Chandler Police - Youth Academy

Earlier this month I sent my daughter to the Youth Academy at the Chandler Police Department - she enjoyed it so much! AND....She has already asked to again next year (even though she threatened to have me arrested for forging her signature on the sign-up form).  The Academy was five days, from 9am-4pm where they learned about all aspects of law enforcement. The classes were led by some of the nicest individuals who presented the kids with a side of law enforcement that most people do not see. T-shirt, lunch and snacks all included in the fee. By the way the fee is FREE!

I am still so jealous that I could not do this too (well... actually I signed up for the Citizens Academy - can't wait!). Criminal law, self defense, forensics, the artillery range and K9 training are just a few of the topics they learned by doing hands on activities.

I must thank the Chandler PD for giving their time and talents to the kids and help them see that there is a difference between how law enforcement is portrayed in the media and how they are in real life. They host this four times a year. The local restaurants donate the lunches and a local print shop donates the t-shirts.

Special Thank you to Katie for helping to write this review.
http://chandlerpd.com/youth-academy/

Phoenix COMICON 2015

This was my family's first time at Phoenix COMICON and it was so much more than I thought it would be.  Three floors of merchandise, LEGO, cosplayers, anime, and photo ops. There were so many amazing and creative costumes that it was fun to just sit and watch characters walk by. It was crowded to be sure, but everyone was polite and made sure that all children were given first chance to get to their destination. There were lots of special events to attend and you would really need to attend several days to soak it all in. A local gaming group hosted open gaming tables and the winners were given cool prizes. Overall it was a very family-friendly event and we look forward to going back again.

Special thank you to Katie Prator for their contributions to this edition.

National Weather Service -- Tempe

My daughter and I took a tour of the National Weather Service. We learned about all of the technologies and people needed to collect and analyze atmospheric data that is then used to create accurate weather forecasts. They also spring into action during severe weather to help keep people safe and provide information to local first responders. It was about an hour long and we asked thousands of questions. This is not a tour filled with bells and whistles, there is no WOW picture. But if you have an interest in science, a desire to travel or are curious how to be a weatherperson on television or in print, tornado chaser etc... then this is for you.

http://www.wrh.noaa.gov/psr/