Discover Mesa 2016-2017

EDUCATION

HEALTH CARE

SHOPPING

RECREATION

ARTS

TOURISM

CHURCHES

DINING

mesa discover

A.T. Still University is the founding institution of osteopathic healthcare preparing skilled and compassionate graduates to address the whole person through its residential and online doctoral, master’s and certificate programs. Find out more and take your place at the forefront of whole person healthcare. Campus locations in Mesa, Arizona, Kirksville, Missouri, and online.

Ryan Brown, Zac Reynolds, Sheree Kamenetsky, Lou Lagrave, Terry Davenport, Jane Meyer, Woody Rogers, T.J. Higgins, Kimberly James

NO

AND OPINIONS PRINTED IN

ARE THOSE OF THE CONTRIBUTORS AND NOT NECESSARILY THOSE OF TIMES PUBLICATIONS OR ITS ADVERTISERS.

Publisher’s NOTE

There’s no better time than now to discover Mesa.

It’s not the sleepy-eyed city that time forgot when we entered the 21st century.

It is becoming the dynamic municipality you would expect the 38th largest city in the nation to be. It’s cultural, educational, commercial and industrial institutions are pulsing with vibrancy.

And yet, Mesa also remains true to its agricultural roots: it is a friendly, safe and welcoming place to raise a family. Here, people have neighbors, not just people who live next door.

It produces civic-minded leaders and engaged citizens who aren’t afraid to offer a

helping hand to those in need. Volunteerism is in its DNA.

The difference now is that Mesa is not only a good place to live, but a good place to visit and explore.

Its museums and other cultural landmarks such as the Mesa Arts Center, its burgeoning restaurant and entertainment scene, its shopping opportunities—all beckon people to come and discover Mesa.

We hope this publication gives you a peek at why.

And while no publication can replace experiencing this renaissance city in the desert, we think it offers plenty of reasons to come and discover Mesa.

Here in Mesa, it’s all about what’s next note mesa mayor

Whatever your next adventure may be, business opportunity, cultural exploration or house hunting expedition—make sure Mesa is on your itinerary.

Mesa is surrounded by the boundless beauty of the Sonoran Desert. Mesa boasts an assortment of lifestyle and leisure pursuits for residents and visitors alike.

In Mesa, you will find the largest arts and cultural complex in the Southwest, shopping at every turn, delectable locally-owned restaurants and an award-winning collection of golf courses and premier hotels.

As the third largest city in Arizona, Mesa is an urban desert retreat, where landscapes are legendary and its deep-rooted agricultural heritage still shines.

In March, Mesa is the center of the spring training universe. This year, we

welcome the 2016 World Series champion Chicago Cubs home to Sloan Park for the most anticipated spring training season since they began training in Mesa more than 50 years ago. Last year, the Chicago Cubs broke their single-game attendance record at Sloan Park and this year will be no exception.

The Oakland A’s continue to be a huge draw to Hohokam Stadium with their more intimate spring training stadium with easy access to players. They recently doubled their spring training game attendance.

Mesa is the perfect place for fun and taking in a game, but we also excel at getting down to business. Mesa offers a diverse and sustainable economy with a talented and educated workforce. We have a business-friendly environment that welcomes partnerships between government and industry. As innovators, we are always considering next-generation technologies

and products as economic opportunities.

Since breaking ground on the first light rail extension in downtown Mesa in 2012, more than $100 million has been invested in economic development projects along the line. On Oct. 15, we doubled down on light rail and broke ground on a 1.9-mile extension to Gilbert Road that is expected to open in late 2018. Light rail is not only a good transportation tool but is also great for economic development. Our downtown is becoming the next Valley hot spot and there are many great places looking to locate in the heart of our city.

We are all about building the “NextMesa”—celebrating success while pursuing what’s next. So, if you are considering business or pleasure—give Mesa a closer look and you just might be surprised!

