Mesa Community Resource Guide

Your Guide to Mesa, Arizona

Empower Your Workforce with Mesa Community College

Transform your business with Mesa Community College's Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs, designed to bridge the skills gap and equip employees with industry-specific training. Our skilled faculty deliver hands-on instruction, while our programs evolve through collaboration with local professionals, ensuring your team is prepared for the demands of today’s job market. We’re committed to boosting productivity, building confidence, and fostering a thriving workforce that drives economic growth in Mesa.

JUMP START CAREERS | INCREASE EARNING POTENTIAL | SECURE A BETTER FUTURE

> Industry Recognized Curriculum and Certificates

> In Demand Career Training Programs: Healthcare, EMT, Dental Hygiene, Construction, Business, Programming, Information Technology, Manufacturing, Advanced Technology, Robotics, Vet Tech, and more

> Fast Track Training Options

> Skilled Instructors

Osteopathic medicine

Dentistry

Athletic training

Audiology

Pursue a degree in

Occupational therapy

Physical therapy

Physician assistant studies

Speech-language pathology

Additional degree programs available online.

Learn more at atsu.edu/explore

COULTER INFINITI in MESA THE JEWEL OF THE DESERT

6225 E Test Dr, Mesa, AZ, United States, Arizona | (480) 386-6375 | www.coulterinfiniti.com

For over a century, the Coulter family has been more than just a name in the Arizona —they’ve been a symbol of trust, quality, and community. Established in 1923 by C.W. Coulter, this family-owned business started with Oldsmobile and LaSalle and quickly earned Arizona’s first Cadillac franchise. Today, Coulter Automotive Group offers a range of luxury brands, and Coulter INFINITI in Mesa has become a standout under the stewardship of General Manager Henry Rivero. Known for his dedication to both customer service and community outreach, Rivero leads a team that makes every customer feel not only respected but like part of the Coulter family. Henry Rivero’s career in the automotive industry is a testament to hard work and dedication. Starting out washing cars, he advanced through the ranks as a technician and later as a service director, before ultimately becoming General Manager. His hands-on experience across multiple roles not only showcases his leadership skills but also allows him to lead with a deep understanding of every facet of the business— benefiting both his team and the customers they serve. Walking into Coulter INFINITI is more like visiting a close friend than a typical dealership. You’ll find a relaxed atmosphere where staff go out of their way to ensure customers feel comfortable and supported. The

dealership is HER Certified, meaning it’s designed with women consumers in mind, from the sales floor to the finance office, and even in the service department—Coulter INFINITI strives to give women the seamless and stressfree experience they deserve.

And now, the dealership proudly introduces the highly anticipated 2025 INFINITI QX80. This luxurious full-size SUV is the epitome of power and elegance, combining INFINITI’s signature bold design with state-of-the-art technology. Inside, the refined, spacious cabin offers plush leather seating and advanced features. Just like Coulter INFINITI itself, it’s a perfect blend of tradition, luxury, and forward-thinking innovation. >>>

A true community partner, Coulter INFINITI is known for its generous support of local causes. Their involvement spans from sponsoring community football and soccer teams to hosting events like a Golf Tournament each year, which raises funds for Comfort Bears in a Catastrophe. Their charitable work has also helped fund House of Refuge, the Miss Arizona scholarship programs and the American Heart Association, ensuring their impact reaches far beyond just selling cars—they’re building a better future for Mesa and Arizona as a whole. Cultivating New Partnerships within Mesa.

We will always serve and give back to our community.

“ ”

—Henry Rivero, GM Coulter INFINITI

YOUR PERFECT GETAWAY STARTS HERE

ESCAPE to our breathtaking Casino Resort oasis, where excitement and relaxation await. Try your luck at our extensive selection of slots, blackjack, and bingo, and catch the latest sports action at WKP Sports Bar & Entertainment.

SAVOR exceptional dining experiences at our diverse restaurants, including the renowned Ember, Anahla, and a lavish buffet.

UNWIND in style with our luxurious poolside cabanas or indulge in a rejuvenating treatment at Amethyst Spa.

For those seeking ADVENTURE , explore our two nationally ranked golf courses or embark on thrilling Sonoran Desert horseback rides at Fort McDowell Adventures.

CONTENTS

8 WELCOME

10 WHY MESA?

Businesses of all sizes choose to locate here for many reasons. Find out why.

18 48 HOURS IN MESA

To say that Alison Stanton loves the City of Mesa is probably the understatement of the year. Get to know the city she calls home as she gives her out-of-town friends a 48-hour tour.

26 PLENTY OF SHOPPING, DINING AND LODGING — OH MY!

Mesa has it all — a bevy of national retailers, independent boutiques, mouthwatering eateries and all styles of lodging/staycation venues.

32 MESA REAL ESTATE IN DEMAND

No property tax is just the beginning. Get the low down on real estate booming in Mesa.

38 MESA - WHERE HEALTH & WELLNESS ABOUNDS

Mesa has long offered a desirable lifestyle for anyone looking to live a fun, active and healthy lifestyle.

44 SUPPORTING EDUCATION!

Since it was founded over a century ago, the Mesa Chamber of Commerce has earned a well-deserved reputation as a supporter of, and advocate for, education.

48 DEFENSE & MANUFACTURING

As a city with just over half a million residents, Mesa has made its mark on the manufacturing and defense sectors.

52 MESA CHAMBER

58 BUSINESS DIRECTORY

COVER PHOTO COURTESY OF PENDING

PHOTO COURTESY OF VISIT MESA

OPPOSITE TOC Tan Hua, Inc

Across from Table of Contents not sold so we can swap if wanted with another full page

GREETINGS

WELCOME

On behalf of the Chamber of Commerce, Welcome to Mesa!

A little over 20 years ago, when I was working with Buca di Beppo to open its popular Claremont restaurant location, my wife and I decided to make this town our family home. Over the past two decades, I’ve had the pleasure of participating in hundreds of school, theater, non-profit and other community meetings, first as a volunteer, and now representing the Chamber of Commerce. I have always known that Claremont is a unique place, but I have come to understand what makes it so special.

BRETT BEHAN COPA Health

ERIC EMMERT Dorn Policy Group

OTTO SHILL Gallagher & Kennedy

VICTOR VALLIERE CCS Presentation Systems

ERICA EMMONS Cigna Healthcare of Arizona

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

GEORGE BLISS

It starts with the people who commit their time and investment dollars to create a community where great experiences are possible, and all people are welcomed. From innovative restaurateurs who invested to develop our highly reviewed dining scene, to the business leaders who created light industrial and other high-paying jobs, our community members have put in the work to enable Claremont to thrive.

Second is the place itself - we have a unique location in the foothills, just far enough from Los Angeles to retain our smalltown feel, yet connected through transportation and technology to enable commuter and distance working. Claremont is one of those California cities from where you, as the saying goes, you can ski (Mt. Baldy) and surf (South Bay) in the same day.

Need letter 350 words or shorter

Lastly, it’s the annual influx of students who attend The Claremont Colleges, providing our community with a uniquely optimistic look towards the future. Every day in Claremont, we are fortunate to see what tomorrow’s leaders of America -- and the world -- look like in the eyes of the students who adopt our town for their college and graduate years. What we give them as shopkeepers, restaurateurs, employers and landlords, they give back to Claremont by infusing innovative ideas and thought leadership.

If you are considering Claremont as a permanent home for your corporation, small business or retail establishment, you will find a quick start guide to establishing a business locally on pages 50-51.

Find more visitor information, visit com for our current visitor calendar and links to hotel bookings.

Enjoy your stay!

[Signature image}

Sally Harrison President/CEO Mesa Chamber of Commerce

HONORARY BOARD MEMBER ProSmart Realty

NEIL BAIER

Crescent Crown

Distributing

JAMES CHRISTENSEN

Gateway Bank

RICHARD DANIEL

Mesa Community College

DR. ANDI FOURLIS

Mesa Public Schools

PHAEDRA EARHART Mesa Leadership

MICHAEL JACKSON

Arizona State University

Economic Development

BRIAN O’NEILL Mesa Gateway Airport

ZACHARY PLACE

Mountain America

Credit Union

KENNETH ROBINSON The Boeing Company

CYNTHIA ROSENBERG Dignity Health AZ

General Hospital Mesa

SCOTT SOMERS Vice Mayor City of Mesa

ERIC TUNE Brookfield

Residential Properties

KISSHELL WILSON SRP

CHAMBER STAFF

THERESA DIBONA Director of First Impressions

Operations & Finance

SUSAN TYCHMAN Director of Membership

TERRIE GARDNER Director of Events and Sponsorships

MAYRA LEON SANCHEZ Executive Assistant

JAYDELISSE MORALES Communications Assistant

NANCY VELEZ Communications Assistant

WHY MESA?

Businesses of all sizes choose to locate here for many reasons

BY DEBRA GELBART

As the 36th-largest city in the U.S. with a population of more than half a million residents, Mesa offers the perfect mix of big-city opportunities and small-city hospitality and friendliness. Small businesses and large corporations appreciate Mesa because of the support they receive from the city and its partners and the commitment to attracting, training and retaining an expanded workforce. The city’s partners are providing a pipeline of skilled workers to local companies.

