chandler residents.

No experience is required for volunteers, who will receive free IRS process-based 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.

ICAN names RX Initiative Subcommittee

The Chandler Coalition on Youth Substance Abuse, a program of ICAN: Positive Programs for Youth, has announced members of its RX Initiative Subcommittee. The subcommittee is tasked with educating the community about the dangers of prescription drug abuse, which was recently named a national epidemic by the Centers for Disease Control.

Arizona ranks 12th highest in the nation for individuals 12 years old or older for misusing and abusing prescription drugs and 7.6 percent of youth in Chandler reported using prescription drugs in the last 30 days. Members of the subcommittee include:

• Kathleen Dowler—Dignity Health

• Dr. Sandy Indermuhle—Dignity Health/ Premier Emergency Medical Specialists

• Dr. James Bogash—Arizona Board of Chiropractors

• Carrie Holmes—Southwest Behavior

• Cmdr. Edward Upshaw—Chandler Police

• Cmdr. Matt Christensen—Chandler Police

• Ted Huntington—ICAN/CCYSA

• Cinthia Martinez—Mercy Maricopa Integrated Care

• Deborah Miller—Governor’s Office of Youth, Faith and Family

• Natalia Chimbo-Andrade—Community Bridges

• Mariah Hile—Valley Hope Association

• Terry Roe—Chandler city councilman

The Arizona Substance Abuse Partnership, along with many state and

Arizona ranks 12th highest in the nation for individuals 12 years old or older for misusing and abusing prescription drugs and 7.6 percent of youth in Chandler reported using prescription drugs in the last 30 days. Submitted photo

local partners, has launched a multisystemic effort to reduce prescription drug misuse and abuse in Arizona. The program was piloted in three counties where they saw a 28 percent reduction in rates of opioidrelated deaths, while nonpilot counties saw a 4 percent increase. CCYSA is launching this effort in Chandler.

The public is encouraged to lock up prescription drugs and discard old prescription drugs at dropboxes located at the three Chandler Police substations. In addition, the subcommittee will be going out in the community to make presentations to groups of people.

To schedule a presentation, email ted@ icanaz.org.

Peace Pole dedicated at ICAN

A Peace Pole has been dedicated and unveiled at ICAN: Positive Programs for Youth, in the organization’s garden in Chandler. ICAN Youth also shared their visions for peace and signed along with songs.

The dedication ceremony featured a performance by children’s performance artist Red Grammer, along with messages from Dr. Ruth Tan Lim, president and CEO of the Children’s Benefit Foundation; Susan Stevens-Clarke, from Chandler Baha’i Community; and Becky Jackson, president and CEO of ICAN.

The Peace Pole Project started in Japan in 1955 by the World Peace Prayer Society, a nondenominational organization. The goal of the project was to uplift humankind toward harmony rather than conflict. There are now more than 200,000 Peace Poles in more than 180 countries around the world,

including locations at the Pyramids of El Giza, the Atomic Bomb Dome in Hiroshima, Gorky Park in Moscow, Sarajevo and the Vatican.

ICAN is a free, family-centered youth service in the East Valley that provides programs to equip youth to achieve personal and academic success by tackling substance abuse, gang involvement and juvenile delinquency. Info: (480) 821-4207 or www.icanaz.org.

City of Chandler

Diversity Office promotes mutual respect, inclusion through programs and events

Since its inception, the Chandler Diversity Office has worked with the City’s Human Relations Commission to develop diversity programs and events.

If you take a look at all the programs they manage along with all the events and festivals they produce, you would think they have a fairly large team. That’s not the case. The Diversity Office recently hired a new staff member earlier this year, taking its staff to three hardworking and dedicated individuals.

When asked how they are able to accomplish so much with such a small team, they are quick to acknowledge all of the volunteers and various community groups they work with to assist with the planning, organization and execution of their numerous events. Right now, all hands are on deck for the upcoming Celebration of Unity and the 21st annual Multicultural Festival. This popular series of events honors the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., the civil rights movement and Chandler’s diverse community. The series attracts more than 10,000 attendees each year. Event activities include a performance by Black Violin on Friday, Jan. 15, at the Chandler Center for the Arts. The group features violinists Wil B and Kev Marcus who fuse classical, jazz, hip-hop, blues and R&B. Tickets are available for purchase online at chandlercenter.org.

