41 ways to celebrate halloween around phoenix · 41 ways to celebrate halloween around phoenix ......
TRANSCRIPT
Press Coverage September 2017
Page 1
41 ways to celebrate Halloween around Phoenix 2017 Alyssa Villegas, The Republic | azcentral.com Published 4:39 p.m. MT Sept. 28, 2017 | Updated 11:12 a.m. MT Sept. 30, 2017 If you're already looking forward to Halloween, you're in luck. We've got a list of all the spooktacular events happening around the Valley. So grab your pets, kids and friends for a wide array of things to do. 9/30-10/19: Fall Break at Alamo Drafthouse Chandler Parents and kids can enjoy Kids Camp films at noon every day during Fall Break at Alamo Drafthouse in Chandler. "Pick your price" for the screening with tickets costing $1, $3 or $5, with proceeds donated to Chandler Education Foundation. Details: All showings start at noon. Sept. 30-Oct. 5: "Hotel Transylvania 2." Oct. 6-12: "Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets." Oct. 13-19: "Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban." Alamo Drafthouse Chandler, 4955 S. Arizona Ave., Chandler. Pick cost of admission from $1, $3 or $5. 520-213-8129, drafthouse.com/phoenix. 10/6: Spooks De Ballet Studio R Ballet is putting on a special Halloween performance at Apache Junction High School. Beautiful dance and creepy themes combine for a memorable evening with the "Spooks de Ballet." Details: 7-8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 6. Apache Junction High School, 2525 S. Ironwood Drive, Apache Junction. $10 adults; $5 ages 3-12. 480-580-2996, studiorballet.com. 10/6: Monsters Menagerie Opening Reception
Celebrate the return of the 16th Monsters Menagerie at an opening reception at Alwun House Foundation. The evening will feature Datura, a multimedia group that uses analog and digital instruments to inspire improvisational performances. Monsters Menagerie is a display that features a variety of creepy, unworldly and sarcastically political forms of art. Details: 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 6. Alwun House Foundation, 1204 E. Roosevelt St., Phoenix. $6 in advance, $10 at the door. 602-253-7887, alwunhouse.org. 10/6-8: 'Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone' Calling all witches, wizards and muggles: Grab your wand and join the Phoenix Symphony as they perform John Williams' mesmerizing score from "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone." Details: Oct. 6-8: 7:30 p.m. Friday, 1 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday. Symphony Hall, 75 N. Second St., Phoenix. $30-$99. 602-262-6225, phoenixsymphony.org. 10/7-15: The Addams Family Musical: The beloved Addams Family comes to life on stage in this ghoulishly fun musical. Details: Oct. 7-15. Shows at 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. Call for times. Adult tickets $16-$21, youth tickets $14-$16. Cactus Shadows Fine Arts Center, 33606 N. 60th St., Scottsdale. 480.488.198, http://www.dftheater.org/addams-family. 10/7-15: 'The Addams Family Musical' The worst has happened. Wednesday Addams, darling daughter of Gomez and Morticia...has fallen in love. But her creepy and kooky family can't decide what's worse - that Wednesday is growing up, or that
her boyfriend is “normal.” The beloved family comes to life in this musical that's ghoulishly fun for kids and adults alike. Details: Oct. 7-15. 7 pm. Friday, 2 p.m. Sundays, 2 and 7 p.m. Saturdays. $16-$21, youth tickets $14-$16. Cactus Shadows Fine Arts Center, 33606 N. 60th St., Scottsdale. 480-488-198, dftheater.org/addams-family. 10/13: Kid's Cauldron Mug Painting Party Time to create a vessel for your very own witches' brew! Children will use bubbles to paint a cauldron mug. The $25 fee covers the cost of the mug and paint. Suitable for ages 5 and up. Details: 6:30-8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 13. As You Wish, various locations. $25. asyouwishpottery.com. 10/13: 2nd Friday Night Out: Nightmare on Main: Historic Downtown Mesa is back from the dead with a night of frightful fun and everyone is invited to join the ghoulish activities during Nightmare on Main. 6:00-10:00 p.m. Friday, Oct. 13. Downtown Mesa 101 W Main St., Mesa. Free. 602-318-5689, http://2ndfridaynightout.com/ 10/13: 2nd Friday Night Out: Nightmare on Main Historic Downtown Mesa hosts Friday Night Out with a costume contest at OneOhOne Gallery. The contest begins at 7:30 p.m. and is free to enter with many categories and prizes. The evening includes a tour of the historic haunted basement inside OneOhOne Gallery. See the building's secret room and tunnels from the prohibition era and listen to stories about its history. Tour tickets are $3 for adults and $2 for kids. Tours are scheduled at 8 and 9 p.m. Enjoy a cup of witches' punch and dinner from food trucks or a downtown
Press Coverage September 2017
Page 2
restaurant while listening to live bands. Dog friendly. Details: 6-10 p.m. Friday, Oct. 13. 101 W. Main St., Mesa. Free. 602-318-5689, 2ndfridaynightout.com/. 10/14: BARKtoberfest! Bring your furry, four-legged friend to BARKtoberfest, a dog friendly festival that both your dog and you will enjoy. There will be live entertainment, a dog wash, agility course, adoptions and costume contests. All funds raised will go to Friends for Life, a no-kill animal shelter. Details: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 14. Gilbert Town Center, 50 E. Civic Center Drive, Gilbert. Free; some activities may require small fee. 480-497-8296, azfriends.org. 10/14-15: Spooktacular Kids Night Out Arizona Sunrays Gymnastics and Dance Center will be holding a spooktacular kids night out. Kids will enjoy trampolines, foam pits, obstacle courses, pizza and lots of fun. Participants to opt to spend the night will enjoy a late night and morning snack. Details: 6 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 14 through 8 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 15. Arizona Sunrays Gymnastics & Dance Center, 3110 E. Thunderbird Road, Phoenix. $50 sleepover; $30 kids night out. 602-992-5790, facebook.com/ArizonaSunraysGymnasticsDanceCenter/. 10/20: Halloween Spooktacular and Car Show This free family event features a Halloween-themed car show with trunk or treating, live music, games, food samples and a costume contest for kids, families and their four-legged friends. Enjoy the chance to win prizes and eats lots of tasty candy during the fun evening.
Details: 6-8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 20. The Shops at Norterra, 2460 W. Happy Valley Road, Phoenix. Free. norterrashopping.com. 10/20: Halloween Harvest Festival Kids and adults of all ages are sure to enjoy El Mirage’s annual Halloween Harvest Festival. The event features a pumpkin patch—with free pumpkins for the first 500 families, a haunted house, large corn maze, inflatables and a costume contest for multiple age groups. Details: 5-9 p.m. Friday, Oct. 20. El Mirage Gentry Park, 14010 N. El Mirage Road, El Mirage. Free. 623-876-2942, cityofelmirage.org. Various performers have claimed to see a ghost or two on stage, and not just during "A Christmas Carol." 10/20-21, 10/29, 10/31: Orpheum Theatre Ghost Tours Just in time for Halloween, the 60-minute tour of the Orpheum Theatre will feature stories of ghostly people who seem to still visit the theater, even after their deaths. The tour, which will include historically accurate facts about the theater, is hosted and sponsored by Phoenix Ghost Tours and The Friends of the Orpheum Theatre. Details: 6, 6:30, 7, 7:30, 8, 8:30 and 9 p.m. Oct. 20-21 and 29 & 31. Orpheum Theatre, 203 W. Adams St., Phoenix. $25. orpheumghosttours.com. 10/20-21, 10/27-28: Haunted Harbor at Lake (Un) Pleasant For two weekends in late October, Lake Pleasant transforms into a spooky and haunted harbor. Enjoy cruises on the lake for kids and adults, live entertainment and Halloween festivities galore.
