Community Briefs (6/18)

AEBI recruiting for 3rd nonprofit class

Arizona Endowment Building Institute (AEBI) had the first class of six nonprofit organizations graduating last September from the intensive 18-month program. AEBI has collectively raised more than $24 million in current and deferred gifts, as a result of their endowment building efforts. The second class of five organizations, which began in September 2007 is in mid-course.

AEBI is recruiting a third class to begin in January. Interested organizations are encouraged to apply by June 20 to Director Carrie Kinnear, 5150 N. 16th St., Suite B141, Phoenix, 85016.

To be eligible, charities must have been in operation for 10 years and have a minimum annual budget of $1 million with at least a five-year history of fundraising generating a minimum of $250,000 annually.

Additional selection criteria are listed on the AEBI Web site, www.azebi.org.

Big League Poker tourney benefits D-backs Foundation

The Fourth Annual Big League Poker Tournament presented by Gila River Casinos will benefit the Arizona Diamondbacks Foundation.

From June 17 through Aug. 26, pre-qualifying tournaments will be held every Tuesday at 8 p.m. at Wild Horse Pass, 5550 W. Wild Horse Pass. For just $30, fans can compete to qualify for one of 126 seats in the main tournament alongside members of the Diamondbacks broadcast team including Daron Sutton, Mark Grace, Brad Steinke and Reggie Sanders; Sports 620 KTAR personalities Doug Franz and Mark Asher; National Hockey League player Jeremy Roenick; former D-backs relief pitcher Mike Fetters; renowned comic book artist and Spawn creator Todd McFarlane; as well as other celebrities. The first-place winner at the main tournament is guaranteed $15,000.

The main tournament will be held at Wild Horse Pass Casino Poker Room on Aug. 28 at 7:30 p.m.

For more information call 1-800-WIN-GILA or visiting www.WinGilaRiver.com.

Sweet Tomatoes hosting essay contest  in July

Sweet Tomatoes is celebrating its 30th anniversary in July with an essay contest to find and reward its most remarkable patrons. Guests are asked to draft a 200-word essay describing why they or someone they know is remarkable using a memorable story related to Sweet Tomatoes restaurants. Winners will receive complimentary meals at Sweet Tomatoes and the honor of being named one of "30 Remarkable Guests."

The "30 Remarkable Guests" contest, which will take place July 1 to 31, will be judged by Sweet Tomatoes' kitchen cabinet advisory panel, comprised of 10 influential moms from around the country. The essays will be judged on originality and creativity, appropriateness to subject matter, composition and sincerity.

All adults over the age of 18 are invited to enter. All contestants must be U.S. residents. Winners will be announced by Sept. 15. To participate, complete the entry forms found at any Sweet Tomatoes restaurant or www.sweettomatoes.com. Entries must be postmarked by July 31.

Pilates classes now at Body Firm

The Body Firm Fitness Studio, located at 4405 E. Ray Road, is offering Pilates classes from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. Mondays. Classes are taught in six-week sessions, and the cost is $90.

For more information, call (480) 705-9801.

Hospice of the Valley has teen volunteer class

Hospice of the Valley will offer an orientation for teens 14 to 19 years of age at the nonprofit organization's administrative office at 1510 E. Flower St. Sessions will be held on Mondays and Wednesdays from 6 to 9 p.m. July 14 to 30.

Volunteers gain basic knowledge of hospice philosophy, communication and other concepts related to providing end-of-life care. Hospice of the Valley's Teen Orientation is accredited by the Maricopa Community Colleges. Registration ends July 7.

For more information, call (602) 636-6336.

Adopt-a-Pool-Fence program helps prevent drownings

With the recent drownings and near-drownings occuring in the Valley, the United Phoenix Fire Fighters Association and Valley of the Sun United Way remind the community about the Adopt-a-Pool-Fence program. This proactive program provides families throughout Maricopa County with a donated pool fence, offering a physical barrier between their children and their backyard swimming pools.

Low-income families that do not have a pool fence are asked to fill out an application by visiting www.saverkids.org or calling (602) 631-4843. Applicants need to meet the following criteria: a child 6 years of age or younger must be living in the home, the home must be owner-occupied and families must demonstrate financial need. Special circumstances will be considered.

Save on Kartchner Caverns trip

Kartchner Caverns State Park cave tours will be discounted down to $12 for adults and $5 for children for August and September as part of the summer Internet promotion. Walk-up tickets and phone-in reservations will still be offered at a seasonal discount, so those tickets will be $8.95 for children and $16.95 for adults. There is no park use fee if you have cave tickets for the day, so you can combine a hike into the Whetstones, but camping is not discounted for this promotion."

For tickets, visit www.azstateparks.com or call (520) 586-2283.

‘Vette Experience' offered at Bondurant School

The Bob Bondurant School of High Performance Driving will offer the Bondurant Corvette Performance Experience on Saturday, Dec. 6. Corvette owners (with guest) are welcome to participate in an all day driving experience at the Bondurant School's 60-acre training facility and 1.6 mile road course located at 20000 S. Maricopa Road in Chandler, at Firebird Raceway, Gate 3 (Exit 162, Wild Horse Pass and I-10). 

The cost is $195 per Corvette.

For more information, visit www.bondurant.com. Registration is available online at www.bondurant.com/corvetteday08.

A-Peeling Faces offers sun safety education

A-Peeling Faces Skincare & Massage Therapy is offering education on sun safety throughout the summer months. Owner Darla Salem has more than seven years of professional skin care experience and will provide one-on-one education as well as group sessions. She is a facilitator for the "Look Good, Feel Better" program sponsored by the American Cancer Society.

Information will include sun safety tips for adults and children, what to look for in SPFs (such as what active ingredients warrant a broad spectrum SPF), detailed information on various skin cancers as well demographics among skin types. Sessions include education materials as well as sample SPFs. Schools, youth groups, business organizations, moms clubs, golf clubs, in-house companies and families are invited to participate.

For more information, call (480) 540-7555, e-mail darlasalem@yahoo.com or visit www.a-peelingfaces.com.

Climbmax Gym offers 2 summer camps for kids

Climbmax Gym, Arizona's newest and largest indoor rock climbing facility located at 1330 W. Auto Drive, Suite 112, in Tempe, is hosting two week-long summer camps for kids ages 7 to 17.

Climbing for Fun for the younger kids in grades 2 to 8 will take place in the morning from 8 to 11:30 a.m. In the afternoons, kids in grades 7 to 12 can participate in Climbing for Fitness from noon to 3:30 p.m. Both camps are offered twice during the summer from June 23 to 27 and again July 7 to 11.

The cost of the camps is $160 per week. For more details, contact Climbmax Gym at (480) 626-7755 or visit www.climbmaxgym.com.

East Valley Marines promote college scholarships

Membership in any Marine Corps League or Auxiliary allows spouses, children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and step children to be the recipient of a Marine Corps League National Scholarship.

On the local level, the major requirement for the college scholarship is membership in the East Valley Marines. Dues are $35 a year. To become a member, contact Rich Hippner at hipexec@yahoo.com or (480) 883-9393 or Dave Althoff at davealthoff@cox.net or (480) 838-3611.

The East Valley Marines meets the second Tuesday of the month at the Oakwood Country Club in Sun Lakes at 6:30 p.m., and this year's Marine Corps Ball is set for Saturday, Nov. 8, at Oakwood.

Humanitarian effort airlifts 10 children from Israel

Children who spend their lives running into bomb shelters will be hosted to a summer of fun by the local Jewish community. Camp Gan Israel East Valley will take part in a national campaign to bring 100 children out of the bomb-riddled town of Sderot, Israel by bringing 10 children to the local community. The children will be airlifted, housed, fed and given the summer of their lifetimes, without the fear of impending attack.

According to Rabbi Mendy Lipskier, director of Camp Gan Israel (CGI), the children will participate in camp with hundreds of other children.

The cost of this complete project is $400,000. To learn more, visit www.sderotkids.org. Needs include beds, furniture, funds, game tickets and more. Call Rabbi Mendy Lipskier at (480) 855-4333 or e-mail Rabbi@chabadcenter.com.

For more on Silver Gan Israel, visit: www.Chabdcenter.com.

Lost and Found: Divorce as a Transformational Opportunity

Join author, entrepreneur and late-in-life adventurer Karen Ely for two days of personal discovery, of learning how to turn one of life's most challenging transitions - divorce - into a life-changing opportunity. 

This two-day women's workshop, presented by A Women's Way, will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. June 28 and 29 at the Sedona Creative Life Center. The cost is $175.

For information or to register, visit www.awomansway.com or call (928) 254-1897.

Wildlife photo contest now accepting entries

The Arizona Game and Fish Department invites all shutterbugs to get out, take pictures of Arizona wildlife and submit them for the third annual calendar photo contest.

Thirteen winning wildlife images will grace the 2009 Arizona Wildlife Calendar, and winners will receive cash prizes.

Pictures are judged in a blind judging so there is no personal information associated with the pictures when the winners are chosen. All photos must be taken in Arizona, a photographer can only win twice, one best in show and one first place, and there is no theme for the calendar this year - all photos will be accepted.

All entries must be received by 5 p.m. July 7.

For more information, visit www.azgfd.gov/photocontest.

Baseball skills training

AZ CLASH College Prep and Pro Scout Organization is offering six months of skills training sessions for $319. Players ages 8 to 18 will go through a weekly position-specific training program including pitching, hitting, catching, infield and outfield. Camps are conducted by pro scouts and college-level coaches.

For more information or to register, visit www.clashbaseball.com or contact Laura Crain at twistdmcrn@hotmail.com or (602) 390-5283.

Charity Ride coming up

Arizona Beta Sigma Phis Against Domestic Abuse (AzBSPADA) are hosting their annual Charity Ride or Drive starting at 9 a.m. Oct. 18 at Chesters Harley Davidson, 922 S. Country Club Drive, Mesa. All proceeds will be donated to local domestic abuse shelters.

This event is for bikes, car, trucks or whatever will get you there. The route will take us to Fountain Hills via surface streets and then through Rio Verde on to New River for lunch at the Roadrunner Restaurant and Saloon. There will be a 50/50 drawing, as well as door prizes. The entry cost is $20 per bike or $20 per vehicle (does not include the cost of lunch). For more information, visit www.sharethemagicada.org. To register, call Joan Arnold at (480) 818-0831.

Women offered 10-day retreat to Peru

This 10-day women's retreat, presented by A Women's Way, will be held May 23 to June 2, 2009.

