By Alison StantonWhen Hunter Melone was 2 1/2, he was

startled by a Halloween decoration at a local big-box home improvement store.

“This particular scary man was in a random area by the patio furniture by the front of the store and would lean in and scare anyone that walked by,” said Carly Melone, Hunter’s mom.

“Hunter was traumatized by this and now that he’s 7 he will still talk about ‘the scary man’ as if he’s there every time and not just at Halloween.”

Hunter’s experience with the spooky decoration also caused him to be terrified of Halloween decorations at the grocery store and other big-box stores, said Carly, who lives with her family in Chandler.

Dr. Daniel Merrill, medical director of the department of psychiatry at Chandler Regional and Mercy Gilbert medical centers, said childhood fears of scary costumes and Halloween displays can definitely be a typical and understandable response in young children who are still developing neurologically.

While adults are usually able to calm themselves by reminding themselves “I know that’s not a real skeleton because it’s made from plastic,” young kids’ brains are not quite there yet, he said.

“The sense of fear arises from a part of the brain called the amygdala, and the soothing thought originates from a part of the brain called the hippocampus,” Merrill said.

“Halloween images may frighten children as they have a well developed fear response from the amygdala but have not yet fully developed the soothing thought response from the hippocampus.”

To help children who are scared of Halloween decorations, costumes and more, Merrill said parents can try gently and incrementally exposing their child to whatever is frightening him or her.

As an example, for a child who will not go near a display of plastic skeletons at the grocery store, Merrill said parents should

talk with their son or daughter about the skeleton in a safe place, like the home.

“Explain why it is not real, why it is used in displays and why Halloween is celebrated,” he said.

Parents can also try showing a picture of the display skeleton to their child while in the safe environment, or even bringing it home for the child to experience while feeling safe.

“Finally, they can take a field trip to the store to look at the display that initially caused the fear,” he said.

“Keep in mind that child development is highly individual, so parents should not force the steps.”

Ruth Lucas, a professional consultant, author and life coach from Chandler, said parents should also acknowledge their

child’s fear and respond as if it’s normal.

“Empathy and validation that it’s a normal response is essential. These things are designed to be scary,” she said.

Parents can also share stories about what scared them when they were younger as well as what they did to feel better.

They can also take advantage of their child’s imagination by asking him or her to be creative and suggest things that would

help him or her to be less scared, Lucas said.For children who are afraid of Halloween

night itself and trick-or-treating, Lucas said families should feel free to turn off the porch light, stay inside playing games and skip the costumes and candy.

Carly said while Hunter never had an issue with dressing up for trick-or-treating, she is still careful to keep anything scary out of her home.

“We have a house of cute pumpkins, ghosts and scarecrows,” she said, adding that

now that he is 7, Hunter is able to calmly point out the Halloween displays in the stores.

In some cases, Merrill said, what is frightening one year to a child will suddenly become fascinating.

“A child may be afraid of zombies this year and insist on being a zombie for Halloween next year,” he said.

And although it can be hard for parents to watch their children being frightened, Lucas said parents should remember that like many things in life, this too shall pass.

“Don’t make too big a deal out of it; it doesn’t last forever.”

Alison Stanton is a freelance writer who lives in the East Valley. She can be reached at Alison@SanTanSun.com.

SanTanFAMILYFUN

“An award-winning publication”

Oct. 3 - Oct. 16, 2015 1

SanTan Sun News

What’s inside

Page 2, 3, 8SanTan Family Fun Calendar

RESOURCESWebsites

www.lucasseminars.com

www.parents.com/kids/development/be-havioral/understanding-kid-fears

Books

“Me and My Dragon: Scared of Halloween,” by David Biedrzycki

“Noodles: I’m Not Scared,” by Hans Wilhelm

“Scared Silly: A Halloween Book for the Brave,” by Marc Brown

Helping frightened kids get through the scariest of holidays

Hunter Melone, left, pictured with mom, Carly, little brother, J.T., and dad, John, began to be frightened of Halloween displays in stores when he was 2. Now that he is 7, he is less scared of the decorations. Submitted photo

Dr. Daniel Merrill said that gently exposing children to whatever is frightening them on or around Halloween can help them get over their anxieties. Submitted photo

2 Oct. 3 - Oct. 16, 2015

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events change or cancel after the calender is printed.

