A Mesa-based foundation will assist in a backpack and school supply drive by matching up to $5,000 worth of donations.
e Turnbow Foundation, a nonprofit committed to improving the lives of disadvantaged children and families, will team up with Save the Family, which is collecting backpacks with school supplies for children served by that nonprofit to help prepare them for the start of school. e agency’s Back 2 School Bash drive runs through the end of July.
e Turnbow Foundation will donate $10 for every donated backpack, $15 for every kit with general supplies and
$25 for each backpack loaded with supplies, varying from flash drives to protractors. Anyone wishing to donate can obtain a list of supplies needed for students at savethefamily. org. Backpack donations can be dropped off at Save the Family, 125 E. University Dr, during business hours.
e Turnbow Foundation’s Supplies for Success program donates over 300 backpacks full of supplies every year to Save the Family for the Back 2 School Bash, said omas Bambury, president and founder of the Turnbow Foundation. “We also provide scholarships to various clients at STF to further and complete their educational goals and help ensure
...continues on page 4
Mesa City Band members practice at Carson Junior High School
Patriotic tradition runs deep in Mesa City Band
By Shelley Ridenour
A 118-year-old Mesa tradition continues on Monday, July 4, when the Mesa City Band takes the stage at the Mesa Convention Center. during the Republic Services Arizona Celebration of Freedom.
e Mesa City Band is the oldest city band in Arizona, and many members have spent a lot of time making music.
“Some people get to 90 years old before they quit,” Gilbert resident Lois Splendoria said. “I’ll play as long as I can stand up.”
e band was founded in 1898 to provide special music for a community event. It was pressed into service off and on until 1918, then resurfacing again when it resumed performances
early in the 1940s only to disband during World War II. A performance occurred in July 1946, either on Independence Day or Pioneer Day— no one can recall with certainty, band member John Hamblin said. He was a 16-year-old Mesa High School student that day.
In 1967, the ensemble performed as the Tri-City Band. It went by several other names, including the Mesa Brass Band, the Mesa Cornet Band, the Mesa Community Band and the “Band Boys.”
e name was changed back to the Mesa City Band in the early 1980s. Today, the band operates from September through May, rehearsing ...continues on page 5
The news around our neighborhood!
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Enjoy a Blizzard while supporting Phoenix Children’s Hospital
By Rachel Hagerman
As the temperatures continue to rise this summer, a cool ice cream treat sounds more and more appealing.
To raise money for the Children’s Miracle Network, area Dairy Queens are hosting Miracle Treat Day this July. Each location will choose a designated donation amount per Blizzard, which will go directly to the Phoenix Children’s Hospital. Dairy Queen franchisees are given the choice of a $1, $2, or 100% donation per Blizzard.
Superstition mall location is also donating 100%.”
Miracle Treat Day started 12 years ago in Canada, and it has made its way to Arizona to help even more children. is will be Arizona Dairy Queen System’s 11th annual event.
Lori Foreman is general manager of the locations at Crismon and Baseline, and McKellips and Recker. Her event is ursday, July 28.
“My two stores, Crismon and Baseline and McKellips and Recker, are the only two street store locations donating 100% of proceeds. e
Both Foreman and other managers are eager to raise a lot of money for the Phoenix Children’s Hospital this summer. ere is even a little healthy competition in Mesa over which store location can raise more money for the hospital.
“I think my location at Crismon and Baseline will take the title from McKellips this year. My management teams are pretty competitive,” she explained.
“We have a set goal of $5,500 for each store...and each store wants to win the title. I’m super passionate about the cause, and we’re normally the top store for donations.”
long-term self-sufficiency,” Bambury said.
Bambury explained that the Turnbow Foundation was created in his mother’s honor because she wanted to help underprivileged children, but she died before she had the chance to do so. e Turnbow Foundation became involved with STF because the foundation wanted to donate backpacks of supplies to children and offer scholarships to single-parents.
donation drives such as Toys-forTots to organizations around the valley including the YMCA, Boys & Girls clubs, Helping Hands for Single Moms and others.
“We also offer scholarships at various junior colleges around the valley for specific vocational programs, again directed primarily towards single moms and parents, with the ultimate goal that the children would benefit from the parent’s education and success,” Bambury said.
Barnbury said the foundation researched tax-exempt nonprofit organizations, specifically those considered public charities, private foundations or private operating foundations. “We found that STF was very aligned with the same goals, and Jacki, Save the Family CEO, and the employees at STF were just fantastic to work with and have been ever since,” Bambury said.
e Turnbow Foundation works primarily with STF but assists with
“We consider STF to be a great partner for the Turnbow Foundation and plan on expanding our partnership with more and more programs in the future,” Bambury said.
ose interested in more information about the Turnbow Foundation and the foundation’s collaboration with Save the Family can call (602) 451-1339, email turnbowfoundation@gmail.com or visit www.turnbowfoundation.org.
THE EXPERTISE TO GET IT FOR TOP DOLLAR SOLD
PRICE, PRICE, PRICE
Setting the right price for your home is the single most important decision you will make when you decide to sell. Go too high and you risk turning off every buyer in the marketplace, go too low and you leave money on the table. Hiring The Poty Group will help you see the true value of your home, even if that means being tough and honest.
PREPARE YOUR HOME PROPERLY
Buyer’s wont pull the trigger to purchase unless they become emotionally invested in your home. To build a stronger first impression, start from the outside first by working hard to improve your home’s curb appeal. Next move inside and stage each space, creating the story that the home should be theirs. Hiring The Poty Group means hiring full time dedicated agents with experience to what the buyers want.
KNOW YOUR HOME’S WEAKNESSES IN ADVANCE
Successful sellers aren’t afraid of a little constructive criticism and expert opinions. A pre-inspection or pre-appraisal, prior to listing your home will provide an objective voice for areas of concerns in your home, including repairs and maintenance needed. Hiring The Poty Group means you’ll get insider access to what repairs and concerns you can address BEFORE you list your home, eliminating many buyer concerns.
weekly and performing about twice a month. With 65 current members, there’s a waiting list to join.
e band’s July 4 performance is part of the Celebration of Freedom from 6 to 10 p.m. inside the Convention Center and Amphitheater at 263 N. Center St. in downtown Mesa.
e band is scheduled to play two sets, one from 6:30 to 7 p.m., followed by a naturalization ceremony. It will then play for about 15 minutes.
is is the first time since 2011 that the band has performed at such a large, public gathering.
Splendoria says she’s been the band secretary “off and on since 2004. I’m hoping it’s not a post that I have to die to get out of,” she said, laughing. She joined in 1989.
She is a percussionist, and it was her bell-playing skill that brought her to the Mesa group. She routinely plays mallets, bells, chimes and the xylophone. When she was 68, she gave up the crash cymbals.
One of the best things about the band, Splendoria said, is it’s become a family.
“We’re not overly competitive; we don’t boot people out. It has always been a band family,” she said.
Band members are passionate about music, Splendoria said.
“Most of the people in the band have played music their whole lives,” she said.
Like many other musicians, she believes that playing keeps her mind active, her brain fresh and fingers nimble, perhaps allowing for a longer life.
At age 86, Hamblin’s been in the band off and on since 1968, occasionally dropping out for personal obligations.
Currently a baritone saxophone player, Hamblin has played the clarinet and tenor sax in the band.
He claims that he’s “not that good” a player, but his wife, Nola, disagrees.
“I love hearing him play,” she said.
e Mesa City Band doesn’t quite fill Hamblin’s music fix. e retired dentist plays in two other bands in the Valley: the Swinging Resorters— “it’s their music, not their lifestyle,” he says—and the Chandler-Gilbert Community College summer band.
“I don’t know anyone who plays in
just one band,” he said.
Irene and Tony Bamrick are among those multiple members.
ey met in 1961 when they were members of the University of Arizona band. Two years later, they were married.
Music has always been a part of their lives. ey’ve been in the Mesa band for a longer consecutive stretch than any other current member, at about 40 years.
Irene is a retired music teacher who cheerfully says that music is the only time both sides of a person’s brain work together, causing happiness.
She joined the band because she wanted to play her flute, instead of simply teaching music.