Experienced facilitator, Karen Ely, will lead participants on a quiet exploration back to themselves. Sitting in the quiet of the ancient, spiritual sites, the women will use journaling, meditation and special exercises to move them back into their old life in a new, more authentic way.

The cost is $2,985.

For information or to register visit www.awomansway.com or call (928) 254-1897. 

Library offers free summer reading program for teens

Teens can win exciting prizes by participating in Phoenix Public Library's summer reading program, "Read Your Own Way," now through July 26.

Teens between 12 and 18 can register for the program at any of the city's 15 libraries. The program is designed to keep teens reading during the summer and features weekly prize drawings and a grand-prize drawing for a video MP3 player.

Teens who finish the program get a free ticket to a VIP wrap-up party and a chance to win a guest DJ spot on 95.1 FM Latino Vibe. Last year, more than 10,000 teens participated in the program.

For more information, call (602) 262-4636 or visit www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org.

Line Dancercise class changes meeting time

The Ahwatukee Community Swim & Tennis Center, 4700 E. Warner Road, has changed the Line Dancercise class schedule for the summer. On Wednesdays in June and July, beginning classes will meet from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. and intermediate/advanced classes from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.

Burn calories while you learn all the popular line dances. The unique teaching method, taught by Carrie McNeish, keeps you moving in order to get a great cardio workout.

The cost is $48 for the eight-week summer session, or $8 for a drop-in workout.

For more information or to register, call (480) 893-3431, ext. 0.

The Thursday Lunchtime Line Dancing classes will resume in August.

Hot weather supplies needed for homeless outreach

Southwest Behavioral Health Service's Homeless Outreach, a non-profit program to help homeless individuals with mental illness, is requesting donations of hot weather supplies. SBH's Homeless Outreach is not a traditional shelter or food bank but is a mobile program that delivers supplies to the homeless where they live - on the streets, in alleyways, riverbeds, parks and deserted buildings.

Items that SBH's Homeless Outreach is requesting include water, sunscreen, hats or caps, lip balm, hygiene kits (including toothpaste, toothbrushes), lightweight T-shirts, shoes, socks and underwear.

Donations can be dropped off to SBH's Homeless Outreach from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, at the Day Resource Center, 1125 W. Jackson St., Suite 448. It is recommended to call (602) 393-9930 ext. 3454 before making any drop-offs.

The Homeless Outreach program covers all of Maricopa County - a vast area - from Wickenburg to Apache Junction. On scheduled days they visit soup kitchens, pocket shelters and transport homeless to mental health and substance abuse screenings.

Summer Arts Academy enrolling now

Summer Arts Academy is enrolling participants for its second session, set for June 30 to July 24. This is the same great Art Camp from years past at Desert Vista.

Sign up now at Ahwatukee Foothills Family YMCA, 1030 E. Liberty Lane.

For more information, call (480) 759-6762.

Zoo offers Friday night fun this summer

Phoenix Zoo guests can get out of the heat and into the wild with the zoo's Starry Safari Friday Nights on Friday nights through Aug. 8. Starry Safari offers cool fun for the whole family, including water play, animal presentations, zoo rides and more.

The popular Monkey Village walk-through exhibit will be open and other animals including the giraffe, watusi cattle, zebra, flamingo, otter and orangutans will be on exhibit until dusk. The Arizona Trail featuring native plants and animals will be open throughout the evening. The zoo's other animals will be resting during Starry Safari evenings, and those areas will be closed to guest traffic.

Nightly activities include the Leapin Lagoon water spray ground; 18- and 16-foot-long water slides; 45-foot-long Slip and Slide; inflatable bungee run; live animal presentations; a 10-foot water slide, two bounce houses and free play areas for kids age six and younger; animal encounters and feedings at a variety of exhibits including elephants, orangutans, zebras and at Monkey Village; rides on the zoo's camels, carousel or Safari Train (fees apply); and live entertainment each Friday Night. Food will be available for purchase at most of the zoo's snack bar areas.

Admission is $4 per person (all ages) and $3 for zoo members. Visit phoenixzoo.org for tickets and detailed activity information and entertainment schedule.

Summer Spaaah Series under way

The third annual Summer Spaaah Series is back to cool off the Valley with a dose of fun and charity. This event series is making its rounds at Valley spa destinations. A generous portion of funds raised through these events go to support Fresh Start Women's Foundation, a Phoenix-based organization that empowers women in need.

The 2008 events are $25 each and take place at the following locations:

- July 6: Aji Spa at the Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort, Chandler

- Aug 17: SW Institute of Healing Arts & SW Institute of Natural Aesthetics, Tempe

For times and tickets, visit www.SummerSpaAz.com.

Fireworks show returns to Rawhide

The Ahwatukee Foothills Chamber of Commerce in partnership with Rawhide at Wild Horse Pass will present the 2008 Red, White and Boom ~ A Star Spangled Shootout! Fireworks Celebration at Rawhide on Friday, July 4.

"We are excited to partner with Rawhide at Wild Horse Pass again this year to bring the community a fun and entertaining Fourth of July event," said Laura Rivers, president and CEO of the Ahwatukee Foothills Chamber of Commerce.

