December 2012 1SanTanFAMILYFUN

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Pages 2-5SanTan Family Fun Calendar

Pages 5‘Big Brothers’ wanted

Page 8Just 4 KidsSponsored by City of ChandlerRecreation Division

by Alison Stanton

For many, the holiday season and cameras go together like turkey and stuffing. As families gather, presents areopened and vast quantities of food areconsumed, chances are good at least a fewpeople will be snapping photos and taking videos of the festivities.

But how can one go about effectivelycapturing these special occasions – notjust during the holiday season, but all year long?

One key to capturing everydaymoments, says Adriana Granado, ownerof the Paper Vineyard in Chandler, is tomake use of both digital cameras and thecameras that many have in cell phones.These easy-to-use cameras, she says, makes taking photos – well, a snap.

“Take a lot of pictures, because it is better to delete multiple pictures than tonot get a good shot at all,” she says,adding that after the occasion is over, takea few minutes and download the pictures.“Everyone gets busy, but at least the photos will be there when you are readyto review, edit and print. There is also greatphoto editing software for sale or even forfree. You do not need to be a trained photographer to get a great shot.”

As for which moments are the mostcamera-worthy, Jennifer Novick, who ownsand operates Audio Video Editor inChandler with her husband, Clay, says it isbest to focus on the most natural ones, asthey tell the best stories.

“Try to think of what you want to lookback on and what is going to be the mostimportant to share with family and friendsin the future,” she explains.

Rather than waiting for major holidaysto take a ton of photos, Granado advisestaking what she calls “simple, everydayshots” throughout the year.

“Most of the time, everyday momentsare the most special that people will wantto see and remember.”

Don’t find time, make itWhen deciding how to display dozens

of photos in a way that won’t break thebudget, Granado says it is best to stayaway from supersized spendy scrapbooks.Instead, she says, stick with smaller photobooks that all relate to a specific themelike “baby’s first year.”

“Not only are they more cost effective,but a predefined theme makes wonderfulgifts. They are the current paper crafter’sbrag books,” she adds.

Another way to share memories withothers, Clay says, is by adding images andvideo on social media platforms, wherefriends and family members frequentlystay connected.

“One of our great services is combiningthese different types of media together onone format from all the special occasionsthroughout the year,” he says. “We canthen add music, titles and voiceovers andmake copies for other family members toenjoy. These make great gifts for the holi-days or any time of year. The best part isthey can be enjoyed over and over again.”

As for getting others members of thefamily interested in capturing and preserv-ing special times together, Granado saysmany people will warm to the idea if theysee a lovely family photograph already displayed in the home.

“Smaller crafting items that are easilyaccessible and make people smile is thebest way to get them on board and enjoythe finished product as much as you likemaking it,” she says.

Making sure everyone gets a turnbehind the camera, Jennifer says, is alsokey to getting the whole family involved.Most equipment has a basic point andshoot function, she adds, which is perfectfor home use.

“It might not be equal time, but theneveryone will be in some photos or video,”she says.

Once the photos have been taken,downloaded and printed out, Granadosays the best way to get everything orga-nized is to think small and focus on oneproject at a time.

“There isn’t a correct or appropriatetimeline for a project, so set your ownpace and it will be waiting for you whenyou have time to focus on it,” she says.

Instead of waiting for free time thatmight never come to complete photo-related projects, Granado suggests scheduling a specific time for it, even if it’s just once every few months.

Clay says he and Jennifer are alsohappy to help people enjoy their special

moments soon after the photos have all been taken.

“The easiest way is togather your media, jot down avision of how you would liketo see your video played out,then bring it to the profes-sionals,” he says. “We take thefrustration out of dealing withslow computers, not havingthe right software or trying tolearn how to do somethingon the computer only to realize after hours of workyour computer doesn’t havethe capabilities.”

Alison Stanton is a freelancewriter who lives in the East Valley.She can be reached atAlison@SanTanSun.com.