1 2 3

4 5 6 7 8 9 10

11 12 13 14 15 16 17

25 26 27 28 29 30 31

18 19 20 21 22 23 24

SanTan Family Fun ArrivesIntroduction to Rocks &

Minerals Part II - Field TripPlay-Well Teknologies - Bash’em Bots Using LegoMeet the Creature

Tumbleweed TotsThe Painted PotDiscovering Outer Space

Tumbleweed Tumble Tots

The Painted PotTumbleweed Tots

Tumbleweed Tots

Tumbleweed TotsChefs in the MakingUpcycled Headbands

Introduction to Fossil Identification Part I

Tumbleweed TotsScience Matters

Super Science ShowMilkshakes with MomsChefs in the MakingUpcycled Headbands

Tumbleweed Tumble Tots

Tumbleweed Tumble Tots

Tumbleweed Tumble Tots

Tumbleweed Tumble Tots

Halloween Cookie and Cupcake Decorating Class

Tumbleweed TotsOutdoor Pizza PartyFamily Night at the TRC

Tumbleweed TotsMommy and Me -

Trick or Treat BagMilkshakes with Moms

Tumbleweed TotsFamily Night at the

TRCDesserts with Dads

Tumbleweed TotsMilkshakes with

Moms

Tumbleweed Tumble Tots

Tumbleweed Tumble Tots

Community Nights in the Courtyard

The Painted PotTumbleweed Tumble

Tots

Tumbleweed Tumble Tots

Halloween Cookie and Cupcake Decorating Class

Tumbleweed TotsHalloween Crafty WorkshopsLil’ Gardner

Science Matters Super Science ShowStars, Songs and S’mores

Tumbleweed TotsLil’ GardnerScience Matters Super

Science ShowCome Alive StorytimeTeen Pizza Taste Off • Halloween Crafts • Friday Feeding Frenzy

Tumbleweed TotsBikes, Bounce and

BoogieTR Halloween Dance

Tumbleweed TotsHalloween Spook-

tacular

Chandler Scout JamboreeDonuts and Dads

Science Matters Super Science Show

Mommy and Me - Trick or Treat BagFlowers - Junior BadgeMuffins and MomsMeet the Creature

Plants, People and the Environment

Introduction to Fossils Identification Part II

Happy Halloween!

Send family events and activities to STFF@SanTanSun.com

Oct. 3 - Oct. 16, 2015 31, 5, 22The Painted Pot, 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Create a masterpiece on a clay pot. Designed for participants 15 years and older, it’s a night of art and friends. Participants must bring their own 10- to 12-inch clay pot. Environmental Education Center at Veterans Oasis Park, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler. $8 to $11 registration fee. (480) 782-2900, www.chandleraz.gov/tumbleweed.

1Discovering Outer Space, 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Enjoy a journey through space and an introduction to astronomy led by an amateur astrophysicist. Take a walk through Veterans Oasis Park and explore the vast solar system we call home. The class will conclude with a telescope viewing of the night sky. Environmental Education Center at Veterans Oasis Park, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler. $6 to $9 registration fee. (480) 782-2900, www.chandleraz.gov/tumbleweed.

1, 6, 8, 13, 15, 20, 22, 27, 29Tumbleweed Tumble Tots, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. This indoor play area is designed for children 5 and younger to play under parental/guardian supervision. This fun, safe and clean area will have plenty of toys, equipment and activities that are sure to keep the kids entertained. There is a maximum of four children per adult. Tumbleweed Recreation Center, 745 E. Germann Rd., Chandler. $2 to $3 registration fee. (480) 782-2900, www.chandleraz.gov/tumbleweed.