Details: 12:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Oct. 20-21, and 27-28. Lake Pleasant, 40202 N. 87th Ave., Peoria. facebook.com/pleasantharbormarinaaz. 10/20-29: Enchanted Pumpkin Garden The Enchanted Pumpkin Garden returns to Carefree for the third year. The public can tour the four-acre pumpkin garden. On October 25 and 25, sculptor Ray Villafane and the YMCA is hosting two family instructional carving nights. Reservations recommended. Kids can participate in a new costume contest for families, and parents can get in on the fun too with an adult costume contest. Other activities include the “Adopt a Pumpkin” patch, pumpkin pie eating competition, corn maze, face painting, arts and crafts, a new harvest market and a local craft beer garden featuring culinary food trucks and fall treats. On Halloween, the town will partner with local boutique Bella Donna and Cane to coordinate a “Trunk or Treat” event along Carefree’s Easy street. Details: 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 20 to Friday, Oct. 29. Town of Carefree’s Enchanted Pumpkin Garden, 101 Easy St., Carefree. Free. 480-488-3686, carefreepumpkingarden.com. 10/21: Halloween Party and Ghost Hunt Night Hike Celebrate the start of the Halloween season with games, music and dancing, live creepy crawlies, crafts and of course – trick or treating at Estrella’s Nature Center. Come in costume and stay for a ghost hunt night hike—just be sure to wear close-toed shoes. Details: 6-9:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 21. Estrella Mountain Regional Park, 14805 W. Vineyard
Press Coverage September 2017
Page 3
Ave., Goodyear. 623-932-3811, maricopacountyparks.net. 10/21: Teen Fright Night Teenagers will take over the library during a ghoulishly fun evening of team competitions, music, prizes and tasty pizza. Teens are encouraged to wear costumes, but it is not required. Registration is open now. Details: 6-8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 21. Velma Teague Branch Library, 7010 N. 58th Ave., Glendale. 623-930-3438, glendaleaz.com/library. 10/21: Town of Queen Creek Trunk or Treat Children walk down "Trunk or Treat Street" visiting the uniquely decorated car trunks to get their bags filled with candy provided by the town of Queen Creek. Expect lots of other spooky activities as well. Last year's event include a zombie haunted tour, bubble zone and tot spot play area. Details: 5-9 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 21. Town Center, 21802 S. Ellsworth Road, Queen Creek. Free; some activities require a minimal fee. queencreek.org. 10/21: Library Murder Mystery Night - Come enjoy a night of “whodunit” at the library’s 4th annual Murder Mystery Night. The event, which is for adults 21 and over only, features interactive fun and snacks. Everyone is a suspect in the murder, and guests will try to figure out clues and solve the mystery. Registration is required. | Details: 6-8:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct.21. Sam Garcia Western Avenue Library, 495 E. Western Ave., Avondale. 623-333-2644, avondaleaz.gov. 10/21: Library Murder Mystery Night Come enjoy a night of “whodunit” at the library’s 4th annual Murder Mystery Night. The event, which is
for adults 21 and over only, features interactive fun and snacks. Everyone is a suspect in the murder, and guests will try to figure out clues and solve the mystery. Registration is required. Details: 6-8:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 21. Sam Garcia Western Avenue Library, 495 E. Western Ave., Avondale. 623-333-2644, avondaleaz.gov. 10/21: Goofy Ghost Walk Ghosts big and small will have a blast celebrating the Halloween season with a quarter-mile walk through the nighttime desert. Ghost Rangers will select the best child, teen and adult costumes; enjoy spooky-fun stories around the bonfire, a marshmallow roast and seeing animals. Be sure to bring a flashlight as it will be dark. Details: 7-9 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 21. Usery Mountain Regional Park, 3939 N. Usery Pass Road, Mesa. Free. 480-984-0032, maricopacountyparks.net. 10/21-22: Autumnfest Arts & Crafts Fair Residents of Anthem along with others from around the Valley will enjoy a couple of days celebrating anything and everything to do with fall. The family-friendly event includes carnival and hay rides, pumpkin picking and arts and crafts vendors. Once they have chosen the perfect pumpkin, kids can decorate it at the festival or take it home. Details: Oct. 21-22. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday. ACC Community Park, 41703 N. Gavilan Peak Parkway. Free admission and parking; $5 to decorate a pumpkin. 623-742-6050, onlineatanthem.com/autumnfest. 10/21-22, 10/28-29: Brick or Treat! At LEGOLAND Discovery
Center Arizona: LEGOLAND Discovery Center Arizona’s Brick or Treat celebration is serving up spooky, festive fun for two back-to-back weekends this fall. 10:00 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 21 and 28. 11:00 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 22 and 29. LEGOLAND Discovery Center Arizona, 5000 S. Arizona Mills Circle, Tempe. With admission. 877-526-3960. 10/21-22, 10/28-29: Brick or Treat! At LEGOLAND Discovery Center Arizona LEGOLAND Discovery Center Arizona’s Brick or Treat celebration is serving up frightening, festive fun for two back-to-back weekends in October. During regular business hours Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 21 and 22, and Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 28 and 29, LEGOLAND Discovery Center Arizona will host a Halloween extravaganza complete with unique Halloween-themed sets and a variety of family activities for all ages to enjoy. Guests can win annual passes by taking part in a special themed scavenger hunt throughout MINILAND. Details: 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 21 and 28. 11 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 22 and 29. LEGOLAND Discovery Center Arizona, 5000 S. Arizona Mills Circle, Tempe. Included in admission. $22, online discounts available. 877-526-3960, legolanddiscoverycenter.com. Free Ghostly Stories Festival in downtown Phoenix. Wear a spooky costume and enjoy snacks, story time, arts and crafts, a free book giveaway, and chalk art mural. 10/22: Ghostly Stories Festival Kids can listen to ghost stories with a historical twist while wearing spooky costumes, enjoying snacks, story time and engaging in arts and crafts. The festival includes a free book giveaway and a chalk art mural.
Press Coverage September 2017
Page 4
The day is intended for families and kids ages 2-12. Details: 4-7 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 22. Arizona Humanities, 1242 N Central Ave., Phoenix. Free. 602-257-0335, RSVP at eventbrite.com/e/ghostly-stories-festival-registration-37769330083. 10/26: Costume Parade Storytime This may be the one time of the year you don't have to whisper in the library. The Sam Garcia Western Avenue Library will be holding a costume parade, trick or treating and a Halloween story time for children ages 2-6. Details: 11:15 a.m.-noon; Thursday, Oct. 26. Sam Garcia Western Avenue Library, 495 E. Western Ave., Avondale. Free. 623-333-2601, avondaleaz.gov. 10/27: Chandler Halloween Spooktacular Any age group can have fun at Chandler’s Halloween Spooktacular, featuring food, games, arts and crafts, costume contests, photos and a haunted house. Bring a trick-or-treat bag to collect candy won through games including pumpkin bowling, broom races and scary piñatas. Some activities, such as face painting, require a small fee. Food and drink will be available for purchase from the Willie Dog Cart and Tubby D's. Details: 5:30-8:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 27. Downtown Library Plaza, 22 S. Delaware St., Chandler. Free. 480-782-2665. chandleraz.gov/default.aspx?pageid=605. 10/27: Monster Ball The family-friendly event features drinks and pizza, spooky snacks, games and plenty of activities. Enter the costume contest—if you dare—for a chance to win a prize.