ResourcesBooks:“BetterPhoto Basics: The Absolute Beginner’sGuide to Taking Photos Like a Pro,” by Jim Miotke

“Mamarazzi: Every Mom’s Guide to PhotographingKids,” by Stacy Wasmuth

“Capturing Memories: Your Family Story inPhotographs,” by Maureen Alice Taylor

Websites:papervineyard.comave2dvd.com

Making memorieswithout madness

What’sinside

PROFESSIONAL HELP: Jennifer Novick, who owns andoperates Audio Video Editor in Chandler, works on organiz-ing a group of family photos for a client. STSN photo

COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS: Family photos can often be turned into adorable holiday decorations. STSN photo

2 December 2012SanTanFAMILYFUN

16 17

Holiday HandsWiggle Worms

Gingerbread BabyHoliday JoyMagic Treehouse

Little Elves’Wiggle Worms

Holiday CreationsCircus AmericanaPolar Express

Family NightHoliday Hands

Holiday CreationsCookie & CakeHoliday Book

Celebrate DecemberGlass OrnamentBalloon Classic

Wiggle WormsCircus Americana

Pottery PalsLittle Elves’

Family NightHoliday CreationsGingerbread HouseCircus Americana

Gilbert Art WalkSanta’s House

Train Open HouseNutcracker Ballet12K Christmas

Circus AmericanaGeology Walk

15

Shrine CircusConcert

Puppet ShowGiving ChallengeBible Plant Walk

Read & PaintWiggle Worms

Holiday HandsHoliday JoyLittle Elves’

Circus AmericanaBrain TimeNutcracker Ballet

Wiggle WormsBuilding Blocks

Holiday CreationsGingerbread Baby

5

14

18

24 25

Train Open HouseCircus Americana

Always call to verify information as some eventschange or cancelafter the calendar

is printed.

Send family events and activities to

STFF@SanTanSun.com

Little Elves’GingerbreadBaby

Holiday HandsFarmers MarketHoliday Concert

Hanukkah begins Santa’s HouseCookies & Santa

Holiday WalkSanta BreakfastSanta SWIMkids

Fulton Ranch Towne Center4040 S. Arizona Ave., Suite #13Chandler, AZ 85248

WE HAVE MOVED TO A NEW AND BIGGER LOCATION!

HolidayCreationsHoliday Hands

Farmers MarketHoliday FunKnit Happens

Indian MarketBalloon ClassicTrain Open House

Polar ExpressFamily Night

Holiday CreationsGingerbread BabyCircus Americana

December

Circus Americana

7 8

13

19 20 22

23

31ZoppéCircus

30

Santa’s HouseHoliday Hands

Farmers Market6

27 28

3

9

2

10 11 12

Wiggle WormsHoliday Creations

Gingerbread BabyChanukah Storytime

Chandler Art WalkCircus AmericanaBrain Time

21

Farmers MarketZoppé Circus

Brain TimeZoppé Circus

29Zoppé Circus

4

MerryChristmas!

Kwanzaabegins

Family NightChristmas BirdZoppé Circus

26

Gilbert Art WalkMommy & Me

Giving ChallengeParade, Tree Lighting

1

New Year’s EveZoppé Circus

December 2012 3SanTanFAMILYFUN

1 Parade of Lights and TumbleweedTree Lighting, 4:30-9 p.m. Dr. A.J.Chandler Park. At 7 p.m. experience anighttime parade celebrating the holidayseason. Around 8 p.m. watch the tumbleweed Christmas tree light up thenight when the Mayor flips the switch.Additional free activities include twostages of entertainment, vendor booths,visits with Santa Claus and activities forthe kids. 3 S. Arizona Ave., HistoricDowntown Chandler. chandleraz.gov/special-events.

Mommy & Me, 9-10:30 a.m. As You Wish. Ages 5 and younger make a“Kiss My Little Mistletoes” hand or footprint plate with mom or anotheradult. $20; includes pottery.Preregistration recommended. Locations: Crossroads Towne Center inChandler, 480-899-1231; Ahwatukee,480-753-9500; Tempe Marketplace,480-557-9100; asyouwishpottery.com.

1-2AZ Giving Challenge, 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Sat., 11 a.m.-4 p.m.Sun. Power Ranch Community Park. Thiscommunity program supports nonprofitsand individuals’ charitable missionsacross the state and features a winterwonderland filled with snow, bouncehouses, games, hot air balloon and trainrides, vendors, artists, crafters and entre-preneurial young people, a chili cook-offon Saturday and a Community Cookie &Cupcake Exchange on Sunday. FreeAdmission. 4444 E. Haven Crest, Gilbert.azgivingchallenge.org.