The Celebration also features the annual Creative Expression Competition, which is open to all students who live or attend a school in Chandler. This year’s theme is “Peace Through People.” Competition details are available online at www.chandleraz.gov/unity. The selected winners’ work will be displayed at the annual Multicultural Festival, which will be held at Chandler Fashion Center for the first time. The free annual festival celebrates the City’s diverse community and will be held from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 16, and include two stages for a variety of entertainment along with interactive areas for attendees to enjoy.

The Diversity Office recently wrapped up the City’s annual workplace giving campaign. Each year, they rally employees and encourage them to give back by contributing to several local nonprofit organizations. As part of the fundraising effort, they also host a chili cook-off and dessert competition. Chandler employees donate more than $70,000 to various nonprofit organizations and community groups.

The Diversity Office hosts a variety of events held throughout the year that support diversity efforts and outreach while creating community. Here’s a brief synopsis of their work, which include months of planning:

• Annual Chandler-Tullamore Sister Cities (CTSC) Southwest Tea: Held in January, this event is similar to an Irish tea, but with a Southwestern flair and features a light luncheon menu, tea, lemonade and desserts. Proceeds

benefit the CTSC mission of education, business and cultural exchanges.

• Volunteer Recognition Breakfast: The City, in partnership with the Chandler Non-Profit Coalition and For Our City Chandler, hosts the event to celebrate the importance and benefits of volunteerism and recognize the outstanding contributions of selected individuals who volunteer 1,000 hours or more during the year. Distinctive award categories also have been added to highlight unique characteristics of volunteers.

• Black History Month Events: Each February, the Diversity Office works with Chandler Men of Action, Chandler-Gilbert Community College and South Chandler Self-Help to assemble an assortment of community events to celebrate the contributions and history of African Americans.

• Cesar Chavez Education Dinner and Dance: This annual event held in April is hosted by the Si Se Puede Foundation and recognizes Chandler educators for their achievements.

• Holocaust Remembrance: Each April, the City partners with the East Valley Jewish Community Center to host events that educate the community about the Holocaust.

• Cinco de Mayo Chihuahua Races: This annual Cinco de Mayo Celebration features food and entertainment, along with the popular Chihuahua Races and crowning of the King and Queen Chihuahua.

• Operation Back to School Chandler: This school supply drive has become an

annual event, occurring in July. The public is asked to donate backpacks and school supplies for the event that are donated to those in need. Several corporate and nonprofit partners also get involved to volunteer and assist with donations. Attendees are provided with free backpacks, school supplies, shoes, socks, underwear, uniforms and haircuts.

• Hispanic Heritage Month (HHM): HHM is celebrated between Sept. 15 and Oct. 15, and in Chandler, the celebration has included live entertainment during the monthly Art Walk at Dr. A.J. Chandler Park and a Mariachi Festival at the Chandler Center for the Arts. The events are held to recognize Hispanic and Latino American heritage and culture.

• Chandler Indian Art Market and Miss Indian Arizona Scholarship Program: The free Indian Art Market is a twoday event that allows attendees to experience Native American culture through art, entertainment, storytelling and food. The City also co-hosts the Miss Indian Arizona Scholarship Program, an event

that provides scholarships to young American Indian women, encouraging them to pursue their educational goals.

City of Chandler Insider

EMPLOYEE PROFILE

Niki Tapia: Growing up at Chandler City Hall

• For Our City-Make a Difference Day: Hundreds of volunteers serve the community through various neighborhood cleanup/improvement projects during Chandler’s annual For Our City Day, typically held in October. Residents are encouraged to volunteer or send the City the names of persons in need of assistance.

Events are not the sole function of the Diversity Office, although they do serve a purpose to educate residents about other cultures. The Diversity staff also is responsible for other programs including the City’s Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) plan, distributing funding to community organizations in support of its mission, working with staff and residents as a liaison for diversity issues and ethnic groups, and much more.

Residents are encouraged to attend and experience the family-friendly diverse events in the coming year. Stay in the know and connect with the Diversity Office on social media at www.facebook. com/ChandlerDiversityOffice. For more information or to inquire about volunteer opportunities throughout the year, visit chandleraz.gov/diversity or call (480) 782-2214.