Details: 6-8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 27. Community Center, 41130 N. Freedom Way, Anthem. $22 for a family of four, $14 per pair, $8 for singles, free for age 2 and younger. Prices increase the night of the event. 623-879-3011. onlineatanthem.com. 10/27: Zombie LARP VII: Inferi Invade Hogwarts! Teens and tweens ages 12-18 are welcome to use their wizard skills to prevent a Hogwarts invasion of Inferi. Dress up in your Harry Potter-themed finery, invite your pals and get ready to save the library from its seventh invasion of dead bodies that were reanimated by dark magic. Registration begins at 10 a.m. on October 12. Details: 6-9 p.m. Friday, Oct. 27. Glendale Main Library, Meeting Room Wing, 5959 W. Brown St., Glendale. glendaleaz.com/library. 10/27-28: Salt River Fields Balloon Spooktacular Festival - Satisfy your sweet tooth when more than 20 hot-air balloons will hand out more than 4,000 pounds of candy to trick-or-treaters in Scottsdale. Get a fright at the haunted house or take a ride in a tethered balloon. Catch live music and see a fireworks display to close the evening. Written waiver required for balloon rides. | Details: 5-10 p.m. Friday-Saturday, Oct. 27-28. Salt River Fields at Talking Stick, 7555 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale. $15adults; $10 forchildren ages 3-12; balloon rides $25 for adults, $15 for ages 10 and under.480-270-5000,srfballoonfestivals.com. 10/27-28: Salt River Fields Balloon Spooktacular Festival Satisfy your sweet tooth when more than 20 hot-air balloons will hand out more than 4,000 pounds of candy to trick-or-treaters in Scottsdale. Get a fright at the haunted house or take a ride in a
tethered balloon. Catch live music and see a fireworks display to close the evening. Written waiver required for balloon rides. Details: 5-10 p.m. Friday-Saturday, Oct. 27-28. Salt River Fields at Talking Stick, 7555 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale. $15 adults; $10 for children ages 3-12; balloon rides $25 for adults, $15 for ages 10 and under. 480-270-5000, srfballoonfestivals.com. 10/27-28, 10/30: Terror Nights Haunted House Arizona's premier home haunt, "Terror Nights," is back for the eighth time. Walk through different themed rooms modeled after movies such as: "The Conjuring," "Halloween," and "Jeepers Creepers." Join the zombies, dolls and scarecrows for a screamingly fun time. Details: 7-10 p.m. Oct. 27, 28, & 30. 511 E. La Donna Dr., Tempe. Free, donations appreciated. 480-276-7054, facebook.com/Terror-Nights-157207600964517/. 10/28: Halloween Pancake Run in Gilbert If you’re looking for an active way to prepare for Halloween, register for the Gilbert High School orchestra’s annual Pancake Run fundraiser event. Runners often don costumes as they run/walk either a 5k or 10k race. After the run, a pancake breakfast will be served while the orchestra students perform. Kids and non-runners can also participate in a costume walk following the runs that shows off the event’s best costumes. Details: 6:30 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 28. $25 per individual per race, includes pancake breakfast, $20 student price, $5 for non-runners pancake breakfast. Gilbert Riparian Preserve, 2757 E. Guadalupe Road, Gilbert. https://www.active.com/gil
Press Coverage September 2017
Page 5
bert-az/running/distance-running-races/halloween-pancake-run-2017?int=. 10/25/14- Zombies take to the streets during the Downtown Phoenix Zombie Walk Saturday. 10/28: Downtown Phoenix Zombie Walk The Arizona Hemophilia Association and Downtown Phoenix, Inc. will be hosting this year's downtown Phoenix Zombie Walk. There will be live bands, a costume contest, food trucks, a zombification station and John Holmberg from KUPD as grand marshall. Follow the Downtown Phoenix Zombie Walk page for more updates. Details: 3-11 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 28. Meet at Fourth and Jackson Streets in downtown Phoenix. $10; 12 and under free. Canned-food donations welcome. 602-254-8696, arizonahemophilia.org/zombie-walk/. Zombies participate in Zombie Walk in downtown Phoenix on Saturday, Oct. 29, 2016. Ben Moffat/The Republic 10/28: Howling Night Run Walk or run in the dark during the 5K event, which is a fun way to kick off Halloween weekend. Dress in costume or your regular exercise duds, and enjoy a haunted hayride while you are there. Bring along a headlamp to get through the unlit course. Details: 5-9 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 28. Hayrides are at 7:10 and 7:40 p.m. Estrella Mountain Regional Park, 14805 W. Vineyard Ave., Goodyear. $6 per car entry fee. 623-932-3811, howlingrun.phxfr.org. Explore the nightlife haunts of Cave Creek during this pub crawl, which stops at seven establishments, including Big Earl’s Greasy Eats and
Buffalo Chip Saloon, as well as the Zombie Ball. Enjoy live music, costume contests, beer gardens and other entertainment along the way. 10/28: Cave Creek Wicked What do you get when you combine an amazing costume contest with a pub crawl? Cave Creek Wicked, of course! Billed as the state’s only all-day, all-night Halloween event, Cave Creek Wicked features family-friendly daytime activities as well as nighttime stops to at least five local bars. Party buses will be provided to transport revelers to the various pubs. Details: Saturday, Oct. 28. Most times and locations to be announced soon; pub crawl starts at 7 p.m. cavecreekmerchants.com/cave-creek-wicked/. This year, the Phoenix Zoo is combining its Boo at the Zoo and Howl-O-Ween events into one. All activities will be categorized as “merry” or “scary” — the latter for children 8 or older who like a good fright. Non-scary events include camel rides, character meet-and-greets, a Monster Mash dance party, magic show and carnival games. Scarier events include the Monster Safari Tour, the Halloween Ex-FEAR-ience, zombies and a headless horseman encounter, and talks by the Phoenix Arizona Paranormal Society. 10/27-28: Howl-O-Ween The Phoenix Zoo’s Howl-O-Ween offers the best of both worlds—activities that are scary or merry. The spookier things to do—which are meant for kids 8 and up— include walking down Urban Legend Lane looking for characters typically heard about in mythical stories and encountering zombies on Walking Dead Way. Those who like a tamer evening will like the family-friendly camel rides, and character meet-and-greets with the Arizona Avengers and Arizona Ghostbusters.