She plays year-round. During the city band’s off season, she plays at church and in the Chandler-Gilbert Community College summer band.
Tony is also in that community band.
“I probably should practice,” the trumpet player said, “but the only thing you lose is the higher range. If I can’t hit it, I tell (another trumpet player) to hit it.”
Irene said the band is playing tougher music, but degree of difficulty isn’t the point.
“We like to play for the pleasure of our audiences,” she said.
People join the Mesa band for all sorts of reasons, Director Larry Baedke said.
“Some have unfinished business. For some, it’s a break in their day. Some do it for their health, especially those who play wind instruments,” he said.
Assistant Director Chris Perry agrees that the city band provides “a place to play.”
When they come to the band, many members “hadn’t played in years and wanted to resume.”
As long as someone has the right skill set, the band “takes them in and nurtures them.”
e band has had just four directors in its history—Herman Berringer from 1967 until 1972, Clark Smith from 1972 until 1980, Tom Kacere from 1980 until 2006 and Baedke. Baedke was assistant director from 1984 until his promotion.
Performances may be requested at the band’s website: mesacityband.com.
Drum Corps International
By Connor Dziawura
Every summer the sounds of drums echo at venues across the United States and Canada, as percussionists compete in Drum Corps International to advance to the world’s largest marching show in August.
Some of these musicians will perform Tuesday, July 5 at Mesa Community College’s John D. Riggs Stadium in DCI’s “Drums Across the Desert” show.
ese percussionists play with brass sections as members of marching bands in a drum and bugle corps competition of young performing arts students.
styles,” said Dan Acheson, DCI’s executive director. “We’re looking forward to showcasing their talents all summer at competitive events all over the country.”
Delivering 113 shows in 39 states over 54 days, the competition will feature 39 drum corps competing for world championship titles in multiple divisions.
DCI events draw an estimated 400,000 people annually at college campuses across the country. With thousands of high school and college students participating at venues, DCI describes itself as “Marching Music’s Major League.”
Seeking to entertain and educate, these performers play to deliver DCI’s motto—“excellence in performance and in life”—to attendees at an array of venues each year.
“ e outstanding student musicians and performers in all of our drum corps will undoubtedly raise the bar even higher this year with their unmatched creativity and distinctive
e DCI World Championships are scheduled in Indianapolis and Michigan City, Indiana, Aug. 8 -13..
Musicians perform in the “Drums Across the Desert” show at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 5, at John D. Riggs Stadium, 1833 W. Southern Ave., Mesa. Tickets are $15 to $32. Visit www.dci.org for more information.
neighborhood hearsay
I’ll never be an astronaut because I have a phobia that keeps me earthbound: The fear of being lost. I don’t mean getting lost, I mean being lost, as in left behind and abandoned. I couldn’t even watch “Lost in Space” as a child because the title alone scared the willies out of me. There’s so much outer space and so little earth picture a singlecell amoeba in the Pacific Ocean that the chances of one tiny person being somehow misplaced are, well, astronomical.
I totally identified with Matt Damon in “The Martian,” but in my case I wouldn’t know the first thing about how to grow potatoes or how to endure all that disco music, so I’m pretty sure I’d just die.
That doesn’t mean I don’t fantasize about space travel. Looking at art is my favorite way to do so, and as luck would have it, Mesa’s i.d.e.a. Museum, 150 W. Pepper Place, has a summerlong exhibition called “Sci-Fi: Fantasy to Reality.” The show runs through Sept. 11. (For hours and admission prices, go to www.ideamuseum.org.)
An inventor’s lab, a green screen room, a time tunnel and a costume creator will be displayed, according to the museum’s website. Several art, story-creation and building activities focus on your future world, addressing topics including environment, energy sources, transportation, buildings, animals and technology.”
I knew it: time tunnels are real!
If it’s July, this must be Christmas. The old saying “Christmas in July” is a commercial phrase meaning, “It’s time to manufacture the objects we plan to sell in December.” But for the Mesa Chamber of Commerce, it means “it’s always time to think about others.”
The Chamber wants you to contribute now to United Food Bank, 245 S. Nina Dr.; call (480) 926-4897. No reward here, no tricks, just a campaign by businesses to lend a hand.
Get ready, Mesa: you’re about to be colonized. Artspace, a Minneapolisbased non-profit, is set to start construction later this year on a downtown location. What’s Artspace? It’s an artists’ colony that provides
affordable housing and work spaces for artists of all kinds. It will be a 50unit, 71,000-square foot complex located at 155 S. Hibbert. Artists whose income is less than 60 percent of Mesa’s median income will qualify to live and work there. Artspace amassed low-income housing tax credits to help finance the project, the first of its kind in Arizona.
If you’re a fan of the Barefoot Contessa and you don’t yet have your tickets for her appearance at the Mesa Arts Center in November – well, what the heck is holding you back?
Tickets to Ina Garten’s Nov. 15 talk went on sale June 13 and are already reported to be close to sold out. The Emmy Award-winning star of Food Network’s “The Barefoot Contessa” will talk about her popular TV show, about her life in East Hampton, New York, and her newest book (her 10th), “Cooking for Jeffrey: A
Barefoot Contessa Cookbook.”
Jeffrey, for those uninitiated, is Garten’s lucky husband, whose culinary needs are met on a regular and spectacular basis. He’ll be there Nov. 15, too.
Tickets are $41 to $77 at www. mesaartscenter.com for more info.
What’s the buzz in your neighborhood? New babies or grandbabies? Announcements? Engagements? Let us know! Email hearsay@nearbynews.com.
RETIREMENT ENGINEERING WORKSHOP™
WHAT EVERY WORKSHOP ATTENDEE RECEIVES
• 6 hours of interactive classroom instruction
• An in-depth Social Security Benefit Analysis
• Individual workbooks for each day’s workshop
• Comprehensive list of available on line retirement resources
• Recommended reading material
• Fillable budget worksheets
• Guide to Medicare costs and benefits
• List of 8 basic estate planning documents
EACH WORKSHOP CONSISTS OF TWO SESSIONS
Veora Johnson looking back
By Angie Sullivan, Mesa Historical Museum
Veora Johnson was a student at Prairie View College, a segregated school in Texas, when Mesa Public School Superintendent, H.E. Hendricks, recruited her to teach. She came to Mesa in 1927 to begin her teaching career at Booker T. Washington School, a two-room brick building.
In 1945, she became the first AfricanAmerican principal in Mesa. During the next 30 years, she served the school as the first African-American woman in Arizona to hold administration credentials in education.
During her 47 years with the Mesa Public Schools, Johnson held several positions—teacher, principal, curriculum consultant and primary education consultant. She was very involved in her community and was the recipient of many awards including Mesa’s Most Outstanding Citizen (1953) and e World Who’s Who of Women (1974). Her concern for youth led to the establishment of the Veora Erma Johnson Scholarship at Mesa Community college in 1968.
She retired July 1, 1974, and, in 1983, the Veora E. Johnson Elementary School was established at 3807 E. Pueblo Ave. Johnson died in Mesa on Nov. 15, 2001, at the age of 91. Her impact on the school district remains.
Johnson teaches students in one of the school’s two rooms.
Veora Johnson taught at Booker T. Washington School.
Children can learn about ice age at sleepover
By Caity Hemmerle
Children can play games and learn about the ice age at, of all places, a sleepover.
e Arizona Museum of Natural History will host the Ice Age Crash, an overnight program for children 6 to 12 years old with an adult chaperone over 21, on Friday, July 8.
Kathy Eastman, curator of education at AzMNH, said the museum makes events thematic, so it’s an enriched learning experience without the guests participating in a school program.
“We have actual ice age fossils the kids get to interact with, but we present it in a fun and interactive game-like manner, so they can play games, but also be looking at a mammoth’s skeleton,” Eastman said.
Eastman said that the museum has scheduled seasonal overnight events for the last five years, noting that the themes range from dinosaurs, reptiles and even a “Night at the Museum” theme after the movie of the same name.
Once children and chaperones
arrive, they always seem interested in where they can sleep, Eastman said.
