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Contact the Nearby News at 480-654-4460

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The Groves Report is published monthly and mailed to 9,000 homes. Additional copies are distributed at high-traffic locations throughout the area. We have been the voice of the Groves and surrounding communities for more than 15 years. If you are interested in advertising in this publication, please call our office.

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Nearby News Monthly Contest

January Winner: Britni Kuhfeld

Each month we will hide a different picture in one of our ads. Locate the hidden picture and email us with your guess to be entered into a drawing for:

A Restaurant Gift Certificate

Enter by email ONLY: HideAndSeek@nearbynews.com

Please include your name and phone number in your email. We will call our winner by Feb. 28. Good Luck!

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Designed for Life

By Lynette Carrington

Hesson’s Art Show to Benefit Show Hope’s Adoption Efforts

Las Sendas-based artist Dyana Hesson knows the benefits of adoption.

Adopted as a child herself, Hesson is hosting a benefit for Show Hope, an organization that assists families going through the adoption process. is year, the fifth benefit show, will be held from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 7, at Bonner David Galleries in Scottsdale.

“I feel very fortunate that I have such wonderful, loving parents and two older brothers (who were not adopted). I could not have asked for a better family,” Hesson said.

“I had steadfast parents who provided discipline, structure and love.”

She has since gone on to find both of her birth parents and has positive relationships with them, too.

e $20 tickets for the event include the showing of Hesson’s new Western Wonders collection of paintings (individual works will be for sale), food, wine, raffle and music by harpist, VeeRonna Ragone.

Tickets can be purchased via www.DyanaHesson. com under “Events and News” or at the door.

“I got a lot of great donations from the community for the raffle again this year, including something from my friend, (KPNX anchorwoman) Lin Sue Cooney from a business she has, something from Origami Owl, Lia Sophia and Michael Rusconi is donating a $200 gift certificate for Rusconi’s American Kitchen,” she said.

Supportive organization

Show Hope provides financial grants to hundreds of adoptive families so that waiting orphans can get to a loving family. e organization supports domestic and international adoptions, as well as those of special needs children.

“ is charity is near and dear to my heart because of my own personal experience of being an adopted person and knowing the profound impact that adoption can have on a child,” Hesson said.

“It’s important for me to help bridge that gap between families that want to adopt and children who so badly need a home and the only barrier is this financial barrier.”

e Western Wonders collection of paintings is inspired by Hesson’s travels with her family.

“I love to travel and see new things and that’s what fuels most of my recent work,” Hesson said.

e collection showcases different kinds of plants, flowers and succulents from Arizona, Hawaii and California.

Brent and Allison Frazey will be the family of honor during the fundraiser. With the assistance of Show Hope, they were able to adopt a little girl from Ethiopia named Elliana. She joins sister Raelynn, 3, brother Declan, 18 months, and brother, Colt, 1 month. e financial grant from Show Hope was a welcome surprise to alleviate some expenses.

“It was a huge sigh of relief,” Brent Frazey said. “We’re very excited to be a part of the event this year and in years to come, too.”

The painting “Community” is reminiscent of the beautiful family blend that results from adoption. The piece will be for sale during the Western Wonders Benefit Art show at Bonner David Galleries. It will benefit Show Hope.

Artist Dyana Hesson

Stapley Street Fair

Vendor/booth space is available for the third annual Stapley Street Fair scheduled for 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, March 7, at Stapley Junior High, 3250 E. Hermosa Vista Dr., Mesa.

Folks who sell crafts, candles, books, etc., are invited to purchase a booth for $40. Sellers will need to provide their own table, chairs, extension cords and “easy-up,” if it is necessary. A limited number of booths will have access to electricity and will be given on a first-come, first-served basis. Interested parties can contact Kim Gilles at kim.gilles@cox.net. Booth rental fees should be paid at the Stapley front office with checks payable to Stapley Booster Club. e family friendly event will feature music, food and activities. Outback Steakhouse will be on the patio grilling dinner. Meal tickets will be available for pre-purchase at the SJHS office by calling (480) 472-2700.

neighborhood hearsay

A big thank you to Austin, Anthony and everyone at Sun Devil Auto on Power and McKellips roads for going above and beyond the call of duty to get Christina’s car fixed in one day.

A few months after Barro’s Pizza relocated to Power and McDowell roads, Papa Murphy’s Take ‘n’ Bake Pizza has opened across the street at 2920 N. Power Rd., near Bashas’ and True Essence Salon and Spa. Its phone number is (480) 396-3988.

Happy birthday to Dave, who turns the big 3-9 on Feb. 15. Judy celebrates a landmark birthday this year, but we’ll keep her age a secret.

Mayor Scott Smith will resign from his post to run for governor of the state of Arizona. Meanwhile, Mesa attorney John Giles has announced his plans to run for mayor in the August election to replace Smith.

Jeanne’s Power Force Dancers traveled to Disney California Adventure to take part in the Disney Performing Arts Program. Dance groups, choirs,

ensembles and marching bands from around the world apply to perform each year as part of Disney Performing Arts at the Disneyland and the Walt Disney World resorts. For more information, visit www.DisneyPerformingArts.com or call (800) 603-0552.

Happy Valentine’s Day to all our readers! Here’s hoping love is in the air for you.

Local author Randy Lindsay wrote to the Nearby News to say his debut novel, “The Gathering,” was released in mid-January.

Dan Cleavenger has been selected as the permanent director for Mesa’s Water Resources Department. He replaces Kathryn Sorensen who left the city last summer for a similar position in Phoenix.

This Valentine’s Day, love your sweetie from head to toe with a specially priced Massage Envy Spa Valentine’s Day package complete with a Murad Healthy Skin facial, one-hour massage session and Sugar Foot Scrub Therapy

for $99, a $185 value. Massage Envy Spa’s 30 Valley locations are offering the packages from Feb. 1 to Feb, 14. Visit MassageEnvy.com for locations or call (602) 992-ENVY (3689).

Soroptimist International of Mesa presented monetary awards totaling more than $3,000 at its Dobson Ranch Inn luncheon on Jan. 8. The awards went to a collection of high school and college students, including one Mountain View High School pupil. The organization’s next big event is the Bunco party “Roaring ‘20s: Puttin’ on the Ritz” from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 1, at the Mesa Women’s Club, 200 N. MacDonald, Mesa. Tickets are $25. Info: Patsy Fimbres at (480) 964-6400 or e-mail pfimbres@cox.net.

Vice Mayor Alex Finter, who represents Mesa’s District 2, has been re-appointed to the National League of Cities’ (NLC) Transportation Infrastructure and Services (TIS) Steering Committee for 2014. This will be

Finter’s second term on the committee. The appointment was announced by NLC President Chris Coleman, the Mayor of St. Paul, Minn. Duane Hansen, a Modern Woodmen of America representative in Mesa, completed a five-day educational program the organization’s home office in Rock Island, Ill.

Christina and Dave had a nice visit with Molly while she was in town from England. Walmart will never be the same.

What’s the buzz in your neighborhood? New babies or grandbabies? Announcements? Engagements? Let us know! Email hearsay@nearbynews.com.

Mesa Preparatory Academy to Move for 2014-2015 School Year

By Lynette Carrington

Mesa Preparatory Academy has been busy growing its student base of sixth through 12th graders at its current campus on Lindsay Road and Southern Avenue.

Now it’s sharing big news.

After four years at its current location, crews are hard at work on the new campus that will be located at Greenfield and Baseline roads. e new facility will include Archway Classical Academy Mesa, which will serve students in kindergarten through fifth grade on the opposite side of the campus.

Both schools are a part of Great Hearts Academies, the highperforming national public charter school network with 17 public charter school locations across the Valley.

Robert Wagner, Mesa Prep headmaster, is excited to announce the new campus, which will be open for the 201415 school year.

“I look at this as moving the community, not just moving the school,” Wagner said. “My desire and hope was to make a move that wouldn’t disrupt the stability and security that people feel coming here.”

e new location will be near the Mesa Prep community of families.

Unlike the current school location, the new property will be owned by the school. e campus will also include a multi-purpose use gym and field in late 2014 to compliment their athletic program and diverse array of clubs and other activities.

Neil Gillingham will serve as headmaster of the Archway Classical Academy Mesa.

“Great Hearts went through a posting process within the organization to look for the bestqualified candidates,” Wagner said of Gillingham.

“Neil clearly is that person.”

Gillingham has been working with Wagner for six years at Mesa Prep.

“I think there is a great opportunity here for continuity in both culture and academic performance.”

Gillingham earned a master’s in elementary education, as well as a degree in art. He taught at the elementary level for four years before coming to Great Hearts Academies.

“My third year in the network, I was promoted to dean of students,” Gillingham stated.

He also became the head of middle school and is looking forward to the challenges and opportunities of being Archway’s headmaster.

“ e headmaster for a Great Hearts school is really the lead teacher,” Gillingham said. “It’s somebody who comes from a teaching background and has excelled in teaching and therefore is called to and able to lead other teachers.”

Archway students will receive the fullest scope of academic subjects— art, music, foreign language and physical education classes.

Both Mesa Prep and Archway also focus on cultivating positive intellectual habits. For additional information, visit www.mesaprep.org or call (480) 222-4233.

Left: Headmaster of Mesa Preparatory Academy, Robert Wagner. Right: Headmaster of Archway Classical Academy Mesa, Neil Gillingham.

Renderings of the new Mesa Preparatory Academy and Archway Classical Academy Mesa campus located at Greenfield

Creative Coaching Conversations

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Locals Plan for 72 Hours of

Survival

By Beth Lucas

ree days.

