Community Briefs (8/8)

Event aimed at kids Pre-K through 8th grade

The Desert Vista Spirit Line Cheer Squad will host its semi-annual cheer clinic from 1 to 3:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 23, at Desert Vista High School, 16440 S. 32nd St., for ages Pre-K through eighth grade. Walk-in registration and preregistration begin at 12:30 p.m.

All participants will be invited to perform during halftime of the varsity football game on Friday, Sept. 12.

The $35 fee includes instruction, cheer clinic T-shirt, poms, souvenir photo, refreshments and admission for one adult to attend the football game.

For more information or to obtain a preregistration form, contact Nancy Kapler at (480) 529-1115 or bkapler@msn.com, or Mary Proulx at (480) 577-3598 or rproulx1@cox.net.

Practices start for DV, MP ice hockey players

The Desert Vista High School Hockey Club is hosting pre-season practice sessions at Desert Schools Coyotes Center, 7225 W. Harrison St., Chandler, open to both Desert Vista and Mountain Pointe high school hockey players.

The sessions will be held from 8 to 9 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 9, and from 4:50 to 5:50 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 16 and Saturday, Aug. 23. The cost is $12 per session.

Players will need to be signed up for their high school hockey team through the Arizona High School Hockey Association and with USA Hockey prior to skating. Bring a copy of this to the first ice session. To sign up for high school hockey, go to www.thunderonice.com.

The pre-season practice sessions are not try-outs.

DV parents are also needed to take charge of the annual fundraising golf tournament, which offsets additional season costs. A sign-up sheet for other volunteer opportunities will also be available. 

For more information on the pre-season practice sessions, call Steve McGinn at (602) 363-3568.

Sol Patrol auditions Saturday

The Phoenix Suns are seeking energetic and athletic performers to audition for the 2008-09 Sol Patrol entertainment team. Auditions will be held Saturday, Aug. 9, with registration beginning at 10 a.m. on the practice court at US Airways Center, 201 E. Jefferson St. Performers must be at least 18 years of age.

For more information, log on to Suns.com.

Aquadawgs accepting swimmers

The Ahwatukee Foothills Family YMCA Aquadawg Recreational Swim Team is accepting swimmers for the 2008 fall season, Aug. 11 to Oct. 4.

Practices are offered Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays at the YMCA, 1030 E. Liberty Lane. The schedule is very flexible, and swimmers choose the day(s) they want to attend. Beginners swim from 4 to 5 p.m., intermediates from 5 to 6 p.m. and advanced swimmers from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Groups are available for ages 6 to 14. All swimmers must be proficient in freestyle and backstroke and be comfortable in deep water.

For more information or to set up an evaluation to ensure the swimmer is in the correct training group, e-mail aquatics director Deborah Rothstein at djrothstein@vosymca.org.

Caffe Boa wine tastings

Caffe Boa, 5063 East Elliot Road, will be hosting free wine tastings with appetizers every Wednesday at 4 p.m., starting Aug. 13. Select wine bottles will be available for half price all night long.

For more information or to make a reservation, e-mail caffeboa1@msn.com, call (480) 893-3331 or stop by.

Abrakadoodle enrolling for fall

Enrollment is under way for the fall session of Abrakadoodle Art Education classes at the Ahwatukee Community Swim and Tennis Center, 4700 E. Warner Road. Classes for the fall session begin Aug. 14.

Abrakadoodle is a popular national arts education program for children ages 20 months to 12 years old. Children paint, draw, sculpt, design, imagine, sketch and explore using a wide variety of artist materials and techniques. All artwork goes home framed each week!

The cost for an eight-week session is $80, plus a $30 additional materials fee per session. For more information or to register online, visit www.abrakadoodle.com/AZ02.html or call Karen Kahn at (480) 279-1555.

Cub Scouts set info meetings

Cub Scout Packs 478 and 978 invite boys in grades 1 to 5 and their families to attend upcoming informational meetings on Cub scouting.

Cub Scout Pack 478, which services Kyrene de los Lagos Elementary School and all other Ahwatukee Foothills schools, will host its fall recruitment and first Pack meeting beginning at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 19, in the multipurpose room at Lagos, 17001 S. 34th Way, in Lakewood. During the meeting families will have an opportunity to meet with leaders and learn about den and pack activities. Applications for new scouts and leaders will be available. For more information, visit www.Pack478.com or call Steve at (480) 686-3947.