Details: 6:00-10:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Oct. 27-28. Phoenix Zoo, 455 N. Galvin Parkway. $12.95 general admission, $9.95 for members, free for age 2 or younger. 602-286-3800, phoenixzoo.org. 10/28: City of Tempe’s 40th annual Family Halloween Carnival Gather together the kiddos and head to Kiwanis Park for a free and family-friendly festive fall event. Try your luck at carnival games, enjoy live entertainment and face painting, jump on the inflatables and, when hunger strikes, check out the food booths. Everyone is also welcome to dress up and take part in the Halloween costume contest. Details: 5-9 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 28. Kiwanis Park, Guadalupe Road and All American Way, Tempe. Free admission, tickets for attractions cost 25 cents each. 480-350-5200, tempe.gov. 10/28: Halloween Scorpion Scavenger Hunt - Put on your Halloween finery and head to Queen Creek for a night of searching for scorpions on a one-plus mile trail. Use black lights to look for the arachnids, which are fluorescent under the special lights. Costumes must include closed-toe shoes and allow for a free range of motion. | Details: 8-9 p.m. Saturday, Oct.28. San Tan Mountain Regional Park, 6533 W. Phillips Road, Queen Creek. 480-655-5554, maricopacountyparks.net. 10/28: Halloween Scorpion Scavenger Hunt Put on your Halloween finery and head to Queen Creek for a night of searching for scorpions on a one-plus mile trail. Use black lights to look for the arachnids, which are fluorescent under the special lights. Costumes must include closed-toe
Press Coverage September 2017
Page 6
shoes and allow for a free range of motion. Details: 8-9 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 28. San Tan Mountain Regional Park, 6533 W. Phillips Road, Queen Creek. 480-655-5554, maricopacountyparks.net. 10/28: Scottsdale’s Fall Festival The annual fall festival features plenty of spooky and free fun. Check out the haunted forest, enter a costume contest and try to win candy at game booths. Finish off the night with a fireworks show. Details: 5-9 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 28. Eldorado Park, 2311 N. Miller Road, Scottsdale. Free. scottsdaleaz.gov. 10/28: Halloween Monster Bash Bring the kids along for some scary Halloween fun where they can play all night on inflatable activities, carnival games, a rock wall, the scare walk and more. This event will donate canned goods to St. Mary’s Food Bank. Food and beverages will also be available for purchase. Details: 5-9 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 28. Peoria Sports Complex, 16101 N. 83rd Ave., Peoria. Free admission with canned food items, some activities require a minimal fee. 623-773-7137, peoriasportscomplex.com/Home/Components/Calendar/Event/183/1225. 10/28: Costume Day at Butterfly Wonderland - Celebrate the season of dressing up and creatures big and small by coming to Butterfly Wonderland dressed in an insect or rainforest animal costume. Enter a costume contest while you are at it—the event is open to people of all ages. No masks or props will be allowed. | Details: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, Oct.28. Butterfly Wonderland, 9500 W. Via de Ventura, Scottsdale. $21.95, $14.95 ages 3-12, $19.95 students and
seniors. 480-800-3000, butterflywonderland.com. 10/28: Costume Day at Butterfly Wonderland Celebrate the season of dressing up and creatures big and small by coming to Butterfly Wonderland dressed in an insect or rainforest animal costume. Enter a costume contest while you are at it—the event is open to people of all ages. No masks or props will be allowed. Details: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 28. Butterfly Wonderland, 9500 W. Via de Ventura, Scottsdale. $21.95, $14.95 ages 3-12, $19.95 students and seniors. 480-800-3000, butterflywonderland.com. 10/29: North Scottsdale United Methodist Church Trunk or Treat This kid-friendly trunk or treat will feature a costume parade and contest, games, food trucks and plenty of candy. Donations will go toward Vista del Camino Children's After School Recreation Center in Scottsdale. Details: 4-6 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 29. North Scottsdale United Methodist Church, 11735 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale. Free; canned and dry goods donations appreciated. 480-948-0529, nsumckids.info/trunk-or-treat.html. 10/31: Trick or Treat Main Street Enjoy fun and safe trick-or-treating in downtown Mesa. The family-friendly event is great for kids of all ages; stop in at the participating downtown businesses for a treat. When hunger strikes the ghosts and goblins, enjoy kettle corn and candy while watching a balloon artist. Details: 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 31. Main St. between Center St. and Country Club Drive, Mesa. 480-890-2613, downtownmesa.com.
10/1-31: Spooktacular Mini Golf: Every night in October starting at sundown, one of the mini-golf courses at Golfland will become a spooky place for 18 holes of Halloween-themed golf. Oct.1-31, starting at sundown. Golfland, 155 W. Hampton Ave., Mesa. $7.99 for adults, $6.99 for kids. 480.834.8319, https://www.golfland.com/frightnights/spooktacular-mini-golf. Through Oct. 31: Spooktacular Mini Golf Every night in October starting at sundown, one of the mini-golf courses at Golfland will become a spooky place for 18 holes of Halloween-themed golf. Spooktacular Golf is a family-friendly event—just be careful not to step through one of the graveyards. Costumed characters will be present to say hello and hand out treats. Details: Oct. 1-31, starting at sundown. Golfland, 155 W. Hampton Ave., Mesa. $9.99 for adults, $7.99 for kids. 480-834-8319, golfland.com/frightnights/spooktacular-mini-golf/. Alison Stanton contributed to this article.
Fees May Rise at Lake Pleasant and Other County Parks September 26, 2017 Staff Writers The Maricopa County Parks and Recreation Department is considering raising several fees at its 13 regional parks, which include Lake Pleasant and Cave Creek. The increases could affect camping, day-use entry, annual pass cards, and special-use application fees. The department is seeking public input via an online survey. Only 10 percent of the park department’s budget comes from taxes, the agency said in a statement.
Press Coverage September 2017
Page 7
The rest comes from user and concessionaire fees. Among the survey’s key questions: Should user fees carry the bulk of the budget burden, or should the county provide more funds via tax dollars to maintain the parks and support activities. “With aging equipment, rising operating costs, and the addition of two new regional parks to the system, the department is proposing a fee increase in some areas,” according to the statement. “This decision is not made lightly. Maricopa County Parks and Recreation is dependent on the revenue from park users to maintain our facilities, preserve the open space of our parks, and provide exceptional recreational and educational opportunities for our visitors.” The department is also considering expansion of the annual pass program to include a six month seasonal pass. The survey, here, will be open until Oct. 12.
Find a new hiking buddy at Wag & Walk Dog Adoption Hikes in Mesa Mare Czinar, Special for The Republic Published 9:05 a.m. MT Sept. 26, 2017 | Updated 9:05 a.m. MT Sept. 26, 2017 October brings cooler temperatures, sunny days and the beginning of hiking season in the Phoenix area. Few creatures are happier about this than the adoptable dogs at the Maricopa County Animal Care & Control shelter in Mesa. That’s because on the first Saturday of every month from October through April, they get to strut their
stuff along the Merkel Trail at Usery Mountain Regional Park. The public is invited to join the four-legged sweeties on these easy, 1-mile Wag & Walk Dog Adoption Hikes and stick around for a meet-and-greet play session at the trailhead. Shelter volunteers will be on hand to answer your questions about each dog’s personality, activity level, trick repertoire and history. You can even “test drive” the dogs to see how well they behave on a leash. For those wanting a potential canine hiking partner, this is a great opportunity to interact with dogs outside of the kennel environment, where they are more relaxed and better able to display their true character. All participating dogs are spayed or neutered, current on their shots and ready to go home with you on the spot!