1, 15Gilbert Art Walk, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.downtown Gilbert. Stroll shops and seelocal artists’ exhibits, featuring a varietyof mediums with art for sale. All ages.Free. 45 W. Page Ave. gilbertartwalk.com.

2Symphony Concert, 3 and 6 p.m.Chandler Center for the Arts. A “HolidayConcert” is the next free performance bythe Chandler Symphony Orchestra. Allages. Donations accepted. 250 N. ArizonaAve., Chandler. 480-899-3447,ChandlerSymphony.net.

Puppet Show, 2 p.m. Great ArizonaPuppet Theater performs “Little RedHen.” Hear American folk songs andsing-alongs in this story about the little

hen that just needed some help. Best forpreschool-grade 3. $6 ages 2-15, $9adults. 302 W. Latham St., Phoenix. 602-262-2050, azpuppets.org.

El Zaribah Shrine Circus, 11 a.m., 3 and 6:30 p.m. WestWorld ofScottsdale. Features the Jody JordanCircus from Las Vegas, “A SparklingJewel Among Circuses of the World.” The Shriners give away one boy’s andone girl’s bicycle at each performance.Pony rides for children available at eachperformance. All ages. $15 adults, $12military and seniors, ages 11 andyounger are free with a paying adult.Purchase tickets one hour prior to eachshow. 16601 N. Pima Rd., Scottsdale.480-946-3696, el-zaribah.org.

Plants of the Bible Guided WalkingTour, 1:30 p.m. Boyce ThompsonArboretum. See frankincense and myrrh,as well as pomegranates, figs, pines,palms and other plants referenced inscripture. Best for ages 8 and older. $9 adults, $4.50 ages 5-12, free ages 4 and younger. 520-689-2723, ag.arizona.edu/bta, facebook.com/boycethompsonarboretum.

3Building Blocks: Holiday Arts & Crafts, 9-11 a.m. or noon-2 p.m.Monday through Thursday. ChandlerCommunity Center. Ages 3 and older create 12 days of fun holiday arts, craftsand other activities. Children must be toilet-trained; no diapers or pull-ups areallowed. Preregistration required. $84-114. 125 E. Commonwealth Ave.,Chandler. 480-782-2727,chandleraz.gov/recreation.

3-5, 12-13, 18-19Holiday Creations, various times.Chandler Community Center. Ages 2-6enjoy a holiday story and make three different ornaments using felt, glitter,sequins, craft sticks, buttons, paint, claypots and more. There will be a differentstory with a different craft each day, so sign up for multiple days.Preregistration required. $11-14. 125 E. Commonwealth Ave., Chandler.480-782-2727, chandleraz.gov/recreation.

3, 4, 11, 19, 20Gingerbread Baby, various times.Chandler Community Center. Ages 2-6hear the story “Gingerbread Baby” by

Jan Brett, than make candy-coveredhouses, using frosting, candies, marshmallows and cereal. Preregistrationrequired. $11-14. 125 E. CommonwealthAve., Chandler. 480-782-2727, chandleraz.gov/recreation.

3-4, 10-11, 17-18Wiggle Worms, 10:30-11 a.m. Perry Branch Library. Tots have fun with flannel board rhymes, songs, shakers, bubbles, parachute play andage-appropriate books. Ages 18 months-3-½ years with a parent. Free. 1965 E. Queen Creek Rd.at Perry High School, Gilbert. 602-652-3000, mcldaz.org.

4Chanukah Storytime, 4:30-5:15 p.m.Downtown Chandler Library. All ageslearn about Jewish culture and traditionat an interactive Chanukah storytime ledby Pam Morris from the East ValleyJewish Community Center. Includes stories, songs, dancing and crafts. Free.22 S. Delaware St., Chandler. 480-782-2800, chandlerlibrary.org.

5Holiday Cookie & Cake Decorating,4-5 p.m. Chandler Community Center.Ages 3-5 get into the holiday spirit bydecorating goodies shaped likeChristmas trees, bells, stars and ornaments. Children must be able to participate independently. Preregistration required. $21-24. 125 E. Commonwealth Ave., Chandler.480-782-2727, chandleraz.gov/recreation.

Holiday Book Craft, 6-8 p.m.Southeast Regional Library. Create a festive holiday decoration out of recycledbook pages. For parents and childrenages 8 and older; each registered adult may bring one child. Registration required. 775 N. Greenfield Rd., Gilbert. 602-652-3000, mcldaz.org.

5-6, 10-11, 13, 20Holiday Hands, various times.Chandler Community Center. Ages 2-6use handprints and fingers to create aholiday tree wall hanging with paint,sequins, poms, beads and other trinketson fabric. Preregistration required. $11-14. 125 E. Commonwealth Ave.,Chandler. 480-782-2727,chandleraz.gov/recreation.

5, 12, 19, 26Family Nights, 5:30-7 p.m.Tumbleweed Recreation Center. Enjoydifferent themed recreational activities,arts and crafts and entertainment eachweek. All ages. $2-$5. 745 E. Germann Rd., Chandler. 480-782-2908, chandleraz.gov/tumbleweed.

6, 13, 20, 27 Chandler Farmers Market, 3-7 p.m.Dr. A.J. Chandler Park, East side ofArizona Avenue. Visit more than 30 ven-dors selling fresh produce, baked goods,gourmet food and handmade crafts. Freeadmission. 3 S. Arizona Ave., Chandler.480-855-3539, downtownchandler.org.

6, 8, 15Santa’s House, 5-7 p.m., Thu.; noon-5 p.m. Sat. Dr. A.J. Chandler Park.Kids meet Santa and can have a freepicture taken with him. All ages. 3 S. Arizona Ave., Chandler.chandleraz.gov/special-events.

7Celebrate December, 9:30-10:30a.m. Downtown Chandler Library.Celebrate December’s special days withstories, songs and crafts about Rudolph,snowflakes and holiday cards. No registration required. Free. All ages. 22 S. Delaware St., Chandler.480-782-2800, chandlerlibrary.org.

Glass Ornament, 7-9 p.m. As YouWish. Ages 10 and older learn the basicsof glass fusing while making a “Trim the Tree Glass Ornament.” $30.Preregistration recommended. Locations:Crossroads Towne Center in Chandler, 480-899-1231; Ahwatukee, 480-753-9500; Tempe Marketplace, 480-557-9100; asyouwishpottery.com.

7-9Arizona Balloon Classic, 5:30 a.m.-9 p.m. Fri. and Sat.; 5:30-9:30 a.m. Sun. Gilbert Civic Center.Watch as many as 25 hot air balloonsrace and walk among the balloons asthey are inflated and ascend. Enjoy skydivers, fireworks, live music andfood. A Hare & Hound race is at 7:15a.m. on Sat. “Desert Glows” light up thenight sky with tethered hot air balloonsglowing and swaying in time to music 7-8 p.m. Fri. and Sat. $10 adults; $7seniors; free ages 12 and younger, and

active military and veterans. 90 E. Civic Center Dr., Gilbert. 480-560-9095, hotairballoon.com/Arizona-Balloon-Classic.

8Cookies & Cocoa with Santa, 9-11 a.m. Chandler YMCA. Visit Santaand share cookies and cocoa. Freeadmission. 1655 W. Frye Rd., Chandler. valleyymca.org/chandlergilbert.

Holiday Fun Walk, 10 a.m.-noon.Tumbleweed Park. Presented by theChandler Compadres, this family friendlywalk encourages participants to bringunwrapped toys for donation. Entrancefee is $10 per person or $25 per familyand includes T-shirts, food and prizes foreach participant. 745 E. Germann Rd.,Chandler. chandlercompadres.org.

Santa at SWIMkids, 2-3:30 p.m.SWIMkids USA. Santa Claus arrives on afire truck, which also features firefight-ing-themed games and firefighter gear towear. An optional photo package is $12.Free. 2725 W. Guadalupe Rd., Mesa.480-820-9109, swimkidsusa.us.

Breakfast with Santa, 8-10 a.m. St. Steven’s Church. The Knights ofColumbus serve pancakes, sausage,eggs, juice, coffee and hot chocolatefrom 8-9 a.m. St. Nicholas is on handfrom 9-10 a.m. with gifts for the kids andtime to hear their wish lists. $8, ages 3 and younger free. 24827 S. Dobson Rd., Sun Lakes. 480-895-9266, ext. 107.

9, 15, 16Arizona Big Train Operators(ABTO) Christmas Open House,5:30-8:30 p.m. Various locations. Train fans see impressive displays at 15 homes during the self-guided tours,including two in Chandler and one inGilbert, as well as the Cardon Children’sMedical Center in Mesa, which will haveG-scale garden railroads on display. All ages. Donations accepted. Maps are at arizonabigtrains.org.

See Calendar, Page 4

4 December 2012SanTanFAMILYFUN

9Indian Market, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Pueblo Grande Museum. The 36th AnnualIndian Market boasts an array of activi-ties for all ages including NativeAmerican music and dance, Indian frybread, roasted corn and other treats,authentic American Indian fine art andcollectibles, ancient technology exhibi-tions and demonstrations, and includesadmission to the museum. Tickets are$5; ages 12 and younger are free. 4619 E. Washington St., Phoenix. 480-495-0901, pgindianmarket.com.

10Read & Paint, 9-10:30 a.m. As You Wish. Ages 5 and older read thebook “The Polar Express” and then painttheir version of the Polar Express. $25.Locations: Crossroads Towne Center inChandler, 480-899-1231; Ahwatukee,480-753-9500; Tempe Marketplace,480-557-9100; asyouwishpottery.com.

10, 11Holiday Joy, various times. Chandler Community Center. Parentsdrop off children ages 3-6 to play funtraditional games with a holiday twist,make holiday crafts such as glitter snowmen, bell necklaces, bead braceletsand a countdown-to-December 25 craft.Preregistration required. $16-19. 125 E. Commonwealth Ave., Chandler.480-782-2727, chandleraz.gov/recreation.

10, 12, 18, 20Little Elves’ Workshops, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Chandler CommunityCenter. Ages 2-6 make a stepping stoneor wreath picture frame gift for someonespecial, then create wrapping paper andcards for the gift. Each workshop has dif-ferent gifts, so choose one or all.Preregistration required. $14-18 each.125 E. Commonwealth Ave., Chandler.480-782-2727, chandleraz.gov/recreation.

11Magic Treehouse Book Club, 4-4:45 p.m. Southeast Regional Library.Read “Christmas in Camelot” before theclub meets and come ready to talk aboutit and make a fun craft. Preregistrationrequired online. Ages 7-9. 775 N. Greenfield Rd., Gilbert. 602-652-3000, mcldaz.org.

12Pottery Pals, 4-5:30 p.m. As You Wish.Ages 5 and older have fun splatteringpaint while creating a “Cookies ForSanta” plate. $20; includes pottery.Preregistration recommended. Locations:Crossroads Towne Center in Chandler, 480-899-1231; Ahwatukee, 480-753-9500; Tempe Marketplace, 480-557-9100; asyouwishpottery.com.

Fairytale Funtime presents: The Gingerbread House, 4:30-5:30 p.m.Downtown Chandler Library. Make a gin-gerbread house with lots of sweet treats.

Registration required; limited supplies.Ages 6-17. 22 S. Delaware St., Chandler.480-782-2800, chandlerlibrary.org.

12-23Circus Americana, various showtimes. Herberger Theater Center.Featuring the Taylor family from Chandler,The Taylor Circus Stars blend traditionalold-style circus with modern twists.Tickets are $24-52. 222 E. Monroe St.,Phoenix. circusamericana.com, herbergertheater.org/circus_americana.

13Holiday Fun with Friends, 6-8 p.m. Chandler Community Center.Ages 4-8 share in the holiday spirit asthey play traditional sports games with aholiday twist and then make a holidaycard and ornament. Preregistrationrequired. $14-18. 125 E. Commonwealth Ave., Chandler. 480-782-2727,chandleraz.gov/recreation.

Knit Happens, 2:30-3:45 p.m. Perry Branch Library. Teens earn commu-nity service hours while knitting or cro-cheting and continue the tradition of fun,food and friendship—all levels welcome.The current service project is lap-sizedblankets for Project Linus. Free. 1965 E. Queen Creek Rd. at Perry HighSchool, Gilbert. 602-652-3000,mcldaz.org.

14, 15Nutcracker Ballet, 7 p.m. Fri.; 2 and 6:30 p.m. Sat.. Higley Center forthe Performing Arts. Chandler SymphonyOrchestra accompanies Southwest YouthBallet in the holiday classic “The Nutcracker.” Tickets are $12-22.4132 E. Pecos Rd., Gilbert.higleycenter.org, ChandlerSymphony.net.

14, 21, 28Baby Brain Time, 10-11 a.m. for birthto 18 months old, 11 a.m.-noon for 18months to 3 years, 1-2:30 p.m. ages 3-5.Downtown Chandler Library. NewDirections Institute for Infant BrainDevelopment and First Things First present a free three-part series of parent-child interactions. Sessions followa classic ‘Story Time’ format, using toysand books that encourage brain develop-ment and prepare a child’s brain for suc-cess in school. Sessions are limited to15. Registration required. 22 S. Delaware St., Chandler. 480-782-2800, chandlerlibrary.org.

1512K’s of Christmas Run / Walk, 8a.m.-1 p.m. Freestone District Park. A dog-friendly, family event to benefitMaricopa County Animal Care andControl and Phoenix Animal CareCoalition. Features a 1.2K “Santa Sled”run / walk, ideal for families; a 6K run /walk; and 12K run. Carolers and per-formers are stationed at every “K”marker. There will also be holiday enter-

tainment by local performers includingthe Canine Freestylers, which involvespeople and their pets performing toChristmas music, and more than 30 localanimal rescue groups in Santa Pet’sVillage. Registration is $30-40. 1045 E. Juniper Rd., Gilbert. 480-609-3978, 12krun.com.

18Polar Express Storytime, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. SoutheastRegional Library. All aboard for a specialholiday reading of Chris Van Allsburg’s“Polar Express.” Best for ages 3 andolder. Registration is on a first-come,first-served-basis on the day of the program. Free. 775 N. Greenfield Rd., Gilbert. 602-652-3000, mcldaz.org.

19Polar Express, 4 p.m. DowntownChandler Library. Enjoy the classic story,crafts, song, treats and a visit fromSanta. All ages. 22 S. Delaware St., Chandler. 480-782-2800, chandlerlibrary.org.

20Sonoran Sunset Series HolidayConcert, 6-7 p.m. EnvironmentalEducation Center. Entertainment TBD.Features live, lakeside music suitable forthe entire family. Participants may bringblankets, chairs and food and shoulddress warmly during the cooler months.Program may be moved indoors or

Calendar, From Page 3

Lessons, Training and Horse Sales

December 2012 5SanTanFAMILYFUN

canceled due to inclement weather. At all performances, beverages andsnacks are available for a small fee. Freeadmission. 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd.,Chandler. 480-782-2889,chandleraz.gov/veterans-oasis.

21Downtown Chandler Art Walk, 6-10 p.m. Downtown Chandler. See various art in galleries, purchasejewelry or just enjoy the sights andsounds of the historic downtownChandler area. This is a free event sponsored by the Downtown ChandlerCommunity Partnership. 480-855-3539, downtownchandler.org

22Geology Walking Tour, 1:30 p.m. Boyce Thompson Arboretum,45 minutes east of Mesa on US-60 nearMilepost 223. See rocks and volcanic formations along the Arboretum’s maintrail on a guided trek that compressesalmost two billion years of geologic history into one educational hour. Learnabout Pinal schist, the volcanic origins ofPicket Post Mountain and the ApacheLeap tuff. All ages; best for ages 8 andolder. $9 adults, $4.50 ages 5-12, freeages 4 and younger. 520-689-2723, ag.arizona.edu/bta,facebook.com/boycethompsonarboretum.

26Christmas Bird Count, 7a.m.-5 p.m.Boyce Thompson Arboretum. Skilled bird-ers are needed for this annual AudubonSociety tally of towhees and census ofsparrows at BTA and in surroundingareas. Superior’s count circle begins atQueen Valley and Whitlow Dam to thewest and extends to the Oak Flat camp-ground east of Superior. Teams censusbirds along Hewitt Station Road, atMontana Mountain and Queen Creekupstream of the Arboretum, Arnett Creekand Canyon, Picket Post Mountain andwith ‘urban birding’ around the town ofSuperior. Best for ages 12 and older.Cynthia Donald at 480-283-4515 or email planres@earthlink.net.

26-31Zoppé Italian Family Circus, show times vary. Chandler Center for theArts’ West Lawn. A 500-seat one ring circus show featuring acrobatic feats,canine capers, clowning, equestrianshowmanship, audience participation and plenty of hot chocolate and popcornfor everyone. All ages. Tickets are $15-$38. 250 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler. 480-782-2680, chandlercenter.org.

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Hundreds of ‘Big Brothers’ wantedCalling all men: Do you enjoy throwing around a football or shooting hoops; maybe taking in a

movie or playing video games; or what about just relaxing on a Sunday afternoon over some great con-versation or maybe a little homework? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you havewhat it takes to become a Big Brother.

A “shortage of male volunteers leaves boys waiting instead of learning,” says Laura Capello, aspokesperson for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arizona (BBBSAZ). “Big Brothers Big Sisters ofCentral Arizona seeks male volunteers to serve as mentors to more than 250 kids, mostly boys, who arecurrently waiting up to two years to be matched with a Big. By meeting just two to four times a montha child’s life can be dramatically impacted.”

Youth are matched to a volunteer who shares similar interests and resides within the same commu-nity. As an added benefit, BBBSAZ provides their volunteers and youth with access to free tickets tosporting events, concerts, museums and other community activities. In addition, volunteers have access to an exclusive events calendar, where they can sign up for a variety of free activities with their Little Brother or Sister.

For more than a hundred years, Big Brothers Big Sisters operated under the belief that “inherent in every child is the ability to succeed and thrive in life.” As the nation’s largest donor and volunteer supported mentoring network, Big Brothers Big Sisters makes meaningful, monitored matches between adult volunteers, “Bigs,” and children, “Littles,” ages six to 18 in communities across the country. Volunteers develop positive relationships that have a direct and lasting effect on the lives of young people.

For more information on becoming a Big Brother, contact Jamar Jones at 602-799-0512 or visit helparizonayouth.org.

6 December 2012

STILL TIME TO REGISTER FOR WINTER SEASON!

December 2012 7

8 December 2012

Just4Kids

This month’s Just4Kids Page is sponsored by:

The City of Chandler Recreation Division

Register for Winter Classes! The winter Break Time magazine outlining

all-ages recreation classes, youth winter

intersession camps and special events for

December, January and February is

available at libraries and recreation

centers and at www.chandleraz.gov/breaktime.

Registration is now in progress for residents and non-residents.

For more information, call 782-2727.

Stay Connected!Follow us on Twitter (@ChandlerRec)and Facebook (Chandler Recreation)for the latest news. Check out theDecember episode of the “Come Out & Play, Chandler!” show on the Chandler RecreationYouTube Channel. Sign up for themonthly e-newsletter at www.chandleraz.gov/listserv.html. For more information, call 782-2727.

Santa’s House at Dr. A.J. Chandler ParkThe annual Santa’s House activities at Dr. A.J. Chandler Park in the historic downtown square will be held on Saturday, Dec. 1 from 4:30-8:30 p.m., Thursday, December 6 from 5-7 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 8 & 15 from 12-5 p.m. For more information, visit www.chandleraz.gov/special-events.

Sonoran Sunset Series is Dec. 20The Environmental Education Center presents the Sonoran Sunset Series onThursdays in the winter that feature free lakeside entertainment by musicians. The performances will be Dec. 20, Jan. 17 and Feb. 21. For more information, visit www.chandleraz.gov/veterans-oasis or call 782-2890.

Teen Talent Competition Chandler Teen Programs presents the ninth annual Teen Talent Competition at the Chandler Center for the Arts on Friday, Jan. 11 from 6-9 p.m. Applications forsingers and musicians to audition are available at www.chandleraz.gov/teens.Admission for the show is $5. For more information, call 782-2711.

Wednesday Family NightsJoin in the fun at Family Night at Tumbleweed Recreation Center everyWednesday from 5:30-7 p.m. There is a different activity each week. The fee is $2 ($3 for non-residents ages 1-12) and $3 ($5 for non-residents ages 13-17). Call 782-2900 or visit www.chandleraz.gov/tumbleweed for more information.

Tumbleweed Tree Lighting is Dec. 1The 56th annual TumbleweedTree Lighting Ceremony andParade of Lights will be held inhistoric downtown Chandler onSaturday, Dec. 1 from 4:30-9 p.m.Enjoy the festive music, entertainment, arts and craftsand food and beverage. The parade starts at 7 p.m. followed by the lighting of the Tumbleweed Tree.

SanTanFAMILYFUN