Get ready to "cowboy up" for a grand celebration that rivals the likes of years past. Enjoy the hustle and bustle of this exciting 1880s Western town that features live music, action-packed performances, face painting and a best cowboy costume contest with prizes. Check out the Widow Maker mechanical bull, desert train ride, stagecoach rides, theater performances and much more.

Then, when the sun goes down, the thrills take to the sky with a spectacular aerial fireworks show that is guaranteed to dazzle even the toughest cowboy. Bring your blankets and chairs to settle in for what promises to be a spectacular aerial fireworks display. The Gila River Indian Community Color Guard will walk in the flags and start the Star Spangled Banner to kick off the fireworks show at 9:30 p.m.

"We have worked closely with the fireworks provider to ensure this year's aerial fireworks show to be the best yet," said Lannie Scopes, director of guest services at Rawhide.

Tickets to this year's event are available for pre-sale through the chamber. Rawhide town passes are $18 and include the performances, music and attractions as well as entrance into seating for the fireworks. Family Passes are $65 and include two adults and up to four children town passes. Tickets for just the fireworks are $5 for adults, $3 for youths and free for children under 5 years old. All are available prior to the day of the event.

To purchase tickets in advance, call (480) 753-7676.

McFarlane toys warehouse and showroom moving sale

McFarlane Toys is having a warehouse moving sale, and retail prices on everything have been significantly reduced.

Savings up to 75 percent are available on Spawn, dragons, 3-D Wall Art, sports and much more through the online store (http://store.spawn.com/) and in the Tempe toy store and show room (8945 S. Harl, Suite 112) through July 7. Stock is being consolidated to the shipping facility in Sacramento, Calif., and the flagship Westgate retail store in Glendale.

For more information, visit http://www.spawn.com/store/.

Escape to the High Country with DBG

As the Valley heats up, take advantage of Arizona's higher - and certainly cooler - elevations to escape the heat and experience the beautiful summer seasons of Flagstaff, Payson and Sedona areas. The Desert Botanical Garden is offering a variety of hikes to show participants a different side of Arizona beyond our lower Sonoran Desert home and raise awareness for the unique plant and animal adaptations and ecological relationships just a short drive away. Participants can create their own weekend getaways around these fun hikes that will feature fantastic summer wildflowers, cool forests and breathtaking sights. Interpretation and hands-on demonstrations will be provided by naturalist Eric Garton of the Garden's education department and guest experts. Group sizes are limited to 10 hikers to ensure a personalized experience. Hikes vary in length and difficulty. The hikes are intended for enjoyment and education throughout, which means many stops along the way to learn about the world around you (and to catch your breath!).

Flagstaff Area Hikes

- Inner Basin Trail - hike in the heart of an extinct volcano, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, June 21. Length: 4.5 miles total out and back. Trail Rating: Moderate. Elevation: 8,600 to 10,000 feet.

- Kachina Trail - old growth and aspens, 8 a.m. to noon Sunday, June 22. Length: 5 miles total out and back. Trail Rating: Easy. Elevation: 9,200 to 8,500 feet.

Payson Area Hikes

- Horton Creek Trail - from Tonto Creek to Mogollon Rim, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., Saturday, July 12. Length: 6 miles total out and back. Trail Rating: Moderate. Elevation: 5,400 to 6,600 feet.

- See Canyon Trail - Christopher Creek to See Spring, 8 to 11 a.m. Sunday, July 13. Length: 3 miles total out and back. Trail Rating: Easy. Elevation: 6,200 to 7,000 feet.

Sedona Area Hikes

- Secret Canyon Trail - the heart of the Red Rock-Secret Mountain wilderness, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 16. Length: 6 miles total out and back. Trail Rating: Moderate. Elevation: 5,000 feet (little change during hike).

- Bear Sign Canyon - Dry Creek Trail among the Cypress, Pines and Junipers, 8 to 11 a.m., Sunday, Aug. 17. Length: 3.5 miles total out and back. Trail Rating: Easy. Elevation: 5,000 feet (little change during hike).

Individual hike prices are $25 for members and $32 for non-members, which includes water, snacks and educational handouts for the hike. All times listed indicate roundtrip time from the trailheads. Participants will receive detailed directions and specific information following registration, which is available at www.dbg.org or by calling (480) 481-8146.

Fund offers low-income families statewide emergency help

Low-income families experiencing extreme financial hardship now have a new resource to help pay overdue utility bills and prevent potential electric or gas shutoffs.

The Home Energy Assistance Fund, which will be administered by the Arizona Community Action Association (ACAA) through Community Action Program (CAP) offices in every county, may provide eligible individuals annual one-time financial assistance of up to $500 to restore utilities to avoid disconnections. Individuals may only apply once in a 12-month period for funding.

The Home Energy Assistance Fund, the nation's first CAP-driven statewide fuel fund, also is available to members of Arizona's tribal communities.

Approximately $250,000 is available for distribution by June 30.

For information about the Home Energy Assistance Fund and the Arizona Community Action Association, visit www.azcaa.org or call (602) 604-0640.

KRC offering adult classes this summer

This summer, Kiwanis Recreation Center is offering a wide variety of classes ranging from fitness to gardening to parenting.

For a full class listing and more information, visit www.tempe.gov/kiwanis or call (480) 350-5201 or (480) 350-5050 TTY. Advanced registration is required and is available online at http://pkreconline.tempe.gov or on the premises at 6111 S. All America Way in Tempe. 

Celebrate Suvoyuki Day at Homolovi Ruins State Park

"Suvoyuki" translated in the Hopi language means to accomplish work through a joint effort. "Suvoyuki Day" is an open house day at Homolovi Ruins State Park that celebrates the partners who have helped to protect and save Homolovi area archaeological and cultural sites from destruction.

A variety of events will be held July 11 to 13 at Homolovi Ruins State Park, which is located five miles northeast of the city of Winslow, Navajo County, in northeastern Arizona.

For more information, call (928) 289-4106 or visit www.homolovi.com.

Rescue Mission needs bottled water, food items

Phoenix Rescue Mission provides many programs and shelter for the homeless. It currently distributes 4,000 bottles of water each week and 250 bottles each day from its Hope Coach, a van that visits the streets of Phoenix with a sack lunch and bottle of water daily with the message of hope.

Church groups and organizations are needed to host drives and be drop-off sites for bottled water and non-perishable food items. A collection container will be provided and assistance provided with the pick up of large donations. The most successful drives run two to four weeks.

For more information on how you can help, contact Ahwatukee Foothills resident Ann Margherita at (602) 346-3330 or e-mail amargherita@phoenixrescuemission.org.

Attention Veterans that served in Korea

The Department of Arizona, Korean War Veterans is wishing to locate Veterans that have served in Korea during their service to their country.

The five Valley chapters are interested in contacting any Veteran that has served duty time on the ground in Korea, flew missions over Korea or served in the territorial waters of Korea between June 1950 to the present day, or were in the service anywhere in the world from June 27, 1950 through July 25, 1953.

All veterans of that period are encouraged to contact the Commander of the Department of Arizona at (623) 815-1206 to find out meeting dates, times and locations.

Electric wheelchairs available

All Medicare recipients suffering from conditions such as arthritis, cardiovascular disease and respiratory disorders and have difficulty walking or propelling a standard wheelchair, may be eligible to receive an electric wheelchair paid for by Medicare.

For eligibility information, call (800) 810-2877.

Sparky Water Polo Camp

Have fun learning and playing the sport of water polo this summer from Arizona State University Varsity Water Polo coaches.

The camp, geared to middle and high school students, will be held July 16 to 19 at the ASU Mona Plummer Aquatic Center, 601 S. College Ave., Tempe. Daily camp hours are 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. July 16, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. July 17 and 18, and 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. July 19. Camp participants have the option of being a day camper or a resident camper. Resident campers will stay in an ASU dorm.

For more information, visit www.sundevilwaterpolo.org/ASU_Summer_Camp.html or e-mail ryan.castle@asu.edu.

Studio 180° offers summer camp for teens

Digital video production meets video game technology as Mesa Community College's Studio 180º presents the Machinima Summer Teen Video Game Technology Camp, a summer camp for teens ages 13 to 16. This structured, hands-on experience is designed for teens that enjoy playing video games and want to learn how to create their own game-based videos.

Students will learn video game production techniques using multimedia, state-of-the-art programs and equipment. Upon completion of the camp, students will have produced their own Machinima videos within a team environment and receive a video game modeling application and 4 GB flash drive for use during and after the course.

The camp will run 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. July 21 to 24 at MCC, 188 W. Southern Ave., Mesa Rooms BA2W and BA3W. Video game playing experience and basic computer applications are pre-requisites.

The course number is WRKDEV 400-10030, the section number is 13440, and the fee is $285. Class size is limited, so register early at (480) 461-6100. Visit www.mc.maricopa.edu/dept/d07/camp/MCCSummerCamp2008.pdf for more information.

KRC offers youth summer sports camps

Kiwanis Recreation center is sponsoring and offering several summer sports camps for youth.

Camps will be held at Tempe high schools and Kiwanis Recreation Center. For full camp descriptions and more information, visit www.tempe.gov/kiwanis or call (480) 350-5201 or (480) 350-5050 TTY. Advanced registration is required and is available online at http://pkreconline.tempe.gov or by walking in at 6111 S. All America Way in Tempe.

Study groups now forming

Law of Attraction Teacher Nicholas Tutora is offering a 10-week learning opportunity with "The Secret" Mastermind Study Group (based on Wallace Wattles' The Science of Getting Rich, the book that inspired The Secret) and Mission in Commission Mastermind Study (based on Bob Proctor's classic program).

Study groups are now forming, and sessions will meet for an hour once a week for 10 weeks. Tuition is $350, which includes study materials.

For more information or to register, visit www.Mastermind-Study.com, call (480) 747-7249 or e-mail ntutora@cox.net.

Neighborhood clean up program launches

The city of Phoenix Neighborhood Services Department, Arizona Diamondbacks and Arizona Public Service recently launched the sixth annual "Help Put the Diamond Back into Your Neighborhood - Keep It Clean!," an education and public awareness effort aimed at encouraging all residents to maintain their properties and keep neighborhoods in good condition.

The education effort includes distribution of a key chain and a comprehensive Web site (www.phoenix.gov/cleanphx) with information on several city programs available to residents and neighborhood groups and community groups to help improve and maintain their properties.

Programs by Neighborhood Services include the city's graffiti removal program, removal of illegal signs in the right of way, free tool lending program and workshops on preserving and improving neighborhoods.

CHW looking for summertime ‘volunteens'

School will soon be out for summer and Catholic Healthcare West (CHW) in the East Valley is looking for volunteers between the ages of 14 to 18 interested in helping others, gaining work experience and making new friends at Chandler Regional Medical Center, Mercy Gilbert Medical Center and the CHW Urgent Care in Ahwatukee, Gilbert and Queen Creek.

Some of the service areas where volunteens can participate include delivering flowers, mail and newspapers; working in the gift shop; performing clerical duties; assisting at the nursing stations and running miscellaneous errands around the medical centers.

In addition to a positive attitude, smile and a lot of enthusiasm, CHW requires volunteens to serve a minimum of 50 hours over the summer.

To learn more, call (480) 728-3308 for opportunities at Chandler Regional Medical Center or (480) 728-7187 for Mercy Gilbert Medical Center.

‘Because I love you' offers support

"Because I love you" (BILY), a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting parents with troubled children of any age, promotes structure, consequences and consistency in raising kids and has helped thousands of families for 25 years.

Parents also learn how to deal with aggravating things like messy rooms, chores not being done and low school grades.

For more information, visit www.bily.org.

Hitch a ride on a Trail Horse Adventure

"Trail Horse Adventures," owned by Jess and Judy Dominguez, Jamie Perez and Jesus Castillo, and managed by G.W. Woolstenhulme, is now offering trail horseback rides inside Dead Horse Ranch State Park.

Experienced cowboys lead three different trail ride packages along the Verde River. Most of the ride will take place in the shade and near the water to keep you cool. There are one-hour, two-and-a-half hour and three-hour rides available. The cost is $70 to $136, depending on the amount of time, and the three-hour ride does include lunch.

Ride hours are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., seven days a week. There is a limit of six people per wrangler. There are height and weight restrictions, and riders must be at least 7 years old. Walk-ins are welcome but reservations do guarantee your spot. Dead Horse Ranch State Park offers hiking, fishing and camping with electric, non-electric sites, and cabins now available by reservation.

For more information about the Trail Horse Adventures, call (928) 634-5276. For more information about fishing and camping, call Dead Horse Ranch State Park at (928) 634-5283. Dead Horse Ranch State Park is located in Cottonwood.

Infant mental health conference coming up

The Infant Toddler Mental Health Coalition of Arizona will present "From Risk to Resilience: The 13th Institute on Infant Mental Health" Sept. 18 and 19 at the Desert Willow Conference Center, 4340 E. Cotton Center Blvd.

The conference program is designed to focus attention on bringing progressive, research-based information to Arizona to promote thought, discussion and understanding of the early development and mental health of very young children, the factors that jeopardize healthy development such as abuse and neglect and strategies for prevention and intervention.

Sponsorship opportunities are available.

For more information, visit www.itmhca.org.

Loose change adds up to $217K for Ronald McDonald House

Most people probably don't think twice after dropping change from their Big Macs into collection jars on the counters at McDonald's restaurants around the state. But all of those pennies, nickels, dimes and quarters add up to a big payoff for the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Phoenix, which has received $216,975.89 over the past 12 months from nearly 220 participating restaurants around the state.

Ronald McDonald House provides a home-away-from home for families traveling to the Valley for medical care for children facing serious or life-threatening illnesses.

For information about Ronald McDonald House Charities of Phoenix or to make an online contribution, visit www.rmhcphoenix.com.

Class offerings at Balanced Buddha

The Balanced Buddha, 1801 S. Jentilly Lane, Suite B-8, in Tempe, offers a variety of classes: Get Fit, not Bored!, 6 to 7 p.m. Mondays and 7 to 8 p.m. Wednesdays; Senior Stretch, 10:30 a.m. Tuesdays (a gentle approach to yoga for seniors); Meditation, 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays; Hawaiian Hula, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays; and Restorative Yoga, 7 to 8:30 p.m. Fridays.

For more information, call (480) 804-1111 or visit www.thebalancedbuddha.com.

League of Women Voters of Southeast Valley announce status

The League of Women Voters of Southeast Valley (LWVSEV) has received full league status from the League of Women Voter of Arizona (LWVAZ) and the League of Women Voters of the United States (LWVUS).

This is the first time in more than 20 years a full league has been established to service Southeast Valley communities.

For more information or to join, contact Barbara at bjay_az@hotmail.com or call Pam at (480) 518-7284.

Shamrock Farms offering organic farm tours

In celebration of Shamrock Farms' new organic sour cream, visitors to the Shamrock Farms Farm Tour will catch a behind-the-scenes glimpse of what goes into making the company's organic product line. Every Saturday in May, Shamrock Farms will offer special-edition organic Farm Tours.

The hour-long tours will be offered at 10 a.m., 11:15 a.m. and 1 p.m. Tickets are $9 for adults, $7.50 for seniors and military and $6 for children 12 and under. Children under 2 are free. Save $1 off the price of admission for up to four people by bringing in two Organic Sour Cream lids. Reservations are required by calling (602) 477-2462 or e-mailing RoxieTour@shamrockfoods.com.

Shamrock Farms Farm Tour is located at 40034 W. Clayton in Stanfield. For more information or for directions, visit www.shamrockfarmstour.com.