John Giles Mesa Mayor

Preschool

TIMES PUBLICATIONS STAFF

he Mesa Chamber of Commerce is the voice of business in Mesa.

mesa greetings Mesa Chamber is the voice of business in the city

TNot only does the chamber promote business and businesses, it is heavily involved in supporting the community to make Mesa the place to not only prosper, but to get an education and raise a family.

A few examples of how chamber involvement has shaped the community include:

• On July 16, 1941, citizens of the then-small city of Mesa gathered for the groundbreaking ceremonies at what a newspaper trumpeted as the “two great air bases.” The words were prophetic as one site became Williams Field, then Williams Air Force Base, and now Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport.

• The other site became Falcon Field where British pilots trained during World War II. Today, it is one of the nation’s bus-

from the Chamber of Commerce

The Mesa chamber joined with Mesa United Way and the city to help develop Sloan Park, the Chicago Cubs’ new spring training home.

iest general aviation airports. Together they launched Mesa into the age of aviation.

• The Mesa Chamber of Commerce, led by then-President George Cornforth and Secretary William Menhennet, played a major role in encouraging our nation’s leaders to build on both airfield sites, according to information from the Mesa Historical Museum.

• When the Chicago Cubs began expressing the need for a new spring training facility around 2010, the chamber joined with Mesa United Way and the city to help develop Sloan Park, the team’s new spring training home. The chamber also worked with the city in getting the Oakland A’s to move their spring training games to the old stadium.

• The chamber, along with the support of city, state and federal representatives, launched the Mesa veterans program. It is the focal point for Mesa veterans in need of services including housing, medical assistance, education or other issues.

Veterans need only contact the program representative who will then put them in contact with people who can assist them.

With a history that extends more than 110 years, the Mesa Chamber continues to bring top-of-the-line networking opportunities to the community. As a player in the growth and expansion of Mesa, it continues to offer effective events and programs that help businesses and their owners and employees grow.

The Mesa Chamber of Commerce will continue to strive to be a strong community partner. Engaging both business and individual participation to make Mesa a stronger, more vibrant community and cherished place to work and live. n

mesa education Leading

BY JOSHUA MITCHELL

TIMES PUBLICATIONS CONTRIBUTOR

Leading Edge Academy, a charter school in eastern Mesa, is best known for combining general Common Core classes with individualized student education.

School clubs are created to fit the desires and talents of the students. Sports programs such as soccer and basketball, have developed and grown more popular over the years. Both the clubs and sports programs combine for exciting yet challenging extracurricular activities.

Leading Edge takes part in a relatively new program commonly known as RTI, or Response to Intervention. As the school encourages students to be well-rounded, RTI offers a multi-tier approach to the early identification and support of students with learning and behavior needs.

The RTI process begins with high-quality instruction and universal screening of all children in the general-education classroom.

The academy provides education from pre-kindergarten through sixth grade with small class sizes, a safe and wholesome environment, traditional values and school uniforms.

Through direct instruction and real-world simulation projects, the Leading Edge team of highly qualified teachers provide encouragement, respect, patience, and understanding as they partner with the parent and child for learning success.

back-to-basics approach in an environment where positive character traits are expected and modeled through fostering parental partnering in the education process.”

Once the children graduate, buses are available to transport students to Leading Edge’s Gilbert campus, which offers programs for students in seventh through 12th grade.

Leading Edge has significantly expanded over the last few years and is expected to continue in its growth. Currently, its six campuses serve more than 1,700 students.

Leading Edge was founded in 2002 by a pastor and businessman named Delmer Geesey. Coming from a religious back-

Leading Edge.

Every Friday, parents can choose to have their children released from school an hour early for a religious education class. Next to all six of the charter schools is a nondenominational church to allow every child this opportunity.

The academy’s culminating, end-of-theyear Christmas Event and Silent Auction takes place on Christmas night. It serves as a fundraiser to benefit the PTO, which in turn benefits the students.

The event involves all students, teachers, and staff, as well as donations from local businesses for the silent auction. n

Leading Edge Academy is at 10115 E. University Drive, Mesa. Information: 480984-5645 or leadingedgeacademy.com.