2, 5, 7, 9, 12, 14, 16, 19, 21, 23, 26, 28, 30 Tumbleweed Tots, 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. This indoor play area is designed for children ages 5 and younger to play under parental/guardian supervision. This fun, safe and clean area will have plenty of toys, equipment and activities that are sure to keep the kids entertained. There is a maximum of four children per adult. Tumbleweed Recreation Center, 745 E. Germann Rd., Chandler. $2 to $3 registration fee. (480) 782-2900, www.chandleraz.gov/tumbleweed.

3Introduction to Rocks and Minerals Part II—Field Trip, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Payson is the home of the famous Payson Diamond. This daylong event of collecting crystals includes transportation and a geologist to answer questions. Bring water, snacks and wear comfortable shoes and clothing to meet any weather conditions. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Environmental Education Center at Veterans Oasis Park, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler. $27 to $37 registration fee. (480) 782-2900, www.chandleraz.gov/tumbleweed.

3Play-Well Teknologies—Bash’em Bots Using LEGO, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Play-Well engineering instructors will guide students in this advanced Play-Well engineering class as they re-engineer standard LEGO vehicles into mechanized machines that can traverse challenging obstacles, battle against fellow bots and take on Play-Well instructors’ colossal creations. Snedigar Recreation Center, 4500 S. Basha Rd., Chandler. $7 to $10 registration fee. (480) 782-2640, www.chandleraz.gov.

3, 17, 31Meet the Creature, 11 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. In this interactive program, children will get up

close and personal with live animals while receiving a fun lesson in wildlife rescue and conservation. Each program features different, fascinating animals from around the world. Environmental Education Center at Veterans Oasis Park, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler. $6 to $9 registration fee. (480) 782-2890, www.chandleraz.gov.

7Outdoor Pizza Party, 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. Come out to Veterans Oasis Park for an outdoor pizza party. Everyone will bake their own pizzas in Dutch ovens and then enjoy their pizza while watching a movie. Environmental Education Center at Veterans Oasis Park, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler. $12 to $16 registration fee. (480) 782-2890, www.chandleraz.gov.

7, 21Family Night at the TRC, 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. The first and third Wednesdays of the month enjoy a variety of different recreational activities and entertainment. Tumbleweed Recreation Center, 745 E. Germann Rd., Chandler. $2 to $5 registration fee. For more information contact Michael Fenzel, (480) 782-2908, www.chandleraz.gov/breaktime.

9Halloween Crafty Workshops, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.; 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.; 12 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.; 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.; Join us for arts and crafts with a Halloween theme. Come to one or pick a few of these fun-filled workshops. Stay for the lunch break and bring your own sack lunch. Chandler Community Center, 125 E. Commonwealth Ave., Chandler. $6 to $8 registration fee. (480) 782-2727, www.chandleraz.gov/breaktime.

9, 16Lil’ Gardener, 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Make a cute apron and paint a ceramic pot while wearing your new garden fashion statement. Each class is a stand-alone class; however, a variety of aprons will be made, so feel free to sign up for multiple classes. For participants ages 7 to 13. Tumbleweed Recreation Center, 745 E. Germann Rd., Chandler. $8 to $11 registration fee. (480) 782-2900, www.chandleraz.gov/tumbleweed.

9, 16, 17, 26Science Matters Super Science Show, 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. Science Matters needs your help to solve the mystery of the missing mascot. Use forensic science skills to solve the mystery and become a chemical detective. Become a Science Super Sleuth. Chandler Community Center, 125 E. Commonwealth Ave., Chandler. $2 to $3 registration fee. (480) 782-2727, www.chandleraz.gov.

9Stars, Songs and S’mores, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Participants will enjoy a hike, stargazing, songs around the campfire and s’mores. Wear good walking shoes and dress for the weather. Environmental Education Center at Veterans Oasis Park, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler. $8 to $11 registration fee. (480) 782-2890, www.chandleraz.gov.

10Chandler Scout Jamboree, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. The City of Chandler will be hosting the second Scout Jamboree at Veterans Oasis Park. This half-day event is designed for Boy Scouts,

Girl Scouts, families, homeschool groups and anyone who has an interest in learning new skills and meeting new people, ages 8-12. Skill stations and activities will be run by local scout troops. Veterans Oasis Park’s Environmental Education Center, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler. $3 to $5 registration fee. For more information contact Michael Ballard, (480) 782-2895, www.chandleraz.gov/eec.