ASU graduate schools shine in new rankings

For the first time, U.S. News & World Report has ranked graduate programs in three Arizona State University colleges and schools in its top tier, among the top 25 in the nation. In the new issue of America's Best Graduate Schools 2009:

- The W.P. Carey MBA program is ranked 22nd overall, and eighth nationally among public universities.

- The ASU School of Public Affairs graduate program ranked 25th nationally among nearly 300 schools considered in the report, and among the top 15 publics.

- The Mary Lou Fulton College of Education ranks 25th for its graduate program, and 16th among public universities.

The Carey School is one of only five schools in the West ranked in the top 25, among more than 450 accredited business schools in the U.S. The other Western schools are Stanford, UC Berkeley, UCLA and USC. ASU's supply chain specialty ranked third nationally.

The School of Public Affairs is also one of only five schools in the west ranked in the top 25, with the others being UC Berkeley, USC, UCLA and Washington. The urban management program ranked sixth and public administration eighth.

Six out of nine specialty education programs within the Fulton College ranked in the top 20 in the nation. These include education policy, educational psychology, curriculum and instruction, secondary teacher education, elementary teacher education and student counseling/personnel services.

In addition, the School of Criminology and Criminal Justice in the College of Human Services ranked 16th in the nation. Other graduate programs ranked include fine arts, 30; Earth sciences, 31; engineering, 45; and law, 52.

While nursing colleges weren't included in this year's rankings, the ASU College of Nursing & Healthcare Innovation ranked 32 of 396 graduate programs last year.

Each year, U.S. News ranks professional school programs in business, education, engineering, law and medicine. The rankings are based on two types of data: expert opinion about program quality and statistical indicators. Surveys of more than 1,200 programs and 14,000 academics and professionals were conducted last fall.

The University of Arizona had no top 25 colleges in the new ranking of graduate schools. The UA garnered top-10 rankings in audiology, analytical chemistry, Earth science, geology, information systems, pharmacy, rehabilitation counseling, social psychology and speech-language pathology.

East Valley Marines planning birthday ball

With their 2008 Birthday Ball scheduled for Nov. 8 at the Oakwood Country Club in Sun Lakes, the East Valley Marines are focusing on their mission. As guests arrive, they will be heralded into the ballroom by the Tempe Police Pipe Band, dressed for the occasion in their uniform kilts. Hundreds of Marines ranging in age from teens to men and women in their eighties are expected to attend. Special tributes and speeches will be made to honor a large number of Marine guests who will have just returned from active duty in Iraq and Afghanistan. The event will be a night of tradition, ceremony, dinner, music and dancing.

The Birthday Ball is open to all Marines and all Americans that support our troops. Tickets will go on sale the beginning of September.

For further information, e-mail Richard Hippner at hip exec@yahoo.com or call (480) 883-9393.

Mommy Perks offers savings

Mommy Perks is a free online savings program for moms in their area and nationwide. Each business offers members a "perk" such as 10 percent off, free shipping, buy-one-get-one-free and more.

Mommy Perks has joined forces with Dr. Sally Goldberg of Dr. Sally Parenting, Inc. to bring members free advice from this parenting expert. Goldberg is the author of seven parenting books.

Affordable advertising for small- and mom-owned businesses is also available.

For more information, visit www.mommyperks.com or send an e-mail to mommyperks@gmail.com.

Foster parents needed

The Crisis Nursery is constantly looking for families who want to give back to the community through its involvement in the foster care system. This can be done in a few different ways. First, families can become licensed foster and/or adoptive parents.

If getting licensed is not an option for you, a second way to help is for businesses or individuals to become community sponsors willing to help families who are working on becoming licensed. There is no fee for getting licensed for foster care, however, there are expenses that a family may incur during the licensing process

For more information about Crisis Nursery's foster care program or other programs, contact Rachel at (602) 412-8861, Veronica at (602) 358-5166 or e-mail fostercare@crisisnurseryphx.org.

YMCA's OPAS program

Y OPAS (Outreach Programs for Ahwatukee Seniors) is a volunteer program of the Ahwatukee Foothills Family YMCA providing support services for seniors, 62 and older, who live in Ahwatukee Foothills. Transportation, shopping and errands, friendly visiting, caregiver relief, business help and household assistance are some of the services provided by Y OPAS volunteers.

If you, or someone you know would like to use its services, or if you are interested in volunteering, call the Y OPAS office at (602) 212-6088 (note that the phone number has recently changed).

Income tax too high?

The Arizona Kidney Foundation is reminding "Kidney Car" donors that while they are working on their 2007 tax returns, it's not too early to start thinking about 2008 tax deductions and if you have not donated your vehicle to AKF, now is a great time to begin - you could have a tax deduction in 2008. All vehicle title and paperwork must be received by the Arizona Kidney Foundation no later than Dec. 31 to qualify for a 2008 tax deduction.

There are three ways to participate in the AKF Kidney Car Donation Program. First, a donor can visit the Arizona Kidney Foundation Web site at www.azkidney.org and register online. Second, a donor can call (602) 840-1644, the Arizona Kidney Foundation, and ask that a Kidney Car Donation Program information packet be mailed to their home address. Or third, a donor can call for an appointment and visit the AKF headquarters at 4203 E. Indian School Road, Suite 140, to complete their donation. In all cases, the process requires a donor to submit the original MVD vehicle title as well as completing an odometer disclosure statement and a limited power of attorney form. The Foundation has two notary personal at their headquarters to assist in completing the power of attorney form.