Fostering student success through caring teachers and staff success

Recently, Mesa Public Schools was recognized by the White House and Lead Higher for closing the achievement gap in advanced high school courses. This means the demographics in Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate and honors courses mirror the demographics of our community.

Advanced coursework is just a sample of the many choices available to our students. Programs such as Montessori, dual language, International Baccalaureate and Franklin traditional schools provide stellar learning opportunities. Our career and technical education department continues to impress business leaders with innovative student programs. Our athletics, creative and performing arts, and robotics teams receive recognition year after year.

From preschool and full-day kindergarten to the graduation of our seniors, many boasting college credit in their resumes, we focus on student success.

At the heart of every educational opportunity is a dedicated staff. Each day our frontline educators provide enriched, caring learning environments with the support of administrators and others.

The work of public education is demanding and rewarding. We are fortunate to work with a diverse student population, including many who are eager to learn and others who stretch us to ensure they are successful. Our teachers understand the power and influence they have on learners. Second only to their families, our students get their wings to move forward and upward from our teachers and staff members.

It is in our classrooms where the magic happens. A supportive classroom culture of acceptance and success is fostered through the frequent exchanges between caring, engaged teachers and students who understand expectations, are supported by their teachers, and feel safe to take risks that maximize their own learning.

Everyone at our schools is responsible for teaching and learning. The success of our students is our success; the failure of our students is our failure. I am constantly impressed with district teachers and staff members who demonstrate this commitment day in and day out.

Relationships fostered in schools and classrooms, with climates that support success, change the lives of children. Our teachers, leaders and staff members understand that an essential part of the learning experience is ensuring our students know the adults care about them. Rapport and relationship are essential to our mission and the success of each of our students.

In Mesa Public Schools, we constantly strive for unprecedented excellence by honing and perfecting our influence on student learning. State and federal mandates may come and go, but we know what really matters. It all comes down to great teaching and leading. n

Dr. Michael B. Cowan is superintendent of Mesa Public Schools

Mesa Public Schools prepares students for careers of the future

Science, technology, engineering and math learning opportunities help create the workforce of the 21st century.

STEM is more than just a buzzword at Mesa Public Schools. As the district looks to the future, opportunities in science, technology, engineering and math have soared. According to the 2016 U.S. News/ Raytheon STEM Index, STEM jobs have increased faster than overall employment since 2000, at a rate of 28 percent compared to 6 percent for all jobs. At Mesa Public Schools, STEM opportunities begin in elementary school.

“Kids come to school curious, and kindergartners want to explore things and solve problems,” says Colleen Howard, district K-6 STEM coordinator. “Science is solving problems in the world around you. I can’t imagine anybody who wouldn’t like STEM.”

What is STEM? According to Howard, it’s when science, technology, engineering and math merge.

“These four separate disciplines must be integrated into real world, significant project-based learning,” she says. “Teachers have to know the appropriate way to implement learning while using it.”

STEM provides a deeper understanding

Sirrine Elementary is one of several district schools offering STEM opportunities to all learners.

“STEM allows students to have handson experiences,” explains Renee Parker, Sirrine Elementary principal. “A parent of a student told me, ‘Jacob can explain every detail of his project and he really knows his stuff.’ Students who struggle retaining information from traditional paper and pencil learning gain a deep understanding of the content and can clearly explain their learning.”

In district secondary schools, STEM opportunities skyrocket. Junior high students can take courses ranging from computer programming to robotics. High-schoolers can elect to take classes such as biotechnology, sports medicine, engineering and agricultural sciences through the district’s Career and Techni-

cal Education department.

“These courses offer our students experience beyond textbook studies,” says Chris Perry, CTE STEM specialist. “They provide students with skills and knowledge to seek postgraduate education in these fields and certifications that may be used to gain employment.”

STEM education provides valuable skills for all students, no matter where their careers may find them. “STEM is problem-solving, collaborating, communicating, creativity and critical thinking,” Howard says.