WHY MESA?

Mesa’s businesses are renowned, and as Mayor, I will preserve Mesa as a businessfriendly City by collaborating with businesses, nonprofits, and educational institutions. Mesa is a great place for new opportunities, a City where every investment strengthens our future and creates success for the entire community.”

Mayor Mark Freeman City of Mesa

For example, ElevateEdAZ, a program of the Greater Phoenix Chamber Foundation, offers preparation for college and career by providing high school students with opportunities to learn about and work in high-wage, high-demand careers. Mesa Public Schools is the largest school district in the state and many students at its six high schools have engaged through the years in internships, job shadows and other career awareness and development opportunities through ElevateEdAZ.

“Most of the opportunities they offer us are in Phoenix,” said Dawn Giles, workforce development specialist for Mesa Public Schools. “The students are competing for internships with students from other districts in the Phoenix metro area. They helped us get students placed at Mayo Clinic and Able Aerospace this school year.”

In total, Giles said, ElevateEd has helped about 10 students from Mesa high schools secure an internship this year. About 60 students per school are job shadowing

with ElevateEd partners and about a thousand students have heard a guest speaker, attended a career fair or taken an industry tour.

A MESA-BASED OPPORTUNITY

Giles noted that Mesa Public Schools’ Career and Technical Education (CTE) Department has an Innovative Partnerships team. “Our team focuses on recruiting Mesa business and industry partners just for our district’s students,” she said. “Our business partners engage with us in a variety of ways including internships, job shadowing and career fairs that allows us to reach thousands of students.”

A major part of her job, Giles said, “is meeting with companies to invite them to collaborate with us. I help recruit employers for career fairs, arrange job shadows and invite businesses to host interns. The career coaches also work with businesses to place interns and get those businesses involved at their school.”

A

Technical

Mesa

Public School Career &

Education Hiring & Internship Fair at Mountain View High School

Next Phase Mesa provides an ideal environment for entrepreneurs to develop and refine a retail concept.

MESA BUSINESSES STEP UP

The program has more than 200 active business partners. “Honeywell is a terrific partner,” Giles said, “and has a robust summer internship program for 60 students in IT and engineering and hires several other manufacturing interns during the school year. Empire-Cat has 60 interns in their Go Big diesel mechanic internship.” She added that 100 interns are working at schools or in departments at Mesa Public Schools, as preschool or classroom aides, athletic trainers, videographers and IT techs. And “more than 200 interns are placed in small businesses that have just one or two interns.”

Students can earn up to two full credits for an internship that lasts the entire school year. They are required to work 123 hours each semester for the credit. They also get a medal to wear at graduation, Giles said, adding that in the current school year, about 400 students from all six Mesa high schools have secured internships.

SUPPORT FOR SMALL BUSINESSES

Next Phase Mesa is a program of the Mesa Chamber of Commerce Foundation intended to create, educate and promote retail talent and business owners in Mesa.

In partnership with Superstition Springs Center, several educational institutions and the Mesa Chamber of Commerce’s membership base, the program provides an ideal environment for entrepreneurs to develop and refine a retail concept. It also provides existing retail business owners with space to enhance their skill sets. Businesses that participate benefit from an actual customer-facing storefront, a co-working space located on site and business training.

Dan Baker, an owner of several small businesses, is looking forward to participating in Next Phase Mesa. He plans to showcase two of his businesses, Organic Pet Beds and Alexa Sleep. Organic Pet Beds is a pet bed manufacturer that builds latex beds specifically designed for dogs. Alexa Sleep is a mattress company offering simple mattress options made “to give you the best night’s sleep at a low price without giving up quality,” Baker said.

“We thought Next Phase would be a great opportunity to finally get into a retail space to test if that would be a good fit for our businesses,” he said.  “We hope to build the brands and test out if the retail space model is a good one for our businesses. We also hope to create a sort of headquarters for

“At Superstition Springs Center, we take pride in our strong community partnerships, such as with the Mesa Chamber. Whether it’s our ‘Beat the Heat’ summer series in our air-conditioned center or one of the many events hosted in our beautiful outdoor amphitheater, our goal is to provide a vibrant gathering place where families can make memories while shopping at some of their favorite retailers.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF MPSCTE

WHY MESA?

our businesses so that we can give people the option to come in to see the products for themselves.”

Although he hasn’t yet served as a mentor in the Next Phase program, Brian LeBlanc said he would very much like to. He’s the owner of LeBlanc Cleaning, a residential and commercial interior cleaning service that opened in 2017. Originally established by his wife Anita, the business quickly grew into cleaning 200 homes each week. “That was my cue to get out of my corporate job and jump in to help grow our business,” Brian said.

BUSINESS

The Mesa Chamber of Commerce has helped the couple a lot with their company’s growth. The Chamber has “facilitated connections with other local businesses in the area,” Brian said. “We’ve participated in many weekly and monthly functions such as joining a leads group where business owners meet each week to network and help each other grow their business.”

The couple also has attended ribbon cuttings and Taste of Mesa events (a monthly networking program sponsored by the Mesa Chamber), along with “many more opportunities to network and build trust with other local businesses,” Brian said. “Approximately 80 percent of our janitorial business has come from referrals from the Mesa Chamber and its networking events.”

The Mesa Chamber “does a phenomenal job of creating connections and opportunities for small businesses to get out there, meet and spread the word about their offer-

The Mesa

Chamber

“does a phenomenal job of creating connections and opportunities for small businesses to get out there, meet and spread the word about their offerings.”

Brian LeBlanc LeBlanc Cleaning

Taste of Mesa Courtyard Phoenix Mesa

One of Mesa Chamber of Commerce’s Ribbon Cutting

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HOUSE OF REFUGE: FROM HOMELESS TO HOPEFUL

House of Refuge is a nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing hope to families experiencing homelessness. Situated on the decommissioned Williams Air Force Base, we provide transitional housing and comprehensive support services to give families a hand up as they work towards self-sufficiency.

At House of Refuge, we understand that homelessness is more than just a lack of shelter—it’s a complex issue that requires a holistic approach. That’s why we offer specialized wrap-around services designed to address the unique needs of each family. Our programs include comprehensive case management, employment and educational support,

community and teen centers for the kids, and access to our donation center for household goods, food, and clothing. By focusing on the whole person, we empower families to break the cycle of homelessness and build a foundation for long-term stability.

Since 1996, House of Refuge has been a beacon of hope for countless families in our community, offering not just a roof over their heads but a path to a brighter future. We are deeply committed to our mission and are grateful for the community’s continued support in making it possible.

As we receive no federal funding, House of Refuge is entirely dependent on community support to transform lives every day.

For more information about our work and how you can get involved, please visit www.houseofrefuge.org.

6935 E. Williams Field Rd. Mesa, Arizona

(480) 988-9242 houseofrefuge.org

WHY MESA?

Mesa’s faith and nonprofit communities are integral to meeting the needs of the vulnerable among us. Together in Service is a faith-leader led, city supported initiative that encourages collaboration between faith and nonprofit leaders and the city to identify resources and more effectively support the well-being of all Mesa residents.”

BUSINESS

ings,” Brian said. “As a surprising ancillary benefit, it has forged many deep, meaningful relationships with fellow business owners that go far beyond a networking relationship into a rich friendship and camaraderie with like-minded individuals.”

MESA BUSINESS COMMUNITY IS A RICH TAPESTRY

Five years ago, The City of Mesa launched a new brand called the Asian District to celebrate the uniqueness of Asian culture. The Asian District is composed of more than 100 Asian-themed restaurants, artisanal bakeries, grocery stores and other service and retail businesses along a two-mile stretch on Dobson Road in west Mesa.

Visitors find an array of businesses selling specialty foods and gifts and Asian sweet treats and they can experience flavorful cuisine from Vietnam, China, Korea, the Philippines and more. Colorful murals in the district showcase Asian culture and

esa’s Asian District’s core is located along Dobson Road between Main Street and Broadway Road. Clusters of Asian businesses also can be found near Mesa Community College on Southern Avenue near Dobson and in Three Fountains Plaza on Longmore Road, close to the former Fiesta Mall.

“The district’s success continues to spur the emergence and expansion of Asian-

owned businesses in the area,” said Jaye O’Donnell, Mesa’s economic development director. She said Mekong Plaza, a cornerstone of the district, is undergoing a $10 million expansion to accommodate more businesses, reflecting the area’s economic vitality. “The district’s popularity has led to increased demand for commercial and residential spaces nearby, attracting investors and development projects. Mesa’s Asian District serves as a dynamic economic engine, drawing visitors, inspiring new business ventures and creating growth opportunities that benefit the entire city.”

WHY BUSINESSES LOVE BEING IN MESA

“By hiring interns, employers (who may be facing workforce shortages) can get first dibs on some of the best and brightest and train them to become full-time employees upon graduation,” said Giles of Mesa Public Schools. “Only around 50 percent of high school students in Mesa go on to college, trade school or the military. This means that 50 percent enter the workforce at 18 when they graduate. If we can prepare them for a career that will provide a living wage, we raise the quality of life in our community.”