Leadership Council looking for teens

Pecos Community Center is looking for young men and women who enjoy a challenge, love to organize and want to see their work come to mean something in the community. If this sounds like you, Teen Leadership Council may be exactly what you are looking for. Teen Leadership Council (TLC) meetings are held Wednesdays at 5 p.m. in classroom 4 at Pecos Community Center. TLC activities include volunteerism, field trips, social gatherings and city-wide networking.

For information, contact Jimi Vargas, teen coordinator, at (602) 534-5234, noon to 8 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.

‘Pass It On' basketball camp offered this summer

An overnight "Pass It On" basketball camp is being offered Thursday, July 10, through Monday, July 14, in Prescott, Arizona, for boys and girls entering fifth through ninth grade. The fee is $350 and includes room, board, T-shirt, basketball, water bottle and more.

For more information or to register, visit www.passitoncamps.com.

South Mountain ‘Silent Sundays' return

The Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department will continue the popular Silent Sunday events at South Mountain Park/Preserve in 2008. For each monthly event, the park's main Central Avenue-access roadways will be closed to motor vehicles from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m., reserving them for the entire day for non-motorized uses.

The Silent Sundays for 2008 are scheduled for June 22, July 27, Aug. 24, Sept. 28, Oct. 26, Nov. 23 and Dec. 28. Each Silent Sunday also features free drop-in park ranger guided interpretive programs and hikes from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the South Mountain Environmental Education Center, located adjacent to the park's main entrance.

Silent Sunday promotes awareness of alternative modes of transportation and recreation and gives the Preserve a day of rest from motor vehicle traffic. All roads past the main gatehouse at the Central Avenue entrance, including the Summit Road, are closed to motor vehicles for the day. Visitors can park in the free public lot adjacent to the Environmental Education Center.

Only roadways accessible from the preserve's Central Avenue entrance are closed for Silent Sundays. All other access points and parking areas, including trailheads at Pima Canyon, Desert Foothills, Beverly Canyon and the Mormon Trail, will remain open.

Information: (602) 534-6324.

Homeless Outreach program sends plea to community

Southwest Behavioral Health's Homeless Outreach, a program to help homeless individuals with mental illness, is requesting donations of cold weather supplies now through March. SBH's Homeless Outreach is a mobile program that delivers supplies to the homeless where they live - on the streets, in alleyways, riverbeds, parks and deserted buildings. Requested items include blankets, hats, gloves, warm shirts, jackets, sweaters, sweatshirts, thermal and regular underwear, hygiene kits (including toothpaste, toothbrushes), shoes and socks.

Donations can be dropped off from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, at the Day Resource Center, 1125 W. Jackson, Suite 448. Please call (602) 393-9930, ext. 3226, before making any drop-offs.

Older children and larger sibling groups need adoption, too

November is National Adoption Month, and Christian Family Care Agency hopes to draw attention to two very special groups of kids who need adoptive homes - children over the age of 10 and children from larger sibling groups (three or more children).

Louise Gonzales, of Christian Family Care Agency's Phoenix office, said while progress is being made in these two areas, the need for loving parents willing to adopt these kids is still tremendous.

Gonzales said parents willing to adopt children from these two areas often will move through the adoption process more quickly. She added that a parent's age isn't usually as big an issue when it comes to adopting an older child.

An adoptive parent's bank account also isn't necessarily a barrier. For more information, call (602) 234-1935 or visit www.cfcare.org.

Woodworkers looking for projects

The Ahwatukee Woodworkers Club gets together on Thursdays to work on charity projects and is currently looking for more projects to take on.

Past projects have included making plaques for Phoenix Children's Hospital, building tables and chairs for preschools and even making model MRI machines for doctors to explain the procedure to children to ease their fears. A model doll house kit was donated to the group, so members built it and held a raffle to raise money to support the club. In another project, models of homes in Tempe were built for the Tempe Historical Society that were raffled in a fundraiser for the society. The group is currently busy making cubbies for a local preschool.

The club is located near the Ahwatukee Recreation Center and is part of the Ahwatukee Retirement Community.

Projects are needed, and organizations such as schools, hospitals, churches or other charities in need of something built or made are asked to contact president Tom Rosenthal at (480) 275-6631.

MOMS Club of Ahwatukee has five chapters

The MOMS (Mothers Offering Mothers Support) Club of Ahwatukee is a national non-profit support group for at-home moms and their children. There are 5 chapters serving the Ahwatukee area. 

- East chapter: south of Chandler Boulevard, north of Pecos Road, East of 32nd Street, West of I-10. Contact Michelle at (480) 704-6609.

- North chapter: north of Warner Road to Baseline Road. Contact Michelle at (480) 229-9323 or nielsens2001@hotmail.com.

- Central chapter: south of Knox Road, north of Chandler Boulevard, east of 36th Street. Contact Sara at (480) 540-2339 or central@ahwatukeemoms.com.

- Northwest chapter: 32nd Street and Ray Road to Pecos Road and 24th Street, including Thunderhill Park Area to 18th Street. Contact Stephanie at (480) 751-7570.

- West chapter: north of Pecos Road and West of 24th Street. Contact Linda at jlnagel@cox.net or (602) 571-4393.

Send submissions to jwalker@ahwatukee.com.