“All of those processes are taught through STEM and become part of the skills you learn.” n

Explore all our STEM opportunities at mpsaz.org/STEM.

mesa education

Mesa Public Schools is the largest public school district in Arizona. Its more than 65,000 students enjoy opportunities such as Montessori, International Baccalaureate, dual-language immersion, honors and Advanced Placement courses and Franklin traditional schools. The district’s award-winning neighborhood schools include 23 A+ Schools of Excellence from the Arizona Educational Foundation, 19 Civic Engagement Schools and 19 National Healthy Schools.

The district comprises 55 elementary schools, 11 junior high schools, six comprehensive high schools, nine choice and success schools, and two dedicated preschool campuses. Learn more about educational opportunities at Mesa Public Schools by visiting mpsaz.org/ success.

Dobson High School

Dobson High School offers comprehensive educational opportunities, quality instruction and high standards. The culturally diverse campus promotes philanthropy, professional interests and respect for all. A robust career and technical education program, one-to-one technology initiative and award-winning music program are examples of the offerings available to students. 1501 W. Guadalupe Road, 480-472-3000, mpsaz.org/dobson.

Mesa High School

Mesa High, the city’s oldest high school, is rooted in tradition. Every student has the opportunity to acquire the skills necessary for success in a competitive 21st century economy by maintaining high expectations and providing support for all students. Mesa High is an AVID National Demonstration School and offers groundbreaking STEM opportunities through its Biotech Academy. 1630 E. Southern Ave., 480472-5900, mpsaz.org/mesa.

Mountain View High School

Mountain View High School was named a 2016 A+ School of Excellence by the Arizona Educational Foundation. It is one of the top Advanced Placement schools in the western U.S. and ranked one of the top comprehensive high schools in the country by US News & World Report and niche.com. Innovative offerings enable all students to acquire the knowledge, skills and attitudes necessary to become productive citizens. 2700 E. Brown Road, 480-472-6900, mpsaz.org/mtnview.

Red Mountain High School

Red Mountain High School is a 2014 A+ School of Excellence (Arizona Educational Foundation). The school has decades of successes thanks to strong community support, extensive offerings in the STEM Academy, advanced-level courses, award-winning athletics program and one-to-one student technology. It is the first school in the greater Phoenix area to offer the prestigious AP Capstone Diploma program. 7301 E. Brown Road, 480472-8000, mpsaz.org/rmhs.

Skyline High School

Skyline High School is dedicated to intuitive learning, active citizenship and meeting the needs of the students through offerings like extensive co-curricular and extracurricular programming. The one-device-per-student technology initiative and service learning opportunities support all students. The school’s powerhouse football program is just one of many recent athletic successes. 845 S. Crismon Road, 480-472-9400, mpsaz.org/ skyline.

Westwood High School

Westwood High School is the only high school in Mesa to offer the highly sought-after International Baccalaureate program. It is also an AVID National Demonstration School and 2016 A+ School of Excellence, awarded by Arizona Educational Foundation. Westwood is committed to preparing students for 21st century careers through offerings such as a one-to-one technology initiative and groundbreaking career and technical education courses. 945 S. Rio Salado Parkway, 480-472-4400, mpsaz.org/ westwood. n

Liberty Arts Academy maximizes individualized learning in all subjects

BY JOSHUA MITCHELL TIMES PUBLICATIONS CONTRIBUTOR

Located in the heart of Mesa, Liberty Arts Academy is a free, public, charter school serving students from kindergarten through eighth grade.

The school’s culture focuses on individual character education, and is built on the six pillars of moral excellence: trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring, and citizenship.

The students at Liberty are held to high expectations of hard work, moral excellence and positive thinking.

The staff includes 19 teachers and six support personnel. All employees are trained and committed to provide a learning environment that enables students to work together to achieve individual success.

With 250 students, Liberty is uniquely suited to provide a customized learning experience for every child.

Its mission is to “provide a nurturing environment for learners that encourages high expectations.”