“ ey can’t sleep at tops of stairs or in front of bathroom doors or fire exits, but for the most part, they can chose to sleep just about anywhere in the museum.”
It’s interesting to see where and why people choose to sleep, Eastman added.
kids pick out where they’re going to sleep and set up sleeping areas. While they’re doing that, we put out their bedtime snack.”
“People arrive at about 6 p.m. and we do gathering activities until about 6:30 p.m.,” Eastman said. “Depending on the number of people, we divide them into groups of about 20. We try to keep them in small groups.”
Guests then will rotate through several stations, such as ice age animals in the lobby and games in the theater, and they’ll also visit the labs for fossil activities, Eastman said.
“If everything goes according to schedule, between 8:20 to 8:40 p.m., the little ones are getting tired, and everybody’s tired because we’ve had too much fun,” Eastman said. “ e
Eastman said the snack usually consists of hummus, carrots and chips and, because the sleepover is an ice age event, the guests probably have some sort of “ice treat.”
“I’m thinking snow cones would be really good for this event,” Eastman said.
e ticket price ($35 per person for members, $45 for others) also includes a preview screening ticket to “Ice Age: Collision Course.”
Breakfast will be served the following morning.
“We’ll serve fruits, cereal, yogurt and more,” Eastman said. “In the lobby, we have many crafts. Usually the adults drink coffee, and the kids do crafts.”
For information or to register, call the AzMNH at (480) 644-3553 or email AzMNHgroups@mesaaz.gov.
U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Nathan A. Lawson graduated from basic military training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, San Antonio, Texas.
e airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness and basic warfare principles and skills.
Airmen who complete basic training also earn four credits toward an associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force.
Lawson is the son of Michael and Kristin Lawson of Chandler. He is also the brother of Darrick Lawson of Flagstaff, and grandson of Barbara Carlson of Mesa.
e airman graduated in 2011 from Basha High School, and earned an associate degree in 2014 from Mesa Community College.
100 people becoming citizens at July 4 celebration
By Jared McDonald
In a celebration of freedom, 100 people will become citizens at this year’s Republic Services Arizona Celebration of Freedom on July 4.
For the second consecutive year, the event at the Mesa Convention Center, 263 N. Center St., will feature a naturalization ceremony from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.
“A celebration of freedom like this wasn’t a part of the event in the past, but it should be,” said Walt Zimmerman, board member for the Sertoma Club of Mesa.
e naturalization ceremony debuted at last year’s event, and was overflowing with spectators, said Zimmerman. Mayor John Giles and Vice Mayor Dennis Kavanaugh will participate in this year’s ceremony.
e Sertoma Club of Mesa is also sponsoring a 10 question civics test for those interested in how they would fare if they applied for citizenship.
e July 4 Republic Services Arizona Celebration of Freedom will be full of entertainment, live music, patriotic displays, family fun,
fireworks and more. e hours are 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. and it takes place at the Mesa Amphitheatre and Mesa Convention Center, 263 N. Center St., and along Center Street between First Street and University Drive.
“It’s a full family event, made and intended to be a family celebration,” Zimmerman said. “ e educational, patriotic displays and family fun are pieces of the whole celebration.” e festival had 40,000 people attend last year, and 20,000 to 30,000 are expected to attend this year.
“It has it all,” said Lisa Funk, who attended the event last year. “ e kids want to see the fireworks and it’s cool to have them walk around the educational exhibits. ere’s
Chamber endorses public safety, higher education referendum
e Mesa Chamber of Commerce supports the public safety and higher education referendum to be placed before Mesa voters Nov. 8.
Known as Question No. 1, the measure will ask Mesa voters to approve a $.004 local transaction privilege tax, a sales tax, to pay for public safety personnel and equipment and expansion of ASU and Benedictine University in Downtown Mesa.
e tax will raise an estimated $38.4 million per year for public safety ($23.2 million) and higher education ($15.2 million).
If passed, Question No. 1 will help fire station in southeast Mesa and
improve response times by providing funds for additional firefighters and community care units. e revenues will also fund approximately 260,000 square feet of space for ASU and 26,000 additional square feet for Benedictine University. e Chamber recently announced its support of the referendum.
“If approved, this investment will take Mesa to the next level,” said Mesa Chamber President & CEO Sally Harrison. “ e return on the taxpayer investment is nothing short of spectacular. e expanded Benedictine and ASU campuses will bring new economic activity and a young vibe to Downtown Mesa.”
This year’s Republic Services Arizona Celebration of Freedom is expected to draw 20,000 to 30,000 people.
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How to choose a driving school
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By Valerie Vinyard, AAA Arizona
As soon as teens turned driving age, they’d eagerly sign up for driver’s education classes, which usually were held at their high schools.
Well, times have changed. Because of budget cuts, most high schools no longer offer driver education classes, so it’s up to parents and teens to steer their own way forward.
e problem is, there are many driving schools out there, and a fair amount of substandard driving schools exist. It’s easy to make a slick website, but parents should delve deeper before writing a driving school a check.
• Balancing act: Make sure the school offers a balance of classroom and behind-the-wheel education, and doesn’t weigh too much on one side. Arizona teens must spend at least 30 hours driving—10 of those at night— with a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old before they can take the driving test at the Motor Vehicle Division. As a safety advocate, AAA recommends driving at least twice that—60 hours, with 20 hours at night.
• Query friends: Ask licensed peers and their parents for recommendations. ey can provide invaluable insight, and warn you about not-so-great schools.
First, they should decide what they want out of a school. For example, will a school be the sole driving education the teen will receive, or will the parent help, too? In Arizona, parents can choose to teach their teens themselves, but many don’t have the time or patience to do so. Besides, a certified driving instructor is more likely to be up on any new laws and changes in driving.
• See if it’s certified: Schools that are certified by ADTSEA—the American Driver and Traffic Safety Education Association—strive to develop and promote a level of excellence among driver education professionals in the delivery of instruction to the novice driver.
• Dentistry for the whole family
• Now offering evening hours
Parents should expect to help, as a driving school isn’t a silver bullet. Parents need to carve out time to help their teen succeed at driving and to help iron out problems early on.
As an automotive resource, AAA offers five tips on choosing a driving school.
• Check it out: Visit the driving school before deciding to attend. Check out the vehicles they’ll be using for behind-the-wheel sessions. ey don’t need to be brand new, but the cars should be safe and in good shape.
• Ask for references: Sure, a driving school is only going to provide positive references—similar to what job seekers do when they apply at a company, but the questions you ask—and answers you receive—still can provide enough information to tell whether the school will be a good fit.
• Dentistry for the whole family • Now offering evening hours
Mountain View grad overcomes scoliosis, wins scholarship
By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski
Taylor Hall is upbeat. Six months after major surgery at Scottsdale Shea to correct idiopathic scoliosis, the 2016 Mountain View High School graduate is proud of how far she’s come—and of her 18-inch scar.
“I guess you could say it’s gone now,”
Taylor proclaimed about her scoliosis.
“It’s genetic. Nothing really caused it.”
For her spunky attitude and good grades, Taylor was one of two high school graduates to receive this year’s Sonoran Spine Research and Education Foundation scholarship.
freshman year at the U of A to major in creative writing.
e recipients were chosen based on several different criteria including the way their lives have been impacted by a spinal deformity; how they were able to live a productive and functional life in spite of their physical challenges; students’ grade point average and their ability to impact the community through volunteer services.
Both recipients— the other is Mirela Ananieva of Phoenix—have dealt with spinal problems since they were young. Taylor is 2 inches taller since her surgery and is eager to begin her
“Our interest in patients with spinal disorders and spinal deformity doesn’t end with successful treatment,” said Dr. Dennis Crandall, Sonoran Spine founder.
“Our goal is to help assure that our patients have full and functional lives. at is why SSREF established this scholarship fund. We want to assist students who are Arizona residents,
have undergone surgery for, or overcome, a spinal deformity and who want to go to college at one of our top state universities.”
Taylor is ambitious, having graduated from Mountain View at age 17.
“My imagination never left as I grew older and I now have the opportunity to make what has only been in my mind and in my writing a reality.”