Businesses choose Mesa as their corporate home “due to its strategic location, pro-business climate and strong infrastructure,” O’Donnell said. “Mesa provides

PHOTO COURTESY OF MEKONG PLAZA FACEBOOK

easy access to major highways and three airports, making it an ideal hub for logistics, manufacturing and corporate operations. Its affordability, coupled with a lower cost of doing business compared to other major U.S. cities, attracts both startups and established enterprises.”

Mesa has a diverse and growing economy, she added, with strong sectors in aerospace and defense, healthcare, advanced manufacturing, technology and clean tech, among others. Companies such as Apple, Dexcom, Northrop Grumman and Meta have made significant investments in the city, benefiting from its skilled workforce trained at local institutions like Arizona State University Polytechnic Campus and Mesa Community College. “Additionally, business parks, industrial zones, incentives and programs offer companies a competitive edge.”

With a future-focused approach, O’Donnell emphasized, “Mesa continues investing in smart city technology, renewable energy and infrastructure improvements to support long-term growth. Whether for corporate

headquarters, manufacturing or emerging industries, Mesa offers businesses a stable, dynamic and opportunity-rich environment to thrive.”

48 HOURS IN MESA

To say that I love the City of Mesa is probably the understatement of the year.

BY ALISON STANTON

PHOTO COURTESY OF VISIT MESA

I live here, work here and truly appreciate all that this wonderful city has to offer.

To help you get to know the city that I call home a bit better, I thought it would be helpful and fun to create a personalized guide for visitors who are lucky enough to spend 2 days in Mesa.

Basically, whenever I have out of town guests for the weekend, I try to give them experiences that are not only enjoyable, but different than they would normally have access to in their home town.

With that in mind, let’s pretend that I have a couple of friends in town for the weekend. They have never been to our beautiful city before, and they are ready and willing to get out with me and experience some of my favorite restaurants, local attractions, entertainment spots and more.

So without further ado, I’d like to introduce you to my friends Anne and Pete, who are visiting from their home in Spokane, Washington.

PHOTO COURTESY OF VISIT MESA

48 HOURS IN MESA

Mesa Gateway Airport is a unique combination of thriving commercial service airport and successful aviation business park that contributes billions of dollars each year to the regional economy. The airport offers nonstop service to 45 destinations and is home to global industry leaders including Gulfstream, Virgin Galactic, Cessna, Embraer, Boeing, and Able Aerospace Services.”

Anne and Pete’s flight arrived pretty late at night at Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport, which has grown significantly over the years from a small location to a busy and bustling airport. I picked them up and took them to my home and promised them an amazing breakfast the following morning.

Since Anne has mentioned several times how she adores pancakes, I suggest that we go to Henhouse Café for their first meal in Mesa. In addition to a variety of incredibly delicious breakfast fare, they seriously have the biggest pancake I have ever seen. Anne definitely agreed; in fact, she posted a picture of herself and her giant pancake on Instagram.

After our delightful and filling breakfast, the three of us were ready to burn off some of those carb calories with a combination of walking and shopping. I drove us over to Mekong Plaza, which features a supermarket that offers a wide variety of ethnic foods and also a number of delicious restaurants, shops and other businesses.

I spend a ton of time here, and I knew Anne and Pete would enjoy it as well. My friend Fanny at Tan Hau, Inc. has a great selection of herbs and teas and is really knowledgeable in herbal ways to help people. Pete, who is a fan of natural remedies, had a great conversation with Fanny and purchased several blends for himself, and some friends in Spokane.

We also walked through the entire Mekong Supermarket, where Anne selected a number of foods and beverages to take back home with her.

I love everything at Mekong Plaza and was delighted to share it with Anne and Pete. If we were ready for lunch while we were there, I would have suggested the bao or dumplings – everything there is so good!

After getting some serious steps in at Mekong Plaza, we headed to Downtown Mesa. My friends told me they hoped to find some souvenirs for themselves and gifts for friends and family back in Washington, so I knew just where to take them.

Canyon Lake–the drive is just beautiful, and you truly can’t beat the scenery.

PHOTO COURTESY OF VIST MESA

The friendly staff at Just Because Gift Shop is probably tired of seeing me – that’s how often I go in there to shop – but that’s because they have some great seasonal gifts that are fun and affordable. This store is one of many unique gift shops that we have right here in Downtown Mesa. Anne and Pete both enjoyed browsing through the shop’s wide variety of one-of-a-kind gifts, home decor, souvenirs, candles, and purchased several things to bring back home.

After strolling up and down the streets of downtown, and getting plenty of photos of Anne and Pete posing with our many famous sculptures, as well as visiting the new Fallen Firefighters Memorial, which honors the Mesa firefighters who paid the ultimate price for their service to our city, we were ready for lunch.

Fortunately, there is no shortage of tasty choices right in the downtown area, including Burritoholics, Main Burger, Phantom Fox and Rebel Wine Lounge, to name a few. While all of these choices have amazing

menus, my friends felt that no trip to the Southwest would be complete without a great Mexican meal. We headed over to Burritoholics, which had been located in Cave Creek and recently relocated to Downtown Mesa, and enjoyed a delicious lunch of delicious and filling carne asada burritos with chips and guacamole.

Once lunch was over, I asked Anne and Pete if they would like to rest their feet for a bit and take a scenic drive out to one of my favorite places in the state.

They readily agreed, so I headed east over to Tortilla Flat at Canyon Lake. The drive is just beautiful, and you truly can’t beat the scenery. Once we got there, we parked the car and walked around – Anne and Pete got a kick out of the Superstition Saloon & Restaurant with the hundreds of dollar bills stapled to the walls. All of that fresh air and gorgeous scenery must have given us all an appetite, because despite our filling lunch at Burritoholics, we all managed to enjoy huge ice cream cones while we were there.

An exciting sight at the Arizona Museum of Natural History

Anne and Pete are both huge fans of museums, so I knew exactly where to take them next–the Arizona Museum of Natural History. We got there by mid-afternoon and had a wonderful time checking out the various exhibits.

pizza fanatic, so I mentioned Pizzicata Pizzeria Ristorante Mesa. The place has a great vibe to it and I love their gluten free pizza – it’s so good!

While Dinosaur Hall and Dinosaur Mountain were highlights of our visit, Anne and Pete especially enjoyed the Arizona Through Time exhibit, which takes you on a journey through time starting 4.5 billion years ago up until 65 million years ago.

For instance, the first gallery of the exhibit included meteorites that we could actually touch, including a replica of the Tucson Meteorite and a piece of the Canyon Diablo Meteorite. Then, in the Earth Science Hall, we learned about caves, rocks and minerals, including blue and green copper minerals.

I had blocked off a couple of hours for us but really, we could have spent all day at the museum.  I mean really, who isn’t excited to see dinosaurs and learn about the history of those in Mesa before us?

Once the sun began to set, we realized we were getting hungry again so I suggested a few places for dinner. I know Pete is a

I also brought up Bobby Q’s as an option. The owner, Ignacio, is so welcoming and has created some incredible menu items. I love the BBQ Chicken Salad, but their brisket is exceptional. While my friends were tempted by the pizza, they thought it felt like a barbecue night so we headed to Bobby Q’s, where they thoroughly enjoyed their meal. Once we were finished with dinner, I asked our server if we could see the smokers so we headed to the back of the house to check them out.

The following morning, my friends said they were in the mood for a traditional big breakfast, so I knew exactly where to take them: TC Eggingtons. Everything on the menu looks and sounds so good, it’s a bit of a challenge to decide what to get, but we all settled on 3-egg omelettes served with toast and potatoes.

Once we were happily full and fueled up on food and coffee, I asked Anne and Pete if they would like to head over to

PHOTO COURTESY OF VIST MESA

TOP: BEAUTIFUL VENUE FOR PARTIES AT PIZZACATA PIZZERIA

PHOTO COURTESY OF PIZZACATA

PIZZAERIA REISTORTANTE MESA

BOTTOM: THE DIGS OF GOOD MESA BBQ AT BOBBY Q’S PHOTOCOURTESY OF BOBBY Q’S

WE-KO-PA CASINO RESORT – WE HAVE IT

Just a short drive from downtown Phoenix in Fort McDowell, Arizona, We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort offers a welcoming all-inclusive retreat where you can play, stay, and indulge. Opened in October 2020, this state-of-the-art destination promises an unforgettable experience with top-notch gaming, dining, golf, and spa services.

The expansive casino features the latest gaming entertainment, boasting over 930 slot machines, a variety of table games such as blackjack, Pai Gow poker, and roulette, and a spacious 750-seat bingo hall. Sports fans can enjoy betting at the WKP Sports bar & Entertainment—all within a 100% smoke-free environment.

Dining options are exceptional at We-Ko-Pa. Ember, a four-time Wine Spectator award-winning steakhouse, serves up mesquite-grilled steaks and seafood alongside a curated cocktail menu and an extensive wine selection.

The venue includes a piano lounge with live entertainment and seasonal outdoor dining by the fire. For a more casual experience, Ahnala offers comforting breakfast and lunch options, including Starbucks coffee, omelets, and specialty sandwiches. Meanwhile, WKP Sports bar & Entertainment delivers elevated pub fare and a vibrant atmosphere for sports lovers. Those seeking a diverse culinary experience can visit The Buffet, featuring a global array of dishes across several themed dining stations.

The AAA Four-Diamond hotel features 246 spacious guest rooms and suites, luxurious amenities, and two resort-style outdoor pools with private cabanas. The on-site Amethyst Spa provides a range of rejuvenating treatments, from massages to skincare services, ensuring guests leave refreshed and revitalized.

Golf enthusiasts will appreciate the award-winning We-Ko-Pa Golf Club, home to two top-rated courses. The Cholla Course, a 7,225-yard par-72 layout, offers stunning views of the surrounding desert landscape, while the Saguaro Course, ranked the top public course in Arizona, combines desert features with classic linksstyle design.

Adventure awaits at nearby Fort McDowell Adventures, where guests can explore the breathtaking Sonoran Desert through horseback tours and cattle drives.

This expansive 25,000-acre area also offers unique venues for events, including weddings and corporate gatherings.

Experience the best of leisure and excitement at We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort, the jewel of the Valley.

For more information, visit wekopacasinoresort.com.

10438 Wekopa Way Fort McDowell, AZ (855)-957-9467

wekopacasinoresort.com

the Commemorative Air Force Museum located at Falcon Field. They readily agreed, and we spent most of the late morning touring both the airport and the Arizona Commemorative Air Force Museum, which is located there.

Anne wasn’t quite finished shopping for souvenirs, so after our time at Falcon

Field I took us to Queen B Home, LLC in northeast Mesa. I just love this shop and its wide variety of cute and classy personalized gifts. Emily, the owner, is fun to work with and loves to use her creativity to match your needs. A “transplant Brit” who is now happy to call sunny Arizona home, Emily is all about dogs, DIY and home décor, and enjoyed meeting my friends and suggesting some items to purchase.

Between the museum and the shopping we had worked up quite an appetite, so I suggested that we sample the always-tasty cuisine of New Mexico. Anne and Pete were more than happy to give Blue Adobe Grill a try, where we all ordered the restaurant’s signature stacked enchiladas – delicious!

some of our incredible local musicians.

Since I know Anne and Pete both are fans of the fine arts I had to take them over to Mesa Arts Center after lunch. I love our Mesa Arts Center!  From the concerts in the Ikeda to the classes you can take like painting, ceramics and glass blowing, they have something for everyone.

Anne and Pete checked out the extensive schedule of events while we were there, and immediately decided to plan their next trip to Mesa around some of the concerts and classes, which of course was fine with me!

The Out to Lunch concert series was just finishing up performing at the Center, so we were able to sit on the grass for a while and enjoy the live music performed by

Even though we didn’t have time to go there on this trip, while we were out and about I told them about Cannon Beach, which includes an incredible new surf park called Revel Surf. Anne and Pete were as amazed as I was to learn that the sand at the beach park resort features actual sand from the Florida panhandle.

As I explained to my friends from Spokane, the new surf park truly has something for everyone. Whether you are a surfer or want to learn to surf, or you just want to hang out there and eat or shop, it is a very cool experience – and I’m looking forward to going there with Anne and Pete the next time they visit.

Commemorative Air Force Museum at Falcon Field.

PHOTO COURTESY OF AZCAF.ORG

TOP: JOIN A CLASS AND MAKE

CUSTOM SIGNS AT QUEEN B HOME

PHOTO COURTESY

REVEL SURF PHOTO COURTESY OF VISIT MESA

Before we knew it, it was time to head back to my place so Anne and Pete could pack their bags and get ready to go back to Phoenix-Mesa Gateway airport. I’m glad they had plenty of room in their suitcases for the many souvenirs and gifts they purchased during their short stay in Mesa.

They had an evening flight and were hoping to grab dinner before getting to the airport, so I suggested we stop by Barrio Brewing. It’s a hop, skip and a jump from the airport, and in addition to the great food and drinks, it’s a great spot to watch planes, including military aircraft, come and go from Phoenix-Mesa Gateway.

As usual, dinner was amazing, and it was an ideal way to finish up a whirlwind 48 hours in my favorite city. We headed over to the curbside drop-off zone at Phoenix-Mesa Gateway in plenty of time for Anne and Pete to catch their Allegiant flight back to Spokane.

I gave them each a hug goodbye, and thanked them for allowing me to show them some of the many things I truly love about Mesa. They said they had a wonderful time, and were looking forward to telling their friends and family about their adventures – as well as their next trip to the city.

I hope you have enjoyed this tour of Mesa, and have come away as excited to visit and spend time here as I am. You are

welcome to use this guide during your next visit and check out some or all of the places that I figuratively visited in this article with Anne and Pete. Or, maybe you’ll discover some additional gems all on your own; if this is the case, please feel free to email me and tell me all about them, so I can include them on my next guided tour!

DISCOVER ARIZONA ATHLETIC GROUNDS

THE USA’S PREMIER SPORTS AND ENTERTAINMENT DESTINATION

Arizona Athletic Grounds (AAG) stands as a premier destination for sports and entertainment enthusiasts. Spanning 280 acres and welcoming millions of visitors annually, AAG offers an unparalleled experience for athletes, fans, and event-goers alike.

The ultimate destination for training, tournaments, leagues, camps, concerts, conferences, corporate events, festivals, and more offers:

• 157 fields and courts for soccer, lacrosse, flag football, pickleball, basketball, volleyball, beach volleyball, softball, and baseball

• Cheer and Dance studios

• Gymnastics Center with a Ninja course

• 2 million square feet of artificial turf

• 2,500-seat indoor arena

• 2,200-seat outdoor arena

• 1,800-seat pickleball championship court

• 2.7-acre yard for music and events

• 25 LED screens & more than 175 TV’s

• On-site food & beverage

• Comprehensive event services, from tournament operations to scheduling expertise, event promotion, referee assignment, and everything in between The Grounds recently announced partnership with NBC Next’s SportsEngine Play will bring live and on-demand streaming of thousands of games and

events starting in 2025. This initiative will cover 116 courts and fields, making AAG events accessible to a global audience.

AAG is proud to host prestigious events such as Athletes Unlimited Professional Volleyball, USA Pickleball Nationals, Nike Volleyball & Basketball Tournament of Champions, and US Youth Soccer National League Events. Additionally, AAG is one of 26 sites included in the FIFA World Cup 26™ Team Base Camp brochure.

For more information or to book your event, visit us at azgrounds.com.

6321 S Ellsworth Road Mesa, AZ 85212

480-572-0600 azgrounds.com

PLENTY OF

SHOPPING,

DINING AND LODGING

OH MY!

Mesa has it all — a bevy of national retailers, independent boutiques, mouthwatering eateries and all styles of lodging/staycation venues

BY PAULA HUBBS COHEN

MESA HAS IT

Z&Y Gifts

Z&Y Gifts opened in the summer of 2020 during Covid. Jason Li, owner of Z&Y, said it was a difficult time, “but we made it.” He describes his shop as an Asianthemed gift shop that provides retail, wholesale and special custom-order services. “In addition to bringing true Asian culture-related products to the American market, we also want to help our customers understand the culture of those products,” he added.

Like most small businesses, Z&Y Gifts has seen its share of challenges. “Dealing with homelessness and shoplifters is a very different experience compared to most Asian countries,” Li said. “The Mesa Chamber has great sources and connections which helps us to get help when we need it.”

In addition to bringing true Asian culture-related products to the American market, we also want to help our customers understand the culture of those products.”

Jason

Li, Owner

SHOPPING!

Featuring everything from massive retail centers to intimate boutiques, from cozy sidewalk cafes to amenity-rich hotels, Mesa likes to strut her proverbial stuff via access to plenty of shopping, dining and lodging venues. Indeed, whether you’re eager to try a new-to-you eatery or searching for a just-right-for-that-special-someone gift, you’ll find all that and much more right here in Mesa. Here are just a few options to keep the shopping, dining and lodging fairies happy.

Asian District

Dobson Rd. between Main St. and Broadway Road; near Mesa Community College on Southern Rd. near Dobson; in Three Fountains Plaza on Longmore Rd. selectmesa.com/business-districtsmaps/asian-multicultural-district Vibrant and diverse District with 100+ Asian specialty shops, grocery stores, eateries, bakeries and more.

Downtown Mesa’s Main Street

Downtown Mesa area downtownmesa.com

Intimate boutiques, cozy sidewalk cafés, tucked-away salons, unique antique shops.

Mesa Market Place Swap Meet

10550 E. Baseline Road mesamarket.com

Clothing, jewelry, home décor, accessories, tools, Arizona-themed gift items.

Mesa Riverview

North Dobson Road and Loop 202 mesariverview.shopkimco.com

Anchored by Burlington, Walmart, Home Depot. 50+ retailers, 30+ restaurants, multiplex theater.

Superstition Springs Center

6555 E. Southern Avenue superstitionsprings.com

Anchored by JCPenney, Dillard’s. 120+ stores, kids’ play area, double-decker carousel.

Village Square at Dana Park

1758 S. Val Vista Drive danapark.com

70-acre open-air center with upscale shops/ boutiques, variety of dining options.

DINING!

In Mesa, your tastebuds will be tempted by everything from high-quality pizza and house-made pasta to award-winning mac and cheese to mouthwatering New Mexico-style cuisine. Here are just a few local eateries to add to your must-dine list.

Pizzicata Ristorante Pizzeria

Pizzicata Ristorante Pizzeria has been serving the Mesa community for more than a year. “It’s been an incredible journey,” said Federico Venturini, owner. “We take pride in offering a variety of local favorites. Our house-made pasta is a hit as well as our signature Neapolitan-style Pizza and Pinsa Romana.”

Venturini said that, like any small business, they’ve faced their share of challenges. “The Mesa Chamber has been very important, providing us with resources, networking opportunities and guidance that helped us build our business,” he said. “The support from fellow business owners creates a collaborative environment that’s truly special.”

Jimmy G’s

Jimmy G’s opened in May of 2022 and has been recognized for its championship mac and cheese offerings as well as its pasta and

PHOTO COURTESY OF VISIT MESA

PHOTO COURTESY OF @z_and_y_gifts ON INSTAGRAM

salads. Also known for its catering options, Jimmy G’s won ‘Best of the Valley’ for their mac and cheese in both 2023 and 2024.

“As a small business, one of our challenges is that we’re in a hard-to-see location, but the Mesa Chamber has been paramount in the success we’ve had,” said Dylan Roberts, owner. “They held the first Lunch Mob since Covid at Jimmy G’s to support us and they’ve helped me get in touch with city programs that help small businesses.”

Original Blue Adobe Grille

Often referred to as an “unexpected gem” in Mesa, the Original Blue Adobe Grille serves up house specialties such as carne adovada, spooning rellenos, seafood enchiladas and chorizo stuffed chicken. “We’ve been here for 25 years. I love the continued support we’ve had from the regular customers we’ve built over the years,” said Vicki Stumberg, owner/operator of Original Blue Adobe Grille.

As with so many businesses, Stumberg said Covid was definitely a challenge. “The city amended patios, supported drivethrough ordering and offered support,” she said, adding that the continued patronage of the restaurant’s fan base has been crucial to their success.

LODGING!

In addition to being a terrific place to put down permanent roots, Mesa is also a haven for visitors, meaning the city is home to a wide variety of lodging options. And if you’re a local looking to book a weekend staycation, the city’s myriad lodging venues can put a mighty fine roof over your head, no problem.

Space-seeking family and friends can choose from suite-style hotels such as Home2Suites by Hilton Mesa Longbow or Holiday Inn & Suites. If the fam is coming to visit and you’re fresh outta room, mosey them on over to The Doubletree by Hilton Phoenix Mesa, a beautiful atrium-style hotel that offers special packages for extended families. And don’t forget that baseball buffs — especially Cubs’ fans! — enjoy staying at the Sheraton Mesa Hotel at Wrigleyville West, where the largest rooms can accommodate up to six occupants.

“

a

of

Dylan Roberts, Owner Jimmy G’s 1130 W. Grove Avenue, #111 jimmygsrestaurants.com

I’ve observed many changes in the Mesa area over the years. It has grown into a very large ‘small city’ and we’re proud to have a local following.”

Vicki Stumberg, Owner/Operator

MESA HAS IT

PHOTO COURTESY OF HILTON

DINING & LODGING

MESA HAS IT SHOPPING

Box Lunch Discount Program for Chamber Members

Need to order a dozen or so delish to-go box lunches for a business meeting — all while getting a price break? Check out the Mesa Chamber’s Box Lunch Discount Program! The Chamber has several restaurant members that offer discounts to other Chamber members when ordering a volume number of box lunches. One restaurant that participates in the program is Jimmy G’s.

“We’re involved with the Mesa Chamber’s Box Lunch program because we wanted to be able to offer our food at a rewarding price to other Mesa Chamber members,” said Dylan Roberts, owner of Jimmy G’s.

Several additional restaurants participate in the program; for a current list and for more information about the Box Lunch program, visit mesachamber.org/ chamber-boxed-lunch-menu.

SHOPPING

& DINING LISTINGS

SHOPPING & DINING

LISTINGS

MESA REAL ESTATE

ESTATE IN DEMAND

BY DEBRA GELBART

While residential real estate in Mesa isn’t defined by this, it is an interesting factoid that the city is one of only two in Maricopa County that doesn’t assess a primary residential property tax. Mesa eliminated its primary property tax in 1945. This means homeowners in Mesa will save about $224 this fiscal year compared with homeowners in Phoenix.

“Mesa hasn’t collected a primary property tax for 80 years,” said Mike Kennington, deputy city manager and chief financial officer for City of Mesa. “Our two largest sources of revenue for the general fund are sales tax revenue and state shared revenues.”

But the city does collect secondary property tax revenue, used to pay the principal and interest due on general obligation bonds approved by voters and issued to finance capital projects for libraries, parks and recreation, public safety and transportation.

As Mesa homeowners enjoy saving a little bit of money in taxes every year, the commercial real estate sector in Mesa continues to thrive.

PHOTO COURTESY OF VISIT MESA

MESA REAL ESTATE

HUNDREDS OF PROJECTS IN THE WORKS, OTHERS COMPLETED LAST YEAR

Joan Krueger, “

As a member of the Mesa Chamber, NAI Horizon is able to stay engaged with the community, watching trends and needs where commercial real estate brokers can be of most use.”

More than 300 commercial real estate projects are planned or underway in Mesa, including multifamily communities, banks and credit unions, office buildings, warehouses, restaurants, grocery stores, healthcare facilities, specialty retail such as hardware stores, fitness centers, hotels and manufacturing facilities.

Significant commercial real estate projects were completed in 2024. Virgin Galactic completed a new manufacturing facility in July at Mesa Gateway Airport, where final assembly of Delta spaceships is scheduled to take place in 2025.

The multi-use facility includes two hangars equipped with multiple bays, designed for maximum flexibility in building and testing space vehicles.

The Eastmark Center of Industry Phase I industrial development park spans 60 acres. It’s located two miles from Mesa Gateway Airport on the northeast corner of Everton Terrace and Mesquite Road. Developed by

IndieCap and AECOM-Canyon Partners and built by Layton Construction Company, the $160 million project completed in April has five single-story buildings totaling 978,000 square feet of rentable space.

An expansion to SkyBridge Arizona, an industrial development with taxiway access at Mesa Gateway Airport, was completed in August. Called Skybridge 108 and 109 and built by Graycor Construction Company, the project is two new Class A industrial buildings with 250,000 square feet each, located on East Velocity Way in Mesa.

The Child Crisis Arizona Center for Child & Family Wellness on Rio Salado Parkway west of Country Club Drive in Mesa, opened in September. Built by general contractor CHASSE Building Team, it centralizes services for low-income children and families in a 38,000-square-foot building that includes space for education, health and community wellness, art and music therapy, counseling support, donations and volunteer training.

A residential community on the campus of East Valley Institute of Technology (EVIT)

Spaceship manufacturing facility built by Virgina Galactic in 2024.

was completed in June. Located at 1601 W. Main Street, HopeTech is a 24,000-squarefoot two-story apartment-style building built by the CHASSE Building Team. It can accommodate up to 64 young adults between 18 and 23 who were in foster care. Residents who are accepted must have earned or work toward a high school diploma or GED and must enroll in an EVIT program.

In early January 2025, Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. announced the opening of a new customer support service center at Mesa Gateway Airport. It’s a 225,000-square-foot maintenance, repair and overhaul facility.

“Commercial real estate plays a pivotal role in shaping the economy of Mesa,” said Jaye O’Donnell, City of Mesa economic development director. “The city’s strategic location, robust transportation infrastructure, and business-friendly environment

have made it a desirable destination for industries like aerospace, semiconductors, manufacturing and technology. This has spurred demand for commercial spaces,” she added.

“As businesses establish themselves in Mesa, they create jobs, attract investment and stimulate other sectors, including residential real estate and retail development, to support the growing workforce,” O’Donnell noted.

MESA-BASED REAL ESTATE COMPANY BRINGS MUCH TO THE COMMUNITY

The Streamline Companies, established in Mesa in 2023, focus on three aspects of commercial real estate: construction and development, real estate investments and asset management. “We love Mesa’s proximity to everything in the Phoenix metro area,”

“

Commercial real estate plays a pivotal role in shaping the economy of Mesa.”

Jay O’Donnell Economic Development Director City of Mesa

MESA REAL ESTATE

said David Hrizak, the CEO of Streamline. “Combine that with a municipality that’s pro development as it continues to grow and all the pieces of the puzzle were aligned for us to establish our business in Mesa.”

Streamline Capital Group helps clients realize double-digit returns on their investments secured by real estate, Hrizak said.

At Streamline Development, “we have the capability to turn a vacant piece of land into a generational legacy or turn an old office suite into a vibrant workplace,” he said. “With more than 23 years of general contracting experience, we have been part of the construction process in single family, multi family, office, retail and industrial properties.

Streamline Asset Management implements property management services to help achieve the long-term goal of increas-

ing a property’s value for clients, Hrizak said. Streamline Development recently received city entitlements for the development of THE NOX, a state-of-the-art indoor music venue on Ray Road near Gateway airport, Hrizak said. “The venue is designed to be one of the top 10 venues in the country for its size,” he added. It will feature flexible seating options, a VIP area, food and beverage service and audio/video recording studios.  Capacity can range from an intimate crowd of 300 up to 2,000.  Construction is scheduled to start in the fourth quarter 2025.

Streamline Capital Group recently purchased 1234 South Power, a multi-tenant professional office building. The building has undergone some capital improvements to the exterior and is now 100 percent occupied, Hrizak noted.

MORE ACCOLADES FOR MESA

Another commercial real estate company in Arizona has praise for Mesa, too. “Mesa has developed an environment that fosters success for businesses of all sizes,” said Joan Krueger, first vice president for NAI Horizon, a full-service commercial real estate company serving Arizona since 1992 with offices located in Phoenix and Tucson. “It’s a family-friendly community with streamlined processes designed to encourage and support business growth.”

Right now, Krueger said, “Mesa has many exciting and important projects.” Mesa’s Economic Development department is key to securing many of the projects, she pointed out. “They work in concert with the City’s goals for residential and commercial growth.”

Through its partnership with the Mesa Chamber, NAI Horizon “has been able to actively engage with local businesses, collaborate on initiatives that drive economic development and support the business ecosystem that makes Mesa an exceptional place to live and work,” Krueger said.

“The city’s commercial real estate sector is critical to driving both short-term growth and long-term sustainability by fostering a thriving business ecosystem,” O’Donnell said.

MESA WHERE HEALTH & WELLNESS ABOUNDS

Plenty of healthy-lifestyle opportunities combined with understanding and respect for others

BY PAUL HUBBS COHEN

Mesa has long offered a desirable lifestyle for anyone looking to live a fun, active and healthy lifestyle — whether a family with young children, career-focused professionals or retirees ready to experience all the sports and wellness activities the city has to offer them in their ‘golden years’.

SPORTS, GOLF AND PLENTY OF HEALTHY FAMILY FUN —

MESA HAS IT ALL

Baseball aficionados are proud (and super-happy!) that Mesa is home to MLB’s Spring Training facilities for the Chicago Cubs and the Oakland Athletics, while golfers of all abilities like to get their inner Jack Nicklaus on at one of the beautiful golf courses dotted across Mesa’s diverse landscape. Meanwhile, sports fans of all persuasions can enjoy myriad events and activities at one of North America’s biggest and most comprehensive sports complexes, Arizona Athletic Grounds. When it’s time to kick back and relax a bit, Mesa residents can partake in plenty of personal pampering at any of a number of local wellness-related businesses ranging from luxurious day spas to massage therapists to perfect-for-everyone hair boutiques and nail salons. Read on for the scoop on just a few of the many ways to keep happy and healthy right here in Mesa.

ARIZONA ATHLETIC GROUNDS

6321 S. Ellsworth Road azgrounds.com

Spanning some 280 acres and boasting more than two million visitors annually, Arizona Athletic Grounds is fast becoming a go-to destination for tournaments, conferences, festivals, camps, concerts and more. The Grounds are geared toward both sports and entertainment, and the complex serves as a major hub for professional, club and recreation competition at various levels of expertise and proficiency.

In addition to 158 fields and courts, the complex features a 15,000 square-foot fitness center, 24 multipurpose fields (soccer, lacrosse and football), 41 pickleball courts, 12 beach volleyball courts and eight baseball/softball diamonds. In addition, there are 50 indoor volleyball courts, 16 basketball courts, six futsal courts, six dance studios, a cheer gym and a gymnastics center with a ninja course. But wait, we’re not done! The Grounds are also home to an entertainment district, a performance center, a 2.7-acre Yard for concerts and events, a 2,200-seat outdoor stadium, a 2,500-seat indoor arena, an 1,800-seat pickleball championship court and much more.

“Arizona Athletic Grounds offers worldclass facilities for training, tournaments and events. Our 158 fields and courts along with more than 475,000 square-feet of fieldhouse space make us one of the nation’s largest sports and entertainment complexes,” said Meg Stevens, president of Arizona Athletic Grounds. “As proud members of the Mesa community, we strive to be both a great representative of the city as well as a resource for its members.”

So whether you want to watch athletes participating in Brazilian Jui-Jitsu, volleyball, soccer, lacrosse, baseball, softball, pickleball or any of dozens of additional sporting events — it’s all right here in

“

Arizona Athletic Grounds is one of the nation’s largest sports and entertainment complexes, offering world-class facilities for training, tournaments, and events. We strive to be both a great representative of the city of Mesa and a resource for its members. I am excited about the future of the Grounds as we build a new brand, engage new partnerships, and bring millions of visitors to Mesa and the surrounding areas.”

Meg Stevens, President Arizona Athletic Grounds

LIFESTYLE

ARIZONA ATHLETIC GROUNDS PHOTO COURTESY OF VISIT MESA

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Fore!

LIFESTYLE

Mesa is home to a bevy of stunning private, semi-private (members and daily-play) and public golf courses that offer challenges designed to test the skills of players of all stripes, from casual duffers to golf aces and everyone in-between.

Apache Wells Country Club

5601 E. Hermosa Vista Drive apachewellscountryclub.com

Summertime at semi-private Apache Wells offers daily tee-times for the public, while a selection of wintertime tee-times are reserved for members.

Dobson Ranch Golf Course

2155 S. Dobson Road dobsonranchgolfclub.com

Described as “Arizona’s most fun and friendly golf experience,” Dobson Ranch features an 18-hole course and a ranch-style bar and grill.

Las Sendas Golf Club

7555 E. Eagle Crest Drive lassendas.com

A semi-private club, Las Sendas sits above the Phoenix skyline and offers challenging play and upscale amenities.

Longbow Golf Club

5601 E. Longbow Parkway longbowgolf.com

Longbow was honored as one of the ‘Top 100 Resort Courses’ in the country and ranked as one of the ‘Top 20 Best Courses You Can Play In Arizona’.

Red Mountain Ranch Country Club

6425 E. Teton Circle rmrcc.com

Home to spectacular views and an 18-hole Pete Dye Signature Course, this semi-private club offers six different tee combinations designed for beginners to tour-level players.

Sunland Springs Golf Club

11061 E. Medina Avenue sunlandspringsgolf.com

Nestled in the shadows of the Superstition Mountains, Sunland Springs features 27 holes of desert-style golf spread across three nine-hole layouts.

BATTER UP!

Chicago Cubs - Sloan Park

2330 W. Rio Salado Pkwy mlb.com/cubs/sloan-park/guide

Oakland Athletics - Hohokam Stadium 1235 N. Center Street mlb.com/athletics/spring-training/ ballpark

Every Spring, Mesa bustles with baseball when the Chicago Cubs and the Oakland Athletics come to town — and this dynamic duo of professional baseball draws huge crowds of fans, both local and from across the country. The Cubbies play at Sloan Park, home to a 15,000-seat ballpark and seven practice fields. Sloan Park is located inside the vast expanse of Riverview Park, a gorgeous setting that boasts numerous family-friendly healthy-living amenities including climbing walls, a rope-climbing tower, zip-line, splash-pad, five-acre urban lake and much more.

Not far away, the A’s call Hohokam Stadium their homebase for Spring Training. This historic venue has 7,500 seats and can accommodate an additional 2,500

spectators on the grass berms. Numerous Mesa families have cheered on loved ones at Hohokam Stadium, since in addition to its Spring Training fame, Hohokam is utilized year-round for local and national youth and adult baseball tournaments and championships.

Riverview Park

Riverview Park was redesigned and redeveloped in 2014 as part of the overall Chicago Cubs new stadium. Bordered by an event pavilion, the $8 million park’s signature feature is a five-acre urban lake with three bridges and numerous access points. On the edge of the park is a 300-foot natural linear climbing wall (with a covered fort) along with a rope-climbing tower that stretches 50 feet into the air. A 75-foot zip-line as well as a splash-pad, slides, spinners and swings are highlights of the park’s two playgrounds. A palm-tree lined walkway, called the Paseo, leads visitors to and from the adjacent Mesa Riverview shopping complex and Cubs Park. For more Information, check online at: mesaparks.com/parks-facilities

PHOTO COURTESY OF DYNAMOPLAYGROUNDS.COM

LEADING THE WAY FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH HIDDEN DISABILITIES

All residents and visitors deserve to feel welcome and respected BY

Whether it’s a speech, visual or hearing impairment, neuro-diversity or dementia, living with a hidden disability can make daily life more demanding for many people. It can also be difficult for others to identify, acknowledge and/or understand the challenges that these individuals face. That’s why the City of Mesa has taken the lead in ensuring that all residents and visitors feel welcome and respected.

DEMENTIA-FRIENDLY

Dementia, like so many other serious illnesses, is often misunderstood, making everything from daily living activities to long-term care solutions a whole new learning experience for patients and caregivers alike. Mesa, well-known for its caring and family-oriented lifestyle, decided to develop an inclusive, pro-active approach to supporting citizens with dementia. Taking a lead role in this effort was the Mesa Chamber of Commerce Healthcare Committee’s Dementia-Friendly Task Force.

PAUL HUBBS COHEN

In July of 2020, the City of Mesa earned certification as a Dementia-Friendly city through Dementia-Friendly America, a national network of communities, organizations and individuals seeking to ensure that communities across the country are equipped to support people living with dementia and their care-partners. In Mesa, the ultimate goal is to provide supportive community education designed to enhance the quality of life for these beloved family members, neighbors and friends.

COMMUNITY EDUCATION

In collaboration with several community partners, the City of Mesa and the Mesa Chamber of Commerce Healthcare Committee provide dementia education to the community in a variety of ways, including one-hour classes for individuals as well as businesses.

Dementia Friends classes provide information related to the basics of dementia and how to understand and communicate

Mesa Memory Café

Mesa Chamber of Commerce member Oakwood Creative Care hosts the Mesa Memory Café, a free gathering place for anyone living with memory impairment as well as their family members, care-partners and/or loved ones. Engagement activities and support groups are offered.

Where:

Mesa Memory Café at The Dementia Hub by Oakwood Creative Care, 6915 E. Main Street, Mesa

When: Tuesdays 1–2:30PM and Wednesdays 9:30–11AM

For more information: 480-625-3867

oakwoodcreativecare.org/ the-dementia-hub

HEALTH & WELLNESS

“

Quality healthcare is important to individuals and companies alike. Philanthropy drives quality and gives HonorHealth the ability to make big leaps forward – the resources to be the best healthcare system in the southwest, known for quality care and amazing advancements that give people more

LIFESTYLE

with individuals living with the disease. Dementia Friends @Work classes are designed for businesses to educate their employees about dementia thereby improving customer service to people living with the disease.

Classes are offered through the Mesa Chamber of Commerce Healthcare Committee (mesachamber.org/healthcare-committee); Mesa Fire and Medical (mesaaz.gov/Public-Safety/Mesa-Fire-Medical); and Banner Alzheimer’s Institute (banneralz.org/finding-support/dementia-friends).

For more Information, check online at: mesachamber.org/healthcare-committee

HIDDEN DISABILITIES SUNFLOWER

Individuals (or their companion/companions) can self-identify as seeking additional support when out in public by requesting a complimentary Hidden Disabilities Sunflower lanyard or bracelet. This visual cue lets trained members of the public be cognizant of the fact that the individual might need a little extra assistance. In addition to the Mesa Chamber of Commerce (165 N. Centennial Way) and the Mesa Visitors Center (120 N. Center Street), guests can

pick up lanyards and bracelets at several participating locations in Mesa. Mesa was the first U.S. city to adopt the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program.

For more Information, check online at: visitmesa.com/travel-accessibility

AUTISM-CERTIFIED

Mesa has been recognized as the country’s first Autism-Certified City, a designation presented by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). A number of Mesa venues — including hotels, restaurants, museums, parks and more — are autism-certified. In the five years since receiving this designation, dozens of businesses and nearly 8,000 community members have completed autism-specific training. Visit Mesa, the official destination marketing and organization responsible for positioning and promoting the City of Mesa, also offers online autism-friendly travel and sensory guides.

For more Information, check online at: visitmesa.com/autism-travel

We know that choosing where to receive care after a life-changing illness or injury is an important decision for you and your loved ones. At Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of East Valley, we are committed to helping you get back to what matters most. Located in Mesa, Encompass Health provides state-of-the-art rehabilitative care to patients recovering from stroke and other neurological

disorders, brain and spinal cord injury, amputations, and orthopedic, cardiac and pulmonary conditions. We provide a compassionate and comprehensive team approach to rehabilitation services including physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy. Our advanced programs incorporate the latest technology and treatments and are available to patients throughout the country.

As a hospital specializing in physical medicine and rehabilitation, we offer a more intense regimen and an exceptional level of care, such as greater physician involvement and therapy time. Our on-site medical director leads a highly qualified, multidisciplinary team of nurses and therapists to provide a coordinated program of rehabilitative care. At our hospital you will receive three hours of therapy, five days per week with 24/7 nursing care, including nurses who specialize in rehabilitation.

SUPPORTING EDUCATION!

Mesa Chamber of Commerce is a Long-Time Staunch Supporter of Education

BY ALISON STANTON

CTE program at Westwood High School

Since it was founded over a century ago, the Mesa Chamber of Commerce has earned a well-deserved reputation as a supporter of, and advocate for, education.

One way that the Mesa Chamber has done this is through its on-going support of Mesa Public Schools’ popular and rapidly growing MPS Career & Technical Education Internship Program. Students who are part of the program work before or after class and earn class credit, all while gaining real-world exposure to businesses and industries relevant to their chosen field.

The internship program, which offers a structured paid or volunteer work-based experience for qualified high school seniors, also helps students transition into high-paying jobs right after high school.

As Dr. Andi Fourlis, Superintendent at Mesa Public Schools notes, the Mesa Chamber has always been highly encouraging of the internship program, and has helped contribute to its success over the many years it has been available to students.

“The Mesa Chamber has been a great partner for us,” Dr. Fourlis says.

As she notes, the internship program was originally called “Cooperative Education.”

“More recently, Career and Technical Education (CTE) teachers were encouraged to work with local businesses to get their students placed as interns,” Dr. Fourlis says, adding that the first Career Coach was placed at Westwood High School 4 years ago to work on the internship program.

“That expanded to Mountain View and Mesa High the following year. This year, there is a Career Coach at every high school, including our alternative or success high schools.”

Over the years, the MPS Career & Technical Education Internship Program has grown significantly.

“We had 650 students apply for internships last year; however not all of them were placed because they either didn’t qualify or were unable to find a job. We have around 400 interns this year, and had about 120 the year before, so it has been a dramatic increase,” Dr. Fourlis says.

“We attribute this to having a Career Coach on each campus and to the fact that

Pathways in Education Opens!

The Mesa Chamber celebrated Pathways in Education with a ribbon cutting ceremony in November 2024.

Pathways In Education is a tuition free public charter school serving grades 9-12 in the Phoenix community. As a Pathways student, you can choose between a fully online schedule or our blended learning model that combines small group classes, guided independent study, online courses, and experiential learning.

—From Pathways In Education-Mesa

PHOTO COURTESY OF MPSAZ.ORG

LEARNING

“ MESA EDUCATION

Mesa Community College proudly celebrates six decades of innovation. We look forward to continues to meet the needs of Mesa and the East Valley through our community partnerships in education.”

Richard Daniel, Ph.D., President

employers, students, teachers and parents better understand the value of doing an internship.”

The Mesa Chamber of Commerce has also been a great partner to Mesa Public Schools and the MPS Career & Technical Education Internship Program.

“The Mesa Chamber has hosted interns for their own work and advertised our program to their members,” Dr. Fourlis says.

The MPS Career & Technical Education Internship Program is also featured on the Mesa Chamber’s website, so that members can easily learn about it and get involved.

Currently, a number of the major employers in the East Valley are part of the MPS Career & Technical Education Internship Program as business and industry partners; this includes Honeywell, Boeing, and Empire Machinery.

While Dr. Fourlis says some companies were initially a bit hesitant about taking part in the intern program – due mainly to liability insurance issues for interns as young as 17 years old – major contractors like Honeywell and Boeing successfully addressed these concerns, proving it could be done.

“Hiring students under the age of 18 was a huge stumbling block for most employers until Boeing attorneys researched Arizona Child Labor Laws and determined that other than working with dynamite and driving a forklift, 16 and 17-year-olds can do the same work as someone who is 18 or older,” Dr. Fourlis says.

“Honeywell soon followed suit and it’s been difficult ever since for other companies to use age as a reason not to hire a student.”

Also, because interns have to be part of a CTE Program at their high school, Dr. Fourlis says this means they often have certifications, training, and skills beyond what a typical high school student would have.

“They have also demonstrated an interest in the field and want to pursue that by getting real-world experience. We tell our partners to treat them as they would any other entry level employee.”

In addition to their unwavering support of the MPS Career & Technical Education Internship Program, the Mesa Chamber of Commerce has been a valuable and supportive asset to Mesa Public Schools in other ways.

“Two years ago, we launched the Industry Education Council together with the Mesa Chamber. The Council is made up of high level executives and educators who give us advice and direction on work-based learning,” Dr. Fourlis says.

Another way the Mesa Chamber of Commerce has offered tangible support to education and students in the City is through its partnership with ElevateEdAZ.

This initiative, which was spearheaded by a Phoenix foundation, has been instrumental in the workforce development strategy.

PHOTO COURTESY OF MESACC.EDU

As it notes on the ElevateEdAZ website, the initiative helps to prepare students for college and their careers through a stronger alignment between education, business and the community.

The primary goals of ElevateEdAZ include increasing the number of students who are enrolled in and completing high-wage, high-demand career pathways, increasing student attainment of industry-recognized credentials and early post-secondary credit, providing more students with work-based learning experiences, and empowering educators to reimagine classroom learning through educator externships.

ElevateEdAZ partners with schools and districts throughout the Phoenix metropolitan area, including Mesa, to promote pathways and career and technical education programs in a number of industries including: Architecture & Construction; Business Management & Administration, Marketing, and Sales; Education; Engineering (STEM); Law, Public Safety,

Corrections & Security and many more.

The Mesa Chamber is pleased to have partnered with ElevateEdAZ to help connect students with internships at member businesses.

The Chamber is also proud of its ability to continually find ways to bridge the gap between local businesses and resources – especially in addressing workforce shortages.

Whether it’s through its work with the MPS Career & Technical Education Intern-

ship Program, the ElevateEdAZ initiative or in other programs, the Mesa Chamber of Commerce has found effective ways to reduce the burden on businesses by handling much of the connections and coordination work, including making introductions between schools and businesses. Looking ahead, the Mesa Chamber plans to continue its role as a key supporter of education, facilitating connections between schools and businesses and supporting its business growth mission.

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Our program offers a variety of college and career readiness options and covers the cost of every examination.

American Heart Association (AHA) Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification: The BLS certification provides training in life-saving techniques, including CPR, which is often required for jobs in healthcare, education, or public safety. Earning this certification adds value to your resume and equips you with critical skills that are always in demand.

ACT WorkKeys National Career Readiness Certificate (NCRC): This is a nationally recognized certificate that demonstrates essential workplace skills, helping students stand out to employers. The NCRC is based on three key areas: Applied Math: Using math in practical, real-world situations. Graphic Literacy: Understanding and using information in charts, graphs, and diagrams. Workplace Documents: Reading and understanding written information in a workplace context.

College-Level Examination Program (CLEP): The CLEP exams allow you to earn college credit for subjects you already know. Exams are vailable in areas such as English, Mathematics, Science, and Social Sciences. By passing a CLEP exam, you can earn credits at many colleges and universities, potentially saving both time and money while advancing toward your higher education goals.

General Educational Development (GED): If needed, you can take GED exams to demonstrate high school-level academic skills. This is a widely recognized alternative to a high school diploma that can open doors to further education or better job opportunities.

DEFENSE & MANUFACTURING

Manufacturing, defense sectors critical to Mesa’s economy

BY DEBRA GELBART

As a city with just over half a million residents, Mesa has made its mark on the manufacturing and defense sectors. The city is home to thousands of companies that manufacture products of all types in the aerospace, defense, medical devices, semiconductors, clean tech, automotive, construction equipment, pharmaceuticals, biotech and food manufacturing industries.

“The city’s manufacturing base supports both large-scale industrial production and specialized high-tech manufacturing, benefiting from a skilled workforce and robust infrastructure,” said Jaye O’Donnell, Mesa’s economic development director.

Here are just some of the companies that will open soon or have already opened a Mesa location:

• Virgin Galactic’s new facility at Mesa Gateway Airport opened in July 2024 to assemble Delta spaceships

• North America’s largest automotive supplier Magna International will open a facility in Power Industrial Park in east Mesa to assemble Waymo autonomous vehicles (completion date not yet announced)

• The Hyundai Transys facility on Ray Road west of Ellsworth manufactures automobile seats (opened in 2022)

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Isaac Zimmerman observes as a U.S. Marine fires a legacy M72 munition system.

Photo:

• Daicel in Mesa manufactures pyrotechnical devices for mobility and industry use with a range of applications for passive safety systems such as airbags (since 2016)

• ZF TRW in Mesa specializes in the design and manufacturing of vehicle safety systems (opened more than a decade ago).

USMC/Sgt. Luke Kuennen via Nammo.com

HYUNDAI TRANSYS FACILITY PHOTO COURTESY OF WWW.HYUNDAI-TRANSYS.COM

DAICEL IN MESA PHOTO COURTESY OF DAICELSSA.COM

DEFENSE / MANUFACTURING

DEFENSE “ MESA

For more than 40 years, the Boeing AH-64 Apache has been more than just an attack helicopter; it has been a trusted platform for U.S. Soldiers and our global allies, embodying the strength and resilience needed on the battlefield.

The Boeing Mesa team takes immense pride in crafting the Apache and other defense products, and we are committed to pushing the boundaries of innovation, ensuring that we continue to support those who protect and serve, both now and in the future.”

Ken Robinson, Program Integration Office / Deputy PM The Boeing Company

Nammo manufacturing facility in Mesa, AZ

MAJOR MANUFACTURING COMPANIES IN MANY OTHER SECTORS

O’Donnell pointed to the completed and in-progress Mesa locations of Nucleus Radiopharma, Biolab Sciences, BMSEED and Dexcom as stars in the pharmaceuticals, biotech products and medical devices arena. She noted Infineon, Benchmark, JX Advanced Materials, Mitsubishi Gas Chemicals, Fujifilm, Western Semi Solutions, KoMiCo and Pentagon Technologies in the semiconductor manufacturing, materials and equipment space as more examples of notable manufacturing facilities in Mesa. In clean tech, CarbonCapture, XNRGY and Amphenol excel, as do Metso, Komatsu and Empire Southwest in construction and mining equipment and Lehi Valley Trading Company and Niagara Botling in food and beverage.

CMC Steel Arizona opened in Mesa in 2009 as the first state-of-the-art micro mill in the world. The company says its scrap-based Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) steelmaking processes consume fewer natural resources, use less energy and release fewer emissions than alternative blast-furnace steelmaking technology. The steel produced at CMC’s mills is composed of more than 98 percent recycled material.

CMC Steel Arizona opened a second micro-mill during the pandemic and increased production despite a workforce shortage. The company’s newest EAF micro-mill is the world’s first capable of

producing merchant bar—a type of steel used in construction and manufacturing that can be produced in angles, channels, flats, rounds and squares—in a continuous casting process.

“Manufacturing plays a significant role in the area’s economy,” O’Donnell said, “providing a substantial number of jobs, attracting ancillary businesses, contributing to overall economic growth and supporting related industries through its demand for goods and services.”

O’Donnell emphasized that manufacturing positions the city as a powerful economic engine. “Beyond employment, manufacturing contributes significantly to Mesa’s tax revenue and regional economic development, funding essential city services and infrastructure improvements,” O’Donnell said. Investments from major companies like Boeing, Dexcom, CMC Steel and Empire Southwest not only strengthen Mesa’s economy but also create ripple effects

MAGNA INTERNATIONAL IN MESA PHOTO COURTESY OF AZ BIG MEDIA

PHOTO COURTESY OF WWW.NAMMO.COM

that benefit small businesses, suppliers and the overall Southeast Valley, she explained.

Mesa’s strategic location, business-friendly policies, access to a skilled workforce and ongoing infrastructure investments “make it an ideal destination for manufacturers looking to grow and innovate,” O’Donnell said. “The city’s proactive efforts to attract cutting-edge industries ensure its continued success as a leading manufacturing hub in the Southwest.”

Ultimately, O’Donnell said, Mesa’s manufacturing sector “is more than just a collection of factories. It sustains communities, drives technological advancements and secures the city’s future prosperity.”

DEFENSE SECTOR VITAL, TOO

The headquarters for Nammo Defense Systems are in Mesa. The company points out that the Mesa site houses the largest U.S. production facility for the Norway-based company. The Mesa location manufactures commercial ammunition and propellant powder in addition to aerospace and defense products that include shoulder-fired systems and rocket motors.

Within the defense systems organization, Nammo also specializes in the design, development and manufacture of ammunition and material solutions for defense as well as selected commercial applications.

The Mesa facility of Northrop Grumman is home to the Bushmaster® line of Chain Guns®, a premier line of medium caliber gun systems that support customers’ and

warfighters’ missions, according to the company’s website. The recently expanded facility includes production and test range areas.

Phoenix Defense operates its manufacturing division in the neighboring city of Gilbert. The company employs about 200 people in the East Valley, said Phoenix Defense CEO Al Funderburk, with an average annual salary of about $50,000 while leasing approximately 85,000 square feet for manufacturing operations at three locations in Gilbert. “The company supports local initiatives, including the Mesa Chamber of Commerce, veterans’ outreach programs and various charitable organizations,” Funderburk said.

Funderburk wants to raise Phoenix Defense’s profile in the local community. “We want to showcase our significant growth over the past six years and enhance our recruiting and retention efforts, especially in the East Valley,” he said. “We aim to highlight our diverse business channels, our commitment to our employees and our focus on quality and innovation.”

MD Helicopters currently employs nearly 200 people at its Mesa locations and is growing rapidly. The company continues to be a provider of high-performance commercial, military, law enforcement, air-rescue and executive/VIP helicopters.

Times Microwave Systems, with a 62,000-square-foot facility in Mesa, manufactures high-performance coaxial cables, connectors, assemblies and custom

solutions for applications that include aerospace, avionics and airframe, medical, military and defense, industrial, quantum computing, railway, space, test and measurement, wireless infrastructure and 5G.

“Mesa stands as a premier hub for defense industries, boasting a robust cluster of companies and facilities that contribute significantly to both local and national defense initiatives,” O’Donnell said. “The city’s strategic assets include a 35-squaremile developing aerotropolis surrounding Mesa Gateway Airport and an advanced aerospace and defense manufacturing district around Falcon Field Airport. These features, combined with an abundant, highly skilled workforce, position Mesa as a significant player in the defense sector.”

Mesa defense companies, she added, “provide thousands of high-paying jobs to local residents and the segment is a critical part of Mesa’s economic vitality.”

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Mesa stands as a premier hub for defense industries, boasting a robust cluster of companies and facilities that contribute significantly to both local and national defense initiatives.”

Jay O’Donnell Economic Development Director City of Mesa

PHOTO COURTESY OF MD HELICOPTERS

CHAMBER

CHAMBER