The staff and faculty strive to give each student the individualized attention needed to learn, grow, and achieve. Their one-on-one attention helps maximize learning and ensure students reach their full potential. Special education services are also available.

The school offers an ideal balance of instruction in core subjects, creative arts programming and physical education.

Beyond excellence in areas like math and reading, the school has built a reputation for its creative arts programming. While other schools in Arizona and across

the nation are cutting or eliminating arts programs, Liberty continues to make art a priority. In fact, the school has built a reputation for its visual arts program.

Each student benefits from a robust arts education curriculum led by Amy Medeiros, who immerses the children in drawing, painting, sculpting, and art history.

Medeiros, a graduate of Arizona State University’s College of Art and Design, holds an Art Extravaganza Night at the end of the school year to give students an opportunity to celebrate and share their creations.

Students also enjoy a quality physical education program, while many schools have made drastic cuts to PE programs.

Liberty also houses two English language acquisition specialists. Stacy Hoffman and Maria Escobar, to help the students achieve proficiency in reading, writing, listening and speaking.

Regardless of any child’s level of understanding English, Liberty maximizes efforts to foster each English Language Learner until they achieve success. n Liberty Arts Academy is at 3015 S. Power Road, Mesa. Information: 480-8303444 or visit libertyartsacademy.com.

education

High school students can earn college credits at AAEC

Arizona Agribusiness and Equine Center Early College High School (AAEC) promotes lifelong learning through rigorous academic instruction.

It promotes social responsibility and employability by providing motivated students with the opportunity to earn college credits while completing their high school requirements.

AAEC currently has five campuses: Mesa’s Red Mountain district, Phoenix’s South Mountain district, Paradise Valley, Avondale’s Estrella district and Prescott Valley. A sixth campus is being built in Mesa. The Arizona Agribusiness & Equine Center opened its doors in June 20, 1997.

The school’s veterinary science and equine programs are

unparalleled. The veterinary science tract was created to offer students an opportunity to learn about the careers available as a veterinarian, certified veterinary technician, and other animal and human health fields.

The equine program is modeled in both content and rigor after university equine science programs and prepares students for the working in the horse industry.

The U.S. News & World Report ranks AAEC Early College High School in the top 500 high schools in the nation, and 40-50 percent of AAEC students graduate with associate degrees.

AAEC provides high school curriculum and educational programs for students in grades 9 through 12, as well as concurrent transferable college courses, at locations on, or adjacent to, campuses of the local county community college district. Subject to capacity limits, the schools are open to all students within the state.

AAEC will continue to establish partnerships with community organizations that offer programs and services that cater to its students’ unique needs. These partners closely collaborate with government and social service agencies to provide additional external support to students and parents.

These partnerships provide an opportunity for AAEC to reach and enroll students. Additionally, it provides an opportunity for AAEC to provide referral information and additional supports to families by building a network of collaboration. n

For more information: Red Mountain campus at 480-8541504 or visit the school at 2165 N. Power Road, Mesa.

attractions mesa

MUSEUMS

ARIZONA MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY

53 N. Macdonald

480-644-2230 or arizonamuseumofnaturalhistory.org

Take a bite out of history at the Arizona Museum of Natural History. This beloved Mesa icon holds over 60,000 items exploring the cultural and natural history of Arizona and the greater Southwest through the disciplines of archaeology, art, ethnology, geology, history, natural history and paleontology. Kids will love the three stories of dinosaurs, waterfalls and other objects as well as the family oriented events hosted throughout the year. Check our interview with one of the paleontologists at EVTrib on YouTube!

COMMEMORATIVE AIR FORCE

ARIZONA WING MUSEUM

2017 N. Greenfield Road

480-924-1940 or azcaf.org

Take flight at the Commemorative Air Force Arizona Wing Museum! Home of the most accurately restored and fully functional B-52 Flying Fortress—Sentimental Journey—as well as an entire squadron of airworthy historic aircraft, this museum strives to pass on America’s military aviation history via exhibits from both world wars, activities, plane rides and air shows. It is also a popular venue for corporate, private and community events.