Cub Scout Pack 978's first pack meeting of the year will start at 7 p.m. Aug. 26 in the St John Bosco multipurpose room, 16035 S. 48th St. Pack 978 has serviced Kyrene de la Esperanza Elementary School and the surrounding community for several years.

For more information, contact Santiago at (480) 753-9489 or kiddonsant@qwest.net.

Community Swim & Tennis Center offerings

The Ahwatukee Community Swim & Tennis Center, 4700 E. Warner Road, offers a variety of activities and programs, including:

- Child Enrichment Program. Spaces are still available for ages 2 to 5 in the class which is a progressive learning experience. The next session begins Aug. 11. For more information or to register, call (480) 893-3431 or visit www.ahwatukeehoa.com.

- Tumbling Classes. Classes for preschoolers are held from 1:15 to 2:15 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays, and the cost is $32 a month. For additional information, call (480) 893-3431 or (480) 893-1942.

- Line Dancing at Lunch. Beginners meet 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Thursdays and intermediates from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. The cost is $24 a month or $8 to drop in.

For more information, call us at (480) 893-3431, ext. 0.

YMCA youth sports

The Ahwatukee Foothills Family YMCA, 1030 E. Liberty Lane, is accepting all participants for the fall season which runs from Sept. 20 to Nov. 1.

The YMCA fall sports program emphasizes good sportsmanship, fitness, fair play, fundamentals and fun, while implementing its core values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility.

For more information or to register, call (480) 759-6762 or visit www.valleyYMCA.org.

Museum moving collection, needs volunteers

The Arizona Capitol Museum, 1700 W. Washington St., seeks volunteers interested in assisting staff as they prepare to move the Museum's collection of artifacts to the new Polly Rosenbaum Building at 1901 W. Madison St.

Volunteers are needed now through October and are asked to commit to a minimum of four or more hours per shift. Persons with prior museum (or similar) experience capable of writing conditions reports, entering data in a computer and handling delicate objects are encouraged to apply. Applications are available in the Volunteer Opportunities section of the Web site, www.lib.az.us/museum.

Volunteers will work closely with the collections staff and other museum volunteers to ensure a smooth and safe transition to the new building. Volunteers will not have to perform the actual move but must be able to lift up to 25 lbs. This position is considered ideal for recent college graduates, retirees and people in good health and who are available during regular business hours. This new volunteer position offers a unique opportunity for the people of Arizona's communities to contribute in the preservation of our State's treasures.

To submit applications and resumes or receive additional information, email Jason Czerwinski at volunteer@lists.lib.az.us.

For information on the Museum, call (602) 926-3620 or visit www.lib.az.us/museum.

Free classes kick off developmental tumbling

When older children head back to school, East Valley toddlers can strut their stuff at the Arizona All Stars Cheer and Tumbling Gym, 7425 S. Harl Ave., Suite 3 (just off I-10 and Elliott Road). Starting Aug. 11, the gym is offering a free week of classes to kick off its Shooting Stars/Tumbling Tots developmental gymnastics program.

Classes are for children ages 18 months to seven years old and will be offered Monday and Thursday mornings with sibling discounts available. Friday mornings are open play similar to this summer's popular Indoor Playground. Details are available at www.azallstars.com (check the right side under "what's new") or call (480) 831-1105.

Arizona All Stars has been owned and operated by Ahwatukee Foothills resident Jennifer Huot-Lannon since 2001. Arizona All Stars also offers birthday parties for all ages, personalized tumbling classes, individualized coaching, competitive and performance cheerleading teams, private lessons, facility rentals, camps, clinics and choreography for high school and middle school age teams or individuals.

For more information, email azallstars@cox.net or visit www.azallstars.com.

Cats taking over MCACC

Maricopa County Animal Care and Control (MCACC) is being overrun with cats. Right now, there are more than 200 of these fluffy fur-balls at MCACC's Animal Care Centers.

A crowded space can lead to sick cats. The folks at MCACC does not want that to happen, so they are asking anyone interested in adopting a new furry friend to come out and do so now. Its summer cat special of all cats over six months for $25 is still available. And now, all kittens are $50. The price includes spay/neuter surgery and a rabies vaccination and is good through the end of August.