10Donuts and Dads, 9 a.m. to 9:45 a.m. What’s more fun than baking donuts with your dad? Mixing up the batter, baking and decorating these fun treats. Tumbleweed Recreation Center, 745 E. Germann Rd., Chandler. $6 to $9 registration fee. (480) 782-2900, www.chandleraz.gov.

14, 17Mommy and Me—Trick or Treat Bag, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Make your very own trick or treat bag for Halloween. Instructors will start with a basic cloth bag and then decorate it with Halloween elements and add your name. Tumbleweed Recreation Center, 745 E. Germann Rd., Chandler. $9 to $13 registration fee. (480) 782-2900, www.chandleraz.gov.

14, 28Milkshakes with Moms, 6 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. Come make milkshakes with your mom. Participants will create these tasty treats and spend time together. Tumbleweed Recreation Center, 745 E. Germann Rd., Chandler. $6 to $9 registration fee. (480) 782-2900, www.chandleraz.gov.

15Community Nights in the Courtyard, 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. Learn simple techniques for making masks and Halloween decorations. Chandler Community Center, 125 E. Commonwealth Ave., Chandler. $2 to $5 registration fee. For more information call Shawn Peoples, (480) 782-2746, www.chandleraz.gov.

16Come Alive Storytime with Ms. Diana—Nature Edition, 9:30 a.m. to 10:15 a.m. Music and stories are an important part of shaping a child’s life. Through interactive stories, music, games and drama, Ms. Diana builds a positive attitude, character, self-esteem and values. Environmental Education Center at Veterans Oasis Park, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler. $6 to $9 registration fee. (480) 782-2890, www.chandleraz.gov.

16Teen Pizza Taste Off, 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Pizza shops throughout Chandler are invited to participate in this ultimate taste test. More than 100 pizza-loving teens are expected to attend. Hamilton Library, 3700 S. Arizona Ave., Chandler. Free admission. (480) 782-2832.

16Halloween Crafts, 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Make a spooky candle holder, decorate some Halloween cards and a few other fun crafts. Chandler Community Center, 125 E. Commonwealth Ave., Chandler. $8 to $11 registration fee. (480) 782-2746, www.chandleraz.gov.

16Friday Feeding Frenzy. 3:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. Join the EEC staff for a live animal feeding. Meet the animals in the nature center and learn about their diets. Veterans Oasis Park’s Environmental Education Center, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler. Free. (480) 782-2890, www.chandleraz.gov/eec.

17Flowers—Junior Badge, 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. Discover the world of flowers. Learn how to identify and preserve flowers while also discovering their purposes and uses for people and animals. This class is open to everyone and

a nature walk outdoors is included at Veterans Oasis Park. Environmental Education Center at Veterans Oasis Park, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler. $8 to $11 registration fee. (480) 782-2890, www.chandleraz.gov.

17Muffins and Moms, 9 a.m. to 9:45 a.m. Come make muffins with your mom. Mix up batter, bake these tasty treats and enjoy spending time together. Tumbleweed Recreation Center, 745 E. Germann Rd., Chandler. $6 to $9 registration fee. (480) 782-2900, www.chandleraz.gov.

19, 26Chefs in the Making, 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Make a cute apron and then cook something yummy while wearing your new kitchen fashion statement. Tumbleweed Recreation Center, 745 E. Germann Road, Chandler. $8 to $11 registration fee. (480) 782-2900, www.chandleraz.gov.

19, 26Upcycled Headbands, 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. Have a favorite T-shirt that you can no longer wear? Upcycle it into two stylish headbands by using a Celtic knot and a five-strand braid. Participants should bring at least one T-shirt and scissors. Tumbleweed Recreation Center, 745 E. Germann Rd., Chandler. $6 to $9 registration fee. (480) 782-2900, www.chandleraz.gov.