I.D.E.A. MUSEUM

150 W. Pepper Place

480-644-4332 or ideamuseum.org

Create, learn and play at one of the best spots for kids in the East Valley. The i.d.e.a. Museum in downtown Mesa is filled with interactive stations, rotating exhibitions and workshops designed to cultivate a love of art and art-making. Kids up to age 4 can explore ArtVille, the colorful, cushiony-surfaced village. For those 5 and older, the HUB is a hands-on activity space designed for visitors to explore the fundamentals of art.

LOCAL TREASURES

LDS CHURCH TEMPLE

101 S. Lesueur

480-833-1211 or ldschurchtemples.com/ mesa

Crews broke ground nearly 90 years ago on the 20-acre temple site, one of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ holiest places reserved for the most sacred of religious ceremonies. Since then, the building’s Doric column exterior, carved friezes and manicured grounds have provided a welcoming oasis in the heart of Mesa. A visitor’s center is open to the public, and a lavish outdoor Easter pageant and Christmas lights display draw thousands of non-Mormons each spring and winter.

MESA GRANDE CULTURAL PARK

1000 N. Date St.

480-644-3075 or azmnh.org/plan-a-visit/ mesa-grande

One of the two largest ancient Hohokam platform mounds in the U.S. rises from the earth right in the middle of a Mesa neighborhood. Used by local natives between 1100 and 1450 A.D., the Mesa Grande site once included a village and a ball court. Now on the National Register of Historic Places, the park includes a welcome center and nine-station pathway that guides visitors to the top of the mound and imparts information about the ancient people who once lived and worked here. Get more details on this unique site from the Arizona Museum of Natural History.

THE PLANETARIUM AT MESA COMMUNITY COLLEGE

1833 W. Southern Ave. 480-461-7027 or mesacc.edu/dept/d43/ ast/planetarium/astronomynights.html

This 52-seat dome hosts free Astronomy Nights where you can catch multiple screenings of astronomy films inside and peer at the night sky through telescopes set up outside.

PERFORMANCE GROUPS

SOUTHWEST SHAKESPEARE COMPANY 480-435-6868 or swshakespeare.org

Get your dose of The Bard with the Southwest Shakespeare Company. Performing all the classics and the lesser known Shakespearean works, this troupe shies away from nothing.

YOUTH SYMPHONY OF THE SOUTHWEST

480-827-2143 or symphonyofthesouthwest.org

Founded in 2006 to encourage top notch music education as well as dedication and team work to young people in the East Valley, this group practices and performs several times a year at Mesa Arts Center under the direction of Cal Stewart Kellog.

SONORAN DESERT CHORALE

480-835-7059 or sonorandesertchorale. org

The group performs seasonal concerts at First United Methodist Church in Mesa and at Valley Presbyterian Church in Paradise Valley.

VENUES

BLACK BOX ON BROWN THEATRE

318 E. Brown Road, Suite 101 480-834-9500 or mesaencoretheatre.com

Mesa Encore Theatre’s intimate venue is housed in a building that was once home to a Wherehouse music store. This intimate setting specializes in producing new works by local playwrights and other carefully chosen plays that aren’t often seen in the Valley.

MESA AMPHITHEATRE

263 N. Center St.

480-644-2560 or mesaamp.com

This venue is an icon of Mesa. Hundreds of incredible performers have graced its stage. This city of Mesa outdoor theater has been called big enough for great acts, yet intimate enough to afford a great view of the stage and has been voted “Best place to see a concert” in local media polls.

NATIONAL COMEDY THEATRE

1111 S. Longmore St.

602-374-5638 or visit nctphoenix.com

NCT, which opened during an economic downturn in 2008, presents weekly Competitive Comedy Shows that are spontaneous and based on audience interactions. It also runs improv workshops for adults, kids and teens, and movie-spoofing film screenings.