Cats have so much love to offer. They make great pets for families and single people. They can take care of themselves, but love a good snuggle and some play time. So hurry in today and add a new member to your household.

For more information on MCACC, visit www.pets.maricopa.gov or call (602) 506-7387.

Registration open for DBG Landscaper School

The Desert Botanical is currently accepting registrations for the Desert Landscaper School, a 30-week program offered in three sessions. Professionals and non-professionals alike will learn best horticulture practices from Garden curators, expert horticulture staff and guest instructors. Classes begin the week of Sept. 8.

Prospective students are invited to attend the annual Desert Landscaper School Open House from 4 to 9 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 14, in Archer House at Desert Botanical Garden, 1201 N. Galvin Parkway.

The program is offered in both English and Spanish. The course fee is $1,265, which includes a training manual and associated materials. 

To register, visit www.dbg.org or call Rebecca Senior, Desert Landscaper School Coordinator, at (480) 481-8161. 

Just a buck, change their luck

PetSmart Charities' fall 2008 "Just A Buck, Change Their Luck" campaign runs Aug. 9 to 26

in PetSmart stores in the United States and Canada. In conjunction with this campaign, pet parents can enter the first Just A Buck Online Pet Photo Contest and possibly see their companion animal featured on the 2009 campaign merchandise in the U.S. and Canada.

One dog and one cat will be chosen to appear on next year's merchandise as part of the first online pet photo contest. Rules and entry information can be found at www.petsmartcharities.org and clicking on "Just A Buck." There is no fee to enter, and the rewards are priceless. In addition to seeing their pets on 2009 merchandise, the winning pet parents will receive a 24" x 36" stretched canvass print and complimentary 2009 Just A Buck merchandise.

The fall 2008 campaign merchandise features "Bright Angels" artwork by Mitch Henderson. Merchandise includes mouse pads and Techo-Skinz for laptops and iPods for just $5, T-shirts for $10 and tote bags for $15. All proceeds benefit homeless pets in their own state or province. The goal of the two-week campaign is to raise $1.9 million in the U.S. and more than $150,000 in Canada to help dogs and cats in need.

Customers can donate when they make a Just A Buck purchase at any PetSmart store in the U.S. and Canada, or online at PetSmart.com, from Aug. 9 to 26.

The campaign raises money to support animal welfare agencies across the U.S. and Canada and ultimately reduce the number of homeless pets euthanized each year. Proceeds are donated to thousands of agency partners to support spay/neuter, adoption, pet retention and education programs.

Money raised during this campaign stays within the state or province where it was donated.

Learn about DBG's preschool program

Desert Botanical Garden, 1201 N. Galvin Parkway, will host two "planting parties" for parents interested in learning more about Sammy's Seedlings Preschool Program - 1 to 3 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 9, or 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 10. 

Join in the fun of planting vegetables and flowers while learning about what plants need in order to grow. Explore at plant learning centers and even plant a seed of your choice to take home and grow. This is the perfect opportunity to check out the classroom, backyard and meet the teacher and volunteer team.

For more information or to register, call (480) 481-8146 or visit www.dbg.org. Limited space is available.

Free home painting for low-income, disabled or elderly homeowners

Low-income, disabled or elderly homeowners statewide whose homes need exterior painting but can't do the work themselves and volunteer groups willing to handle the painting are being sought by Rebuilding Together Valley of the Sun for the fifth annual Wells Fargo Rock & Roll Paint-A-Thon, 1 Day of Peace, Music & Paint, Saturday, Oct. 25.

Dennis Flynn, executive director of Rebuilding Together Valley of the Sun, said the organization can paint up to 150 homes around the state. Eligible homeowners selected for the project will receive paint and paint supplies for the job, and Rebuilding Together will provide volunteers with T-shirts and insurance. Dunn Edwards has donated 2,000 gallons of recycled, reprocessed paint for the event.

Rebuilding Together also is looking for nonprofit organizations to apply to have their facilities painted. Two agencies will be selected.

Eligibility guidelines and an application for homeowners, volunteers and nonprofit agencies can be found at www.rebuildingtogetherphx.org.

Annual Ahwatukee Community Fair

The Ahwatukee Foothills Chamber of Commerce will present the Fifth Annual Ahwatukee Community Fair, formerly the Ahwatukee Business Expo, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 18, at Mountain Pointe High School, 4201 E. Knox Road. Admission and parking for the event are free.

A variety of large and small businesses in Ahwatukee Foothills and surrounding areas will showcase their products and services during this event. Featured activities include a kid zone with large bounce houses, face painting and a barbecue. Arrive early for a chance to try your hand at unlocking the treasure chest to win prizes.

Booths for merchants are available at early-bird rates until Aug. 25. For more information, call Julia Williamson at (480) 753-7676 or e-mail Julia@ahwatukeechamber.com. Booth space is limited and will be assigned on a first-come, first-served basis with payment.

Jewish Couples Club forming

A new East Valley Jewish Couples Club is being formed. Join other couples each month for fun events such as dining out, plays, wine tasting, sports, day trips and more.

For more information, contact Melissa at (480) 785-0744 or beadlover@cox.net.

‘Back-to-School' Teen Night at the Y

Students in fifth through eighth grades are invited to "Back-to-School" Teen Night from 7 to 10 p.m. Friday, Aug. 15, at the Ahwatukee Foothills Family YMCA, 1030 E. Liberty Lane.

For details, contact teen director Colin Noonan at (602) 212-6085 or cnoonan@vosymca.org.

Go Green at Curves

Reduce your waistline and join the "Go Green" movement at Curves Ahwatukee.

Each time you participate, you get entered into the Go Green raffle for prizes, including spa treatments, Curves stuff, restaurant gift certificates and more.

Here's how to participate:

- Recycle plastic bags, used water bottles or gently-used clothing. Place them in the marked containers by Aug. 31 at Curves Ahwatukee, 15410 S. Mountain Parkway, Suite 101.

- Conserve energy. Curves will host "Hot Friday Nights" in August when the air conditioning will be turned off and the lights dimmed from 5 p.m. to close. 

- Ride your bike, walk, Rollerblade, skateboard or carpool to Curves.

- Buy a refillable water bottle (or win one on the circuit) and fill it at the fountain instead of buying bottled water.

- Get a friend to join Curves Ahwatukee by Aug. 31 and bring a plastic bag stuffed with plastic bags, used water bottles or used clothing and get the rest of summer free.

For more information, call (480) 759-4340 or visit info@curvesgym.com.

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.

A-Peeling Faces was awarded a selected member of the best of greater phoenix.com, a local online directory for beauty and day spas.

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

Volunteer guides needed

The Desert Botanical Garden needs volunteer guides to lead public tours and school field trips.

School tours are offered from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Monday to Friday, and public tours are offered 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. seven days a week from Oct. 6 to May 15. Visit www.dbg/education for a complete outline of tours and content presented through the Sonoran Desert Adventure Field Trip program.

Training begins Sept. 9 at the Desert Botanical Garden, 1201 N. Galvin Parkway.

Anyone interested may fill out a volunteer application online at www.dbg.org and then contact Nancy White at nwhite @dbg.org or (480) 481-8197 to schedule an interview or Tina Wilson at twilson@dbg.org for more program information.

Women's Club kicking off new season

The Foothills Women's Club will start a new season on Sept. 10.

The club meets at 7 p.m. one Wednesday a month from September through May at the Club West Golf Course Clubhouse, 16400 S. 14th Ave. Beverages are available, and snacks will be served. The December and May meetings are members-only parties, but all other meetings are open to the public, and there is no cost to attend.

For more information, e-mail Kari Lindner at karijolindner1@cox.net or visit http://foothillswomensclub.org/index.php.

DBG offers programs for all ages

The Desert Botanical Garden, 1201 North Galvin Parkway in Phoenix's Papago Park, is offering a variety of workshops, tours, classes, hikes, presentations, wellness programs, trips and adventures this fall for adults, children and families. 

For a complete listing, visit www.dbg.org.

Grand Canyon Railway calling charities

Grand Canyon Railway is opening up tickets for its annual Polar Express charity train to charities across Arizona. All charities will have the opportunity to receive tickets aboard this year's The Polar Express via a simple application process.

Grand Canyon Railway is dedicating its 8 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 6, Polar Express train to charity organizations. Nonprofits interested in applying can download The Polar Express charity train ticket application at www.thetrain.com/polarexpress. Charities applying must be able to travel on Thursday, Nov. 6. Applications must be submitted by Sept. 30.

Charities that have questions about the application process can contact Shannon Stegmeir at stegmeir@thetrain.com or (928) 773-1976, ext. 1014.

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 80s 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, contact Richard Hippner at hip exec@yahoo.com or call (480) 883-9393.

Louv to speak at Parks and Rec conference

Richard Louv is an author and futurist focused on nature, family and community. His most recent book, Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children From Nature-Deficit Disorder, has stimulated an international conversation about the future relationship between children and nature, and has helped spawn a movement that is now moving into the international sphere.

Louv will be speaking in conjunction with the 2008 Arizona Parks and Recreation Association Conference held at the Camelback Inn in Scottsdale from Aug. 25 to 29.

For more information or to attend, visit www.azpra.org or call (602) 335-1962 or (800) 335-PARK.

Psychologist offers path to authenticity

World-renowned transpersonal psychologist and author Albert Clayton Gaulden will hold a Path to Authenticity Workshop Aug. 22 to 24 at the Sedona Hilton in Sedona.

Based on his new book, You're Not Who You Think You Are: a Breakthrough Guide to Discovering the Authentic You, this class will guide participants with proven strategies and tools to unearth their genuine, real selves.

For more information or to register, call (800) 647-0732 or e-mail info@sedonaintensive.com.

Hunter education class

Basic and Combo Hunter Education classes for all ages will be held in the auditorium at Poston Jr. High School, 2433 E. Adobe, Mesa, from 6:45 to 9 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays Sept. 9 to Oct. 7. A four-hour required field day is Saturday, Oct. 4, at the Rio Salado Sportsman's Club on Usery Pass Road.

In person registration for both classes will be held from 6:30 to 7 p.m. at the first class session on Sept. 9. Pre-registration is required by calling (480) 834-1791 and leaving your name, phone number and the number of students in your group for the combo class. The total cost for either class is $8, and checks should be made out to MHEIA. Please bring your Social Security number or Arizona hunter ID number to registration. The maximum basic class size is 250 persons and 25 persons for the combo class. Parents are encouraged to attend with their youth. This class is required for all persons 10 to 14 years old to hunt big game in Arizona, and it also qualifies the graduate for a permanent bonus point.

For further information, contact Mike at (480) 834-1791. Please do not call Poston Jr. High for details. For an Arizona Game and Fish Hunter Education class schedule, visit http://www.azgfd.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 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.

For information, call (602) 534-6324.

Huge demand for election board workers

Maricopa County Recorder Helen Purcell is extending an invitation to the voting public to sign up and become a board worker on Election Day. The positions are paid and vary in responsibility. Workers must attend a training class and set-up meeting. The hours are from 6 a.m., when the polls open, to 7 p.m., when they close.

Of the 1,142 precincts in the county, 636 need to be staffed with 848 bi-lingual workers. Some of the polling sites require more than one bi-lingual board worker. The department needs assistance in this program as well.

Because of a dire need for board workers during the election cycle, a state law was passed in 2006 that allows 16- and 17-year-olds to work at the polls on Election Day. They must have parental approval, and the high school must be notified of their intent. They receive pay for attending class, set-up meeting and working Election Day. Passage of this law does not penalize either the high school or the student for being absent while working at the polls.

Anyone interested in working the polls for both the 2008 Sept. 2 primary and Nov. 4 general elections may call (602) 506-1511.

New group fitness instructor training class offered

Carrie McNeish will teach a Group Fitness Instructor Training - Practical Application class through South Mountain Community College from noon to 1:30 p.m. Tuesdays Sept. 2 to Dec. 2 at the Ahwatukee Swim and Tennis Center, 4700 E. Warner Road.

Learn the practical side of teaching group fitness classes; how to put together fun, safe, and successful classes; how to teach a multitude of formats to your students, including floor aerobics (hi/lo), step aerobics, kickboxing, muscle/body toning, dance, cycle, yoga, Pilates and aqua; and learn about teaching classes for youths, seniors, and women during pregnancy.

The cost is $100. To register (class 42739), call (480) 659-3070 or go online to www.My.Maricopa.edu.

Registration for the fall session of McNeish's line dance and muscle classes at Pecos Community Center begins Aug. 2.

For more information on class offerings, visit www.dancemeetsfitness.net.

Sweetie the Tomato offers kids a taste-bud tour

This summer, kids and parents are invited to join Sweetie the Tomato on an eight-week taste-bud tour with Sweet Tomatoes' 2008 Passport to Flavor.

Every two weeks, from Aug. 1 through Sept. 30, Sweet Tomatoes will debut an internationally-inspired menu - for one all-you-care-to-eat price - offering guests the chance to sample dishes inspired by four new flavor destinations, including Italy, Mexico, Greece and Asia.

For more information, visit www.sweettomatoes.com.

Volunteers needed to tag Monarch butterflies

Chris Kline, education coordinator for Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park, is seeking volunteers to help search for monarch butterflies during offsite research trips. The program objective is to capture, tag and release adults while exploring the edges of the state, and learn more about the travel corridors these insects use.

Arizona Monarch field trip dates include Jacob's Lake, Aug. 12 to 15; Springerville, Aug. 16; Canelo Hills, Aug. 30 and Sept. 14; Hereford, Sept. 6; Blue River, Oct. 2 to 4; Hualapai Mountains, Oct. 15 to 17; Perkinsville, Oct. 18; and Sonoita, Nov. 1.

For more details, call Chris Kline at (520) 689-2723 or visit www.btarboretum.org.

Holiday boutique looking for artists, crafters

Members of Arizona Community Church are currently gearing up for their Seventh Annual Holiday Shoppe to be held Nov. 14 and 15. Vendor registrations are now being accepted until Oct. 16, or until all spaces are sold.

Vendor setup, close to 100 spaces available, is scheduled for 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 13. The Shoppe will be open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 14, and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 15.

The vendor registration packet contains details on dates, times, requirements and fees. To download a packet, go to www.azcc.org and click the "Holiday Shoppe" button. You can also stop by Arizona Community Church at 9325 S. Rural Road in Tempe between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. To pick up a packet call Jackie Fahey at (480) 491-2210 to have one mailed to you.

Massage Envy sponsors fundraiser

Massage Envy's fourth annual fundraiser event, Massage for the Cure, provides complimentary one-hour therapeutic massages in exchange for a donation at its 25 statewide locations to raise funds for the Phoenix and Southern Arizona Affiliates of Susan G. Komen.

The event, set for 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday, Sept. 15, at 3820 E. Ray Road, Suite 16, is open to the public and requires an appointment. Reservations for appointments will be accepted by phone or in person beginning Sept. 8. There is no charge; however, the suggested donation is the value of the massage ($49), but any amount will be accepted.

Since the inception four years ago, Massage Envy's Arizona locations have raised nearly $150,000 to support breast cancer research for the Phoenix and Southern Arizona Affiliates of Susan G. Komen, as well as breast cancer education, screening and treatment initiatives in Arizona. 

Last year, Massage for the Cure raised more than $55,000 in Arizona.

For more information, visit www.massageenvy.com.

Catholic Charities hosting annual golf tournament

The 2008 Catholic Charities Tournament of Champions will begin with a 12:30 p.m. shotgun start Friday, Nov. 7, at the Legacy Golf Resort, 6808 S. 32nd St., followed by dinner and awards. The format will be best ball, four person scramble.

All golfers and Catholic Charities supporters are invited to participate, and players will have an opportunity to win several hole-in-one prizes. Foursomes are available for $700 or individuals may register for $175 per person. A 10 percent discount is being offered to sponsors who sign up by Aug. 1.

Proceeds will benefit more than 50 programs helping vulnerable children and families in crisis throughout northern and central Arizona.

For more information or to register to play, become a tournament sponsor or volunteer, visit www.golfinvite.com/events/index.asp?eventID=1078.

Tour de Scottsdale gearing up

Cyclists are gearing up for the Fifth Annual Tour de Scottsdale, and the "105,000 Miles for the McDowells" challenge, which will launch at 7:30 a.m. Sunday, Oct 5, from Market Street at DC Ranch, located at the southeast corner of Pima Road and Thompson Peak Parkway.

For more information or to register, visit dcbadventures.com or call (480) 460-5052.

Water bottles needed to save lives

We are in triple-digit weather, and survival for those living on the streets, in homes without refrigeration, the disabled and elderly is at a crisis level. The need for hydration and refuge is immediate. A bottle of water can save a life! Now is the time to organize water drives and continue them throughout the summer.

The Web site, www.mag.maricopa.gov/display.cms, will be kept current throughout the heat season. The site has two maps on it - one shows water collection sites and the other shows sites that will provide hydration and refuge for the homeless during the day. Donations also may be made directly to any of these sites.

The Arizona Ecumenical Council along with city and county government offices are asking the faith-based community to consider water drives throughout the summer to help replenish these locations.

Large donations can be picked up by contacting Becky Franco at (602) 261-8806 or by e-mail to rebecca.franco@phoenix.gov. Further, all area food banks are collecting and storing water for distribution.

Another collection and distribution site not included on the maps is Tempe First United Methodist Church, 215 E. University Dr., Tempe, (480) 967-3376. The church gives out water, shirts and sunscreen to the homeless.

More information is available online at www.aecunity.net.

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!).

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.

Big League Poker Tournament benefits D-backs Foundation

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

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 WinGilaRiver.com.

Pilates classes offered at The 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.

Arizona Region of USA Volleyball hosting golf tourney

The Arizona Region of USA Volleyball is hosting its second fundraiser golf tournament at the Arizona Grand Golf Club, 8000 S. Arizona Grand Parkway, on Saturday, Sept. 20. The scramble tournament will start at 7:30 a.m. and include golf, lunch, raffle and more. The proceeds of the tournament benefit the Development Grant Fund aimed to grow the sport of volleyball throughout the state in areas that need financial assistance to do so. The cost is $120 per individual, or $400 per foursome.

For more information or to register, contact Christy at (602) 454-1367, e-mail cnaughton@qwestoffice.net or visit www.azregionvolleyball.org.

Local writer to teach Memoir Writing Course in Mexico

As a recipient of a 2008 Artist's Project Grant from the Arizona Commission on the Arts, Ahwatukee Foothills resident and writer Patricia Colleen Murphy has spent this summer writing her own memoir. But for the past 15 years, as a writing teacher at Arizona State University, she has been dedicated to helping others craft their personal stories. Murphy continues to support the growing number of people interested in memoir writing with a workshop Oct. 2 to 5 at Hacienda de los Santos in the historic town of Alamos, Mexico.

The four-day writing workshop, titled "Writing the Memoir: Crafting Your Personal Experience into Art" will start with an introductory session Thursday evening, Oct. 2. There will be three morning workshops on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, culminating in a student reading Sunday evening. Murphy will also give public readings of her own poetry and prose in the Hacienda Theater. The total cost for the workshop is $60 (not including, room, food or beverage).

The Hacienda de Los Santos is located at Calle Molina No. 8, Alamos, Sonora, Mexico 85763.

For further information, e-mail Hacienda de los Santos at Swickard@haciendadelossantos.com or visit www.haciendadelossantos.com or email the author at pcm@asu.edu or visit www.patriciacolleenmurphy.com.

Polar Express season coming up

Grand Canyon Railway's 2008 Polar Express Season kicks off Nov. 6 and continues select evenings into January. The round trip journey is approximately an hour in length. Most evenings, Grand Canyon Railway offers two Polar Express trains, with one departing Williams Depot at 6:30 p.m. and a second train departing at 8 p.m.

Tickets are $26 for adults and $14 for children. Special Polar Express packages, which include The Polar Express train trip, one night at the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel and dinner and breakfast at the railway's restaurant, are available starting at $289. Package prices are for two adults and two children and are based on double occupancy. Prices do not include tax and are valid for travel from Nov. 6 to Jan. 10, 2009.

For more information, visit www.thetrain.com or call 1-800-THE-TRAIN (1-800-843-8724).

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.

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.

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.

Bondurant Corvette Performance Experience

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.

Women offered 10-day retreat to Peru

This 10-day women's retreat, presented by A Woman'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.

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.

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 five 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: (480) 898-7924 or jwalker@ahwatukee.com.