19Introduction to Fossil Identification Part I, 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Most of Arizona was covered 300 million years ago by a shallow inland sea that left behind thousands of marine fossils. Learn about how fossils form and what types are common to Arizona. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Environmental Education Center at Veterans Oasis Park, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler. $8 to $11 registration fee. (480) 782-2890, www.chandleraz.gov.

21Desserts with Dads, 6 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. What’s more fun than making yummy treats with your dad? Spending time together and making fun desserts. Tumbleweed Recreation Center, 745 E. Germann Rd., Chandler. $6 to $9 registration fee. (480) 782-2900, www.chandleraz.gov.

23Bikes, Bounce and Boogie, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Come enjoy bikes, pedal cars, trikes, pedal push cars and a bounce house and music. Tumbleweed Recreation Center, 745 E. Germann Rd., Chandler. Pre-registration fee required. (480) 782-2900, www.chandleraz.gov.

23TR Halloween Dance, 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Come show off your costume and dance the night away at our annual dance. See friends from all over the Valley and visit the

see LISTINGS page 8

4 Oct. 3 - Oct. 16, 2015

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WHERE KIDS EAT FREE

WHERE KIDS EAT FREE

The SanTan Sun News now has a regular “Where kids eat free” section.

Restaurant owners, please email us details such as days of the week kids can eat free at your establishment, and what conditions apply, such as purchase of an adult meal, certain hours, etc. Include your restaurant name, address, phone and website and a contact name for verification.

Readers, if you know of a location that has a kids-eat-free program, email us with the restaurant name, a phone and / or email for confirmation and details.

Email information to KidsEatFree@santansun.com.

Apple Dumpling Café 3076 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Suite 101, Gilbert (480) 279-3879, www.appledumplingcafe.com.Mondays are family value night, when kids eat free with each adult meal purchase of $6.95 or more. Ice cream happy hour is 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, when kids buy one ice cream or dessert and get one free.

Chompie’s3481 W. Frye Rd., Chandler(480) 398-3008 www.chompies.comChildren 10 and younger receive one free item from the kids’ meal menu with an adult meal purchase of $8 or more on Tuesdays. Dine-in only.

Copper Still Moonshine Grill2531 S. Gilbert Rd., Suite 101, Gilbert(480) 656-1476 www.CopperStillMoonshineGrill.comKids ages 10 and younger eat for free on Tuesdays with the purchase of an adult meal.

Dilly’s Deli2895 S. Alma School Rd., Suite 5, Chandler(480) 722-0645 www.dillysdeli.com

Get one free kids’ meal for each adult meal purchased at $6 or more on weekends.

El Palacio Restaurant & Cantina2950 E. Germann Rd., Chandler(480) 802-5770 www.epfamilyrestaurants.comKids 12 and younger eat free when adult meals are purchased on Wednesdays.

Fat Willy’s4850 S. Gilbert Rd., Chandler(480) 883-1356 www.fatwillysaz.com/chandlerFrom 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesdays, dine-in and get a free kids’ meal with every adult entrée purchased. Kids can select from the Little Leaguers menu only and must be 12 or younger.

Floridino’s Pizza & Pasta590 N. Alma School Rd., Suite 35, Chandler(480) 812-8433, www.floridinos.netKids eat free from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. Wednesdays. Receive one free kids’ meal per $8 adult purchase when customers dine-in only.

The Hungry MonkAndersen Fiesta Shopping Center, 1760 W. Chandler Blvd.,

Chandler(480) 963-8000 www.hungrymonkaz.comKids eat free on Mondays with every purchase of an adult entrée.

NYPD Pizza2580 W. Chandler Blvd., Chandler(480) 722-0898 www.aznypdpizza.comKids eat free on Wednesday and Sunday after 4 p.m. with the purchase of a small or medium pizza. Dine-in only.

Pittsburgh Willy’s48 S. San Marcos Pl., Chandler(480) 821-3197Every day, except Sunday breakfast, one child aged 10 and younger eats free with each paying adult, while additional kids eat for 50 percent off when they order from the Wee Willy menu only.