To many Valley families, those days could make the difference between life and death.

Families, friends and neighbors gather to learn skills and prepare to endure short-term survival of any crisis. ey pack backpacks with supplies they train to use to survive an emergency that could put them out of the safety of home: A fire, a biological or mother nature-caused regional disaster.

Stephen Harms of Mesa is grateful he has never had to put his skills to use as he raised five children.

“Every once in a while we have a night or evening event, with a lesson that we open to the public,” Harms said. “We go through the list and have samples—of how you can put matches in and have them be waterproof. How to create food storable for a long time.

e things you would want to include along with clothes and water supply: how to tie a two-liter bottle with rope so you can carry it over your shoulder.”

Kits should include medications and other needs like blankets and tools, he said.

“ ings you can just grab and run if you need to evacuate.”

“It just gives you peace of mind. We don’t have to rely on the government if we can avoid it.”

Survival kits need to be rotated on a regular basis: Kids outgrow clothes and vital prescriptions expire. Harms recommends families regularly schedule reviews and update their backpacks, just as they might review a home escape plan. Each family member can have their own backpack. Websites and blogs also offer camping equipment, and nonelectric supplies including a cook stove, hand grain grinder, combo lid remover and wrench and food processing mill. Also available are natural antibiotics, first aid kits, mini tools and lanterns or lights.

Regional church spokeswoman, Cindy Packard, says the survival training is just one outreach offered to the public. Silos in West Mesa also offer bulk food for sale, and residents can learn how to can their own food to store at the cannery.

“We encourage people to get a supply of food they can have ahead of time,” she said. “In the facility, you can come in and get your storage items canned, can your own or buy them there.”

Learn more at providentliving.org, or (480) 214-9114.

What a 72-hour kit can include:

• Three-day supply of food, water

• Change of clothing, raincoat or plastic sheet

e idea stems from the desire to be self-reliant, Harms said. A member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints, the skills of emergency preparation, which have grown in popularity since the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, are not new to Harms. But the LDS teachings are reaching outside of the church. Harms has shared the skills with groups as far away as Cape Town, South Africa.

“It’s really one of those things you hope to never have to use,” said Harms.

• Matches and light sources

• Tools to cook, knife, duct tape

• First-aid kit, medications, toiletries

• Important documents and money

Courtesy of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

South African women learn skills to prepare to survive an emergency, and work to put together 72-hour emergency preparedness kits, as part of Mesa resident Stephen Harm’s three-year mission across the continent.

Precautions Make Pizza Delivery

Safer in Mesa

By Beth Lucas

Justin Cole recalls the night a pizza delivery order was made to a vacant Mesa home.

Now an assistant manager at Venezia’s New York Style Pizzeria, Cole says he and his staff watch their backs. ey get to know the delivery areas in an effort to stay safe in jobs often listed among the most dangerous in the nation.

“We have a few ‘danger areas’ and we avoid sending our female drivers there,” Cole said.

“One time we actually had a driver kind of get robbed. A bunch of kids were sitting in front of a house that looked vacant. One of the kids just stood there and one of the other kids grabbed the pizza and ran off with it.” e delivery resulted in only a theft of pizza. ere were no injuries, Cole added.

Nationally, news reports have covered changes to pizza delivery: blackouts to areas with high crime that in some cases strike discord with

customers who feel a bias against them; robberies and attempted robberies of drivers at empty homes or addresses that turn out to not be homes.

But due to local diligence, local enforcement said Mesa has been a safe place for delivery in recent years.

Mesa Police Department Detective

Steve Berry says the city has not seen a trend in delivery robberies, although he recalls one robbery of a pizza delivery driver recently.

“Most food establishments have pretty good practices. ey’re not sending out drivers with a lot of cash or product,” Berry said. “And as a person ordering, you want to leave your lights on, give a good address and good phone number so they can reach you.” e number of vacant homes has decreased as the market improves. Berry said the department encourages residents to always report suspicious activity.

“Know your neighbors. If a vacant house next door suddenly has cars

that shouldn’t be there and things of that nature, call the police. If it turns out to be nothing, that’s OK. We would rather investigate it now than later.”

Magazines regularly list “sales drivers” which include food delivery drivers, as among the top 10 most dangerous jobs, based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data.

Venezia’s East Mesa General Manager Chad Christensen said drivers know the signs of a set up or prank. If a home has a lot of newspapers, weeds or other signs of abandonment, they call to verify an order before stopping.

Drivers are also careful in apartment complexes, locking their cars and verifying a safe and lighted location, he added.

“ ere was one time I pulled up to a house—you can always tell if a house is occupied, or go to a neighbor’s house to verify,” Christensen said.

“ ere was nothing at this house, so I left to call to verify and nobody answered. Nobody reported their pizza undelivered.

“Just take good precautions.”

Usery Park Offers Family Fun in February

By Meghan McCoy

Usery Mountain Regional Park has an assortment of monthly programs scheduled for February that guarantees fun for adults and children. All programs are free with a $6 vehicle entry fee.

Movie Night in the Park, “ e Wild West—Toughest Desert Animals,” is 7 p.m. Fri., Feb. 7, at the Nature Center. e film will feature some of the unique desert animals, such as a roadrunner and hawks, as well as a rattlesnake fight, which is a rare scene at Usery Mountain. e movie may not be suitable for younger children due to some violent animal scenes. Individuals are welcomed to bring a snack and drink, no glass bottles, and concessions will be available. After the movie concludes, attendees will have the chance to watch a ranger feed some of its snakes.

A Hiker’s Choice Full Moon Hike and Campfire will take place at 7:30

... continues on page 10

Usery Park

...continued from page 9 p.m. Sat., Feb. 15, at the Staging Area to provide attendees a chance to experience the desert under a glowing full moon on a 2-mile self-guided or guided hike. ose who participate are encouraged to bring a flashlight, water and closed-toe shoes.

A free marshmallow roast around a campfire will conclude the hike.

Help a ranger find the animals of the desert during the Animal Flashlight Walk at 7:30 p.m. Fri., Feb. 21. e 1-mile, one-hour hike will take place on the Merkle Trail, a hard-smooth surfaced trail that accommodates wheelchairs and strollers. Attendees should bring water, a flashlight and wear closed-toe shoes.

Individuals are also encouraged to join staff for the All About Scorpions program at 6 p.m. inside the Nature Center and snake feeding at 7 p.m. for no extra cost.

Tony La Conte will offer expert guidance for watching the sky through telescopes and a slide presentation under the stars at 7:30 p.m. Sat., Feb. 22. e craters of the moon, Venus,

Mars, Jupiter and the rings of Saturn will be viewed during the program.

Do you want to see what the Wind Cave has to offer? Join staff at 9 a.m. Fri., Feb. 7 for the difficult, three-mile round trip hike that gains 800 feet in elevation. Hikers should bring water, hats, snacks and closed-toe shoes and meet at the Wind Cave Trailhead.

A Tails on Trails Dog Fitness Hike, a fun one-mile hike along Merkle Trail, is offered at 10 a.m. Sun., Feb. 9 to teach safe hiking practices and trail etiquette for dogs. Dogs should be on a short nonextendable leash.

An opportunity to learn about desert plants is offered at 2 p.m. Sat., Feb. 15 and 10 a.m. Fri., Feb. 21. Attendees will travel along a quartermile hike while learning about the common plants found in the desert. Bring plenty of water, wear closed-toe shoes and meet at the Nature Center.

To view more programs at Usery Mountain Regional Park, 3939 N. Usery Pass Rd., Mesa, visit www. maricopa.gov/parks/usery/default. aspx. To contact the park, dial (480) 984-0032 or email userypark@mail. maricopa.gov.

Osmond Brothers to Perform at The Palms Theatre

By Lynette Carrington

With five decades of hits, shows, concerts and theatrical appearances under their collective belts, e Osmond Brothers continue their musical legacy while touring the United States.

at includes Mesa. Brothers Jay, Merrill and Jimmy will perform at e Palms eatre on Wednesday, Feb. 26, in matinee and evening performances.

“When you’ve worked this long as a group and you go through so many genres, changes and situations, you learn what elements people like,” Jay Osmond said. “When you go see the show, it’s like going to see a movie. It’s pacing that keeps their attention.”

“We’ll do all the different kinds of music from barbershop, country, pop to rock ‘n’ roll. And I’m even going to try my drum solo again,” Osmond said.

e show is for all ages, he noted. It is a fun ride that includes great stories and jokes.

“What is interesting is that people have tried to ‘pigeonhole’ us over the years. We’ve had hits in pop and country and we’ve been on television and had a variety show. So, our show is very eclectic in a way.” e Osmonds have sold more than 100 million albums and they’ll perform some of their hits, plus many other songs.

e show is a career retrospective, touching on the support of Walt Disney, Andy Williams and Jerry Lewis. e act struck out on its own in the 1970s.

“In the mid-‘70s, we had this opportunity to produce the ‘Donny and Marie’ show. ey asked if we’d like to produce them. So, the four

Jay, Merrill and Jimmy Osmond will appear in concert at The Palms Theatre on Feb. 26.

brothers produced the show. My segment was ‘A Little Bit Country, A Little Bit Rock ‘n’ Roll.’ Alan’s was the finales. Wayne’s was the engineering and Merrill’s was all the big guests that came on the show,” Osmond explained.