An adoptable dog struts his stuff during a Wag & Walk Dog Adoption Hike at Usery Mountain Regional Park in Mesa. (Photo: Mare Czinar) But you don’t have to be considering adoption to join the fun. Perhaps you’re thinking about becoming a volunteer or looking for a way to add miles to your 100 Miles in 100 Days Challenge, a Maricopa County Parks program that encourages hikers, bikers and horseback riders to log 100 trail miles between Nov. 1, 2017, and Feb. 8, 2018. We can help you with
that. So why not double down on the fun? Where: Meet at Area 6 of Usery Mountain Regional Park, 3939 N. Usery Pass Road, Mesa. When: 9 -10:30 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 7, and the first Saturday of each month through April. Admission: $6 per vehicle. Details: Wag & Walk, www.maricopacountyparks.net/events/wag-n-walk-dog-adoption-hike-07. 100 Miles in 100 Days Challenge, www.maricopacountyparks.net/things-to-do/activity/100-miles-in-100-days-challenge.
Saturday light: stargazing under the night sky Posted: Friday, September 22, 2017 12:00 am Peoria Times Join local astronomy experts, Tony and Carole La Conte, from Stargazing for Everyone, 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Sept. 23 at the Desert Outdoor Center at Lake Pleasant, as they bring the universe and planets to you. Learn about the planets, star clusters and nebulas, as you peer through large telescopes and binoculars, while enjoying stories about the night sky. The two-hour stargazing event is a great way to learn about the autumnal equinox night sky, nebula, and distant galaxies. This year, you will also have an opportunity to enjoy a guided hike through a scale model of the solar system beginning 6:45 p.m. After the presentation, guests are invited to meander over to the telescopes, where they can view the moon and stars close-up. In addition to the stargazing program, this family-friendly event will feature kids’ crafts and the Center’s desert animal exhibits.
Press Coverage September 2017
Page 8
For guests who don’t have time to grab a bite to eat before the event, the Friends of the Desert Outdoor Center will be grilling up and selling hamburgers, hot dogs and chilled beverages, so everyone can focus on the festivities rather than loud belly growls. “With temperatures dipping into the 70s in the evening, this family-friendly event is geared toward allowing kids of all ages to have fun while learning about stargazing. They’ll learn how the stars are aligned, constellation formation, and how the nighttime darkness is not something to be feared, but to be explored,” said R.J. Cardin, Maricopa County Parks and Recreation Department director. Attendees are encouraged to bring digital cameras and cell phones to take photos of the moon through the telescopes. Additional items guests may want to bring include binoculars, lawn chairs and blankets for comfort. The park entrance opens 6:30 p.m. and the presentation will begin 7:30 p.m. There is a $6 per vehicle park entry fee for the event and reservations are not required. Bring cash for entrance fees and refreshments. The Desert Outdoor Center at Lake Pleasant is at 41402 N. 87th Ave. in Peoria (just east of Lake Pleasant Regional Park). For more information on this event and additional stargazing opportunities, visit www.maricopacountyparks.net.
National Public Lands Day: Free park admission, plus ways to help Weldon B. Johnson, The Republic | azcentral.com Published 6:24 p.m. MT Sept. 20, 2017
If you enjoy the outdoors and want to show your appreciation for Arizona's public spaces, get involved on National Public Lands Day. There are cleanup projects, ranger programs and family activities around the state on Saturday, Sept. 30. National Public Lands Day has been held on the last Saturday of September since 1994. Its goal is to celebrate enjoyment of outdoor public spaces such as parks and forests while offering people who enjoy those spaces a chance to give back through volunteering. National parks, monuments and recreation areas in Arizona will waive admission fees on Saturday. Participating state and Maricopa County parks will offer free admission to those taking part in the activities. Here are 10 ways to be a part of National Public Lands Day around Arizona. Find out more at www.neefusa.org/find-an-event/AZ. Anza Trail cleanup Help remove trash along the 1.5-mile section of the Anza Trail in Tumacacori National Historical Park. Volunteers should meet in the park picnic area for a brief orientation. Trash bags will be provided and there is a limited supply of work gloves. You can earn service hours and get a reusable Tumacácori water bottle and a coupon good for free admission to any federal park or land that charges a fee. Regular park admission will be free for anyone visiting the park on this day. Bring water, snacks and a hat. Email [email protected] with questions. Details: 8:30 a.m.-noon. Tumacacori National Historical Park, 1891 E.
Frontage Road, Tumacacori. 520-377-5069, www.nps.gov/tuma. Buffalo Soldiers of Bonita Canyon This 45-minute ranger program at Chiricahua National Monument will inform visitors about the history of the Buffalo Soldiers in southern Arizona in 1885-1886 and where they went after their time at Bonita Canyon (now part of the monument). Details: 7-8 p.m. Chiricahua National Monument, 12856 E. Rhyolite Creek Road, Willcox. 520-824-3560, ext. 9302; www.nps.gov/chir. Parker Canyon Lake cleanup Help spruce up Parker Canyon Lake in the Coronado National Forest of southern Arizona. Activities include removing invasive species, planting native species and collecting seeds, and the project is rated moderately strenuous. You'll be walking on uneven surfaces and potentially walking through water. Email [email protected] with questions. Details: 7 a.m.-5 p.m. Parker Canyon Lake, 9000 S. Parker Canyon Road, south of Elgin. 520-624-7080, skyislandalliance.org. Chandler, Gilbert wildlife-viewing areas Join the Desert Rivers Audubon Society and help spruce up wildlife viewing area in two popular southeast Valley bird-watching spots. Details: 7-11 a.m. Veterans Oasis Park, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Road, Chandler. Email [email protected] or [email protected]. Details: 7-11 a.m. Gilbert Riparian Preserve, 2757 E. Guadalupe Road, Gilbert. Email [email protected]. Lake Pleasant cleanup
Press Coverage September 2017
Page 9
Anyone who wants to help clean up trash in the park gets free admission and are welcome to stay and enjoy the lake after the cleanup ends at 11 a.m. Check-in starts at 6:30 a.m. Come to the main contact station of Lake Pleasant Regional Park for directions. Sign up at www.volgistics.com/ex/portal.dll/ap?ap=1949747233. Details: 7-11 a.m. Lake Pleasant Regional Park, 41835 N. Castle Hot Springs Road, Morristown. 928-501-1703, maricopacountyparks.net. Help build a trail in Prescott Prescott National Forest and the Prescott Mountain Bike Alliance invite volunteers to help construct part of the new Emmanuel Pines Trail System. Meet at Emmanuel Pines Camp, which is off Iron Springs Road. Food and beverages provided. Wear long-sleeve shirts, pants and work shoes or boots. Personal protection equipment will be provided. RSVP: Tony Papa, 928-777-2216 or email [email protected]. Details: 8 am.-noon. Emmanuel Pines Camp, 3000 Spence Springs Road, Prescott. www.prescottmtb.com, www.facebook.com/groups/PrescottMountainBikeAlliance. SARA Park trailhead work Help make improvements to the SARA Mountain Park Loop trailhead in Lake Havasu City. Volunteers will help sign trails, plant native plants, remove trash, move rocks and other tasks to make the trailhead better. An educational display area will provide information about the trails. Details: 7-9 a.m. SARA Mountain Park Loop trailhead, Dub Campbell Parkway, Lake Havasu City. 928-453-4141, neefusa.org/site-event/sara-park-trailhead. Verde River Day
Dead Horse Ranch State Park celebrates its 29th annual Verde River Day on Saturday and park entrance fees are waived. Events include a climbing wall, canoe and kayak rides, sand-castle building and nature exhibits. Guests can fish the lagoon, which will be freshly stocked with catfish. Poles, bait and tackle will be provided. No fishing license is needed. There will be entertainment throughout the day. Details: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Dead Horse Ranch State Park, 675 Dead Horse Ranch Road, Cottonwood. 928-634-5283, azstateparks.com/dead-horse. Whitmore Canyon Overlook cleanup Off-road enthusiasts can help clean up Whitmore Canyon Overlook in Grand Canyon-Parashant National Monument. This scenic viewpoint is popular with OHVs and other 4x4 vehicles. Volunteers will remove trash, old fence posts and wire and help clean up campsites. You'll need a four-wheel-drive vehicle. Email [email protected] for more information. Details: 8 a.m. Grand Canyon-Parashant National Monument, Littlefield. 435-668-3386. Youth Stewardship Day In exchange for helping clean up trails on Mount Lemmon, middle- and high-school students who take part in the second annual Youth Stewardship Day will receive free day pass to Rocks & Ropes climbing gym in Tucson. The pass includes gear rental and an orientation class. The event is presented by the Climbing Association of Southern Arizona. Details: 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Online registration is required at www.theclimbershome.org/ysd.html.
Little-Known Trailhead Getting Improvements September 19, 2017 Robert Roy Britt North Phoenix News
The Anthem Equestrian Trailhead on Desert Hills Drive, looking north toward Daisy Mountain.
When Daisy Mountain Fire Department’s rebuilt Fire Station 145 opens on Desert Hills Drive later this year, there will be a community room available for public use, a larger parking lot, and improvements to the adjacent equestrian trailhead that connects to the 315-mile-long Maricopa Trail. In May, Anthem Community Council voted to convey ownership and maintenance responsibility of the Anthem Equestrian Trailhead to the Daisy Mountain Fire District. The fire station at the site was demolished to make way for a new one, scheduled to open by the end of November, said DMFD spokesperson Paul Schickel. Among the improvements DMFD will pay for: An additional 33 parking spaces in a combined lot with a new, shared entrance, all graded and resurfaced. Lighted sidewalk from parking lot to fire station community room. New water line to replace broken one to existing horse trough. Given expected demand, the community room will require reservations, Schickel said.
Press Coverage September 2017
Page 10
The dry horse trough.
“This is a great example of the partnerships that Daisy Mountain Fire Department likes to build in the communities we serve,” Schickel said. “We think fire stations should be a focal point in our community.” The Maricopa Trail, a giant loop through the county, is intended for non-motorized use. It connects Lake Pleasant and Cave Creek regional parks with a section that passes under I-17 at Daisy Mountain Drive and runs and along the southern edge of Anthem. The trail also connects faraway county parks like Estrella to the south and San Tan in the southeast.
The front of Fire Station 145, which is under construction. The trailhead is in back.
A rendering of the planned replacement for DMFD Station 145. Image courtesy Daisy Mountain Fire Department
Lunchtime class explores the geology of San Tan Mountain Sep 17th, 2017 · by Queen Creek Independent staff report · Comments: 0
This monument sign welcomes visitors to San Tan Mountain Regional Park, 6533 W. Phillips Road in Queen Creek.
San Tan Mountain Regional Park in Queen Creek offers a variety of classes and events each month that deal with the area’s unique desert terrain. On Sept. 28, it will offer Lunchtime Learning Presents San Tan Geology, an hour-long class that starts at 1 p.m. inside the park’s Nature Center. People who have been to the park before or have simply seen the mountains in the distance may have wondered: How did those mountains get there? This indoor class will explain the basic geologic history of the park and explore how erosive forces may shape the park’s future.
Rangers will point out specific features that can be found along on the trails so that visitors can plan their next hike. Feel free to pack a lunch for this casual discussion. In addition, the following events are taking place at San Tan Mountain Regional Park, 6533 W. Phillips Road in Queen Creek. Entrance to the park is $6 a car. Events are included with the cost of admission. For more information and an extended schedule of events, call the park office at 480-655-5554 or visit its website at http://www.maricopacountyparks.net/park-locator/san-tan-mountain-regional-park/. SEPT. 20-WEDNESDAY Night Shredders Mountain Biking: 7-9 p.m. Welcome to the San Tan Bikes-sponsored Night Shredders. Bikers looking for an adventure where his or her trail-riding abilities will be challenged, then look no further than the Night Shredders. On the trail at night, every bump, dip and shadow gives an extra pop of adrenaline. Darkness heightens one’s senses, sharpens one’s skills and can make a biker feel more alive. The group’s policy, “No Rider Left Behind,” means everyone rides together in a group for safety reasons. It is mandatory to wear a helmet. Bring plenty of water, an extra tube and tools to change a flat tire, and two sources of light; LED rechargeable lights with at least 650 lumen. Why? The desert gets very dark at night. Riders under 18 years of age must complete a parental consent form. Meet at the flag pole at 6:50 p.m. SEPT. 21-THURSDAY San Tan Hikers: 7-8:30 a.m. The ranger will guide the in-house hiking group on an easy/moderate 2.5-mile
Press Coverage September 2017
Page 11
hike. Hikers will look for lizards and birds along the way and talk about how monsoons benefit the desert environment. Afterwards, participants will cool off in the Nature Center and meet the residents of the Critter Room. Be sure to bring water, a hat and sunscreen. Meet at the main trailhead. SEPT. 23-SATURDAY Beginner Skill Level Mountain Bike Ride: 7-9 a.m. This 5.5-mile ride is open to all ages and skill levels. Local experts will be available to help novice riders understand his or her bike’s features and learn the ins and outs of safe riding. This is an opportunity to be around others who are passionate about mountain biking as a sport to have fun and get some exercise. The group’s policy, “No Rider Left Behind,” means everyone rides together in a group for safety reasons. It is mandatory to wear a helmet. Bring plenty of water and an extra tube and tools to change a flat tire. Riders under 18 years of age must complete a parental consent form. Meet at the San Tan Trail sign at the main trailhead. SEPT. 28-THURSDAY Sunset Photography Walk: 5:30-6:30 p.m. Join park rangers for a short walk to explore some vantage points for capturing a desert sunset. They will discuss some artistic elements that help create a great image and test different photo techniques. This is a great way to get acquainted with a standard digital or phone camera. Rangers hope that the end of monsoon season brings some great cloud cover to make for a dramatic scene and stunning captures. What to bring: Closed-toe shoes, water and camera. Meet at the main trailhead.
This month at San Tan Mountain Regional Park Sep 11th, 2017 · by Queen Creek Independent staff report · Comments: 0 The following events are taking place at San Tan Mountain Regional Park, 6533 W. Phillips Road in Queen Creek. For more information, call the park office at 480-655-5554 or visit its website at http://www.maricopacountyparks.net/park-locator/san-tan-mountain-regional-park/. Entrance to the park is $6 a car. Events are included with the cost of admission. SEPT. 16-SATURDAY
Learn all about scorpions at the park during a class at 7 p.m. Sept. 16. Afterward, starting at 8 p.m., participants may join in the scorpion scavenger hunt. (Special to the Independent/San Tan Mountain Regional Park) All About Scorpions/Scorpion Scavenger Hunt: 7-7:30 p.m./8 p.m. Meet in the Nature Center. On a warm summer night, scouring the desert floor, the scorpions of San Tan look for their next meal. But who are the “big three” of San Tan? Learn about the facts, myths and reputation behind these mysterious creatures during a short presentation. Once participants have learned all about scorpions, they will be ready to meet them face to face on the scorpion scavenger hunt that follows the class at 8 p.m. Scorpion scavenger hunters will set out on a
desert exploration at night to search for these fascinatingly fluorescent creatures and find out just how cool they really are. They should meet at the flag pole just inside the entrance to the park. Bring plenty of water and a black light. Black lights are available for purchase inside the Visitor Center. SEPT. 20-WEDNESDAY Night Shredders Mountain Biking: 7-9 p.m. Welcome to the San Tan Bikes-sponsored Night Shredders. Bikers looking for an adventure where his or her trail-riding abilities will be challenged, then look no further than the Night Shredders. On the trail at night, every bump, dip and shadow gives an extra pop of adrenaline. Darkness heightens one’s senses, sharpens one’s skills and can make a biker feel more alive. The group’s policy, “No Rider Left Behind,” means everyone rides together in a group for safety reasons. It is mandatory to wear a helmet. Bring plenty of water, an extra tube and tools to change a flat tire, and two sources of light; LED rechargeable lights with at least 650 lumen. Why? The desert gets very dark at night. Riders under 18 years of age must complete a parental consent form. Meet at the flag pole at 6:50 p.m. SEPT. 21-THURSDAY San Tan Hikers: 7-8:30 a.m. The ranger will guide the in-house hiking group on an easy/moderate 2.5-mile hike. Hikers will look for lizards and birds along the way and talk about how monsoons benefit the desert environment. Afterwards, participants will cool off in the Nature Center and meet the residents of the Critter Room. Be sure to bring water, a hat and sunscreen. Meet at the main trailhead. SEPT. 23-SATURDAY Beginner Skill Level Mountain Bike Ride: 7-9 a.m. This 5.5-mile ride is
Press Coverage September 2017
Page 12
open to all ages and skill levels. Local experts will be available to help novice riders understand his or her bike’s features and learn the ins and outs of safe riding. This is an opportunity to be around others who are passionate about mountain biking as a sport to have fun and get some exercise. The group’s policy, “No Rider Left Behind,” means everyone rides together in a group for safety reasons. It is mandatory to wear a helmet. Bring plenty of water and an extra tube and tools to change a flat tire. Riders under 18 years of age must complete a parental consent form. Meet at the San Tan Trail sign at the main trailhead.
Grab this deal: A free camping night at Maricopa County parks 09.08.2017 Trueviralnews.com What’s cooler for your family this autumn than camping as temperatures start to fall? How about a two-for-one deal? Stay at least one night at select Maricopa County campgrounds between Oct. 1 and Nov. 10 and you’ll get another night free during the same visit. Book now before the spots fill up. “We take a lot of pride in our park system because it showcases so beautifully what’s unique about living in the Desert Southwest,” said Maricopa County Board of Supervisors Chairman Denny Barney. “The Buy One, Get One promotion is a great way to encourage people to unplug and get out in nature for a few days.” To receive the free night, visitors must make reservations by phone or
in person at the park and mention the deal. Online reservations do not apply. Bookings made before Aug. 1 are not eligible.
Maricopa County has one of the largest regional park systems in the United States. Blanketing 120,000 acres throughout the county, the parks are easy to reach, each less than a 45-minute drive from downtown Phoenix. Developed sites cost $30 per night and include electrical and water hook-ups, dump stations, restrooms, picnic tables and grills. Take virtual tours of the campsites at www.maricopacountyparks.org. The fine print Lake Pleasant Regional Park is not included in the deal. Offer valid only for designated developed or semi-developed sites, not primitive camping, group campground reservations or unit fees. For more details, go to www.maricopacountyparks.net/maricopa-county-parks-bring-back-free-camping-offer/. Where you can get a free night Cave Creek Regional Park Just north of Phoenix, this park offers the illusion of being miles away from civilization. The campground has 38 developed sites for tent or RV camping. Reservations: 623-465-0431. Address: 37900 E. Cave Creek Parkway, Cave Creek. Estrella Mountain Regional Park Situated near the meeting of the Gila and Agua Fria rivers in the
southwest Valley, the park includes a large wetland area. There are seven developed sites for tent or RV camping. Reservations: 623-932-3811. Address: 14805 W. Vineyard Ave., Goodyear. McDowell Mountain Regional Park Nestled in the lower Verde River basin, this park is a desert jewel in the northeast Valley. This park has 76 developed sites that are perfect for RV or tent camping. Reservations: 480-471-0173. Address: 16300 McDowell Mountain Park Drive, Scottsdale. Usery Mountain Regional Park This park in the east Valley is at one end of the Goldfield Mountains, adjacent to Tonto National Forest. The park offers 74 developed sites that can accommodate tents and RVs. Reservations: 480-984-0032. Address: 3939 N. Usery Pass Road, Mesa. White Tank Mountain Regional Park At nearly 30,000 acres, this is the largest regional park in Maricopa County. Most of the park is made up of the rugged and beautiful White Tank Mountains. The park offers 40 developed sites for tent or RV camping. Reservations: 623-935-2505. Address: 20304 W. White Tank Mountain Road, Waddell.
RCSCW preps paddleboard yoga class September 7, 2017 News, Sports By Richard Smith Independent Newsmedia While the concept sounds somewhat exotic, paddleboard yoga is nothing new.
Press Coverage September 2017
Page 13
But paddleboard yoga, in a pool no less, is a curiosity in Sun City West. The Recreation Centers of Sun City West led demonstrations of the combination of two popular activities Aug. 25 and 31, thanks to Lake Pleasant-based Desert Lotus Paddleboards. A larger demonstration will be part of the grand opening of the R.H. Johnson Swim and Fitness Center, 19083 R.H. Johnson Blvd., 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 16. Jennifer Marks, Desert Lotus proprietor, will then lead the first RCSCW Yoga Paddleboarding class, with three fall sessions offered on Tuesday and Thursday mornings starting Tuesday, Sept. 19. Paddleboard yoga instructor Jennifer Marks of Desert Lotus Paddleboards shows advanced poses Aug. 25 at the R.H. Johnson Swim and Fitness Center. [Kasey Hutha/Special to Independent Newsmedia] Tamra Stark, RCSCW EXPLORE! program coordinator, said she noticed Ms. Marks leading a class while on a hike at Lake Pleasant. That, and the upgraded pool, sparked an idea. “I noticed there was a lot of people paddleboarding at Lake Pleasant,” Ms. Stark said. “There are a lot of yoga classes here and a lot of people like it.” RCSCW box office employee Lynne McCray was the first to try it out Aug. 25. She enjoys both yoga and paddleboarding. Even for a veteran of both activities, yoga paddleboarding is a unique and more strenuous work out. “It was the basic poses that you do in yoga. It’s completely different because you’re not on solid ground. Your body wants to do one thing and your brain another,” Ms.
McCray said. “I actually felt it in the core areas the next day.” She said at first the Sun City West residents interested are likely to be more advanced and regular practitioners of yoga. As Ms. Stark said, even yoga regulars will experience a new challenge trying to keep their balance. “They have a lot of yoga classes out here so this is next level,” Ms. McCray said. However, Ms. Marks can modify classes to match the skill level of participants. The initials classes are for beginners and introduce the fundamentals with an emphasis on proper alignment and breathing techniques. Ms. Marks became a registered yoga teacher 500 through Yoga Pura Advanced Studies and Teacher Training in 2011. In recent years she received her Stand Up Paddleboard Yoga teacher certification. Visit Desert Lotus Paddleboards at [email protected]. PADDLEBOARD YOGA CLASSES Fall Session I: Sept. 19, 21, 26, 28 and Oct. 3 and 5 Fall Session II: Oct. 10, 12, 17, 19, 24 and 26 Fall Session II: Oct. 31, Nov. 2, 7, 9, 14 and 16 All classes are from 7:45 a.m. to 8:45 a.m. at the R.H. Johnson Pool and are limited to 10 people. There is a $130 fee for Session I and $160 for Sessions II and III.
Fallen Heroes service, council meeting, free blood pressure checks on Sept. 6
Sep 5th, 2017 · by Queen Creek Independent staff report · Comments: 0 SEPT. 6-WEDNESDAY
Charlotte Ballard, seated, has her blood pressure taken by Capt. Adam Halfpop of the Queen Creek Fire and Medical Department while people wait in line for their turn. The fire department offers free blood pressure checks from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. on the first Wednesday of the month at the Queen Creek Library Recreation Annex, 21802 S. Ellsworth Road. (Special to the Independent/Town of Queen Creek)
Free Blood Pressure Check: 9-11 a.m. Queen Creek Library Recreation Annex, 21802 S. Ellsworth Road. Conducted by members of the Queen Creek Fire and Medical Department. For more information, visit www.queencreek.org.
Queen Creek Town Council Regular Meeting: 5:30 p.m., Sept. 6. Queen Creek Community Chambers, 20727 E. Civic Parkway. Public hearings are not heard before 7 p.m. For more information or to view the agenda, visit www.queencreek.org.
Nathan Martens Candlelight Memorial Service: 6:30-9:30 p.m., San Tan Mountain Regional Park, 6533 W. Phillips Road, Queen Creek. Hosted by Arizona Pearl Harbor Remembrance. The park’s memorial was named for Navy Corpsman Nathan Martens, a Queen Creek man
Press Coverage September 2017
Page 14
who was killed during a night patrol on Sept. 6, 2005. His family continues to honor his memory along with Arizona’s Fallen Heroes every year on Sept. 6 at the memorial bearing his name at the park. There are more than 200 names engraved on four plaques at the memorial site. For more information, call Bridgette Crosby of Military Moms in Queen Creek/San Tan Valley at 480-235-8388 or visit the Nathan Martens Arizona Memorial and Military Moms in QC/STV pages on Facebook.
SEPT. 11-MONDAY
Queen Creek Blood Drive: 2:30-4:30 p.m., Queen Creek Historic Town Hall, 22350 S. Ellsworth Road. The town of Queen Creek invites residents to give the gift of life in honor of the National Day of Service and Remembrance by donating blood at the town’s blood drive. To schedule an appointment online, visit BloodHero.com using QueenCreek as the sponsor code. Donors can also complete the health history questionnaire online prior to his or her appointment. Donors are encouraged to drink plenty of water and eat a hearty meal before their donation, according to a press release. For more information about United Blood Services, visit UnitedBloodServices.org. To stay updated on news and events, visit queencreek.org,
SEPT. 12-TUESDAY
Network QC Luncheon: 11:30 a.m.-1:15 p.m., Queen Creek Branch Library, Zane Grey Room, 21802 S. Ellsworth Road in Queen Creek. Monthly get-together presented by the Queen Creek Chamber of Commerce. Attendees will have the opportunity to network with other members and present a
30-second verbal commercial to the group. Cost to attend is $5 for chamber members and $10 for future members. Fee can be paid by cash or check at the door. For more information, call the chamber office at 480-888-1709.
Queen Creek Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee Meeting: 6 p.m., Municipal Services Building, San Tan Conference Room, 22358 S. Ellsworth Road. To view the agenda, visit the Calendar listing on the town’s website: www.queencreek.org.
SEPT. 13-WEDNESDAY
Planning and Zoning Commission Regular Meeting: Work study session 6-7 p.m., regular meeting 7-8 p.m., Queen Creek Community Chambers, 20727 E. Civic Parkway. For more information or to view an agenda, visit www.queencreek.org.
SEPT. 20-WEDNESDAY
Queen Creek Town Council Regular Meeting: 5:30 p.m., Sept. 20. Queen Creek Community Chambers, 20727 E. Civic Parkway. Public hearings are not heard before 7 p.m. For more information or to view the agenda, visit www.queencreek.org.
SEPT. 21-THURSDAY
Evening Network QC: 5:30-6:30 p.m. Location to be announced. Presented by the Queen Creek Chamber of Commerce. For more information, call the chamber at 480-888-1709 or visit its website at www.queencreekchamber.com.
Queen Creek Chamber of Commerce Annual Business Awards Dinner: 6-9 p.m., Encanterra Country Club,
36460 N. Encanterra Drive in San Tan Valley. For ticket availability, call the chamber at 480-888-1709.
Editor’s note: We invite readers to submit news about classes, meetings and events taking place in Queen Creek by e-mail to [email protected]. Items run as space is available. To guarantee placement, please call 480-982-7799. For a modest fee, you can choose how you want your item to appear, when you want it to run and the newspaper where you’d like to see it placed. Our “Celebrations” packages are perfect to announce achievements, anniversaries, birthdays, births, engagements, graduations, special occasions and weddings.
Second Man Charged With Murder in Lake Pleasant Killing Authorities have charged another man with murder in the killing of 21-year-old Taylorlyn Nelson, whose body was found in Lake Pleasant. Sept. 1, 2017, at 3:37 p.m. USNews.com PHOENIX (AP) — Authorities have charged another man with murder in the killing of 21-year-old Taylorlyn Nelson, whose body was found in Lake Pleasant. Court documents show 26-year-old Maxx James Bowe, the brother of the Nelson's boyfriend, now faces a first-degree murder charge and another count of kidnapping resulting in death. Authorities found Nelson's body in July, four months after she went missing. Police say investigators found blood evidence indicating foul play in the
Press Coverage September 2017
Page 15
trailer where Nelson lived with her boyfriend, 27-year-old Kodi Bowe, and that additional evidence led detectives to the Lake Pleasant area. Police allege Maxx James Bowe held Nelson down while Kodi Bowe shot her. Maxx James Bowe initially faced charges of hindering prosecution. A 51-year-old woman was also arrested in the case.
Lake Pleasant: more than just a spot to cool off John Genovese 4:49 AM, Sep 1, 2017 9:31 AM, Sep 1, 2017 PEORIA, AZ - It's a hot spot to cool off this holiday weekend but beyond the boats and jet skis, there's another side to Lake Pleasant you may not know about. “It's a beautifully orchestrated system that allows us all to use water for many different reasons,” said Jennifer Brown, a Central Arizona Project Director. “We know we’re in a desert and we know when we wake up in the morning and we need a hot shower, it’s going to be on -- but most people don’t understand how that works," she said. Lake Pleasant, along with lakes Mead and Powell, serve as reservoirs for the Central Arizona Project system that provides at least some water to 80 percent of people in the state. Billions of gallons of water are pumped from Lake Havasu and travel 150 miles to the lake where it's stored during winter and released during summer, spanning over more than 300 miles of canal.
"It's a very amazing system that took about $4 billion to build," Brown said. This weekend water at the lake will be about fifty feet lower than Memorial Day. It happens that way by design, Brown said, adding that water is a "precious" resource that should be respected in the desert. "We need to appreciate the goodness and the value that water brings," she said.