If you’ve ever meet Niki Tapia, you’ll come across a young lady with an infectious smile and knack for getting things done. What surprises most people is that she’s been a City of Chandler employee for nearly 18 years. She clearly remembers her very first day on Oct. 28, 1996. What began as a parttime internship while she was a student at Chandler High School turned into a full-time career that has spanned multiple City departments.

Currently, Tapia is the community resource coordinator for the City’s Diversity Office. She was attracted to the position because she wanted to explore other cultures, including her own. Her interest in diversity was piqued when she worked in the city manager’s office and supported the liaison to the Human Relations Commission. As a Latina, she knew about the importance of family and delicious food, but was interested in learning more about her background’s rich history, the language, ballet folklorico and more. She’s been a part of the Diversity Office for more than eight years now, and, in this role Tapia has daily interaction with community leaders and volunteers that truly make a difference.

a better place,” said Tapia, who credits the opportunity to work directly with the mayor and council and community members ranging from business leaders to homeless on the street.

“It keeps me humble,” said Tapia. “I get to work cultural events, community service projects and holiday drives – work that I love and that directly benefits residents in my city.”

Working in the city manager’s office, she was able to learn about City government and public service at such a young age. She also has many role models who are former and current City employees. “I have grown up at the City,” said Tapia, “I started when I was a teenager and have had the privilege of being mentored by a handful of strong, intelligent women at Chandler City Hall.”

While she’s sad to see them leave, she’s grateful for everything she’s learned from them and wishes them well.

As a City employee, she was able to earn her degree while working full time.

“Going to college and completing my bachelor’s degree was a condition of my employment,” said Tapia. She graduated from ASU with an interdisciplinary studies degree, but the learning never stops for her. She’s enrolled in graphic design classes and was recently accepted into the City’s Professional Leadership Development Program.

“My goal is to continue advancing with the City, so I take every opportunity to continue learning about public service and to further develop my skill set,” said Tapia.

“Chandler has such a great base of people who are dedicated to making our community

Three of those women (Assistant to the City Manager Marian Norris, Intergovernmental Affairs Coordinator Patrice Kraus and Community & Neighborhood Services Director Jennifer Morrison) are retiring in the next few weeks.

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.

As an Arizona native, she loves watching sports and cheering for the Suns, Cardinals and Sun Devils. When she’s not at a community event, she enjoys going to the movies and traveling with her husband. They recently visited the Bahamas, and now she hopes to explore other islands in the Caribbean. It’s safe to say she has plenty of vacation hours saved up.

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

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

Contract awarded for initial phase of Veterans Memorial

The Chandler City Council has awarded a $716,865 construction contract to Valley Rain Construction Corp. to begin building the initial phase of a Veterans Memorial in the southwest corner of Veterans Memorial Park, located at Lindsay and Chandler Heights roads. The City received a $500,000 donation from the Gila River Indian Community to help fund the project and worked with local veterans groups to develop the design.

The City Council also approved an intergovernmental agreement with Maricopa County, on behalf of the Maricopa County HOME Consortium, to accept $273,223 in federal funds to support affordable housing in Chandler through Habitat for Humanity projects and the City’ First Time Homebuyer’s Program.

Also approved by the council is a five-year agreement with StreetMediaGroup to provide bus shelter advertising and maintenance. The agreement includes $350,000 in bus shelter improvements and advertising revenues of $680,000 to be paid to the City.

Mayor Jay Tibshraeny has encouraged residents to complete Chandler’s online budget survey at www.chandleraz.gov/ budget. The survey will be available through the end of December and the results will assist in the formulation of the City’s financial plan.

The mayor also thanked those who

participated in the recent Celebration Plaza inductions of the Chandler Kiwanis Club and Officer David Payne who died in the line of duty last year. Celebration Plaza, a permanent water feature and monument wall near the center of Tumbleweed Park, is a place where organizations and individuals are honored for their civic leadership and service to the community.

Marian Norris, who is retiring after 32-plus years of service to the City and community as an assistant to the city manager, is the longest-tenured staff member in the city manager’s office and has worked for five full-time and two acting city managers. She was honored for her leadership role in a variety of special projects and assignments, including as project manager for the construction of Chandler City Hall.

The upcoming retirement of Patrice Kraus, the City’s intergovernmental affairs coordinator, also been noted. She gave 21 years of service on behalf of Chandler working with the State Legislature and other entities. She was lauded for protecting and preserving City interests and for her leadership role on a number of special projects. Also recognized for his service was Jeff Martin, who is celebrating 10 years as the City’s webmaster, responsible for supporting the City’s internal and external websites.

Shalom Chapter of Hadassah holding Hanukkah party

It’s time for the Shalom Chapter of Hadassah’s Hanukkah party, Tuesday, Dec. 15 at the Oakwood Clubhouse, 24218 S. Oakwood Blvd., Sun Lakes. The event will start with a special lunch at 11:30 a.m. and will follow with games and prizes. Trivia, word search and anagrams are just a few of the games that will be played, testing everyone’s memory of the Hanukkah story. For a lunch reservation send a $16 check payable to Shalom Hadassah, to Ruth Friedman, The Renaissance, 9508 E.

Riggs Road, Sun Lakes, AZ 85248. The next event will be induction of the new Shalom Hadassah Board after an optional lunch at 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 19. The program continues with a book club discussion of “The Nightingale” by Kristin Hannah. For a lunch reservation follow the process for the Dec. 15 Hanukkah party.

For membership information, call Cyril at (480) 802-0243 or Kathy at (480) 8955194.

Operation Welcome Home looking for nominations

Operation Welcome Home

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

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

Veterans should be Chandler residents and have been on active duty within the last three years or leaving soon. Residents or businesses also may participate through sponsorship or inkind 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.

Cash-out

Does your home have an elf that comes to visit during the holiday? Post your favorite photos and what your elf is up to on our facebook page and we’ll enter you in our elf contest! Win fun prizes for the most creative elf poses. Let’s take a break for some laughter this holiday season!

Blood donors welcome at the Chandler Donor Center and other locations

Seats to a Phoenix Suns game may be given by United Blood Services to a donor who gives four MAX platelet donations by Jan. 31 at any of their six Valley donor centers. The FlexPrint Courtside seats, courtesy of the Phoenix Suns, are part of the All-Star 4 Life program.

MAX platelet donors provide the clotting factor that controls bleeding for trauma, cancer and aplastic anemia patients. Platelets are the most fragile component of whole blood and must be transfused within five days of donation.

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 are:

• 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, Dec. 11, at Academy Mortgage, 1750 E. Northrop Blvd., in the Bloodmobile.

• 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Monday, Dec. 14, at Amkor, 1900 S. Price Rd., in the Bloodmobile.

• 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday, Dec. 14, at Santan Junior High in Honor of Mia, 1550 E. Chandler Heights, in the gym.

• 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 29, at Chandler Regional Medical Center, 475 S. Dobson Rd., in Conference Rooms 1 and 2.

• 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 29, at Mark-Taylor Wellness, San Cervantes, 400 N. Coronado St., in the Bloodmobile.

• 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 30, at Arizona Orthopedic Surgical Hospital, 2905 W. Warner Rd., in the Bloodmobile. To make an appointment, call (877) UBS-HERO or visit wwwBloodHero.com.

Lane restrictions on Arizona Avenue near Santan Freeway

The southbound lanes of Arizona Avenue will narrow from three lanes to one lane, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday through Saturday. The restrictions, through Saturday, Dec. 19, are to install a reclaimed water line. Two lanes will be available all other times. The project will involve restrictions from Dec. 14 to Dec. 19 along southbound

Arizona Avenue from Loop 202 to Macaw Drive for road resurfacing. Motorists are encouraged to use Alma School Road or McQueen Road to access the Santan Freeway. Traffic signal timing adjustments will be made and police officers will be onsite to assist with traffic control.

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Chandler Police receives $52,000 in DUI enforcement grants

Police officers will focus solely on detecting impaired drivers during the 2015 holiday season, following the Chandler Police Department’s receipt of a $50,000 enforcement grant from the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety. The East Valley holiday DUI task force will run through New Year’s Eve.

Chandler Police will host the task force command post on Dec. 23 and Dec. 30 at the Chandler Christian Church at 1825 S. Alma School Rd.

While a high percentage of serious injuries and fatal collisions involve alcohol-impaired drivers, according to the Chandler Police Department many of today’s impaired drivers are operating vehicles under the influence

of prescription or illicit drugs. The tragic results of these collisions—aside from significant personal and insurance costs related to property damage—include injury and death.

Officers funded by the grant are specially trained in DUI detection methods, including the detection of drugs in the human body.

The department’s traffic unit also received a $2,000 GOHS grant to purchase phlebotomy supplies, such as needles, bandages, gauze pads, sharps containers, exam gloves and disinfectant wipes. Many of the officers assigned to the traffic unit are also phlebotomists and conduct the majority of the department’s DUI blood draws throughout the year.

Learn how to reduce the risk of falling

Dr. Erica Williams, a clinical associate professor in the Speech and Hearing Department of ASU, 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. Refreshments provided.

Info: Liz Booth at halib72@gmail. com, Regina Milgroom at reggiefaith@ gmail.com and Scott Sjolin at (602) 6523000.

Free motorcycle safety training course is offered

The Chandler Police Department is hosting a motorcycle safety training course 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 12, in the parking lot of Hamilton High School at 3700 S. Arizona Ave. The course is free and limited to 30 riders.

Riders of all levels of experience are encouraged to sign up for the course. Participants can expect to learn braking skills, slow speed control exercises and mental preparation skills.

Applicants must provide their own motorcycle and safety equipment

and have the proper motorcycle endorsement on their driver’s license.

The Governor’s Office of Highway Safety provided a $14,924 grant to the department’s traffic unit to offer the course. If any of the participants want to stay for additional riding or further instruction, the officers will stay for several more hours if needed.

To access the course application, go to www.chandlerpd.com. Info: Sgt. Mike Colvin at (480) 782-4853 or Sgt. Dan Stout at (480) 782-4854.

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

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

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

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

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

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Library offers free access to lynda.com online courses

Chandler Public Library patrons with a valid library card have free access to one of the leading online learning companies— lynda.com—through their computer, tablet or other mobile device and an Internet connection.

Since 1995, lynda.com has been offering on-demand video tutorials for personal and professional development from industry experts on business, technical and creative skills. The site includes more than 3,010 professionally produced, segmented video courses on topics ranging from 3-D modeling and animation, to music production and sound engineering, business marketing and project management, cloud computing and network security, logo design and digital publishing, and much more. The courses are offered at all skill levels from beginner to advanced.

“Individual subscriptions to lynda.com can cost anywhere from $20 to $35 per month. We are giving customers the opportunity to learn the latest software, job hunting skills, and professional education for free, at their convenience, and at their own pace.” said Rosanna Johnson, library marketing assistant.

Kelle Harrison, a City of Chandler employee, has used the site and said, “lynda.com provided me with an edge that ultimately assisted me in landing a job. I continue to use lynda.com as a resource for my day-to-day assignments and tasks. Knowing that the Chandler Public Library will be offering this resource for free is incredible. The amount of lives this program will be able to positively impact is phenomenal for our

community.”

Patrons can get to lynda.com by logging in through the library’s website, www. chandlerlibrary.org, with their valid library card and pin number. They can watch individual videos or complete courses, create playlists, download course files and bookmark pages. “Users will find that the videos on lyndaLibrary are more in-depth and higher quality that many tutorials that might be found through a general Internet search,” added Johnson.

Non-Chandler residents living within Maricopa County, and all residents of the Gila River Indian Community who live in Pinal County, may obtain a Chandler Public Library card, free of charge. Non-Maricopa County residents who work or go to school in Chandler may also obtain a library card free of charge by showing the appropriate identification, along with proof that they do work or go to school in Chandler. Appropriate proof includes school or business ID, school schedule, or pay stub. For more information regarding lyndaLibrary, or other library programs and resources, go to chandlerlibrary.org or call (480) 782-2800.

Water valve replacement restricts traffic on Pecos Road

The replacement of a large water valve located beneath Pecos Road west of McQueen Road will result in traffic restrictions through the end of the year.

Pecos is a six-lane roadway and the construction will require the street to be narrowed to four lanes east and west of McQueen between Hamilton and Newport streets. Occasional narrowing to two lanes—one lane in each direction— may occur between 8:30 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Water service and access to shopping areas and neighborhoods will be maintained.