But her aspirations don’t stop there. She wants to be a pilot and a journalist as well
“It’s kind of interesting,” she said. “When I tell people I am going to study creative writing, they say, ‘Cool.’
When I tell them ‘pilot,’ they’re like, ‘Wait? What?’
“ ey actually go together more than people realize. ey can be two separate careers or they can be combined. Pilots with college degrees get hired quicker and easier.”
She plans on studying at U of A and, concurrently, taking courses at EmbryRiddle Aeronautical University.
when she turns 19 to go on a mission through e Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
“It’ll be for a year and a half,” she said about the mission. “ ey’ll hold my classes for me. I have the Wildcat Excellence Award scholarship, so I can defer that and, as long as I’m in good standing, I should be able to keep it through my four years.”
e daughter of Trevor and Renee Hall, Taylor moved to the Valley two years ago from California, where she played field hockey on the varsity team as a freshman.
“I love Arizona,” said Taylor, who has two sisters. “I love the weather. I love my friends. I love my family here. I loved my high school.
“It was just perfect that we moved here. Doctors discovered my scoliosis right before I moved. It was quite a blessing because Phoenix has some of the top surgeons in the world.”
She owes her newfound health to Dr. Michael Chang of Sonoran Spine.
Taylor will put her studies on hold
“He was amazing and I owe it all to him,” she said.
Taylor Hall is 2 inches taller since her surgery to correct idiopathic scoliosis.
Dr. Kathryn Orr receives AzVMA’s Distinguished Service Award
Dr. Kathryn Orr, of Bark Avenue Animal Hospital in Mesa, has received the 2016 Arizona Veterinary Medical Association’s Distinguished Service Award.
e award was presented in May at the association’s annual inaugural/awards luncheon at the Desert West Connection at the Hilton El Conquistador Golf and Tennis Resort in Tucson. e award is presented to a veterinarian who has made what the association describes as exceptional contributions to the veterinary community and the profession.
Orr always had a passion for treating exotic animals. After receiving her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from the University of California Davis, School of Veterinary Medicine in 1973, she treated pets and wildlife at the Arizona Humane Society. at desire to help wildlife landed her a coveted position as veterinarian at the Phoenix Zoo where she worked for 20 years. She wanted to nurture wildlife through
Dr. Kathryn Orr, right, accepts the AzVMA Distinguished Service Award from Dr. James Maciulla, immediate past president, at the association’s Desert West Connection.
rehabilitation, and founded Liberty Wildlife to instill compassion and stewardship, and reconnect the public with the beauty and benefits of native wildlife and habitat. She envisioned the organization as a permanent community resource that responds to animal emergencies and provides educational and conservation services.
Orr also volunteers her time to speak at AzVMA events and provides guided tours for veterinarians at the Zoo hospital and the Liberty Wildlife facilities.
Ability360 charity golf tourney to benefit
Ability360 Sports & Fitness Center will kick off its fifth anniversary with the 360 Charity Golf Tournament—a best-ball tournament with a twist—with an 8 a.m. shotgun start on Friday, Sept. 23, at the Longbow Golf Club, 5601 E. Longbow Pkwy. Proceeds will benefit the nonprofit Ability360 Sports& Fitness Center.
e twist: each foursome will include a member of the Ability360 staff, disabled and able-bodied, to talk about the importance and value of inclusion in sports and Abiilty360’s role in providing resources and expertise to help achieve health and fitness goals. Several members of the Ability360 staff are avid and regular golfers who have adapted their disabilities to be able to play the game.
e $200 cost per golfer for the Ability360 Charity Golf tournament includes greens fees, golf cart, range balls, tee gifts and a post-event
reception, which will include a helicopter ball drop for first, second and third place prizes. Event and hole sponsorship opportunities are available.
Register at or by contacting Meghan Fable, director of development, at meghanf@ability360.org.
e Ability360 Sports & Fitness Center is a fully adaptive 45,000-squarefoot, state-of-the-art facility offering a range of equipment, opportunities and professional trainers and staff for able-bodied and disabled persons. e facility includes wheelchair accessible weight machines, an aquatic area equipped with lifts and elevators, accessible locker rooms and more.
Early Childhood Education Task Force presents findings to City Council
Attracting top businesses and quality jobs to Mesa requires a highly educated workforce and that education begins before children reach kindergarten.
To explore ways to ensure Mesa’s children arrive at kindergarten ready and able to learn, Mayor John Giles announced the formation of an Early Childhood Education Task Force in November 2015.
Recently, members of the task force presented their findings to City Council at a study session.
After five months and nearly 500 hours of meetings, tours of existing programs and facilities, research, planning, reviewing and debating, the task force summarized Mesa’s current situation, identified opportunities and came up with a list of recommendations.
Addressing this issue as a community is of the utmost importance because no one agency or organization can meet this need alone.
e recommendations include:
“I want to thank the members of the task force and Councilman David Luna for leading this effort,” Giles said. “It appears we have a lot of work to do and I look forward to helping our youngest residents become successful.”
Research found that 90% of a child’s brain development occurs before kindergarten and that 31,238 children under the age of 5 live in Mesa. Also, 36% of Mesa’s 4 and 5 year olds are enrolled in an early education program compared to 48% nationally.
Cost and availability of programs are areas that require attention. e capacity of Mesa’s existing early childhood education facilities is 14,886 and the annual median cost for these programs is $8,400 while 25% of children under the age of 5 live in poverty.
• Leverage and expand existing assets
• Create equal opportunity and access
• Implement community awareness campaign
• Support at-home early childhood education
“ e City of Mesa has the opportunity to take on a leadership role to help organize community resources and advance early education opportunities and kindergarten readiness for our children,” Luna said.
“I am proud of the work we have done on the Task Force and I look forward to continuing the work to help us take the next steps.”
To read the whole report, visit http://bit.ly/29ciVpK.
After the presentation, City Council asked City Manager Chris Brady to begin developing an implementation plan and report back to City Council.
July 12 is
‘Different Colored Eyes’ day
Mayor John Giles
What’s Missing?
See something missing from the map? We would like to add local landmarks and businesses serving our community. Please email anything you see missing to mapit@nearbynews.com, and we will see that it gets added. Thanks for the help!
East Valley Moms
By Kimberly Hosey
If you’re looking for an indoor adventure as temperatures soar—or to sneak in a bit of learning while your kids are on summer break—Halle Heart Children’s Museum has you covered.
During the summer, the center’s longer hours (9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday) ensure that more visitors will have a chance to take a journey into the circulatory system to see what makes our hearts tick.
Halle Heart Children’s Museum, a program of the American Heart Association, started as the Halle Heart Center in 1996, expanding to a 16,000-square-foot museum in 2011. But until recently, the interactive, kidfriendly museum did not offer regular public hours. A grant from Insight Inc. last year allowed the museum to open to the public. Some may consider it a hidden gem, but more than 35,000 guests visit the Halle Heart Children’s Museum each year.
With an open, airy and colorful design and eight engaging exhibits, the museum makes learning heart health welcoming and entertaining for kids as well as adults. Visitors learn
about everything from the dangers of smoking to exercise and the importance of a balanced diet; as well as how to spot signs that someone is having a stroke or heart attack—and what to do. e museum’s beginnings as a center to educate school groups, teachers and parents about the heart is clear, and it’s translated beautifully into an engaging and fun family outing destination.
e museum is billed as a children’s destination, but with information such as how to perform CPR on an infant and how to plan meals, everyone in the family has something to learn here.
e museum has some striking exhibits (and photo opportunities), among them a giant model of a human heart that greets visitors, surrounded by information about arteries and veins. Life-size models of a giraffe, elephant, zebra and other creatures greet families in the “All Creatures Great and Small” exhibit—with “windows” displaying models of their hearts—that let kids compare heart sizes. You may press a button to learn about each animal and even hear the hearts beat.
What makes the museum perfect for kids—especially younger kids—is
the hands-on nature of it. Kids will love the arts and crafts available, but they also can practice making healthy food choices in the museum’s marketplace. ere, kids “shop” for artificial (but realistic) food items, read food labels, ring out at cash registers, and learn how to plan healthy meals. In the “kitchen,” meal prep takes center stage—and, all the while, kids are setting a foundation for making healthful choices.
e museum stresses eating a balanced diet, making physical activity part of our daily routine and saying no to tobacco—especially smoking, said Programs and Operations Director Claudine M. Wessel. And the museum certainly does that. But the secret to their success is the same as the “secret” to all successful lessons: ey make you want to learn.
Check the museum’s website for special events like their Toddler Test Kitchen cooking series, Little Rhythms Music and Movement classes, Video
Game Olympics and more.
Public hours for self-guided tours are daily during public hours. Admission is $5 for adults and children 4 and older, $4 for guests 62 and older, and free to children 3 and younger.
e museum also offers guided tours, available by appointment only, which meet 18 state curriculum standards for science, health and physical education at the second- and fifth-grade levels.
Crafts, pretend play, sounds, sights and special events such as the signature Toddler Test Kitchen combine in a curriculum that the museum has been offering to school groups for years under the American Heart Association. It now can offer this program to the general public thanks in part to a donation from Insight, which allowed it to install video kiosks.
Oversized displays such as a giant cutaway heart, walls illustrating smooth heart muscle and animals with heart “windows” invite exploration at Halle Heart Children’s Museum in Tempe.
By Jill Pertler
Gardening with the boys
We spent most of the weekend gardening, and I’ve come to an important conclusion. Some people are born with green thumbs. Others, including the guys I live with, are simply all thumbs—and not a one of them is green.
I needed help with mulching. I consider it a heavy task and was hoping to put their muscles to work. ey were more than happy to oblige and their attitudes were terrific. A few minutes after they started, mine was not.
ey lugged the hefty bags with ease, but found it difficult to distribute the mulch without pouring it all over the top of my tender plantings. ey were so effusive in their work they covered entire plants with the mulch, leaving me to dig for leaves so my plant friends could live to see another day. When I admonished them about
being careful around the plants, they gave me a serious look and then went about their business—of covering more plants with mulch.
And then it started to sprinkle. An extremely light, barely tangible, you’dhardly-notice-it sprinkle. I was in the front yard—working. My hair was a bit damp, but the precipitation was miniscule. Refreshing, actually, if you were sweating. Which I was.
I finished my task and walked over to where the boys were supposed to be busy mulching. Not a one was in sight. I wasn’t buying the disappearing act and went in the house. ere they were: on the couch in front of the TV. Without a smidgen of guilt, they announced they were on a “rain delay.” My jaw clenched and I refrained from saying something I might later regret. My attitude remained far from terrific.
I went outside to continue “our” work. On the way, I shut the door in a non-gentle fashion. I hoisted one of the mulch bags over my shoulder and placed it in position. I opened the bag and poured, pure adrenaline pulsing through my veins. By the time I grabbed a second bag, they had joined me in the backyard, obviously knowing their very own supper most likely hinged on their helping me in a loving manner.
I said nothing, but accepted their “help.”
My boys have big muscles, but they also have big feet, and this was never so obvious as when they attempted to tiptoe through a freshly planted bed whereby the plants themselves seemed to attract those monstrous feet like a magnet. Squish. Some of those unfortunate plants didn’t stand a chance under my son’s 12DD. ey displayed an absolute inability to discern a weed from a wanted plant. To their credit, this often takes people years of practice, but after they pulled
up the fourth (blooming) pansy, I requested they withhold their “help” in this area. Not sure yet if the pansies will make it. My fingers are crossed.
To be honest, they do their best. And they are interested and engaged— in their own way. Last year we grew cayenne peppers—of the heatedly hot variety. My boys were keenly fascinated—in determining who could eat the most peppers without throwing up. I won’t divulge here who won, but it’s safe to say this will probably be an annual contest.
At least it will continue this year. e cayenne pepper plant is one of the few they didn’t stomp on or cover with mulch. True story.
Jill Pertler is an award-winning syndicated columnist, published playwright, author and member of the National Society of Newspaper Columnists. Don’t miss a slice; follow the Slices of Life page on Facebook.
around the neighborhood
The Arizona Museum of Natural History hosted Prehistoric Preschool, a morning camp for 4- and 5-year-old children, throughout the month of June. Topics varied each week. The Mighty Monsters camp focused on the size of dinosaurs, including the giant ones. The camp included crafts and a special interactive learning circle.
Photos by Will Powers
1. Nathan Davies-Venn assembles a puzzle. 2. Participants point to dinosaurs displayed at the facility. 3. Amber Shepard discusses and shows a dinosaur skull to the children. 4. Ruby Olsen applies her artistic skills. 5. James Parra matches dinosaurs in a game.. 6. The kids are led around the museum, pretending to be dinosaurs. 7. The kids point to a reconstruction of what dinosaur life may have looked like. 8. The children inspect fossils to determine which tooth is big, bigger and biggest. 9. The museum showcases dinosaur and fish fossils. 10. Rylee Foster applies her artistic skills to a dinosaur drawing.
10 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
navigating parenthood
By Eva Dwight, B.A. MaEd.
Taking care of yourself will help you relax and face challenges
When you fly on an airplane, flight attendants instruct you on what to do if oxygen levels drop inside the plane. e little yellow masks will drop down. Attendants direct you to put on your mask before helping your children with theirs. Why? It’s hard to help your children breathe when you can’t breathe yourself.
Off the plane, the same message holds true. It’s hard to take care of your children when you aren’t taking care of yourself.
Life can be hectic. Just when you think you have the routine of raising kids down, something disrupts it. You wonder how you can keep up and manage your children’s needs, and then you read a headline about the importance of self-care. You say to yourself: “Yeah, right. Who’s got time
for that?”
It’s important to find the time, even if it’s only 30 minutes a day. Here are some suggestions to consider:
Make Friends
Make friends with other parents at your child’s preschool or your church, or through social media. Meetup.com offers several events and gatherings for parents to connect. Start with play dates until you’re comfortable that your child will be safe in the other parent’s care, and then take turns watching each other’s children so both of you can take some down time.
Hire a babysitter
If you’re uncomfortable about trusting a teen, start by hiring them to play with your kids while you’re
at home, so you get an impression of how well they can manage. Once you’re comfortable with their skills, you can venture out for childless grocery shopping or a movie date with your spouse.
30 minutes of quiet
You and your spouse can agree to give the other 30 minutes of quiet, private time three times a week. When one of you takes that quiet time, the other manages the kids.
Recharge
Don’t allow yourself to be swayed by the “it’s faster to do it myself” argument. In the long run, you’ll save yourself time because once the kids learn how to help out, you’ll enjoy a yoga video in the other room without interruption.
Set priorities, and make sure you’re at the top of the list. A clean house is lovely, but your kids won’t notice if the tables are dusty. Take the time you normally spend on a chore, and use it on an activity to help recharge your batteries.
Assign chores
Teach your children to do whatever they can to help with the workload.
Self-care really is a necessary part of every parent’s life. When you’re highly stressed and overwhelmed, you can’t be the parent you want to be and your family life will suffer. Set an example with balance in your own life so that your children will learn that important skill from you, too.
Reach for that “oxygen mask” and put it on daily!
Eva Dwight is a parent, family and personal coach. For information, go to www.creativecoachingconversations. com.
top 10 family events
July 2016
Ice Age: Collision Course
Enjoy an exciting sleepover at the museum. This special overnight camp celebrates the opening of “Ice Age: Collision Course” and includes a free ticket to the movie.
WHEN: Friday, July 8 at 6 p.m. to Saturday, July 9 at 9 a.m.
WHERE: Arizona Museum of Natural History, 53 N. Macdonald, Mesa
COST: $45
INFO: (480) 644-2230 or arizonamuseumofnaturalhistory.org
Arizona Celebration of Freedom
Celebrate Independence Day with fireworks, live music and many family activities.
WHEN: Monday, July 4, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
WHERE: Mesa Amphitheatre, 263 N. Center St., Mesa
COST: Free INFO: www.azcelebrationoffreedom.org
Winter in July
The Phoenix Zoo will stay cool this July with live music and over 50 tons of snow.
WHEN: Saturday, July 16, from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m.
WHERE: The Phoenix Zoo, 455 N. Galvin Pkwy., Phoenix
COST: Call or visit website for ticket information
INFO: (602) 286-3800 or www.phoenixzoo.org
Mesa Community Farmers Market
Come enjoy fresh produce, baked goods, jams and other delicious treats.
WHEN: Each Friday in July, from 9 a.m to 12 p.m.
WHERE: City Hall Plaza, 20 E. Main St., Mesa
COST: Free admission, produce for sale INFO: www.arizonafarmersmarkets.com
The World of Giant Insects
See some of the world’s coolest insects constructed larger than life at the Arizona Science Center. Insects include a Chinese praying mantis and a lime swallowtail caterpillar.
WHEN: Daily in July, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
WHERE: Arizona Science Center, 600 E. Washington St., Phoenix COST: General admission plus $6 INFO: (602) 716-2000 or www.azscience.org
MIMkids Mini Music Makers
Kids can explore music from around the world at this four-week session.
WHEN: Every Thursday from July 7 to July 28, various times
WHERE: Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix COST: $12
INFO: (480) 245-6962 or www.mim.org
Old Macdonald
The great sing-along story of a famous farmer and his beloved animals
WHEN: Wednesday through Saturday, June 22 through July 10, various times
WHERE: Great Arizona Puppet Theater, 302 W. Latham St., Phoenix COST: $7 to $10
INFO: (602) 262-2050 or www.azpuppets.org
Legoland Discovery Center
The indoor family attraction, ideal for children ages 3 to 10, features two Lego rides, 4-D cinema and a large soft-play area.
WHEN: Ongoing
WHERE: Legoland Discovery Center at Arizona Mills, 5000 S. Arizona Mills Circle, Suite 135, Tempe
COST: $22; free for 2 and younger INFO: http://bit.ly/23g1lpo
Arizona Sea Life Aquarium
Come see the aquarium’s new resident, a blue-spotted whiptail stingray.
WHEN: Ongoing
WHERE: Arizona Sea Life Aquarium, 5000 S. Arizona Mills Circle, Suite 145, Tempe
COST: $10.50 for tickets purchased online
INFO: (877) 526-3960 or www.visitsealife.com/arizona
Family Fun Day
Learn about contemporary art with the museum’s new exhibition, “Crafting the Collection.”
WHEN: Saturday, July 9, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
WHERE: ASU Art Museum, 51 E. 10th St., Tempe
COST: Free
INFO: (480) 965-2787 or www.asuartmuseum.asu.edu
Student Chronicles
Know a Mesa student who’s doing something remarkable? Send items for Student Chronicles to christina@timespublications.com.
Sarah Kocher achieved a minimum GPA of 3.5 during the spring semester to earn a spot on the dean’s list at Hofstra University, a private university with 11,000 students. Students can choose from undergraduate and graduate offerings in liberal arts and sciences, business, engineering and applied science, communication, education, health sciences, human services, law, nursing and medicine. Hofstra was named to the 2014 President’s Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll.
Bailey Severson earned honor roll distinction for the fall 2015 semester at the University of Kansas. Severson, enrolled in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, received the distinction with undergraduates who meet requirements in that college and in the schools of Architecture, Design & Planning; Business; Education; Engineering; Health Professions; Journalism; Music; Nursing; Pharmacy and Social Welfare. Honor roll criteria vary among the university’s academic units. Some schools honor the top 10 percent of students enrolled, some establish a minimum GPA and others raise the minimum GPA for each year students are in school. Students must complete a minimum number of credit hours to be considered for the honor roll.
Maryville University in St. Louis named Connor Markell to the dean’s list for the spring semester at Maryville University in St. Louis. Undergraduate students are eligible for the list when they complete at least 12 Maryville University credit hours in a semester with a minimum of a 3.5 GPA. Founded in 1872, Maryville University is a private institution with an enrollment of more than 6,400 students. Maryville offers more than 90 degrees at the undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral levels.
Daniel Carter received a Bachelor of Arts in Art from Williams College at the college’s commencement in June. Founded in 1793, Williams is an undergraduate, residential, privately endowed liberal arts college. With his graduation, Carter joins more than 28,000 alumni as a member of the college’s alumni society.
Stacy Breckenridge received a Master of Science in Insurance Management from Boston University. Founded in 1839, Boston University is an internationallyrecognized institution of higher education and research. Consisting of 16 schools and colleges, BU offers students more than 250 programs of study in science and engineering, social science and humanities, health science, the arts, and other professional disciplines. With more than 33,000 students, BU is the fourth-largest private university in the country.
Saint Mary’s College named Alyssa Santos to the dean’s list for the spring 2016 semester. To earn academic honors at Saint Mary’s, a student must achieve a GPA of at least 3.6 on a 4.0 scale, have at least 12 graded credit hours, no incompletes and no grades lower than a C. Saint Mary’s College, in Notre Dame, Indiana, is a fouryear, Catholic, residential, women’s liberal arts college offering five bachelor’s degrees and more than 30 major areas of study, such as business, nursing, art, chemistry and social work.
Springfield College has named Miranda Krause to the dean’s list for academic excellence for the spring term. Krause is studying health science and pre-physical therapy.
she’s crafty
By Erica Odello
Candles from coffee grounds
As a devotee of the morning coffee ritual, imagine how happy I was when I ran across instructions to turn used coffee grounds into a candle? is takes upcycling to a whole new level!
You will need: 12 to 16 ounces of dry, used coffee grounds, a 2-pound bag of granulated soy wax, three to four glass containers (preferably salvaged from jelly or even spent candles), pack of waxed wicks, pencils, Ziploc bags, silicone oven mitt, ribbons, etc.
Step 1
Set a medium-sized pot of water to boil. Fill a Ziploc bag 2/3 full with granulated soy wax and seal. When the water boils, place the bag in the pot.
Step 2
Set out some newspaper, then place the glass containers close to each other on the paper surface. Put a wick in each candle. Hold in place by wrapping the wick around a pencil and resting across the top of the container. Spread 1/4 inch of coffee grounds inside each candleholder.
Step 3
When the bag of wax has melted in the boiling water, use the silicone oven mitt to remove it from the pot. Hold one of the zipped corners so the bag hangs at an angle over the first glass container. Cut the tip of the lowest corner and allow 1 inch of wax
to drain into the container. Quickly move the bag to the next container, following the same procedure until all of your containers have 1 inch of wax in the bottom. Allow the wax to solidify, either by leaving it out or placing the jars in the refrigerator. When solidified, sprinkle another 1/4 inch of grounds over the layer of wax. Melt another bag of wax in the boiling water, and repeat the filling process, alternating layers and solidification, until the containers are filled to the top. Sprinkle a small amount of grounds over the last layer of wax after it has partially solidified.
Step 4
Scrape any dripped wax off of the outsides of the glass jars and use ribbons, burlap or other materials to decorate the outside of the jars.
Notes: Unfortunately, the coffee grounds do not emit the delicious scent of freshly brewed coffee when the candle burns, so it might be worth it to add some coffee-scented candle oil to the wax bag before it boils. I have tried to melt down old, used candles, or dollar store candles, to remake new ones in the past, and the wax dries very strangely with holes in the middle. It’s worth the extra money to buy the soy wax granules at the craft store.
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Julie Tillman
“From the time I am greeted at the door by the most professional and likable front office person I have ever met. Knowledgeable staff provided excellent care and customer service. It’s great to find such an excellent dental practice.”
Elizabeth Perry
“I had a crown and a filling done. I am very pleased with the result and overall very impressed with Smile Dental Care. Everyone I met is very professional and most of all very nice and friendly. Never felt more comfortable going to the dentist!”
Diana Reed
Flinn Scholars share academic plans, dream jobs
Special to the Nearby News Westwood High School graduates
Maeve Kennedy, Ivette Montes and Andrew Roberts join Skyline High School’s Toni Marcheva as the district’s 2016 Flinn Scholars.
With three scholars, Westwood is the only school in Arizona to have more than one this year. Kennedy, Montes and Roberts, Westwood International Baccalaureate students, will be attending Barrett, the Honors College at ASU. Marcheva will attend U of A. Flinn Scholars receive free tuition, and room and board at Arizona public universities. ey’ve also won prizes including a three-week summer seminar in China, funds to study overseas and faculty mentoring. Each student discussed what they plan to study and their dream jobs.
Maeve Kennedy
Westwood High School
I plan to major in chemical engineering and minor in Chinese. My dream job
would be to address environmental concerns through engineering, possibly focusing on battery disposal and energy storage.
Toni Marcheva
Skyline High School
I will study PPEL, which is politics, philosophy, economics and law. I’m also interested in studying several languages (like Russian and Spanish) and creative writing for fun. My dream job isn’t exactly set. Law interests me, and I love learning the languages and cultures of other countries. at may translate into a job as an ambassador, but I’m excited to see where college will lead me.
Ivette Montes
Westwood High School
I am majoring in mechanical engineering. My dream job is to lead projects at an innovative engineering company surrounded by diverse people.
Andrew Roberts
Westwood High School
I will double major in electrical engineering and supply chain management. My dream job is to be CEO of a cutting-edge energy technologies company.
More than 3,500 students graduated
in May from Dobson, Mesa, Mountain View, Red Mountain, Skyline, Westwood and East Valley Academy high schools. e class of 2016 was offered more than $81 million in scholarships, grants, loans and other awards.
Happy Independence Day
Maeve Kennedy Toni Marcheva Ivette Montes Andrew Roberts
Lyle Lovett, Ina Garten highlight Mesa Arts Center season
e Mesa Arts Center’s 2016-17 season will feature musical artists ranging from Lyle Lovett to Jackson Browne, science highlighted by the National Geographic Live speaker series and cooking with Ina Garten.
Hitting the stage
Lyle Lovett & His Large Band will kick off the season with a performance Tuesday, July 12. e Grammy Award winning artist is multi-talented, with a career that spans 14 albums. Jackson Browne, who has been credited with defining a genre of songwriting all his own, plays Friday, Aug. 19. Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox brings an ability to take a pop hit and twist it into a vintage-flavored songbook standard from the last century—a style that has launched them into YouTube infamy on Sunday, Nov. 27.
Explore the world
e National Geographic Live speaker series exposes rarely seen perspectives through experiences of scientists, explorers, photographers and filmmakers.
Audiences can go on assignment to the world’s most dangerous conflict zones with Pulitzer Prize winning photojournalist Lynsey Addario Wednesday, Oct. 19. Hear “the Night Sky Guy” Andrew Fazekas as he moderates a discussion Wednesday, Nov. 16 with experts from the forthcoming book and TV series about Mars. Follow diver and environmental anthropologist Kenny Broad when he talks about “ e Risky Science of Exploration” in his presentation of recounted adventures and misadventures Wednesday, Feb.
events calendar
July 2016
Mesa Farmers Market
Fresh produce, baked goods, jams and jellies, salsas, spices, natural pork, beef and fish, hand-made craft products, lotions and soaps. Located near downtown Mesa and cafes.
WHEN: Fridays, from 9 a.m. to noon
WHERE: 20 E. Main St., Mesa
COST: Free admission
INFO: (623) 848-1234 or www.arizonafarmersmarkets.com
Andy Black
Andy Black, a singer, pianist and former member of the Black Veil Brides, will be stopping by the Nile Theater on his The Homecoming Tour. His latest hit, “We Don’t Have to Dance,” has garnered over 11 million views on YouTube
WHEN: Friday, July 1, at 6:30 p.m.
WHERE: Nile Theater, 105 W. Main St., Mesa
COST: $19
INFO: (480) 559-5859 or www.niletheater-v2.ticketfly.com
Republic Services Arizona Celebration of Freedom
From the Fallen Heroes Memorial to the display of military vehicles and inflatable replicas of historical landmarks, this Independence Day celebration offers patriotic displays, activities and programs to pay tribute and honor our nation’s freedom.
1. Paleoanthropologist Lee Berger closes out the series Wednesday, March 29 with “ e Mystery of Our Human Story,” and one of the greatest fossil discoveries of the past half century—Homo Naledi.
Recipes, movies and stories
Ina Garten, author of nine e New York Times bestselling cookbooks and host of the Emmy and James Beard award-winning “Barefoot Contessa Back to Basics” show on Food Network, is coming to Mesa Tuesday, Nov. 15. Birdman: Film and Live Drum Score will offer a live screening of the 2015 Oscar winner for Best Picture, accompanied by jazz drummer Antonio Sanchez Saturday, Feb. 25. Acclaimed author Neil Gaiman will take the stage Saturday, April 1, to tell and read his
WHERE: The Underground, 105 W. Main St., Mesa
COST: $10
INFO: (480) 834-3709 or www.niletheater-v2.ticketfly.com
stories, answer questions and in his own words, “amaze, befuddle and generally delight.”
Dinosaur puppets featured Erth’s Dinosaur Zoo, a full stage show featuring nearly life-sized dinosaur puppets, will return to Mesa ursday, Oct. 6, to Saturday, Oct. 8. e national touring Broadway production of “Annie” will be performed Saturday, Jan. 14. e season also includes four, free, family-friendly and all-ages, handson festivals between September and March.
ese shows and over 40 other events are on sale now at Mesa Arts Center, One E. Main St. For more information, visit www. mesaartscenter.com or call (480) 644-6500.
American music in a career that spans 14 albums. With his gift for storytelling, the Texas-based musician fuses elements of Americana, swing, jazz, folk, gospel and blues.
WHEN: Tuesday, July 12, at 7:30 p.m.
KOOL Zones, sponsored by KOOL-FM, feature giant misting fans.
WHEN: Monday, July 4, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
WHERE: Mesa Amphitheatre and Mesa Convention Center, 263 N. Center St., Mesa COST: Free INFO: (480) 644-2069 or www.azcelebrationoffreedom.org
Open Mic Night
Perfect for local musicians looking to meet other musicians or just showcase their skills, Open Mic Night also features the band Rocksmith. Bring an instrument, use one of the instruments supplied by Milano Music, or just enjoy the music.
WHEN: Tuesday, July 5, from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
WHERE: Desert Eagle Brewing Company, 150 W Main St., Mesa COST: Free INFO: (480) 656-2662 or www.deserteaglebrewing.com
Moon Tooth
This new band, a project of friends Nick Lee and Ray Marte, brings explosive and energized metal music to the stage. Moon Tooth’s latest album, “Chromaparagon” fuses rock, metal and blues into an explosion of melody and rhythm
WHEN: Wednesday, July 6, at 7 p.m.
Slightly Stoopid
Enjoy this band’s classic skatepunk/ reggae acoustic sound. The band’s craft has evolved throughout the band’s recording of 12 albums. “Meanwhile…Back at the Lab,” the band’s latest album, appeals to new and old fans.
WHEN: Thursday, July 8, at 5:30 p.m.
WHERE: Mesa Amphitheatre, 263 N. Center St., Mesa
COST: $35 to $102
INFO: (480) 644-2560 or www.mesaamp.com
King Lil G
Despite his turbulent and troubled past, King Lil G is an advocate of hope and a skilled storyteller. His take on hip-hop has old-school appeal, reminiscent of his idols and ’90s icons. He takes this popular sound and style and alters it for a modern audience, enabling him to convey his messages and music to younger ears.
WHEN: Saturday, July 9, at 7:00 p.m.
WHERE: Nile Theater, 105 W. Main St., Mesa
COST: $20
INFO: (480) 834-3709 or www.niletheater-v2.ticketfly.com
An Evening With Lyle Lovett and His Large Band
A singer, composer and actor, Lyle Lovett has redefined the definition of
WHERE: Ikeda Theater, One E. Main St., Mesa
COST:$48 to $78
INFO: (480) 644-6500 or www.mesaartscenter.com
An Evening With Jill Scott
This three-time Grammy-award winning singer and songwriter brings her rhythm-and-blues, neo soul, and jazz-infused grooves to the stage. After her newly released album “Woman” opened on the music charts at No. 1, her 2015 Summer tour sold out quickly.
WHEN: Monday, July 25, at 8 p.m.
WHERE: Ikeda Theater, One E. Main St., Mesa
COST:$60 to $200 INFO: (480) 644-6500 or www.mesaartscenter.com
Boz Scaggs
This Grammy-award winning artist’s most well-known accomplishments span a career dating back to the ’60s with the Steve Miller Band and solo triumphs with classic albums “Silk Degrees” and “Middle Man.”
WHEN: Tuesday, July 26, at 7:30 p.m.
WHERE: Ikeda Theater, One E. Main St., Mesa
COST: $39.50 to $72.50 INFO: (480) 644-6500 or www.mesaartscenter.com
on the town
By Kathy Kerby
Mellow Mushroom
Stone-baked Southern pizza comes to Mesa
For several months, curious motorists have driven past a new building taking shape on Stapley Drive, just south of U.S. 60, and probably wondered what business was opening at that location.
e Mellow Mushroom, creators of hand-baked, stone-baked classic Southern pizza, opened its fifth location in Arizona there in May. e restaurant chain was founded in Georgia in 1974. Its mission: “to provide delicious food in a fun and creative environment.”
My husband Lou and I visited on a recent Friday night to try this innovative establishment.
As we walked in, we enjoyed the quirky décor with art, statues and fantastic lighting inside the massive dining room. A large wrap-around patio cools customers with misters, and is visible through the large windows
on the south and west sides of the building. A state-of-the-art kitchen takes up nearly the entire east wall.
Our server, Javier, handed us the 14page menu with a cover that promotes the restaurant’s specialty with the phrase “nothing gets you high like a slice of pizza pie.”
Each page listed munchies, salads, pizza pies, calzones, gluten-free pies, sandwiches, burgers and desserts along with calories for each respective dish A separate bar list highlighted beer selections. e menu entertains with pictures, crazy names and several custom choices.
We started with pretzel bites ($4.99). e signature mellow dough is cut into bite-sized pieces, topped with garlic butter and parmesan and served with a side of marinara and a side of beercheese dip. Next came the enlightened
spinach salad ($5.49) with a tasty mix of fresh spinach, dried cherries, apples, candied pecans, feta and a drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette.
e great white pizza ($12.19 for a small) was spectacular with sun-dried tomatoes, provolone, feta, ricotta, mozzarella, basil, roma tomatoes and onions. e crust was mostly thin with a thick, doughy pillow on the outside edge.
Lou’s carne pub burger ($9.99) was a perfect stack of black Angus beef, Swiss cheese, caramelized onions, garlic aioli, romaine lettuce, tomatoes and pickle chips on a grilled brioche bun. e Southern roots of Mellow Mushroom were evident in the side of roasted red potato chunks rather than the traditional French fries.
Khris, one of several managers, visited our table several times to see if everything was going well. She encouraged us to try one of the famous cookies for dessert. e name of the “Dude’s psychedelic cookie sundae” ($4.50) says it all and with a choice of peanut butter, oatmeal raisin and triple chocolate chunk, we had to make
another difficult decision. e giant house-baked chocolate chunk cookie was served with vanilla bean ice cream, dark chocolate truffle sauce, fresh whipped cream and a cherry on top.
Mellow Mushroom lives up to the hype with a selection of delicious food and wonderful service from a young, hip wait staff. We hope to return to try dishes with hip names like the Holy Shitake and the Magical Mystery Tour pizzas.
Diners can choose to select one of the restaurant’s signature pizzas or an Angus beef burger.
What’s Cooking?
By Jan D’Atri
Potato Chip Picnic Cookies
ey’re one of the best cookies ever to come from a bag of potato chips and they’re absolutely the perfect treat to pack for a summer picnic.
Just don’t blame me if you can’t stop eating them. I’m having a hard enough time keeping away from them myself.
If you like pecan sandies, or any cookie that sort of melts in your mouth, these delicate yet heartyflavored potato chip picnic cookies are going to win you over. is heritage recipe comes from Kammy Orner of Phoenix. It’s a cookie that brings back the most loving memories of her Grandma Estelle and the cookie tin that was waiting for Kammy whenever she would visit.
“I would go see Grandma Estelle and she had this special cookie tin that came out of the cabinet and, oh boy, was I in for a treat,” Kammy said.
“All of her cookies were good, but once she found out how much I loved
the potato chip cookies, she would make them whenever she knew I was coming over. We used to sit and talk about her work. Grandma Estelle was a nurse at ASU and a diehard Sun Devils fan. She was from Wisconsin and passed away in 2003. I had asked her for years for the recipe for the cookies and one day on a visit after my grandfather had passed away, we were sitting at the kitchen table having tea and cookies she gave me the hand-written recipe. It’s a very special treasure.”
Kammy heard me talking on the radio about how much I love family recipes and stories. She said it brought a smile to her face and she decided that the greatest honor she could give her Grandma Estelle is to pass along her delicious potato chip cookie recipe for all of us to enjoy. I’m so glad you did, Kammy. Will we love Grandma Estelle’s potato chip cookies? I’d say it’s in the bag!
Potato Chip Picnic Cookies
(Makes about 28-30 cookies)
1/2 pound butter or margarine
(2 sticks)
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 1/4 cups flour
1 cup crushed plain potato chips, salted 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
Powdered sugar for sprinkling on top
In a mixing bowl with electric beater, cream butter or margarine. Slowly add sugar and beat until light in color and texture. Gradually add flour. Add crushed potato chips and nuts, blending well. Chill dough for about 30 minutes or until firm enough to shape. Shape into balls, approximately 1 to 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on slightly greased or
Flatten cookie with fork dipped in cold water. Keep dough chilled until ready to bake. Bake at 325 degrees for 17-20 minutes or until slightly browned. When cookies are cool, sift powdered sugar over top.
cookie sheet.
Jan’s Notes: To crush potato chips, place in mini-food processor or roll over the bag of chips with rolling pin until finely ground.
law talk
By Brian D. Strong
State removes disparity in DUI misdemeanors
As a former police officer turned defense attorney, I have represented in every county in Arizona numerous clients facing misdemeanor and felony DUI charges.
Some clients fixate on possible jail time. Others are troubled by the obnoxious fines and fees. But every DUI client wants to know exactly how his or her driver’s license will be affected by the DUI case. e question I am often asked is: “Why will my license be revoked for a full year when my friend/sister/co-worker/cousin/ great-grandmother only got a 30-day suspension?”
In Arizona, a first-time misdemeanor DUI conviction, related solely to alcohol use, will bring a 90-day license suspension. If that person has a clean driving record, then he or she can get a restricted work permit 31 days later, so in reality, the suspension is only 30 days of no driving. at contrasts sharply with a first-time misdemeanor DUI drug conviction (regardless of the drug), which revokes that’s person’s driver’s license for a full year. Individuals with DUI drug convictions currently are not permitted to obtain a restricted work permit.
A DUI drug conviction means 365 consecutive days of no driving at all. Period.
is obvious disparity in driver’s license sanctions never made much sense to me and has bewildered most of my clients facing drug-related DUI convictions. If
the criminal statutes, prosecutors and judges all treat a DUI alcohol case exactly like a DUI drug case, then why should a person’s driver’s license be suspended or revoked so differently? e short answer to this question has always been “because the lawmakers said so.” e one-year revocation is specifically required by Arizona law.
Finally, the Arizona legislature has seen fit to rectify this historical inequality.
Although it will not become effective until Jan. 1, 2017, recent amendments to state law will remove the one-year revocation for DUI drug convictions. Beginning next year, first-time misdemeanor DUI license suspension sanctions will be exactly the same length of time regardless of the substance used by the driver.
Although lawmakers finally fixed one quirk in the Arizona criminal traffic code, actively defending a DUI case still involves a keen understanding of legal and scientifically complex issues. Our attorneys have vast experience in helping clients through the nightmare that is the DUI realm. If you need help, call us today at (480) 833-2341.
Brian D. Strong, is a senior associate at Rowley Chapman & Barney. He practices criminal defense law and represents clients all over Arizona. He graduated from Utah State University with a bachelor’s degree in 1987 and received his Juris Doctor from Brigham Young University in 1990.
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