After about five years, Donny and Marie went out on their own, but the family continued to perform and produce in many capacities. (For the record, Donny is set to perform two shows each at the Mesa Regal Hall on Sunday, March 9, and the Valle del Oro Ballroom on Monday, March 10. For information, visit www.wiztix. com/dnboxoffice/inet/eventview. aspx?cid=57.)

is tour marks a rare West Coast appearance for the Osmonds.

“We don’t know whether we’re going to continue next year or the year after. At this time in our lives we’re just really enjoying the shows and being up their together and working together,” Osmond said.

To purchase tickets, call (480) 9246260 or visit www. ePalms eatre. com. To learn more about the Osmond family, visit www.osmond.com.

Jewelry, Gem and Rock Show

Celebrates 48th Year

By Meghan McCoy

e public is welcome to stroll through the Skyline High School cafeteria Feb. 22 and Feb. 23 to view an abundance of rocks and gems during the annual Jewelry, Gem and Rock Show.

Sponsored by the Apache Junction Rock and Gem Club, the show is in its 48th year.

“(We) give local people access to things they couldn’t find in other places,” said show chairwoman Katy Tunnicliff. “It’s a very good show; always enjoyed by everyone.”

is year the show will feature outside vendors selling jewelry, rocks, stones, fossils and equipment.

Wally Frlich, Apache Junction Rock and Gem Club publicity chairman, said a few vendors will also sell splash copper, which is created by melting copper and using a ladle to throw it onto the ground. at technique creates beautiful shapes and colors.

Raffles and a silent auction will also be included in the festivities.

“We have a couple (other) popular activities that our club sponsors during the show,” Frlich said. ose include e Wheel, a wheel that spins to win rocks, and a Gem Tree. Tunnicliff said the club creates a tree and trunk out of wire. e wires on the tree are separated to leave spots to put colored rocks. Frlich said the kids have a great time creating the tree by placing stones to represent the leaves.

Tunnicliff said individuals can take the tree home for a nominal fee.

Some of the proceeds generated from the show will go toward three scholarships for the high school.

“ e rest of the money helps the club,” Tunnicliff said.

Frlich said that money helps pay for the club’s building at 2151 W. Superstition Blvd., Apache Junction, as well as keeping its lapidary equipment running.

“It’s our major fundraiser,” he said. e annual show will be held in the Skyline High School cafeteria, 845 S.

Crimson Rd., Mesa. e show will run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 22, and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 23.

Admission is $3; $1 for teenagers and free for children 12 years old and younger. e high school band will sell food during the two-day event. e club, which began in 1961, has 241 members. Frlich said the club makes stones into jewelry for such items as necklaces and rings, while other members make bookends.

Members also go on rock-hunting trips in the desert and mountains from as far north as Holbrook to as far south as Gila Bend. ey also travel near the California and New Mexico borders in search of such rocks as jasper, agate, onyx and chrysocolla.

e members have a sale from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday through May at the clubhouse to sell some of the items they have created. For additional information, visit www. ajrockclub.com.

The Five Things 2013 Should Have Taught Us—But Didn’t

By Thomas K. Brueckner, CLTC

As we reflect on another year in the financial markets, whether you were deeply invested in equities or safely earning market-linked interest as they rose, it is once again enlightening to see who was right—and who was way off—in 2013, and what investors should have learned but probably didn’t. Here goes:

e Forecasters were wrong—again. At the end of last year, CNNMoney polled 30 of the major asset managers on Wall Street, asking them where they thought the S&P 500 was likely to finish the year. Consensus answer: 1490, or a gain of about 4 percent over 2012’s closing value. At the end of the year, the index stood at 1848, a gain of 26%.

You have a long way to go (to make up for the last 14 years). e great investor Sir John Templeton wisely said that “Bull markets are born on pessimism, grown on skepticism, mature on optimism and die in euphoria. … e time of maximum optimism is the best time to sell.” At this stage, any honest investor would have to conclude that we are somewhere between optimism and euphoria, and that the time for profit-taking may be nigh at hand. Still, have the markets really done that well lately? Actually no, and here’s the astounding truth of it: Since the start of the new millennium in January of 2000, the S&P 500 is up just under 26% in 14 years, or a paltry 1.85% annual yield.

Don’t fight the Fed (when it’s being accommodative). It’s become obvious to even the most devoted market watcher that it’s not your father’s stock market anymore. Our beloved Federal Reserve has created credit junkies, addicts who are forever convinced that any slowdown in the economy, and corresponding sell-off on Wall Street, will be bailed out by a Fed whose sole mission is to keep investors happy. In the end, it doesn’t matter why the market’s going up; it only matters that it is.

e Embellishment Crowd is alive and well. To this day, the companies that produce the graphs that brokerage firms use to illustrate market history are highly deceiving. Take a look at an honest chart of the last 14 years, and you’ll see a market trajectory worthy of the paltry 1.85% annual growth we’ve had, i.e. low and shallow. Look at the charts published by the embellishers and you’ll see one that a) assumes reinvested dividends every year, year after year (as if no one ever retires and begins living off them), b) zero fees paid, ever, and c) no impact from taxes or inflation. Naturally, such a chart makes the twin declines (-51% and -57%) of the last decade look like miniature potholes on the sharply ascending highway to perpetual profitability.

Some of the gains, in exchange for none of the losses, works even better. Index strategies that credit market-linked interest when markets are up, retaining those gains when they decline, have benefitted clients far better than full risk exposure these past 14 years. Clients are touting average yields of 6 and 7%, sometimes higher, during a period in which the S&P 500 has averaged 1.85%—all while sleeping very well at night. Older investors have choices in 2014, even as many believe the markets are past optimism and approaching euphoria. Markets could certainly go higher still, but the average duration of bull markets is 3.7 years. Currently we are at 4.9 years and slowing.

Thomas K. Brueckner, CLTC, is President/ CEO of Strategic Asset Conservation in Scottsdale, a conservative wealth management firm with clients in 18 states and 6 countries. He is a 2011 Advisor of the Year national finalist, a radio talk show host, and a mentor to other advisors nationally. He may be reached for comment at go2knight.com.

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First Dental Visit Doesn’t Have to Be Scary

By Tracy House

Going to the dentist doesn’t have to be scary for children. Preparing them for their first visit to the dentist is a step to a positive experience.

Dr. Rita Peck, of Gilbert Vista Dental Care, has been in practice for seven years as a general dentist. She’s has gained experience working with children through her practice and her volunteer hours with the Gilbert Public Schools, for which she performs dental screenings on first graders.

To ready children for their first visit, Peck suggests sharing picture books about going to the dentist. Reading the books to kiddos at night will let them know “it’s not scary and it’s not a big deal” to sit in the chair with lights overhead.

She cautioned parents shouldn’t add too much to the storybook, such as projecting some of their own fears about going to the dentist.

“It’s best to read the storybook and let them come to their own conclusions,” Peck said.

Peck also recommends that parents try not to describe the surroundings or equipment at the dentist’s office.

“ eir little minds can’t really comprehend what it is you’re saying to them and sometimes they’ll get a little frightened because it sounds like too much to them,” she said.

Peck recommends that parents bring their children in for their first “happy” dental visit at age 2.

depends on how they respond, but they will have an opportunity to come in and sit and take a ride in the chair, get a new toothbrush and get to experience the sights and smells of the dental office in a very nondemanding way,” she explained.

It encourages parents to bring their children into the dental office when they have an appointment to become familiar with the office.

Peck said that at age 2, if a child will tolerate it, she will perform an exam.

“By age 4 we’re able to start taking some checkup pictures on them.” is includes X-rays of their teeth.

NearbyNews

brushing their teeth—brother, sister, mom, dad—they will do it, too. ey become part of something the family does.”

Until age 8, children still need help brushing their teeth—getting all the surfaces of the teeth. Even for those reluctant brushers, Peck said to make it an event that parents share with children.

To encourage brushing, Peck suggests using children’s flavored toothpastes, which have a lower amount of fluoride and are ingestible. If kids are swallowing it, they won’t get sick.

When it comes to brushing, Peck said make it a family event.

“Monkey see—monkey do,” she said. “If everybody else around them is

“ ey love that little sweetness,” Peck said. “Kids love it. ey like it and look forward to brushing with it.”

“You may or may not do anything in their mouth as far as cleaning, it ... continues on page 17

Dr. Rita Peck of Gilbert Vista Dental Care.

top ten family events

Feb. 1-28, 2014

1 Target 3 for Free

WHEN: Sun., Feb 2, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

WHERE: Mesa Arts Center’s Mesa Contemporary Arts, One E. Main St., Mesa

COST: Free INFO: (480) 644-6500 or www.mesaartscenter.com

Target offers free admission for the Mesa Contemporary Arts Museum the first Sunday of every month.

2 Paper Electronics

WHEN: Wed., Feb 19, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

WHERE: Southeast Regional Library, 775 N. Greenfield Rd., Gilbert COST: Free INFO: (602) 652-3000 or www.mcldaz.org

Eric Ose will show participants how to do paper projects with simple lighting effects. Ages 14 and younger must attend with parent.

3 Winter Concert

WHEN: Wed., Feb. 26, at 7 p.m.

WHERE: Mesa Arts Center’s Ikeda Theater, One E. Main St., Mesa COST: $7; free for children 2 and younger INFO: (480) 644-6500 or www.mesaartscenter.com

Metropolitan Youth Symphony is celebrating 32 years of music with its second concert of the season.

4 ‘Just for Kids’— Toddler Cruise

WHEN: Sat., Feb. 8, at 2 p.m.; and Fri., Feb. 28, at 10 a.m.