Planet Sub1920 W. Germann Rd., Chandler(480) 245-6503 www.planetsub.comKids eat free with a paying adult on Mondays.Social Box1371 N. Alma School Rd., Chandler(480) 899-6735

www.socialboxeateries.comKids 12 and younger eat free from the kids’ menu with the purchase of an adult entrée on Mondays.

Sidelines Grill2980 S. Alma School Rd., Chandler(480) 792-6965 www.sidelinesaz.comKids eat free from the kids’ menu after 4 p.m. Thursdays with the purchase of an adult entrée. Dine-in only.

Whiskey Rose Bar and Grill135 W. Ocotillo Rd., Chandler(480) 895-7673Kids eat free on Tuesdays and Sundays with the purchase of an adult entrée.

6 Oct. 3 - Oct. 16, 2015

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Fall 2015 SPECIAL EVENTS

CITY OF CHANDLER!withthe

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 30 5:30-8:30 p.m. DOWNTOWN LIBRARY PLAZA All ghosts, goblins, ghouls, creatures, princesses, characters and superheroes... Join us in costume for a family-friendly, safe alternative to trick-or-

treating. There will be a costume contest, haunted house, souvenir photo and frame ($3), carnival games, pumpkin bowling, spooky pumpkin patch, arts and crafts, Trunk-O-Treat and so much more! Admission is free, however light food and refreshments will be available for purchase from the Chandler Kiwanis Club.

FREEFAMILY EVENTS

Mayor Jay Tibshraeny and the Chandler City Council

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 24 9 a.m.-1 p.m. | TUMBLEWEED PARKYou bring the kids and we’ll provide the fun! There is a little something for everyone at the Chandler Mayor’s Day of Play. The day will open with remarks from Mayor Tibshraeny and feature more than 80 community booths, bounce houses, contests, games, demonstrations and activities good for all ages. Admission is free, however there are charges for food and some featured activities. Free parking!

Featured Activities:FOAM FUN RUN: Run, Walk, Crawl, or Laugh your way through our 5k course filled with colorful foam awesomeness! Use promo code “DAYOFPLAY” for a $20 race registration fee.

TEEN FITNESS CHALLENGE: Do you have what it takes to finish our obstacle course built just for teens? For more information, call 480-782-2746.

CHALK IT UP: Come participate in a community chalk area. The City of Chandler will provide you with a free space and chalk to enjoy, so get there early, space is limited! Plus much more!

8 Oct. 3 - Oct. 16, 2015

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haunted house, play games and make great memories. Chandler Community Center, 125 E. Commonwealth Ave., Chandler. $5 to $7 registration fee. (480) 782-2746, www.chandleraz.gov.

24Plants, People and the Environment, 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. Take a guided walk through Veterans Oasis Park and learn about the importance of native plants to culture, food, medicine, tradition, arts and crafts and music. The terrain is easy and will teach you the study of ethnobotany. Veterans Oasis Park’s Environmental Education Center, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler. $8 to $11 registration fee. (480) 782-2890, www.chandleraz.gov/eec.

24Introduction to Fossil Identification Part II, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Payson was once covered by a shallow sea that left thousands of fossils. This day-long event of collecting includes transportation

and a geologist to answer questions. Bring water, snacks and wear comfortable shoes and clothing to meet any weather conditions. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Environmental Education Center at Veterans Oasis Park, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler. $27 to $37 registration fee. (480) 782-2890, www.chandleraz.gov.

27, 29Halloween Cookie and Cupcake Decorating Class, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Each child will be transforming ordinary cookies and cupcakes into Halloween-themed treats such as witches, jack-o-lanterns, black cats and ghosts. Chandler Community Center, 125 E. Commonwealth Ave., Chandler. $6 to $9 registration fee. (480) 782-2746, www.chandleraz.gov.

30Halloween Spooktacular, 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Come in costume for a free, family-friendly, safe alternative to trick-or-treating. There will be a costume contest, a haunted house, souvenir photos, games and arts and crafts. Light food and refreshments will be available for purchase. Chandler Community

LISTINGS from page 3 Center, 125 E. Commonwealth Ave., Chandler. Free. (480) 782-2746, www.chandleraz.gov.

31Happy Halloween!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN