Distinctive Dwellings
Tiny homes pack amenities into small package
BY MIKE BUTLER Tribune Staff Writer
In East Mesa, at the expansive ViewPoint Golf & RV resort, retirees down for the winter peek through the windows of two adorable Tumbleweed tiny homes on display. They see the possibilities.
Meanwhile, Darin Dinsmore, an urban planner, landscape architect and founder and CEO of Crowdbrite in San Francisco, wants to downsize his life.
He’s working with city of Sedona and Coconino County officials to build a tiny, 300-square-foot house on an infill lot and put down roots in Red Rock Country.
After preaching sustainability and community engagement for a couple of decades now, Dinsmore says it’s time to practice it.
“Sedona is the perfect place for something like this,” he said.
In a downtown Phoenix backyard, a young woman (she requested privacy) lives
BY ADRIANA BECERRA Tribune Staff Writer
The convenience of online shopping has fewer people visiting local stores, instead opting to buy from brand names with one click of a button.
Forrester Research Inc. found that consumers spent $335 billion in online sales; a number that they predict will jump to $523 billion by 2020.
With the option of buying all major brands online, why shop locally?
Angel Jaquez, store manager at Kid to Kid in Ahwatukee, a resale store specializing in kid’s clothes and toys, agrees.
“It helps the community offer clothing to those who can’t afford it otherwise,” Jaquez said.
Thrift stores offer more to consumers than just shopping locally. They offer clothing and various items at discounted prices, along with an easy way of getting rid of that “clutter closet.”
Thrift stores rely heavily on donations for sustainability. Some only take clothing, while others will take food, clothing and
Operations Director
“You’re supporting your local neighbor, your local community,” said Mike McClanahan,
(Mike Butler/Tribune Staff)
(Special to the Tribune
from St. Vincent de Paul’s 17 thrift stores in Arizona help fulfill the charity's mission to feed, clothe, house and heal.
Mall security offers tips for holiday shoppers
Tribune Staff Report
Christmas time is here, and with it comes trips to packed malls with short-tempered shoppers and suspicious people lingering around your bags.
Mall security officers take their job seriously and keep a watch on all the hustle and bustle, but they can’t be everywhere.
Rich DeGraw of Macerich, which operates malls in the East Valley, including Chandler Fashion Center and San Tan Village in Gilbert, says safety of shoppers is the company’s top priority.
“With more people and activity during the holidays, our security team will be working with additional resources from our local law enforcement partners,” he said.
“This will allow us to quickly and efficiently respond to any situation where shoppers might need our assistance.”
DeGraw says shoppers can ask security officers for an escort to their car if they feel unsafe.
“This service is always available when
our property is open, if your car is parked on mall property,” he said.
DeGraw offered more safety tips:
• Stay alert—it’s the best personal protection. Always be aware of your surroundings.
• Always lock your automobile and do not place valuables in sight. Put your packages in the trunk.
• Remember where you parked your car.
• Use directories to become familiar with shopping centers and the services provided.
• Shop with a friend whenever possible. It’s not only safer, but also more fun.
• Never leave children unattended.
Teach your children exactly what to do if they become separated from you. You can never tell your children too many times, “Don’t talk to strangers and never leave or get into a car with people you don’t know.”
• If you witness a crime or see something that you think is unsafe or suspicious, alert mall security or call 911.
• Keep your keys in your hand when you return to your car. When shopping
after dark, a small key ring flashlight can be a valuable tool. You can use it to find the lock and check out the interior of your car before getting in. Take heed of these tips and stay safe this shopping season.
(Special to the Tribune)
Security professionals say staying alert is the best personal protection while shopping. Always be aware of your surroundings.
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Mesa temple lights up for the holidays
BY SHELLEY RIDENOUR Tribune Staff Writer
Again this holiday season, the bright lights are shining at the Mesa temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
For the 37th straight year, the lights will be turned on the Friday after Thanksgiving and will be on from 5 to 10 p.m. through Dec. 31.
Adding to the festivities are nightly concerts at 7 p.m. from Dec. 1-25 in front of the church’s visitor center at 525 E. Main St. Performers range from bell ringers to soloists to children’s choirs to quartets and everything in between, said Stacey Farr, director of the Mesa temple Christmas lights project.
Also staying on display through Dec. 31 are 100 nativity sets inside the visitor center. People can view those from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.
Years ago, the display included a “forest,” Farr said. That had been discontinued, but is back for 2016. Artificial trees are decked out with lights and decorations and clustered together on the west side of the visitor center, offering people a chance to feel like they’re in a forest, she said.
“It makes it feel a little bit more wintry,” Farr said. “It’s magical.”
Last year, QR code reader machines were added to the holiday display and they return this year, Farr said. Eight display stands are scattered around. People can use smartphones to read the QR codes and be automatically linked to a portion of the LDS website with short videos.
Farr said church members view the light display as a gift to the community that has “grown to a wondrous display that is so serene and peaceful.”
The annual show began when
volunteers put 5,000 “little blue lights on top of the visitor center,” she said. This year hundreds of thousands of lights are spread throughout the expanse of the temple grounds. There are too many lights to count, Farr said. But, for perspective, she said the big star that is suspended high above the display contains 60,000 lights. And, the tall palm trees alone hold 100,000 lights.
A conversion of all the lights to LEDs has been underway for several years, Farr said. While it’s not complete yet, 97 percent of this year’s lights are LED, meaning an extra-bright show. Parking is available on both sides of the temple and the Valley Metro parking lot at Main. Lesuer, across the street from the temple, has 525 parking spaces.
Farr reminds people that the display is equally as beautiful during the day as it is after sunset.
“The gardens are spectacular,” she said. Handicap parking spots are available, ramps lead to all parts of the display and the church has some wheelchairs in the visitor center which people can use.
(Special to the Tribune)
A conversion of all the lights at the Mesa Temple to LEDs has been underway for several years. While it’s not complete yet, 97 percent of this year’s lights are LED, meaning an extra-bright show.
(Special to the Tribune)
More than 100 nativity sets are on display inside the Mesa temple visitors center, including this set.
TINY HOUSES
from page 1
contentedly in a 160-square-foot tiny home on wheels while she attends med school. Not wanting to rack up thousands of dollars in debt on student housing, she built the tiny home herself in Louisiana and towed it here with a Chevy Tahoe.
When she has her degree, she can hitch up again and live and work almost anywhere she wants.
Whether built on a concrete slab or a sturdy metal trailer, tiny homes are the latest rage in new home construction. Popular blogs and YouTube channels provide hours of entertainment and research for anyone just scratching the surface of the tiny life, as do hit shows such as “Tiny House Nation” on FYI. Not to be outdone, HGTV has “Tiny House, Big Living,” “Tiny House Hunters” and “Tiny House Builders.”
Going mobile
The whimsically named Finn and Rose rumbled into ViewPoint in Mesa a few weeks ago, and the tiny, traditional cottages on trailers immediately began turning heads. The manufacturer, Tumbleweed of Sonoma, California, calls them the Cypress and Elm models. Finn and Rose belong to Encore/ Thousand Trails, owner of ViewPoint and other resorts around the country. Finn and Rose are on tour, like emerging rock stars, building up a cult following. The two kicked off their road trip in Chicago last August, then traveled to Natchez Trace in Tennessee, Lake Conroe in Texas
and the Voyager RV Resort in Tucson. Cheri Dewarrat, general manager of ViewPoint, says Tucson folks stood in line for two to three hours to get tours of Finn and Rose.
“That’s how big it is. It’s a new way of living,” Dewarrat said.
East Valley residents are encouraged to visit ViewPoint, 8700 E. University Drive, and see for themselves, Dec. 3 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
After their performances here, Finn and Rose will settle down at the Verde Valley resort in Cottonwood, where they can be booked for weekend getaways and vacations. Rates at the resort company’s five-home Tiny House Village at Mount Hood, outside of Portland, are $129 and $139 per night.
Vacation rentals give the tiny-curious a unique “try before you buy” opportunity, says Dewarrat.
All the comforts
Tumbleweed’s Cypress model packs a lot of living into about 200 or 300 square feet, depending on whether you go 20 or 26 feet. Base price is $62,950 or $72,950. The similarly priced Elm isn’t quite as roomy inside because of its tiny front porch. Tumbleweed also offers a couple of jazzy, contemporary farmhouse models called the Farallon and Roanoke. Models are eight and a half feet wide and 13 feet, four inches high. They all have sleeping lofts—but watch your head! A downstairs convertible sofa can provide extra sleeping space. They have ruthlessly efficient bathrooms with showers and kitchens with washers and dryers. There’s just enough space for dining and home office tasks. They have heating and cooling, plus
water, wastewater and electrical hookups.
Tumbleweed tiny houses are Recreational Vehicle Industry Association certified, which makes them easy to park at most campgrounds, and obtain a DMV license, financing and insurance.
Tumbleweed hosts two-day tiny house workshops around the country for DIY types and potential buyers who are ready to take the deep dive into the tiny lifestyle.
Greg Montoya, co-founder and president of Tiny Treasures Homes in Show Low, says his company also follows RVIA guidelines, but it stops short of acquiring the actual certification sticker. He says the process can add $10,000 or more to the cost of a tiny home. Tiny Treasures Homes receive VIN numbers and get classified as utility trailers or RVs depending on the DMV.
Montoya teamed up with his cousin, Johnny Rippy, a well-known custom home builder in Northern Arizona, to start building tiny homes two and half years ago.
Tiny Treasures recently completed a gorgeous 30-footer for a northern California couple with two children. A single client is enjoying her red-roof tiny home in Wisconsin.
Montoya will also be the host of a “Tiny House Hunters” episode next month when he delivers a new home to a Phoenix family.
Bumps in the road
After college, Taylor Vos, an urban planner, and his wife, Annie, traveled the country for six months in a van. After returning to Arizona, they started designing a 400-square-foot tiny home.
Before they got too far into it, however, they discovered they wouldn’t be able to legally park a tiny home in Scottsdale, or any other East Valley city, or Phoenix. They abandoned their plans after finding a cozy, 750-square-foot home in downtown Phoenix.
Then Taylor and Annie became the ironic landlords—and eventual good
friends—of the med student with her tiny home.
Valley HOAs aren’t likely to ever allow either a backyard tiny home or a tiny home as a lot’s sole structure. Neighborhoods without HOAs often have minimum size requirements for new homes on a foundation that far exceed the tiny home footprint.
Still, an established home in a neighborhood without an HOA, which allows large RV parking or casitas, might be allowed to have a backyard tiny home. It depends on where you live. It may take a few more years of evolution in the East Valley for tiny homes to gain traction as new-age singlefamily homes, backyard apartments, granny flats and caregiver dwellings— as they have in California, Oregon and other states.
“We need to start to talking about where we want them and where we don’t want them,” Taylor Vos says.
– Reach Mike Butler at 480-898-5630 or at mbutler@timespublications.com.
(Mike Butler/Tribune Staff) Floor plans can be customized to have an open great room downstairs, or you can choose to have a flex space that can be used as an office/ bedroom. Ladders to the upstairs lofts can be outfitted with bonus storage drawers.
(Mike Butler/Tribune Staff)
Dinner for two, with a view, is served in this nook of the Elm tiny house.
(Mike Butler/Tribune Staff) Although tiny, kitchens don't sacrifice on style or function. A two-burner induction cooktop and a 3.1 cubic foot undercounter fridge/freezer is standard on 20-foot models.
(Mike Butler/Tribune Staff) Depending on the model, upstairs sleeping lofts are large enough to accommodate a king-size mattress. Ceiling height in the lofts range from about 6-and-half-feet to 11-and-a-half feet.
THRIFT STORES
from page 1 other items.
“Every item that is on our floor is donated,” said Geena Caviness, store manager at the White Dove Thrift Shoppe in Mesa.
Unlike thrift stores, resale stores will pay donors for their clothing, either cash or store credit. Buffalo Exchange will buy clothing at a price they appraised.
“Each buyer is trained through hands-on experience and by becoming completely in tune with the inventory of the store so they can give a fair payout to the seller while offering a good deal for the customer,” said Stephanie Lew, Marketing Director of Buffalo Exchange, a resale store that first opened in Tucson in 1974.
Many thrift stores will invest their funds back in their stores. Others donate their revenue to different charities and organizations.
“We donate to the Salvation Army and the Phoenix Dream Center,” said Jaquez.
The White Dove Thrift Shoppe and St. Vincent de Paul support their respective charity organizations.
“Our funds go directly to our patient care at Hospice of the Valley,” Caviness said.
Hospice of the Valley is called the largest not-for-profit hospice in the nation. They serve around 17,000 patients and families throughout Central Arizona.
McClanahan said funds from St. Vincent de Paul’s 17 thrift stores in Arizona go to their mission to feed, clothe, house and heal.
“It goes to fund our special ministries where we can buy clothing and essentials for the homeless and the needy,” said McClanahan.
Caviness said that thrift stores are not only beneficial for the people directly involved, but the state as a whole.
“You’re helping the state and incoming money,” said Caviness.
“You’re putting people to work. It’s recycling at its best.”
Lew agrees with Caviness on the notion of reduce, reuse, recycle.
“By recycling your clothing through selling or donation, you’re giving the clothing a second life,” Lew said. “This helps by not contributing to the demand and waste of clothing pollution.”
Shopping locally proves beneficial for consumers, charities, the environment
and the state.
McClanahan said that while shopping at Target is great, there’s nothing like the intimacy of shopping at mom and pop
stores.
“Small businesses are the lifeblood of a good economy in any community,” he said.
(Special to the Tribune)
Buffalo Exchange, a resale store that first opened in Tucson in 1974, has its mantra up in lights: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle.
Gilbert, Tempe among the worst in nation for roof rats
BY RACHEL EROH Tribune Staff Writer
Two East Valley cities are in the top 10 nationwide, but not in a category they want.
Gilbert and Tempe are among the worst in the country for roof rats based on data compiled from more than 300 Terminix branches.
Gilbert ranked 2nd and Tempe ranked 5th on the list.
Joel Whalin, the service manager at the Tempe Terminix branch, said that the influx of rodent infestations could be because they’re migrating through the Valley and looking for basic necessities.
“What it all boils down to is do have what they need to survive,” Whalin said. “That’s food, water and shelter.”
The main signs of an infestation include droppings, the smell of urine, chew marks on the property, rat noises at night, and holes in fallen citrus fruits.
The scent of rodent urine is very sweet and difficult to describe but distinguishable, Whalin said.
Citrus plants are a primary food source for rodents, so if homeowners don’t pick
up fallen fruits, that can attract unwanted critters. Homeowners will often see holes in fallen, rotten fruit, which is a sign that rodents are feeding on their property, Whalin said.
If rats have breached a structure, squealing and gnawing can be heard at night due to roof rats’ nocturnal nature.
“Homeowners will hear a lot of noise going on that typically you wouldn’t hear
in the middle of the night,” Whalin said. Even if rodents haven’t entered a structure, pests around a home can still cause issues on the exterior and can lead to roof rats making their way into house, Whalin said.
“The reality of it there are rats outside running around
Whalin said.
“Even though they may not breach a structure and get inside a home, they will still chew on things because there is food and water available.”
The damage that rodents can create inside of a home can affect both the structure of a house and the health of homeowners.
Rodents are capable of chewing through electrical, plumbing and gas lines. Pregnant females are even able to chew right through a wall to find a dark and quiet place to have their babies, Whalin said.
The urine and feces of rodents can contain bacteria that can be harmful to a homeowner if they come into contact with it or ingest it.
“It’s not only about where they can cause physical damage to a home but buildup of their droppings or urine can potentially become a health hazard for the homeowners,” Whalin said.
The best way to prevent an infestation is to eliminate all potential food sources for the rodents. Homeowners should pick up fallen fruit so rodents won’t be attracted to the area, Whalin said.
Another potential food source can be dog food and water that is left outside, Whalin said.
“I’m not saying, especially in Arizona, not to leave food and water out for animals, but just know it can potentially attract rodents,” Whalin said.
Once it is evident there is a rodent infestation, the way a Terminix team handles the situation is by first identifying the kind of rat they are dealing with so they can decide the best way to eradicate it, Whalin said.
Then the team begins the process of trapping the rodents by first placing unset traps with bait around an area.
Once the roof rats take the bait, the team goes back and sets the traps with new bait, Whalin said.
“The caution that the rodent has is gone, it feels comfortable feeding in that area and then we’ll get them,” Whalin said.
Whalin said he strongly advises against homeowners trying to deal with an infestation on their own.
“Unless you know what you’re getting yourself into you’ll be chasing your tail,” Whalin said.
(Terminix/Special to the Tribune)
Roof rats can anywhere: in the attic, in the walls, all over your property. Experts advise, first of all, to pick up fallen citrus fruit around your property.
Community
Shop local options include online stores of East Valley owners
BY RALPH ZUBIATE Tribune Executive Editor
The Buy Local movement always gains steam over the holiday shopping season.
Over the past few years, the internet is the place more and more people are going to avoid irritated shoppers and irritating days at the mall. But there’s a way to shop local and shop online, too. Local businesses offer online options, which helps the local economy.
Here are a few locals that will let you buy in the comfort of your own home.
Black Tie Market
This Gilbert company features “naturally sophisticated and consciously created face, bath and body products for men and women.” Black Tie Market calls itself an “Urban Apothecary,” merging old techniques with a modern twist. Look for organic, local and ethically
sourced ingredients. Best sellers include Desert Gin products (which use Sedona clay), foaming facial wash, coconut milk bath. blacktiemarket.com.
Happy Tails Barkery
More than just pet food, Happy Tails specializes in grain-free dog treats, jerkys and doggy dessert cakes. Handdecorated dog treats and holiday cakes are in demand this holiday. This Queen Creek company sells online, at local Pet Planet stores and at farmers markets in the East Valley. happytailsbarkery.co (note: not .com).
Main St. Shop
Based in Chandler, this online store sells exclusively American-made items,
from cookware to journals, candles, decorations, kid’s toys, pet items and more. mainstshop.com.
Odyssey Etching & Engraving
This Mesa company can sandblast a custom saying or logo into just about any surface, including glass, metal and granite, and even on personal objects. 480-382-4464, odysseyetching.com.
Slather Lotions
Natural, plant-based, and non-GMO products that support healthy skin and a healthy lifestyle are the specialty of Mesa-based Slather Lotions. Best-selling
products include Brighten antioxidant eye cream, Hydrate nourishing moisturizer, and seasonal exfoliant sugar scrubs like Peppermint Ice and Gingered Pumpkin. slatherlotions.com.
Tea Royalty
A nice cup of tea can bring relaxation, and this Queen Creek-based tea company offers a wide selection of looseleaf tea from “Cocktail Teas” to “English Favorites” and the “Arizona Collection.” Buy a Tea Gift Set online or visit one of the many East Valley stores that carry the product. tearoyalty.com.
Think Pro
This Tempe printing company offers a quick, fun gift: Your design on a T-shirt or sweatshirt for just $10. Upload your art or use a design in the website’s studio to get a shirt—or tank top, barbecue apron, or tote bag. Printing is done in Think Pro’s office in Tempe with a fast 2-3 day delivery on most orders. 480966-0030, tendollarshirtstore.com.
Wall Heroes
While they specialize in large wall coverings (also good gifts), this Chandler company can create artsy, decently sized custom murals from submitted photos. wallheroes.com.
Small Business Saturday invites shoppers to find local stores
BY JUSTIN FERRIS Tribune Staff Writer
With Thanksgiving in full swing, we officially enter “The Holidays,” which means Christmas will arrive before you know it. Time to start the dreaded Christmas (other holiday) shopping.
But instead of big-box, big-mall Black Friday or stay-at-home Cyber Monday, try shopping on Small Business Saturday. First observed in 2010, Small Business Saturday is a reminder to shoppers to keep money in the community by patronizing local, small brick-and-mortar stores. Now you might be saying to yourself
that you would buy local, but you don’t even know where to start. Here are some local establishments that provide common types of gifts, and a few uncommon ones.
For the bookworm
This person will spend hours curled up with a good book and finishes them in no time flat. Make sure their stack of “next reads” never disappears.
Book Vault
Make a withdrawal from the bank of knowledge at this spacious Mesa bookstore that offers a wide range of new and used books. 2055 S. Power Road, Suite 1001, Mesa. 480-699-1136, facebook.com/
AZBookVault.
Changing Hands Bookstore
Whether you want the latest best-seller or a pile of used books—including first editions—Changing Hands Bookstore in Tempe should be your first stop. It offers a massive selection and very helpful employees. 6428 S. McClintock Drive, Tempe. 480-730-0205, changinghands. com.
For the gadget lover
Smartphones, tablets, computers, TVs and other electronics are a sure-fire hit under the tree. Whether shopping for the casual user or the hardcore techie, try
these stores.
Best Deal AZ
This Tempe store carries slightly older electronics and accessories, plus open box and overstock items, at prices that will help you enter the New Year without major debt. 235 E. Baseline Road, Tempe. 480-656-7405, bestdealaz.com.
The Orchard
A great place to pick an Apple or two, this shop with locations in Chandler and Mesa specializes in refurbished Macs, iPads and Apple accessories. 1919 W. Chandler
SHOPPERS
Blvd., Suite 1, Chandler, 480-786-0253. 244 N. Country Club Drive, Suite 202, Mesa, 480-733-5938. orchardaz.com.
STAX3D
3-D printing and scanning are cutting edge, and this company—headquartered in Gilbert with a kiosk in Chandler— sells a wide range of systems. They also sell budget-friendly 3-D printed jewelry. 3111 W. Chandler Blvd., Suite 108, Chandler. 602-595-3155, stax3d.com.
Walts
2015 Cemetery of the Year 2016 Funeral Home of the Year
We are a third generation family owned and operated funeral home, cemetery and advanced planning center. Known for our caring, compassionate, and helpful staff, we will guide you through the process during one of life’s most challenging trials.
We will take care of every aspect of your funeral arrangements on-site, including a beautiful cemetery. We care about our community and that is why we encourage Advance Planning. Come in to find out how Advance Planning reduces the burden on those you love.
480-832-2850 | www.mvfuneralhome.com On Main St. Just East of Sossamon Rd.
A Tempe staple since 1957, they carry the latest TVs, plus home theater sound systems and accessories, at competitive prices. Installation and repairs services offered as well. 1746 W. Ruby Drive, Suite 110, Tempe. 480-968-4999, walts. com.
For
something personal
Why pick up a gift that’s one of a million, when you can give or create one that’s one in a million.
Burst of Butterflies
For a bit of self-expression, head to Chandler and paint on canvas or pottery, make fused glass art, create unique soaps and candles, or shape polymer clay and regular clay into jewelry, pots and other gifts. 141 W. Boston St., Chandler. 480559-8016, burstofbutterflies.com.
Baldur Studios
This Ahwatukee-based studio offers unique handcrafted metal, glass, and wood gifts, including jewelry, treasure boxes, “Cottage Couture,” bowls, bike bling and more. 4747 E. Elliot Road, Suite 29, Ahwatukee. 480-442-2349, baldurstudios.com.
Dickson’s Jewelry
This small, independent jewelry store
has been in downtown Mesa since 1949. Owner Michelle Skaarup says Dickson’s hottest- selling items are diamond earrings, Seiko musical clocks and a large selection of genuine colored gemstones set in various metals. 54 W. Main St., Mesa, 480-964-5822.
Twisted Sister Designs
Set in a former blacksmith shop in Mesa, this tiny jewelry studio features completely unique designs for bracelets, necklaces, rings, fused glass, painted silk scarves and more. 48 S. Robson, Suite 102, Mesa. 602-617-0997, twistedsistersdesigns.net.
For the stressed
Many people get seriously stressed during the holidays. Help them relax.
AZ Massage Essentials
Based in Ahwatukee, this massage parlor offers a range of services from standard Swedish massage to “Heated Bamboo Fusion.” Gift certificates available. 10429 S. 51st St., Suite 207, Ahwatukee. 480326-2684, azmassageessentials.com.
For the acquaintance/‘hard to shop for’ person
There are always people who give you no clue about what to get them. A gift card might be the answer. You can pick gift cards up at any store checkout line, but here are some for local establishments.
Sibley’s West
Tucked away in Chandler, this 5,000-square-foot store offers locally sourced items from clothes to decorations to art, food and children’s gifts. 72 S. San Marcos Place, Chandler. 480-899-4480, sibleyswest.com.
Keep It Cut
Everyone needs haircuts and this locally founded chain with locations in Tempe and Ahwatukee does the job well, plus gives back to the community. 4025 E. Chandler Blvd., Suite 50, Ahwatukee, (480) 584-3628; 5118 S. Rural Road, Tempe, 480-831-3879. keepitcut.com.
Holiday lights business saves grief, shares joy with decorations
BY SHELLEY GILLESPIE Tribune Contributing Writer
During Cody West’s childhood, one of his fondest memories was his family’s traditional visit to Candy Cane Lane in Southern California. The bright holiday lights and family closeness were etched in his mind.
More recently, his friend Addison Lee and he, both WP Carey business school grads, tossed ideas around ideas until they decided on a light installation company. They researched what companies were doing.
“We could do a lot better,” West said. Holiday lighting installers visited a home, measured and provided a quote that was difficult to standardize.
“There was no price transparency, no amount per square foot quoted, and dishonest practices at play,” West added. Installers disappeared when it came time to maintain or remove lights.
“They were charging outrageous amounts.”
West, Lee, and their friend, Ben Frelka, started Lumineso, a company to develop a new image for how the industry functions. In their first year in business, they already have an avid fan.
Nicole Piper, a Peoria resident, was delighted as a Lumineso crew installed her holiday lights in early November. Holiday decorations have been a sore point for her family since her husband, David, fell off their two-story roof and nearly died while placing holiday decorations five years ago.
“Actually, the paramedics said David probably died,” she said. “When I spoke with him, he choked and wasn’t breathing.”
Now, Nicole hides the ladders and refuses to let her father and husband put up any lights above their immediate reach.
“Decorations are a big deal in my family,” said Nicole, “Last year, we hired an installation company that didn’t come on time, maintain or remove the lighting. We hired a second person to remove the lights.”
Wary after her experience, Nicole placed an order for lighting installation on a work bidding website where she met Lumineso.
Nicole was impressed with Lumineso as they communicated well, following up when promised and not badgering her.
“They were flexible with dates and
their price was reasonable,” Nicole said. “And, their price was less than the rate from the previous company.”
Now in their one-story 2,300-squarefoot home, the Piper family decorates
and dancing lights on little twigs. They also include animated figures of a buck and does feeding. There’s a long list of holiday decorations, meant to delight their family and those who drive by in
(erinmeck.com/Special to the Tribune)
a.m. Even with the long, extensive list of lights and displays, they were completed in less than six hours.
West, who is employed full-time as a data analyst, coordinates the jobs for Lumineso. He has researched extensively, including which roof types must be carefully approached so warranties are not voided. Sand cast, wood shingles and clay tile roofs require special handling. He encourages homeowners to use LED lighting, when possible.
“They use 80 percent less electricity,” West said.
If a large lighting installation requires extensive electricity, they have a licensed electrician to ensure safety.
To protect homes when installing lighting, West cautions, “Do not use staple guns. They cause permanent damage. We use plastic clips and if it’s stucco or brick, hot glue, which cleans off.”
As the season gets busy, he intends to “Get my hands dirty.”
extensively. In a neighborhood that brings tour buses people in to see the extensive holiday lighting, the Pipers are no slackers.
“It’s a huge deal,” she says.
They place a sleigh with reindeers on the roof with packages that light up, decorate with icicle lights, spread lighting on the lawn to look like snow, install snowflakes on the home’s ledge,
the neighborhood to view the lights.
This week, David had spinal surgery scheduled. Nicole was determined he would return from the hospital to see the decorations. So, the lights had to be up early.
The Piper household hired Lumineso to install lights and décor. The installer said he’d be there between 7:30 and 8 a.m. and they arrived promptly at 7:45
Lumineso installs lighting in the East Valley and Phoenix area. Make a Wish AZ will receive a 10 percent donation from all Lumineso projects. They also are running a contest until Nov. 30 with prizes of one free Christmas light installation, two Christmas lawn inflatables, and two Christmas laser light projectors.
See Lumineso.com for more details or call 847-348-9160.
(Special to the Tribune)
Friends Ben Frelka, Cody West and Addison Lee started Lumineso, which installs lighting in the East Valley and Phoenix area.
Trash containers transition to pop-up patios in Tempe
BY RACHEL EROH Tribune Staff Writer
Tempe is repurposing trash rolloffs into mobile pop-up patios and placing them in vacant lots to add a unique touch of color in the urban city.
The Tempe Public Works Department came up with the idea after seeing the creative use of trash roll-offs in other communities across the country.
“The idea is to create these and have them liven up spaces around Downtown Tempe,” spokeswoman Kris Baxter-Ging said.
The pop-up patios come in two forms. One is a seating area with a garden built in and it offers solar charging stations for phones and laptops. The other has a flat metal bottom that is meant to be used in a parking lot for additional space. The additional space could be used for a variety of uses from extra seating for a restaurant to being used as a dance floor.
“We’re testing these out and making sure that they’re built in the way that is most useful,” Baxter-Ging said.
Both versions of the pop-up patio are
in a vacant lot at Seventh Street and Mill right now.
Along with being a place to gather and relax, another objective of the patios is to be ecofriendly and kind to the environment.
The patios in the vacant lot are surrounded by mulch, which was created by green waste that people tossed out. The plants also require little water and
repurposing the trash roll-offs instead of throwing them out saves the environment from the extra waste.
“It shows people that with a little creativity, you can turn something that’s an everyday item into something special,” Baxter-Ging said.
Tempe held a breakfast on Seventh Street and Mill Avenue to showcase the new patios. About 50 to 100 people
showed up and showed interest in the new additional seating in the city, BaxterGing said.
“We’ve already had a lot of people asking when they’re going to be moved, how they’re going to be moved, if they can have them in front of their place and if they can take them to their special event,” Baxter-Ging said.
The patios will be maintained by the Downtown Tempe Authority, which will water the plants, clean the patios and maintain security of the area.
The Downtown Tempe Authority hopes that people will use the space as a place to relax as well.
“We love this concept, it’s great to activate a space that isn’t currently being used in a way that’s more pedestrianfriendly,” Kate Borders, the Executive Director/President of Downtown Tempe Authority, said.
The patios will be a new and innovative space for the everyone in the community to gather, Baxter-Ging said.
“Maybe someone has an office on Mill Avenue and instead of sitting at a computer they take their laptop and sit outside on the patio,” Baxter-Ging said.
(Special to the Tribune)
Workers take a break after installing a pop-up patio along Mill Avenue. The patios will be maintained by the Downtown Tempe Authority, which will water the plants, clean the patios and maintain security of the area.
‘Local
First’ is a good approach to this holiday season
BY KIMBER LANNING Tribune Guest Writer
With holiday spending projected to exceed $650 billion this year across America, have you thought about where that money goes once you have spent it?
Studies show that when you spend your money with locally-owned businesses— businesses that are headquartered here in Arizona as well as owned and operated by Arizonans—up to four times more money will stay in the local economy than if you spent that money at a national chain or mega online retailer. All that money re-circulating in the local economy equates to higher rates of job creation and more prosperous
communities overall.
As we approach the year’s largest spending holiday, we encourage you to think “Local First” this holiday season.
The East Valley is filled to the brim with unique local businesses that offer a variety of great options for holiday gift giving. Be sure to drop by the historical
“ The East Valley is filled to the brim with unique local businesses that offer a variety of great options for holiday gift giving.”
If each holiday shopper shifted just 10 percent of their spending from national chains to independent businesses, that would add up to a huge investment in creating vibrant communities that we are proud to call home.
Join Local First Arizona in celebrating Buy Local Month from Nov. 25 through Jan. 1, and keep your money where your home is this holiday season.
downtown areas of Tempe, Mesa, Gilbert, or Chandler.
You can also check out our local business directory of nearly 3,000 local businesses from across the state at localfirstaz.com, where you’ll also find Buy Local Month discounts, top gift picks, holiday events, and more.
– Kimber Lanning is founder and director of Local First Arizona.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Leibo wrong about the election
Mr. Leibowitz, you are dead wrong with your analysis (“Election laid bare the truth about America – or the many Americas,” Nov. 13).
People still remember when the Clintons were in power and all the things that they did which were wrong, in my opinion. It is a scary thought to see what would have happened if Clinton had won.
When Obama ran for office, he talked about change, and boy did we get screwed by his changes. People are sick and tired of the status quo and that is why Trump won. Hopefully he will succeed.
Obviously, you are a dyed-in-thewool liberal and that is your right, but it would be nice not to see you write your “BS” in the newspaper.
– Donald Skaggs – Mesa
Origami Owl building big businesses for its designers, too
BY RACHEL EROH Tribune Staff Writer
Carina Goens had just gotten back from the trip of a lifetime to Paris and was awarded an aqua blue Jeep for selling jewelry.
Goens has been a designer for Origami Owl, a direct sales business that started in a Chandler home, for 18 months. This year Goens became the top designer, which won her the jeep and her dream trip.
Goens is not new to the direct sales business. She was with another company for seven years before they closed their doors.
“I was devastated,” Goens said. “It felt like I lost someone.”
She had just earned a trip to Paris through that company before they announced they were closing. When she became involved in Origami Owl and they mentioned their Parliament trip to Paris, Goens believed it was a sign.
“I felt like God was telling me ‘this is where you belong,’” Goens said.
Origami Owl started as a small business in Bella Weems’ home when she was just 14 years old, now at the age of 20 there are 40,000 designers selling her jewelry throughout the states.
Goens is a team leader, meaning she mentors other designers on the business and gives them the tools they need in order to succeed. Goens’ team has grown to 520 members.
“I never thought my little $399 investment would create this empire,” Goens said.
Best known for their Living Lockets and charms that tell a story, Origami Owl now has a partnership
with DreamWorks’ “Trolls,” the new Moodology collection, the new partnership with Willa Skin Care and the Live Sparkly Gifting Campaign.
Even though Origami Owl has expanded beyond what Weems had ever expected, the company still maintains their original goal and message of being a force for good.
“I feel like our mission has stuck with us since the beginning,” Weems said.
The DreamWorks’ “Trolls” collection, which was released last month, has designer jewelry and charms for the movie.
The Moodology collection features a selection of four 100 percent essential oils, each with their own purpose to positively affect mood. The essential oils have creative names such as No Place like Ohm and Pep in My Step. The mood disk charm is used to absorb the oils and is then placed inside a locket.
Willa is a protective skin care line for young girls and was created by a motherdaughter duo, Christy Prunier and her daughter Willa Doss.
The Live Sparkly campaign gives designers a chance to submit stories about people who are going through a difficult time. The campaign earns funds
from the sale of the Live Sparkly Stardust Crystals by Swarovski. Four stories will be voted on and the winner, who will be announced in December, will receive the profits made from the campaign.
“This campaign is for people who really need more sparkle in their lives,” Weems said.
To Goens, the new partnerships and products helps her build her customer base because she has more to offer that appeals to an even greater group.
“I think it will definitely open up new windows,” Goens said.
Taryn Gosch, the public relations director at Origami Owl, said the new partnership with DreamWorks helps designers with credentials and gives designers a different network to create connections in.
“Our focus is always about helping the designers,” Gosch said. Weems began selling jewelry from her home with the hopes of earning enough money to buy her dream car: a white Jeep. Now, it seems like the days when she would stress over making and delivering 15 orders was long ago. Sometimes she misses the days when the business was smaller, she said.
“I look back and get all sentimental thinking about
all the memories we’ve made along the way,” Weems said.
However, with all the growth that Origami Owl has made in just a couple years, Weems now has the ability to reach more people and spread the message of her business.
“My goal in the beginning was the Jeep; now my goal is to be a force for good and to positively impact people’s lives,” Weems said.
How to buy:
• Visit origamiowl.com and click on the tab “Shop”
• Or to host a jewelry bar for you and friends, visit the website and click on the tab
“Host a Jewelry Bar”
(Special to the Tribune)
Origami Owl shows feature necklaces, bracelets and all sorts of charms.
(Special to the Tribune)
Bella Weems began her business at home when she was just 14 years old. Now, at 20, she has 40,000 designers selling her jewelry throughout the country.
Sports
Tempe teen a star on and off the gridiron
BY JASON P. SKODA Prep Sports Director
Rudy Rauls has a way about him that has attracted the attention of a lot of people.
You don’t get elected senior class president at a big school like Mountain Pointe High without having a bit of that “it factor.”
It’s the smile, the attitude and the approachability of the Tempe teen.
Even at football practice, when someone outside the program approached the team, he was known to introduce himself as the class president and welcome the visitor.
“He has a very outgoing personality,” Pride offensive line and assistant head coach Aaron Frana said, “and always has a smile on his face.”
That type of personality—or being the class president for that matter—
isn’t always associated with being a football player. But Rudy pulled it off as the Pride’s starting right guard on the offensive line while playing in the defensive line rotation.
When pressed, Rauls couldn’t decide whether he was more proud to be the class president or a starting offensive lineman for the Pride.
“That’s a good question,” he said. “I take pride in being myself, and representing the school as much as I can. Being a Mountain Pointe football player means a lot to me. It’s huge. I’ve been in student council for over 10 years from elementary school all the way up.”
The 6-foot-1, 260-pounder was a pleasant surprise, considering he was on junior varsity last year as a junior after he missed some time dealing with family issues.
Scouts started noticing him down the
stretch last year, and he ended up getting to play in the first round of the playoff of another player’s injury.
“He got his shot and has run with it since,” Frana said. “When he straps on the pads he gets after it.”
Rauls, the strongest lineman in the weight room, lives with his uncle, Leon Savage, a bus driver in the Kyrene School District for more than 20 years.
He feels it has helped him mature and open up to possibilities.
“God has gotten me through all my trial and tribulations,” he said. “I have had great guidance. My Uncle Leon, the coaches, teammates and Mountain Pointe have been there for me.”
It is pretty clear in listening to Rauls’ words, and seeing his eyes when talking about his school that the senior class made the right choice in April in voting for Rauls as their representative.
Rudy Rauls has had some tough breaks in
family life, but has turned it around to have a great prespective toward being class president and a starting offensive lineman for Mountain Pointe.
“I told my school I love Mountain Pointe and I want to be the voice of the Pride,” he said. “Mountain Pointe has been there to help me and support me, push me all the way.”
ASU hockey embraces first European players as program grows
BY CARLEE SWANSON Cronkite News
The game is faster. The rink is smaller. And the weather is warmer. But hockey players Georgy Gorodetsky and Jakob Stridsberg, both more than 5,000 miles away from home, were made to feel right at home the minute they put on an Arizona State University jersey.
“When you put on our jersey and you have a spot in our room, it doesn’t matter where you are from, or what your nationality is, your sexual orientation is, it doesn’t matter,” coach Greg Powers said. “None of that matters. You are a Sun Devil, you are our family and that is all that we care about.”
Gorodetsky came from Yekaterinburg, Russia, and is ASU’s first player recruited from Europe. The freshman forward has lived in the United States for six years, giving him some time to adjust to life in a different country.
“It wasn’t that hard,” said Gordetsky. “But the weather is pretty hot here. That did take me awhile to get used to it.”
Although the weather in Sweden
is much colder than in Arizona, the transition has also not been difficult for sophomore Jakob Stridsberg.
“It is a different place to play hockey,” said Powers. “You get here and it is so hot, so it is definitely a culture shock for a lot of these kids, especially the Canadian kids and the kids who have been out east and up north playing junior hockey. So
everybody has adapted. It is starting to cool off now, so it is starting to feel a little bit more normal for them.”
Stridsberg, a sophomore, moved to the North America from Jonkoping, Sweden. A defenseman who has played in all eight games for the Devils this season, he has scored one goal against Notre Dame and also had one assist to
contribute to ASU’s win against the Air Force.
The inaugural season for the Sun Devils was a “hybrid” that consisted of a mixture of NCAA Division 1 and American Collegiate Hockey Association (ACHA) games. This season is Arizona State’s first full NCAA Division 1 schedule.
Both players have traveled a long way play in North America. Not only did they have to adjust to living in a new country, they also had to adapt to how hockey is played in the U.S.
“It’s faster and more physical,” Gorodetsky said. “The ice rink is smaller compared to in Europe.”
Rinks in Europe are the same in length, but are 15 feet wider than in the U.S., making their rinks 200 by 100 feet. Even though the game is faster in the U.S., both have brought something different to the team.
“It’s just a different flavor,” Powers said. “We have a bunch of Americans and Canadians. To get some more diversity and culture in our room is good and we are excited about that. They are both good kids, really good teammates and so they are bringing a lot to the table.”
(Special to the Tribune)
his
(Nicole Vasquez/Cronkite News)
Arizona State sophomore Jakob Stridsberg playing against Harvard recently in Glendale.
East Valley people of faith share what makes them thankful
BY RALPH ZUBIATE Tribune Executive Editor
Heading into the holiday season, people start reflecting on the year that’s quickly ending and the year to come. Thanksgiving is an especially good time to look back.
Amid all the turkey and football and family, faith leaders in the East Valley shared what they’re most thankful for.
Rabbi Mendy Deitsch, director of Chabad of the East Valley in Chandler, spoke of service.
“I have come to realize that the most amazing feeling is when one engages in helping another person,” he said. He said he is thankful for God’s gifts, “and we should use them to share
with someone else.”
Paul Artino, executive pastor at Redemption Church in Gilbert, also talked about God’s gifts.
“I feel like every day is a reminder of and experience of God’s unmerited favor,” he said.
“Having seen and experienced people and places in the world who have far less, and who are more satisfied, it is hard to find reasons to not be thankful.”
Bante Ananda Siyabalagoda of the Arizona International Buddhist Meditation Center in Mesa reflects on community.
“I am thankful for the large community of Buddhists who attend the Buddhist center, the opportunity to present meditation classes, observe the rituals of our religion and the many other services we render,” he said.
Father Sergio Muñoz Fita, who appears
in “Footprints,” a documentary about a pilgrimage he led in Spain, was thankful for another trip he took.
“Something I’m very grateful for is this summer, we took a group of 63 young people to World Youth Day, in Poland.”
Fita is pastor at St. Anne Catholic Parish in Gilbert.
Father Philip Armstrong, pastor of the St. Katherine Greek Orthodox Church in Chandler, is thankful for things big and small this year.
On his list was appreciation for the Holy Trinity “who gave me the gift of life,” to his parents, family, friends, parishioners and other clergy.
“And, I’m thankful to all those who tolerate my imperfections,” he said.
Pastor Thor Strandholt of Valor Christian Center in Gilbert had many
things to be thankful for.
“As a Vietnam veteran, I’m thankful for a country that allows us freedoms that we have on a day-by-day basis,” Strandholt said. “The freedom to choose where we want to go and what we want to do without borders and restrictions.”
Andrew Aziz, deacon at Mar Yosip Parish of the Assyrian Church of the East in Chandler, talked about his congregation and their push for a building of their own.
“I personally am thankful for having my congregation,” he said. “Although we don’t have a church building, the people that attend are the church to me. Without them, there is no church to build, and nobody to preach to. They are truly a blessing to me.”
Deitsch
Armstrong
Artino
Be Merry
The holidays sing, dance and act their way across Valley stages
BY KENNETH LAFAVE TRIBUNE CONTRIBUTING WRITER
If the composers Peter Tchaikovsky and George Handel were alive, they’d be very wealthy men. Every winter, their music is heard throughout the land as the very epitome of Christmas: Tchaikovsky’s “ Nutcracker” and Handel’s “Messiah.” Ditto the story of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol.”
Tchaikovsky, Handel and Dickens are gone, but they left us a legacy of work that forms the core of wildly varied Christmastime arts and entertainment.
Here are some of the highlights of holiday entertainment in the Valley of the Sun, 2016.
Clay Aiken returns to the stage
Clay Aiken’s epitaph may be “That Guy from American Idol,” but it’s one of the biggest accomplishment of his career. For this Chandler Center for the Arts show on Dec. 16, the former congressional candidate will be accompanied by a 22-piece orchestra.
Dancing Christmas: Nutcrackers and Snow Queen
The New York Times has called Ballet Arizona’s production “one of the top three Nutcrackers outside New York.” So, expect great dancing and spectacular sets and costumes. The company will perform on various dates Dec. 9 to 24, at Phoenix Symphony Hall. For times and ticket prices, go to balletaz.org.
Ballet Etudes’ “Nutcracker” is an East Valley tradition, a showcase for young talent and a heartfelt artistic experience. The company’s 30th anniversary production of the fabled ballet will be performed at two locations—Chandler Center for the Arts from Nov. 25 to Dec. 4, and the Mesa Arts Center from Dec. 9-11. For details, visit balletetudes.net.
A modern-dance alternative to “The Nutcracker,” “Snow Queen” is an annual holiday event first staged more than 25 years ago. Performed annually by Center Dance Ensemble at the Herberger Theater Center in downtown Phoenix, the nonreligious story-indance has become a Valley holiday staple. It runs this year on various dates between Dec. 6 and 21. For details, see herbergertheater.org.
Singing Christmas: Messiah and other vocalizations
The Phoenix Symphony really, really wants you to hear Handel’s Messiah. Arizona’s largest-funded performing arts organization will present its version of the enduring Christmas classic
at five different locations between Dec. 7 and 11. The venues are: Dec. 7, Scottsdale Center for the Arts; Dec. 8, Camelback Bible Church; Dec. 9, Mesa Arts Center’s Ikeda Theatre; Dec. 10, Camelback SDA Church; and Dec. 11, Pinnacle Presbyterian Church. For times, ticket prices and addresses, visit phoenixsymphony.org.
The Phoenix Symphony also knows that not all of you want to listen to 224-year-old music that requires you stand when the choir sings “Hallelujah.”
For those folks, it will play a holiday pops program Dec. 2-4 at Phoenix Symphony Hall. The concert features familiar Christmas songs performed by singers Gary Mauer and Christiane Noll, plus the audience, in a holiday singalong. Details at the website.
Finally, if you’re hankering to extend the holiday feeling via classical music, the Phoenix Symphony will host its annual New Year’s Eve Gala on Dec. 31. It’s an event that includes Strauss waltzes and a complimentary glass of champagne.
Prefer your singing without symphony orchestra? Try American Songbook singer Dave Seabaugh and his 25-piece big band on Dec. 17 at the Mesa Arts Center. If a rock band is more to your taste, you live in the right town: Alice Cooper blends elements of Halloween with the joys of December holidays in his “Christmas Pudding.” It happens Dec. 3 at the Celebrity Theatre. Go to celebritytheatre.com.
Acting Christmas:
The Dickens, you say
“A Christmas Carol” is the ultimate holiday story. Charles Dickens’ tale is all about greed vs. compassion, and the need to look at our lives as more than self-serving trips through random phenomena. The Hale Centre Theatre in Gilbert has made an annual business of presenting Scrooge, Tiny Tim and the others in a much-loved staging. This year’s happens Dec. 1-24. Go to haletheatrearizona.com.
If you find “A Christmas Carol” a little
too sentimental for your taste, you can still enjoy the story as transmuted by former writers for “The Colbert Report.” “Twist Your Dickens” plays the Phoenix Theatre Nov. 30 to Dec. 24. What is it? Imagine Dickens’ story told with smartaleck satire and audience interaction. Go to phoenixtheatre.com.
Holiday miscellany:
Anything you can think of
Mesa Arts Center is this year’s winner for most unusual holiday offerings. Want ukuleles playing holiday tunes? You got it. “Christmas with the Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain” arrives Dec. 4. Choirs and orchestras converge at the MAC Dec. 2-3, for “Good Will Toward Men.” Think “Christmas” and immediately think “children”? Mesa Arts Center has something for you Dec. 1-11, when it presents the East Valley Children’s Theatre in “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever.” Is jazz such a constant in your life that even Christmas means jazz? Try saxophonist Dave Koz’s Christmas Tour at the MAC on Dec. 14. Finally, here’s a holiday event found in every Valley home that has a piano, a keyboard or a guitar: It’s called “Gather round and sing a carol.” Free admission.
BY SRIANTHI PERERA TRIBUNE STAFF WRITER
Quilting is “plork” for Marla Hattabaugh, who coined the word to denote a mix between play and work.
The Scottsdale artist has opened “These Are Not Your Grandmother’s Quilts: The Art Works of Marla Hattabaugh,” an exhibit that showcases colorful art quilts, at Chandler’s Vision Gallery. It runs through Jan. 7.
Hattabaugh’s quilts use handprocessed fabric and one-of-a-kind designs, she said.
“Quilting is a passion that I feel is important in my love of art and sensitivity to color and shape,” she said. “It’s something that I can explain to a person who is creative in whatever they love. Some love cooking, hiking, reading, writing, building houses, pots, gardens.”
Hattabaugh began her pastime when her daughter was in preschool, 43 years ago.
“Mother gave me a kit from a friend; my husband bet me I’d never finish it, so, of course, I did,” she said.
Over the years, she cast aside traditional quilt patterns and settled on quilt art based on imagery and ideas. Her Giraffe series is fun and evocative of the graceful creatures.
“The Giraffe series started many years ago, when I decided I’d like to be taller than I am,” Hattabaugh states in her website, marlasquilts.com. “A teacher indicated the commercially printed fabrics I was using were trite, and not in keeping with art. To combat that, I made the whole quilt oriented around that shape.”
Her pieces have been on display in shows across the United States and Europe.
She described the creative process as follows: “Sometimes, I see a photo that inspires me to make something similar in my use of fabric. Then I search for the right colors to complete the project.
“Cutting shapes and sewing them
together is the next step. There’s a wall with batting that I use to put up the parts. Once they are in what I think looks good, I start the sewing process. Adjustments often have to be made. There are ‘coping’ strips to connect parts that don’t fit the first time around.”
Hattabaugh offered words of advice to the would-be quilter: “Keep working,” she said. “Look at art, other quilts, pictures, postcards, nature. There’s inspiration everywhere.”
She did add, however, that it does not pay the bills.
Her message to the world?
“When I’m not working on a quilt, I feel restless and at odds with the day. Because of humor and appreciation for the good in my life, I pass along those feelings,” she said.
Vision Gallery is at 10 E. Chicago St., Chandler. Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. The collection will be on display to Jan. 7.
Details: visiongallery.org
Hattabaugh also serves as the juror for this year’s Art Quilt exhibit at Chandler Center for the Arts Gallery, appropriately titled “In Stitches: Seriously Humorous Art Quilts.” The exhibit runs to Jan. 7. You can see it at 250 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler. The hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and noon to 5 p.m. Saturday.
Details: chandlercenter.org
(Special to the Tribune)
Marla Hattabaugh’s art quilts will be on display at the Vision Gallery in Chandler. This one is titled “Troop City,” from her Giraffe series.
The Dhaba in Tempe offers Indian cuisine with a purpose
BY MIKE BUTLER Tribune Staff Writer
Afriend dragged a friend all the way from Glendale to try lunch at The Dhaba Indian restaurant in Tempe last week.
The globe-trotting first-time guest raved about the quality of the food as he checked out.
This happens a lot at The Dhaba.
Owner Raveen Arora accepted the praise with grace. But you can bet that if the customer had said that the spice level was a little off, Arora would have taken off like a shot to the kitchen.
Attention to detail and exquisitely prepared Punjabi dishes have created an intensely loyal, Valley-wide customer base for the cafe over the years. The home-style cooking, speedy service and daily specials at reasonable prices attract ASU faculty and corporate warriors for lunch. Dinner is a candlelit, unrushed affair—a special night out.
The Dhaba’s signature dish is the Kashmiri Chicken Tikka Masala—chunks of chicken breast marinated in spices and yogurt, then baked in a clay tandoor oven. The chicken is combined with a thick tomato sauce laced with a garam masala spice blend and a swirl of cream.
Variations on the theme can be had with lamb or shrimp (no beef or pork here). You can also keep everything vegan or vegetarian. Entrees are typically served with fragrant saffron basmati rice, but you’ll also want to order a basket of plain, garlic or onion naan (leavened flat bread) to soak up every last drop of the succulent sauces. The Dhaba uses two tandoors—one for naan, the other for meats.
Dinner patrons often start their evenings with bhatura chole, a deepfried bread served with curried chick peas, or paneer pakore, fritters stuffed with soft Indian cheese. Newcomers— and even regulars—often order the Maharaja, a feast of tandoori chicken, tandoori tikka and curried chicken or lamb. A house salad, various sides, naan and dessert are included. Enjoy a chai or a Kingfisher lager (brewed in Bangalore) with your meal. The Dhaba also has an extensive wine list.
Desserts aren’t listed on the menu. But if you have room, ask your server about rice pudding, pistachio ice cream or other available treats.
Arora and his wife, Clara, founded Indian Plaza on Apache Boulevard near
McClintock Drive in 2003. The plaza includes a salon, gift shop, marketplace and clothing boutique. The cafe at that time was mostly takeout, kind of an afterthought. That changed in 2008 when their son, Govind, and two friends in the Thunderbird School of Global Management envisioned a more elevated dining experience as part of a class project. Raveen, who has a master’s degree in accounting from St. Xavier’s College in India, helped the trio develop a recipe for success: purpose before profits, people before profits, culture before strategy, and stakeholders before shareholders.
Raveen proudly points out that Govind now helms the Latin America group of Stanley Black & Decker.
But Raveen and Clara continue to live that simple business plan every day. They take care of employees, many of whom are students, by closing from 2:30 to 5 every afternoon, and closing at 8:30 after dinner. They offer interestfree loans to students who keep a 3.2 GPA or higher.
The cafe gives away thousands of meals and bottles of cold water to Tempe’s homeless every year. The Aroras also support the No Kid Hungry Campaign and numerous other good causes.
Raveen said he was inspired to leave business consulting and get into food service after collaborating with Mother Teresa on projects in the 1970s.
“God comes to the poor in the form of food” he said. “We do well by doing good.”
The Dhaba, 1872 E. Apache Boulevard in Tempe, serves lunch from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and dinner from 5 to 8:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. The restaurant is open from noon to 8:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday; the-dhaba.com.
(Mike Butler/Tribune Staff)
The Dhaba restaurant on Apache Boulevard near McClintock in Tempe is the anchor of the Indian Plaza, which includes a salon, clothing boutique, gift shop and market.
(Mike Butler/Tribune Staff)
Chicken Tikka Masala, served with Saffron Basmati Rice and a side of naan, is a signature dish.
(Mike Butler/Tribune Staff)
In addition to founding Indian Plaza in 2003, Raveen Arora is also the CEO of Think Human, an international initiative to create awareness and practice of empathy, inclusion and diversity.