WHERE: Usery Mountain Regional Park, 3939 N. Usery Pass Rd., Mesa COST: $6 vehicle day-use entry fee INFO: (480) 983-0032 or www.maricopa.gov/parks/usery

This 1-mile hike is designed for parents and caregivers with small children, ages 3 to 6. The kids will howl like coyotes, do the bobcat crawl and learn how to hydrate by counting gulps of water on their fingers.

5 ‘Just for Kids’—Little Desert Explorers

When: Fri., Feb. 14, at 10 a.m.

WHERE: Usery Mountain Regional Park, 3939 N. Usery Pass Rd., Mesa COST: $6 vehicle day-use entry fee INFO: (480) 983-0032 or www.maricopa.gov/parks/usery

This one-mile hike is designed for parents and caregivers with small children, ages 3 to 6.

6

Gilbert Art Walk

WHEN: Sat., Feb. 15, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

WHERE: Downtown Gilbert, 45 W. Page Ave., Gilbert

COST: Free admission INFO: info@gilbertartwalk.com or www.gilbertartwalk.com

The Gilbert Art Walk offers woodworking, photography, ceramics, custom jewelry, original paintings, handmade wearable items, custom soaps and lotions. The event offers live entertainment and a family friendly environment.

7 Movin’ and Groovin’

WHEN: Tues., Feb. 18, from 10:30 a.m. to 11:15 a.m.

WHERE: Perry Branch Library, 1965 E. Queen Creek Rd., Gilbert COST: Free INFO: (602) 652-3000 or www.mcldaz.org

Children ages 18 months to 5 years and their parents or caregivers will learn classic tunes and games and encourage musical expression and body movement.

8 Play Spot

WHEN: Fri., Feb. 28, from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

WHERE: Mesa Express Library, 2055 S. Power Rd., Suite 1031, Mesa COST: Free INFO: (480) 644-3100 or www.mldaz.org

The Family Spot Resource Center presents “Play on the Go.” Join the group for fun stories and activities for infants and toddlers.

9

Wii Love 3rd Saturdays

WHEN: Sat., Feb. 15, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

WHERE: Red Mountain Branch, 635 N. Power Rd., Mesa COST: Free INFO: (480) 644-3100 or www.mldaz.org

Children ages 12 to 18 are invited to swing by Red Mountain library on the third Saturday of each month.

10 Storytime Adventures with Bear

WHEN: Fri., Feb. 14, from 10 to 11 a.m.

WHERE: McQueen Park Activity Center, 510 N. Horne St., Gilbert COST: Free INFO: (480) 503-6294 or www.gilbertaz.gov/parks

Grab your best stuffed friend and join us for stories, songs and fun.

¢ents

By Melissa Hurst

10

Frugal and Fun Date Night Ideas

You don’t have to spend a fortune to let your significant other know how special they are. inking outside the (chocolate) box can help you save, and it allows you to show off your true romantic side. Not sure where to start? Here are 10 frugal and fun date night ideas to get your creative juices flowing.

1 Go for a hike and take a picnic lunch to share.

2

Check out your local farmers market to buy flowers. Of course, you might want to pick up some fresh produce as well, but something is so romantic about fresh cut flowers.

3

Better yet, plant flowers together in your garden. Every time you walk by it, you’ll be reminded about your time together.

4 Be a kid again. Get out a board game, cards or dice and play the night away. You’ll probably have some great conversations, too.

5

Visit a local museum or park for free. Look at the Target First program, Bank of America card holder program, or any other discounts they may offer. Some parks offer free concerts year round, too. Look online or call ahead to find out details.

6 Have a movie night at home. Redbox or Blockbuster movies are just 99 cents!

7 Go for just dessert, appetizers or even coffee, instead of a whole meal out. You’ll spend less, but it will also give you more time to chat.

8

Visit Pollack Tempe Cinemas for a discount movie (just $3). If you go on Tuesday, movies are only $2!

9 Check out some of the daily deal sites like Groupon.com, Amazon Local or LivingSocial. com to save on eating out, concert tickets, spa days and more. You can even find discounts on winery tours or hotel stays.

10

Attend a local high school sporting event. Tickets are usually inexpensive and the local team will love the support.

Melissa Hurst, a Valley-based deal-hunting savings pro, is also a mom of three. She understands the importance of budgeting and shares her savings tips in her column. Visit www.SavingCentsWithSense.net, where she shares her passion for bargain-hunting and strategies for stretching a budget.

Is your kid a “cutie patootie?” Of course he is, so submit your baby, toddler or kid photos to the e Nearby News’ Valley Moms section for a chance to win a restaurant gift certificate. Send highresolution digital photos to editor@ nearbynews.com. Be sure to include your name, your child’s name and age and your phone number. (Don’t worry, phone numbers will not be published.)

It Wasn’t Easy But The Winner Is...

... 17-month-old Jake Foster, the son of Michael and Karrin Foster. For this adorable photo, the Fosters will dine out on us!

Self Development Preschool/Charter School

Self

Development Charter School

program for school success

• Well-designed and enriched preschool curriculum

• Before and after-school program

• Low staff turn-over

• Integrated thematic curriculum

• Ages 2-5 years (Preschool)

* Ages 6-12 years (before and after-school programs)

#1 Ranked School in Mesa and #2 Ranked K-8 School in Arizona according to ADE 2011 Academic Excellence Award (The only Mesa school to receive this honor) 2010 Charter School of the Year

• Complete six years of schooling in four years (SIF Program)

• Outstanding kindergarten through middle school education

• Excelling mathematics and science programs

• Unique literary analysis program for grades 2-8

• One of the top performing schools in the state

• Elective Language Options: Latin, Spanish, French and Chinese

• High standards with teacher support

By Eva Dwight, B.A. MaEd.

Powerful Parenting Means Giving Kids Power navigating parenthood

One of my finer parenting moments started with deciding that my 10-year-old son, whose hair was way past his ears and hanging in his eyes, needed a styled haircut. I went online and found a number of “cute” boy cuts for him to consider, to which he replied that there was no way he was cutting his hair. I pushed back and told him he had to choose one of them. My husband broke up the argument by asking whose hair it was, anyway, and I realized I was pushing an agenda that was driven more by my need to have others see my kid as “cute” than by any real problem that a haircut would solve.

I created that power struggle. In fact, my husband or I created most of the power struggles we had with our kids, by deciding to assert our power at the expense of our child’s. A sense of personal power is important for adults and kids. It’s what gives us confidence to manage what life throws at us, and if we don’t feel it, we’ll find ways to get it. It is my responsibility to set boundaries and expectations, but also to give my son the power of choice, so he can be confident of his ability to make decisions in the face of peer pressure, abusive authority or even just those daily challenges he will face in life. Being aware of my own need for power can point me toward strategic parenting: If I’m…

…feeling angry, challenged,

threatened or defeated

…thinking, “You can’t get away with that,” or, “I’ll make you”

…and I’m either fighting back or giving in …that’s the time to take a step back and examine the situation more carefully. Is the issue something I really need to take a stand on, or am I feeling a need to assert my power, just because I’m the parent? How can I create a win-win?

• Ask for help. Because kids also need to feel useful and needed: “I know I can’t make you, but I could really use your help.”

• Offer a limited choice: “You can empty the trash or empty the dishwasher. You choose.” Or, offer the choice around when something is done: “What time can I expect you to ___________?” (Notice that doing it is not an option; when to do it is. When he chooses, it is imperative that I hold him to his choice and help him follow through, so he learns that power comes with responsibility.)

Building a brighter future

• Decide what you will do, and follow through: “I will discuss that when you can speak to me respectfully.” en stick to that statement.

• Create routines with your child, and let the routine be the boss: “What else do you need to do before you can watch TV?”

When I use strategic parenting, I become my child’s partner in thinking and problem solving. We are powerful together, and our family relationships grow stronger.

Eva Dwight is a parent, family and personal coach. For more information, go to www.creativecoachingconversations. com.

• Safe & secure neighborhood schools

• Original Franklin back-to-basics schools

• Preschool & prekindergarten programs

• Free full- or half-day kindergarten

• Advanced Placement & dual enrollment

• Homeschooling enrichment classes

• Grand Canyon & STEM diploma

• International Baccalaureate

• Online course work

• Career exploration

Eva Dwight

When it comes to how long to brush, Peck said two minutes in the morning and at night is recommended. She suggested using an electric toothbrush because it gives more brush strokes than a manual toothbrush. It also has a timer which will automatically shut off, so children know how long to brush.

Developing good dental habits early and making going to the dentist a positive experience will go a long way toward a healthy smile.

Peck is working toward that goal. A volunteer for five years with the district, she coordinates the school nurses to check first and sometimes second graders.

“I’m noticing as the years are going by I see kids who are having more dental treatment intervened earlier,” Peck said. “I’ve seen more and more sealants on teeth, which is excellent.”

She’s seen children from her practice out at the screenings, “ ey hug me and yell to the whole class, ‘ is is my dentist!’”

Gilbert Vista Dental Care is located at 2451 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 210, Gilbert. Call (480) 503-5467 or visit www.drritapeck.com for more information.

Mesa Public Schools

Kindergarten Registration

Kindergarten marks the beginning of children’s formal education, and is a critical milestone in their development of self-confidence and independence. It is not too early for parents of 4-and 5-year-old children who will start kindergarten in 2014 to assess their readiness and begin to prepare them for this exciting experience. Whether selecting fullor half-day options, one important step is to register these new students at the elementary school they will be attending.

Register Now

Mesa Public Schools’ kindergarten registration began Jan. 27. With the first day of school six months away, why register now? Early registration provides adequate planning time for your family and the school. Schools will host a variety of events for potential and registered kindergarten families that you won’t want to miss. By registering now, schools can plan accordingly for class size management and teacher contract allocations, leading to a smooth start of the school year.

To register a kindergarten student in a Mesa school, you will need a certified copy of the child’s birth certificate, current immunization record and proof of residency. Children enrolling in kindergarten must turn 5 before Sept. 1. Options

are available for younger learners, including prekindergarten and earlyentrance assessment.

Choice Schools and Programs

In addition to top-notch neighborhood schools, Mesa Public Schools offers specific opportunities in elementary education:

• Franklin Basic Schools (multiple locations)

• Montessori (multiple locations)

• Arts Integration (Highland Elementary)

• Dual Language (Keller Elementary)

• International Baccalaureate

Primary Years (Summit Academy)

• Home School Enrichment (Eagleride)

Your Child’s Path to Success

If you have questions about kindergarten readiness, have a milestones discussion with your child’s preschool teacher or pediatrician. Consider speaking with the principal or a kindergarten teacher at the school your child will attend, and explore the school’s website for helpful information.

Mesa Public Schools is excited to welcome your family to kindergarten and invites you to stop by your neighborhood school to register for the 2014-15 school year.

For more information, visit www. mpsaz.org/curriculum/kindergarten.

A Lesson in School Lunch Nutrition

By Mesa Public Schools

Mesa Public Schools’ food and nutrition department provides students with a wide selection of foods that are appealing and nutritious. School breakfasts and lunch menus must meet the minimum guidelines set by the USDA for protein, grains, fruits, vegetables and fat calories. It’s essential to keep menus cost effective and, at the end of the day, ensure students’ taste buds are satisfied.

to be a tasty and satisfying way to add additional vegetables to a lunchtime classic.

e USDA reduced-sodium guidelines make school lunches healthier, and it can take time for taste buds to adjust. But lower sodium does not have to mean less flavor. Our culinarians create flavor profiles utilizing spices and herbs to amp up flavors without salt. New flavor profiles offer flexibility in the kitchen and are important tools when servicing the needs of the largest school district in Arizona.

Mesa Public Schools is continuously improving recipes to meet the needs of our customers’ discerning palates. Professional development plays an important role in keeping menus fresh and engaging. Recently, members of the food and nutrition department participated in a workshop where they received training on knife skills, spicing up flavor profiles, food preparation techniques, and recipe development. Chef Michael Turcott of the East Valley Institute of Technology and Schwan’s Food Service Chef Craig Slaude conducted food demonstrations to enhance the team’s culinary skills.

e workshops allowed the cooks to don their thinking toques and get creative with products already in their inventory, while adhering to the new guidelines. Loretta Zullo, director of food and nutrition, said, “Recognizing the versatility of our products opened a world of creativity to us.”

Slaude taught them how to take a round pizza product with a proven success rate and reinvent it by turning it into a stromboli. is lesson proved

e composition of school meals takes into consideration how they are consumed. For example, in elementary schools, meals are designed to be eaten with smaller hands or with a spork. At Westwood High School, more than 800 lunches are served in 35 minutes. Mesa Public Schools serves more than 37,000 lunches a day at 79 schools, and 18,000 breakfasts daily at 67 schools.

Food and nutrition conducts student taste testing of new products at elementary, junior high and high school levels throughout the school year to evaluate potential new items. Successful products are incorporated into future menus. e goal is to have students enjoy and finish their meals, as research indicates children who are well nourished have improved concentration, elevated test scores, better school attendance an fewer behavioral issues.

For more information about school meals, visit www.mpsaz.org/food.

Mesa Public Schools’ food contains much variety along with being extremely nutritious.

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around the neighborhood

The inaugural Mountain View Student Council-sponsored Running with the Bulls 5K run raised $5,000 for charity and boasted more than 300 registrants and 270 runners. The MVHS Student Council, in conjunction with involved community members, organized this event with a primary purpose of supporting AZBrainfood and The Ronald McDonald House. Each organization received a $2,500 donation. For the record, the fastest time was posted by Ronnie Buchanan with a time of 15:40. Photos by Tracy House. 1. The Toro mascot was on hand to get the participants ready for the run. 2. Participants gathered prior to the race. 3. Tiffani Nyseth, Spanish teacher at Mountain View, brought out her ninja turtles, Gavin, 5, and Graiden, 3. The boys rode their bikes to complete the 5K. 4. Katie Sanders, Hannah LeBlanc, Rylee May, Caleb May and JoNeal LeBlanc came out to support the Toros. 5. Runners take off from the track field of Mountain View High School to start the 5K race. 6. Little ones warm up for a 1/4 mile run—one lap around the track. 7. Young athletes head towards the finish line of the 1/4 mile run. 8. Runners get a high five at the finish line from the Toro mascot. 9. Each runner received a Toro bell as they finished the run. 10. Members of the student council and faculty gather after the race. 11. Karlee and Jareh Soelberg, ran the Toro 5K, but daughter Lucy 6 months, claimed the bell. 10 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 11

Mann Hopes to Create Valentine’s

Day Memories at MAC

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

Classically trained singer-songwriter Chris Mann can’t pinpoint his most romantic Valentine’s Day, but he’s looking forward to helping others create memories when he plays the Mesa Arts Center’s Piper Repertory eater on Friday, Feb. 14.

“I’ve done the traditional kind of dates with wines and chocolates and all that stuff,” said Mann, a fourthplace finisher on the second season of “ e Voice.” “I’m excited to help other people have a really romantic Valentine’s Day.”

e show, which he said is his first in the Grand Canyon State, comes on the heels of his 2012 debut major-label album, “Roads,” as well as two PBS specials, “Chris Mann in Concert: A Mann for All Seasons” and “Home for Christmas: e Chris Mann Christmas Special.”

“ is show is the continuation of my North American tour,” said Mann, who recently married. “It’s a very romantic show and a lot of fun. It’s wonderful

that I’m able to do it on Valentine’s Day.”

He called the concert a mix of songs from “Roads,” his PBS specials, and “ e Voice” as well as “stuff you haven’t seen me do at all.”

“ ere’s something for everyone, which is one of my favorite things about the show,” he explained. “It’s perfect for a date. It’s perfect to bring your family, come with your friends.”

His PBS specials had a wide appeal as well. Mann said he was incredibly flattered to work with the public television station to produce two concert specials.

“It really propelled things this year,” he said.

Mann described the show as different from a regular concert, however, the bottom line is it’s about “trying to have fun with the audience.”

“It’s a pretty big production to film one of those. A lot goes into it. ey’re produced by the same guy who produces the Grammys. ere are

lots of cameras, lots of preparation.

I had Martina McBride as a guest as well as a saxophonist named Mindi Abair.”

Working with McBride was fun for Mann because both of them were born in Kansas.

“ at’s a funny little tidbit,” Mann said.

“I love getting the opportunity to sing with people I grew up listening to. She’s definitely one of those people.” is year will be a busy one for Mann, who will continue to tour. He’s also planning on hitting the studio, as he’s working on a new album.

“I’m really thankful that I get to

keep making music,” he said.

Perhaps the most gratifying part of his career is hearing the stories that listeners and fans share with him.

“Every day is a different perk and blessing,” Mann said. “I’m just happy to be where I am. I’m looking forward to evolving and growing with the next record.”

Chris Mann performs at 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14, at the Mesa Arts Center’s Piper Repertory eater, One E. Main St., Mesa. Tickets are $25 to $65. For more information, call (480) 644-6500 or visit www.livenation.com. Tickets from his Oct. 25 concert will be honored.

Chris Mann, shown here singing during one of his PBS specials, will perform at the Mesa Arts Center’s Piper Repertory Theater on Friday, Feb. 14.

Spring Out to Lunch Concert Series

WHEN: Thursdays through March 27, from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.

WHERE: Mesa Arts Center’s Wells Fargo Garden, One E. Main St., Mesa COST: Free

INFO: (480) 644-6500 or www.mesaartscenter.com

Seating is limited, so bring comfortable folding chairs, cushions and/or blankets. Life of Party Catering will be onsite for each concert offering a selection of hot and cold lunches.

SuperFarm Market

WHEN: Thursdays from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

WHERE: Superstition Farm, 3440 S. Hawes Rd., Mesa

COST: Purchase of goods

INFO: (602) 432-6865

The auction features more than 150 roses of all varieties and classes. Fertilizers and other growing products will also be available. All proceeds benefit the Mesa-East Valley Rose Society and The Garden at Mesa Community College.

MACFest, Arts and Crafts Market

WHEN: Sat., Feb. 1 and Sat., Feb. 15 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

WHERE: North Macdonald Street in downtown Mesa from Main Street to Pepper Street

COST: Free INFO: www.macfestmesa.com

SuperFarm Market will have such items as Pepper Ranch local produce, cinnamon rolls, local honey, butter, farmers cheese and cheese curds, eggs, locally made tortillas, cookies, jams, pasta, popcorn, tea, coffee, sausages, breads, salsas, cakes, ice cream, Waffle Crush Truck and SuperFarm SuperTruck.

SuperFarm Barn Dance

WHEN: Fridays from 8 p.m. to 12 a.m.

WHERE: Superstition Farm, 3440 S. Hawes Rd., Mesa

INFO: (602) 432-6865

The Mesa Arts and Crafts Festival features the work of emerging and established artists on the first and third Saturdays from October through April. Woodworking, metal crafts, jewelry, art, photography, handmade soaps, food and holiday gifts are among the items available for sale.

“Bright Lights, Big City”

WHEN: Sun., Feb. 2, at 3 p.m.

WHERE: Mesa Arts Center’s Ikeda Theater, One E. Main St., Mesa

COST: $15 to $22

INFO: (480) 644-6500 or www.mesaartscenter.com

Join the Salt River Brass as it travels the globe in a musical tour of cities that inspired composers from every age.

East Valley Michigan Club

WHEN: Wed., Feb. 5, at 2 p.m.

Lessons will take place from 8 p.m. to 9 p.m. for the barn dance.

Mesa Community Farmers Market

WHEN: Fridays through May, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

WHERE: Mesa Convention Center, 263 N. Center St., Mesa

WHERE: Golden Corral, 1868 N. Power Rd., Mesa

COST: Charge for meal

INFO: (480) 986-7085, (480) 610-9864 or jilanctot@cox.net

The club meets on the second Wednesday at 2 p.m. for lunch and the fourth Wednesday at 9 a.m. for breakfast.

COST: Free admission and parking INFO: (602) 290-5067

The market will include such items depending on season fresh produce: baked goods, jams and jellies, salsas, spices, natural pork, beef and fish, handmade craft products, lotions and soaps.

Annual Rose Auction

WHEN: Sat., Feb. 1, at 12 p.m. (viewing); 1:30 p.m. (auction)

WHERE: Mesa Community College Library, 1833 W. Southern Ave., Mesa

COST: Free

INFO: (480) 518-1529, www.rose4azmevrs.org or regehr@cox.net

Huron/Beadle County, South Dakota Snowbird Dinners

WHEN: Mon., Feb. 10, at 3 p.m.

WHERE: Golden Corral, 1868 N. Power Rd., Mesa

COST: Purchase of a meal

INFO: (480) 807-7748 or email lwalter@isd.net

Individuals from Huron and Beadle County, South Dakota, will meet on the second Monday in February and March.

“You’ve Gotta Love It” Brunch

WHEN: Tues., Feb. 11, from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.

WHERE: Superstition Springs Golf Club, 6542 E. Baseline Rd., Mesa

COST: $13

INFO: (480) 357-7538

Come enjoy a style show by Jan Harris and wear red or pink in honor of St. Valentine’s Day. Mary Hollan, a former backup singer for Chubby Checker and Mary Wilson of the Supremes, will also perform

Poetry Recitation and Valentine Tea

WHEN: Thurs., Feb. 13, at 1:30 p.m.

WHERE: Trinity Christian School, 2404 N. Usery Pass Rd., Mesa

COST: Free

INFO: (480) 986-4629 or www.trinitychristianschoolmesa.org

Join Trinity Christian School as students recite special poems to honor their parents for Valentine’s Day. Punch and cookies to follow in Brunton Hall.

Las Marthas

WHEN: Thurs., Feb. 20, at 6 p.m.

WHERE: Mesa Arts Center’s Mesa Contemporary Arts, One E. Main St., Mesa

COST: Free

INFO: (480) 644-6500 or www.mesaartscenter.com

Las Marthas follows two Mexican American girls during a time of economic uncertainty and political tension over immigration.

Jewelry, Gem and Rock Show

WHEN: Sun., Feb. 22, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sun., Feb. 23, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

WHERE: Skyline High School cafeteria, 845 S. Crismon Rd., Mesa

COST: $3; $1 for students with ID

INFO: (480) 982-7760 or www.ajrockclub.com

Dealers will be selling their fine,

handmade jewelry, gems, beads, cabochons, fossils, rocks, slabs, lapidary equipment and supplies, and more.

East Valley Michigan Club

WHEN: Wed., Feb. 26, at 9 a.m.

WHERE: Golden Corral, 1868 N. Power Rd., Mesa

COST: Charge for meals

INFO: (480) 986-7085, (480) 610-9864 or jilanctot@cox.net

The club meets on the second Wednesday at 2 p.m. for lunch and the fourth Wednesday at 9 a.m. for breakfast.

LBD Support Group

WHEN: Thurs., Feb. 27, from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.

WHERE: Arbor Rose Senior Care Center, 6033 E. Arbor Ave., Mesa COST: Free but reservations required INFO: (480) 641-2531 or mjblbdaz@gmail.com

The group is for family members and caregivers of those who have Lewy Body Disorder (LBD).

EQUIVOCATION

WHEN: Fri., Feb. 28, through Sat., March 22, at 7:30 p.m. with some matinees

WHERE: Mesa Arts Center’s Farnsworth Studio, One E. Main St., Mesa

COST: $27 to $35

INFO: (480) 644-6500 or www.mesaartscenter.com

In London, 1605, a down-and-out playwright called Shagspeare receives a royal commission to write a play promoting the government’s version of the Guy Fawkes’ Gunpowder Plot.

is Republica Empanada. We were greeted and quickly seated by Emma, the niece of owner Marco Meraz.

a nice drink selection with Mexican glass-bottled Coca Cola for fans of the “real” sugar.

By Kathy Kerby

Backyard Taco and Republica Empanada

is month we have a special twofor-one deal. Two unique downtown Mesa restaurants have taken a slice of their Latin culture and translated it into delicious food.

As the name implies, Backyard Taco originated in the backyard of owners Ruben Alvarez and Maricella Reyes. Loyal and hungry customers begged them to open a permanent location and Backyard Tacos became a reality. I love it when an old building is repurposed and becomes a bustling business. at is exactly what happened to a former eyesore on University Drive just east of Stapley Drive. On a recent Friday evening, customers were out the door. It is obvious that everything is freshly made. It is interesting to watch

the meat cooking on the large grill just behind the counter. e menu is displayed overhead and it is very simple: tacos, quesadillas, potatoes, gorditas and tostadas.

We placed our order and enjoyed sampling the tasty carne asada (steak) taco ($1.80) as well as the pollo (chicken) quesadilla ($3.50) and the bean burrito ($3.50). As we ate our entrees, we munched on crispy chips and mild salsa ($2) and also tried several varieties from the salsa bar.

Flan ($2.50) is the only dessert, but don’t despair. It was yummy! For those who haven’t tried flan, you are truly missing out on a delicious dessert.

Huddled on the corner of First Avenue and Hibbert in central Mesa

We noticed a large laminated wooden beam bar with brushed nickel barstools. Industrial lights hung from the ceiling, while original artwork lined the walls.

e bar seats 16, so this would be a great place for a group of friends or officemates to gather for lunch or happy hour. Meraz, whose parents, Jinette and Edmundo, also help with the restaurant, told us that their philosophy is to bring “unique tastes from Central and South America as well as the Caribbean to Mesa—not just more of the same.”

e menu includes 21 varieties of empanadas; who knew there could be so many? It also includes appetizers, salads, platters, sides, desserts and

I love to try new things and this was an adventure in flavor. e Arroz con Pollo ($9.95) a house specialty had tender chicken, rice, capers, olives, celery, onions, red bell peppers, carrots and was garnished with tomatoes and avocado slices. Not to be outdone in the flavor department, the three empanadas we tasted were equally yummy. Ranging from $2.75 to $3, we tried the Hawaiian, the cheeseburger and the Republica chicken. ey were all so good we plan to return to sample more varieties. A plantain and cheese empanada topped with ice cream and chocolate was the perfect ending for our meal.

Republica Empanada

204 E. First Ave. Mesa, 85210 (480) 969-1343 www.republicaempanada.com

Plantain and cheese empanada topped with ice cream and chocolate

“The

UNDER NEW

OWNERSHIP

Watch your favorite sports everyday on 11 Big Screen TVs, “inside and outside” on our patio! Best Happy Hour 2pm-7pm Daily!

What’s Cooking?

By Jan D’Atri

A Chocolate Lover’s Dream

is month is a chocolate lover’s dream, and if you’d like to surprise your sweetie with a little morsel of homemade goodness, these are four of my very favorite recipes.

e cookie pops couldn’t be easier! Just let the cookie itself do the work for you. No baking required. (I can promise

Oreo Truffles

1 (approximately 1 lb.) box of Oreo Cookies

1 (8 oz.) package of cream cheese, softened

1 container dipping chocolate (approximately 7 oz. tub) or About 12 oz. chocolate chips

that these will be your favorite go-to treats well beyond Valentine’s Day.) e truffle recipes I’ve included are rich, robust and really simple—three things we’re always looking for in a dessert! Now all you need is a little gift box, wax paper and a ribbon to win the Chocolate Lover’s heart!

Flavor options:

ORANGE: 1 teaspoon grated orange zest plus 1 tablespoon Grand Marnier

RUM: 1-2 tablespoons Dark Rum

COFFEE: 1/4 teaspoon ground espresso plus 1-2 tablespoons Kahlua

Nutter Butter

Cookie Pops

1 (1 lb.) package of Nabisco Nutter

Butter Cookies

1 (8 oz.) package of cream cheese, softened

In a food processor, grind cookies (filling and all) to a fine powder (pulverized). You can also place cookies in Ziploc bag and pound with rolling pin or flat pounder until pulverized. Place crushed cookies in mixing bowl. Reserve 2 tablespoons for garnish. Add cream cheese and blend until fully incorporated. Roll into about 1-inch balls and refrigerate for about one hour. Meanwhile, melt chocolate in double boiler. Dip cookie balls in chocolate to coat. Remove and place on cookie sheet lined with parchment paper. Sprinkle top with cookie crumbs. Refrigerate to harden. Keep chilled until ready to serve.

1 container chocolate chips or dipping chocolate, white chocolate or chocolate

Follow same directions as Oreo Truffles. Optional, top truffles with crushed peanuts.

Peanut Butter

Fudge Truffles

1 pound powdered sugar

9 oz. creamy peanut butter

Chocolate Truffles

14 oz. fine chocolate

1/2 pound melted butter

1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

8 oz. whipping cream

1/2 teaspoon vanilla

1 tablespoon unsalted butter, cubed

Chop chocolate in small pieces. Place in a large stainless steel or glass bowl. Using a stainless steel pot, bring the cream to a full boil. Pour over chocolate. Let set 1 minute. Whisk until mixture is smooth and chocolate is melted. Stir in butter and vanilla until butter is melted into chocolate. Pour into a container, cover well and refrigerate overnight (to develop flavor and firmness.) Mixture can be frozen at this point for up to 4 weeks.

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup melted chocolate chips

1 cup chopped peanuts

For Fudge: Mix all ingredients except melted chocolate and chopped peanuts together until incorporated and smooth. Spread into 9-inch x 13inch glass dish and refrigerate until firm. Cut into squares.

For Peanut-Covered Truffles: Use same fudge recipe but don’t refrigerate so it stays soft and workable. Scoop into small balls, dredge in melted chocolate and roll in chopped peanuts.

financially speaking

By Gabe Hoffmann

The Sandwich Generation Dealing With Aging Parents While Raising Kids

Are you “sandwiched” financially and emotionally between an aging parent and an adult child?

According to a recent Pew Research Center study, nearly half of Americans in their 40s and 50s have a parent aged 65 or older and are either raising a young child or financially supporting a grown child (age 18 or older), according to Pew Research Center. Among this group, 15 percent are providing financial support to both an aging parent and a child.

While the “Sandwich Generation” is a demographic trend that has been documented for some time, the financial implications associated with caring for multiple generations of family members has been escalating in recent years, with the bulk of the financial pressure coming from adult children as opposed to aging parents. More than a quarter of respondents (27 percent) provide primary financial support to their adult children, up from 20 percent in 2005. By contrast, just 21 percent of middle-aged adults report having provided financial support to an aging parent in the past year, a number that has not changed since 2005, Pew Research Center reports.

One explanation for the growing need for financial support among the nation’s young adults is the toll that the Great Recession has taken on this demographic group. According to data by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the percentage of young adults employed in 2010 was the lowest it had been since 1948.

Despite the added financial resources being directed toward the young, the study found that, in general, the public places more value on supporting aging parents than on supporting grown children. Among all survey respondents, 75 percent said adults had a responsibility to provide financial assistance to an aging parent in need, while only 52 percent believed parents had the same responsibility to

help out an adult child, according to Pew Research Center.

What Can You Do?

If you are supporting both a parent and a grown child there are a number of resources and support services you can turn to for help. For your parents, consider the following:

• Enroll them in adult day care or hire a home health aide. Whether they live with you or on their own, you may need to consider helping them to manage medication, to conduct daily tasks such as bathing or meal preparation, and to make arrangements for assistance with household chores. A visiting nurse and home care agency may provide assistance in these areas. e average adult day care program costs $70 per day, and a home health aide costs an average of $21 per hour, according to MetLife Mature Market Institute.

• Consider engaging a health care advocate. Professional health advocates or private health advisories can ease the burden associated with health care planning. In addition to facilitating and expediting care during major illnesses, private health advisories can also help you develop a comprehensive and customized health strategy based on your individual needs and personal health issues.

• Investigate potential tax breaks. You may be able to contribute up to $5,000 per year to your employer’s dependent care flexible spending account, if available, provided your parents live with you more than half the year and you pay for them to attend an adult day care program. If you don’t have a flex account, you may be able to claim the dependent care credit

on your tax return. e maximum amount of expenses to which the credit may be applied is $3,000 for one dependent or $6,000 for two. e applicable percentage of the maximum amount of expenses that you receive as the credit varies with your income, from a high of 35 percent of the maximum amount if you have an income of $15,000 or less, to a minimum of 20 percent of the maximum amount if your income exceeds $43,000.

• Encourage parents to update their estate plans and beneficiary designations. Even if they already have an estate plan in place, there is a good likelihood that it could be out of date and may not take into consideration life events that have transpired over the years, such as the birth of grandchildren, divorces, remarriages or other factors.

For dealing with your grown children, consider the following:

• First, talk to them about your financial realities. Live-at-home adult children may not be aware of what it costs to run a home while supporting aging parents at the same time. Letting them know the costs you face each month makes those costs real to them, and can encourage them to shoulder some of the responsibility themselves.

• Share the common costs. Most live-at-home adult children are there for a reason, often due to lack of a job or inability to afford

a place of their own. But that does not mean they should not shoulder a portion of household expenses. Work out a realistic rent or costsharing arrangement and stick with it.

• Separate the individual costs. Is your live-at-home son or daughter a finicky eater? Do they demand certain foods or sundries that you would not buy otherwise? en let them pay for them. ey’ll learn to appreciate what their tastes are actually costing, and avoid resentments on your part.

• Don’t make it too comfortable. If your goal is to eventually nudge your fledglings out of the nest, you need to provide incentive. at means not treating them as permanent guests, but as temporary live-at-home adult children, with obligations and responsibilities of their own. In the end, they will appreciate it as much as you.

Gabe Hoffmann is senior vice president of the investment firm Morgan Stanley Wealth Management. He and his wife, Mazie, live in the Arboleda community of northeast Mesa where they are raising their three children. Hoffmann can be reached at (480) 345-4731 or gabriel.d.hoff mann@morganstanley. com.

By Nathaniel Wadsworth

Anonymity (not) Guaranteed

e power of words is undeniable. Joseph Conrad expressed it in these terms: “My task, which I am trying to achieve is, by the power of the written word, to make you hear, to make you feel—it is, before all, to make you see.” Today, because of the accessibility of social media, nearly any person can publish any words in an attempt to make others see things a certain way.

From blogs to Facebook to Twitter, the options for sharing one’s opinions with the world are numerous, and social media allows words to be used for good and bad. A Vatican court recently announced that those who follow the Pope on Twitter can receive indulgences that will allow them to spend less time in purgatory. For believers, this is certainly one positive thing resulting from life in the digital age.

e ability to anonymously publish words that are untrue, hurtful or irresponsible is another thing that draws people to the Internet. Without any accountability, a person may use social media to publicly proclaim thoughts he would never want associated with his name. For example, the “comments” section following an online news article is often filled with derogatory and disrespectful remarks, in addition to well-reasoned and enlightening opinions. All of these comments are made anonymously, with a clever screen name being the only identification of the person behind the words.

But anonymity extends beyond harmless two- or three-sentence comments. I know of a person— call him Jack—who recently found a Facebook account in his name. Jack

was not the person who created the account and had no knowledge of it. Instead, an unidentified thirdparty created the account and filled it with multiple false and demeaning statements about Jack. Any unsuspecting friend or acquaintance of Jack (or even a prospective employer) could have easily found the Web page and believed that Jack had written it, thereby severely damaging Jack’s relationships and reputation. e good news is that there are often ways to discover who is behind false or defamatory statements that appear on the Web. With court subpoena powers and other helpful laws, a person’s supposed anonymity is not without limits. If you discover that someone has anonymously made damaging false statements about you or your company, there may be a way to discover who it is and hold that person accountable for his or her words. Also, if you are one who likes to post things online, you should know that words do not always remain anonymous

Nathaniel H. Wadsworth is a partner at Rowley Chapman & Barney. His practice consists of business law and general litigation. Wadsworth earned his bachelor’s degree from Brigham Young University in 2003 and his law degree from J. Reuben Clark School of Law, Cum Laude, in 2006. Rowley Chapman and Barney Ltd. is located at 63 E. Main St., Suite 508, Mesa. For more information, call (480) 496-2086.

APPLIANCE SERVICE & REPAIR

DENNIS APPLIANCE SERVICE

20Years Experience

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Not a Licensed Contractor Member of BBB

Dennis 480-539-1019

BEAUTY SERVICES

COME VISIT THE HAIR PARLOR

For all your hair & nail needs!

Perms, Highlights, Razor Cuts, Back Combing, Roller Sets, Weddings. Station available for stylist with clientele.

Mary Ann’s Hair Parlor

3049 E. McKellips Rd., Ste. 3 Mesa, AZ 85213

480-641-0334

CLEANING SERVICES

Red Mountain Maids – Homes / Offices / Commercial - Low prices. Serving the East Valley for 10 years!

Prompt, courteous service.

$14/hr using your supplies or $16/hr w/our cleaning supplies. Call 480-354-7928 or 480-206-9998.

HOUSE CLEANING

Cleaning your neighborhood since 2001. ‘10, ‘11 & ‘12 and newly awarded 2013 Angie’s List Super Service Award winner. Insured, Bonded, E-Verify & Background checked.

www.TheMastersTouchCleaningService.com Or Call 480-324-1640 for an immediate quote.

EVENTS

CHRISTIAN EDUCATION FAIR

Considering Christian Education for your children, but think you can’t afford it?

Don’t have the time to investigate all those schools?

Come meet a variety of local Christian Schools, School Tuition Organizations, and Homeschool groups all at once to make an informed decision about your child’s education!

SAT, February 22nd: 11AM-12:30PM

Central Christian Church Mesa Campus 933 N. Lindsay Rd., Mesa, 85213

SAT, March 1st: 11AM-12:30PM

Central Christian Church Gilbert Campus 965 E. Germann Rd., Gilbert, 85297 Call 480-329-3609 with questions.

AD SPACE AVAILABLE!

Know what happens when you don’t advertise? Nothing. Call Tracey Wilson today! 480-348-0343 x100

COMMUNITY SALES

WHITE ELEPHANT SALE

February 22, 8am-?

Dishes, appliances, utensils, tools, furniture, linens, clothes, books, home-baked goodies, and much more.

Free Coffee Public Invited!

Deserama Mobile Home Ranch 2434 E. Main St., Mesa

HOME IMPROVEMENT

B&B MAINTENANCE REPAIR

More than just a Handyman! Residential & Commercial.

Electrical, Plumbing, General maintenance, Interior Painting, Ceiling Fan Installation, Tile/Ceramic, Carpentry, Hot Water Tanks, Drip and Sprinkler Systems and Evaporative Coolers. Affordable, License ROC #198734 and Insured.

Mesa resident over 30 years experience. Work guaranteed, friendly, clean and professional.

Call Buddy at 480-352-9677

Small Jobs Welcome

Call with questions about your type of small repairs that you’re not sure of.

HOME REMODELING/REPAIRS & CUSTOM

INTERIOR PAINTING

Move a wall; turn a door into a window. From small jobs and repairs to room additions, I do it all.

Precision interior painting, carpentry, drywall, tile, windows, doors, skylights, electrical, fans, plumbing and more. All trades done by hands-on General Contractor.

Friendly, artistic, intelligent, honest and affordable.

40 years’ experience.

Call Ron Wolfgang Office 480-820-8515

Cell 602-628-9653

Wolfgang Construction Inc. Licensed & Bonded ROC 124934

MESA HOME MAINTENANCE & REPAIR

Plumbing, electric, irrigation, garage doors, water heaters, tile and drywall repairs, carpentry, handyman lists and other services. All work guaranteed. Sean Sornberger 480-699-7990

PATIODOORREPAIRS.COM

Roller replacement, track repair, handles & locks.

Sun Valley Patio Door Service. Free estimates.

Cell phone 602-482-0605

MUSIC INSTRUCTION

PIANO LESSONS

Patient, Professional Teacher

15 Years Experience

Two recitals per year

Ages 7 to Adult

Beginning to Advanced 480-406-0138

LANDSCAPING SERVICES

ALL PRO TREE SERVICE, LLC

Tree Trimming, Tree Removals, Stump Grinding, Monthly Landscape Maintenance, Full Yard Clean Ups, Palm Trees, Deep Root Fertilization, Irrigation, Etc.

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Visa & MasterCard Accepted

Mention this Ad and Receive 15% off Discount! 480-354-5802 or dennis@allprotrees.com

See Our Ad in the Biz Box Section

POOL SERVICES

AS LOW AS $60/MONTH FOR POOL SERVICE

Sand change, $180-$240

Clean & inspect DE or cartridge filters, $75 We do repairs too. LIZARDPOOLSLLC 480-489-0713

POOL VALET LLC CLEANING & REPAIR

Are Professionalism, Customer Service and Innovation important to you? Then call Scott to schedule an appointment or to discuss your individual POOL CLEANING or REPAIR NEEDS. Call: 602-273-6800 or Visit: www.myPoolValet.com

TUTORING SERVICES

Multiple subjects including Math, Reading and Writing. Individualized, at-home instruction for grades K-12. Preparation for AZ testing.

HOMES FOR SALE

BEAUTIFUL EXECUTIVE HOME

3,117Sqft – Single-Level

5 Bedrooms/3 Full Baths

Family Room, Split Floor Plan

3 Car Garage

Wide 1/3 Acre Citrus Lot with RV Gate Greenfield/Brown

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AD SPACE AVAILABLE! Know what happens when you don’t advertise? Nothing.

We have specials on classified ad space. Call Tracey Wilson today! 480-348-0343 x100

By Lynette Carrington

Dr. Heinz of Vi Esthetica

Setting the Bar for Aesthetic Arts and Facial Cosmetic Surgery

Dr. Grant Heinz of Vi Esthetica recently relocated to a new campus in East Mesa, incorporating the finest in aesthetic arts with a facial cosmetic surgical center. e practice is a culmination of the doctor’s eye for artistry and his unique educational and training background. His passion lies in achieving the most beautiful and precise results for his clients’ cosmetic surgery and aesthetic treatments.

Heinz earned his undergraduate at BYU, graduating Magna Cum Laude. He earned his medical degree (with high honors) from the prestigious University of Washington School of Medicine. He completed his medical and surgical internship at the University of Hawaii and a residency at the Jules Stein Eye Institute at

UCLA. He also completed a two-year fellowship at Indiana University.

“While I was there, I did more facial fractures for those two years than any other surgeon in the state of Indiana,” he said.

His attention to detail and artist’s eye led him to a two-year fellowship in ophthalmic facial plastic surgery where he dealt with various facial traumas, reconstructions and cosmetic surgeries.

After a UCLA professor of Heinz’s suggested Saudi Arabia, Heinz spent three years teaching at two prestigious hospitals in the Middle East, including the King Faisal Specialist Hospital and the King Khaled Eye Specialist Hospital, both in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. He furthered his skills treating extreme injuries he saw while there.

He traveled extensively through Jordan, Yemen, Oman, Syria, Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates. Treasures, jewelry and rugs obtained on his journeys serve as conversation pieces and a reminder of the time spent there.

Moving to the Valley in 1996, Heinz established his position as one of the most respected ophthalmic facial plastic surgeons, being recognized yearly since 2005 as one of the “Best Doctors” in America.

but we’re filling brows and cheeks. It’s a concert of different approaches now.” e doctor is a master injector and does all the injectables at Vi Esthetica. He’s been an expert in Botox since early 1988 and has worked extensively with fillers since 1996.

Heinz specializes in plastic surgeries of the neck and face and his belief is that each patient’s surgery is entirely unique and before-and-after photos speak for themselves. For plastic surgery patients, incisions are skillfully hidden for the most undetectable and natural results. For patients who have had extensive loss to their face due to skin cancer, Heinz can reconstruct facial features expertly, achieving beautiful and natural-looking results.

“Not only are we lifting things and putting them back where they belong,

e aesthetic portion of the practice features state-of-the-art equipment that provides the best treatments available in the aesthetic industry. Aesthetic arts and plastic surgery go hand-in-hand. Heinz and three aestheticians (two of which are medical aestheticians) work meticulously and with great attention to detail to ensure the most beautiful and natural-looking results.

“I’m very much a perfectionist,” he said.

Aesthetic services include laser hair removal, IPL Photofacial, injectables, peels, collagen stimulators, facials, microdermabrasion and oxygen therapy. Vi Esthetica is located at 6007 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 101 (east of Recker Road), Gilbert. Visit www. viesthetica.com or call (480) 664-9632 for additional information.

Dr. Grant Heinz

To place a business card ad in the Biz Box, mail your card to: Nearby News, 3200 N. Hayden. Suite 210, Scottsdale, AZ 85251. Questions? Call 480-348-0343 x100. PRICE: $50.88 per month or $279.81 for 6 months (tax included). Vertical business cards will be reformatted to fit this space.

E-Fax: 480.285.1869

NMLS: 201074 AZ LO: 0915050

Smart Branch 3215 W. Ray Rd. Chandler, AZ 85226 Call to

NMLS: #6274 BK#0904164 www.peoplesmortgage.com

By Lynette Carrington

EAGLE College Prep Elementary School to Offer New Campus in Mesa

A public charter school will debut a new campus in late summer—just in time for the next school year.

EAGLE (Expecting Academic Greatness with a Loving Emphasis) College Prep: Mesa, at 1619 E. Main St., (between Gilbert and Stapley roads), will initially offer kindergarten through third grades. It will build out a new grade each consecutive school year until it reaches eighth grade. e new campus will join the two existing EAGLE College Prep schools in Phoenix.

Tracy Allen is the principal of the new Eagle College Prep.

“We believe that college starts in kindergarten. We promote that every child is going to college,” Allen said.

“We talk about colleges and research them ... ey feel like part of something greater and have some direction. Students on this campus are referred to as scholars by the staff. ese scholars are reminded that their decisions now lay the foundation for their future.”

e curriculum is a blended learning model and students receive three different types of instruction during the day.

“ ey have whole group instruction with their teacher. en, they move into smaller groups where they work with an educational assistant that provides very specific remediation or acceleration,” Allen said.

“ e scholars then move to a oneon-one setting where they are paired with a computer that meets that

student right where they are. ey get on-grade level materials that push them forward using common core standards in reading and math.”

Students can progress further at an accelerated pace once they’ve demonstrated the mastery of previously presented materials.

“We also have special areas of focus. We have a writing class in which all scholars receive writing instruction with a specialized writing teacher on top of their Language Arts instruction each day,” the principal said.

“ e second special area is the SEA class which scholars participate in each day. is stands for science, engineering and art. Students also get physical education classes every day.

ose classes teach game strategies, team work, cooperation and competition.”

Building character is also an important part of the “loving emphasis” of their students’ growth.

“We believe that you can’t just have high academics to be successful in your life. You also need good characterbuilding skills. Our school will use e Character Project to instill in our kids an understanding of their identity, purpose, and performance,” Allen said.

e new EAGLE College Prep: Mesa is not ready for tours, but families are welcome to tour school facilities at either of the existing South Mountain campuses. Call the (602) COLLEGE to set a tour time.

For additional information, visit www.EaglePrep.org.

THE MARKET GUIDE

The new campus of EAGLE College Prep will start with kindergarten through third grade and build out a grade each year.

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