GOLF COURSES

ALTA MESA GOLF CLUB

1460 N. Alta Mesa Drive

480-832-3257 or altamesagolf.com

This private course (a slew of various membership tiers are available for singles, families and seniors) is lengthy at 7,100 yards, it’s a bit of a contradiction with the wide-open fairways and a host of lakes and bunkers. It’s a good choice for those who’d rather walk the course.

LONGBOW GOLF CLUB

5601 E. Longbow Parkway

480-807-5400 or longbowgolf.com

It’s pretty common to have planes flying overhead en route to nearby Falcon Field airport, but this desert-style course in northeast Mesa actually offers peace and quiet. The course isn’t overly long (7,050 yards from the tips, 6,513 from championship tees and 5,202 from the ladies’ tees) and offers a “family” mini-course. But it’s a desert course, so there’s no shortage of sand.

MESA COUNTRY CLUB

660 W. Fairway Drive

480-964-1797 or mesacountryclub.com

The classic city-yet-private club dates back to the 1940s origin and sits along the Mesa-Tempe border. It’s a well-equipped country club with the golf course, swimming pools, fitness center, spa, tennis courts, three restaurant options and other amenities. The course has its hills to offset a relatively short-yardage layout.

PAINTED MOUNTAIN

6210 E. McKellips Road

480-832-0156 or paintedmountaingolf.com

A par-70 course with some excellent views of the Superstition Mountains in the backdrop, Painted Mountain is a real challenge for players’ short games. Painted Mountain also plays host to one of Arizona’s John Jacobs’ Golf Schools and Academies locations. n

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attractions mesa Arizona Museum of Natural History offers thought-provoking, fun displays

BY JOSHUA MITCHELL TIMES PUBLICATIONS CONTRIBUTOR

The Arizona Museum of Natural History packs a wealth of fun into a relatively small building.

It contains exhibits such as Dinosaur Hall, the Paleo Dig Pit and Dinosaur Mountain. For those not as interested in the Jurassic era, the museum also shares attractions such as the Native Peoples of the Past, Classic Maya, and Ancient Cultures of Mexico.

The newest fun exhibit is the Dino Zone. Mostly targeting children, its interactive and hands-on display includes a dinosaur playground and an active dinosaur green screen.

One of the museum’s largest attractions, however, is its indoor three-story waterfall with flash floods and robotic dinosaurs. This must-see attraction gives the museum the “wow” factor.

The museum aims to capture the imagination and attention of young people, partly to interested them in math and science.

It does that by hosting tour groups to-

taling about 40,000 kids a year from as far away as Yuma and Kingman, many of whom do deep thinking about life, the universe, the planet and mankind’s future on it.

The museum does not bludgeon its guests with that message, however. It’s not interested in being political, just in presenting the facts and letting people draw their own conclusions.

There is also a jail in the museum. In the early 1800s, it was the Maricopa Territori-

al Jail, which was used up until the early 1970s. Now, it is a fun and educational attraction.

Kathy Eastman, the museum’s Curator of Education, said that the best kept secret is the museum itself.

“Even people that have lived in Mesa for 20 years don’t know about it!” n

The Arizona Museum of Natural History is located at 53 N. Macdonald St., Mesa. Information: 480-644-2230 or azmnh.org.

DOWNTOWN MESA

Main Street, between Country Club Drive and Stapley Drive

With the light rail now running through the heart of the city, it’s never been easier or more fun to hang out in Downtown Mesa. Check out the weekend farmer’s markets or MACfest, which goes from October to April. Mosey on over to the Mesa Art Center and see a show or visit the Contemporary Art Museum. With so many options from things to see to restaurants to try, Downtown Mesa is the place to be. Remember to #MyDowntownMesa!

GOLFLAND/SUNSPLASH

155 W. Hampton Ave.

480-834-8319 or golfland.com/ mesa

Mesa knows where to play, winter or summer. Located just off US 60, this amusement park is one of Mesa’s most easily recognizable landmarks and offers over 30 attractions between two separate parks. Sunsplash operates over 20 slides and other water-based activities during the summer months while Golfland is open year-round and offers three mini-golf courses, a go-kart track, an arcade, laser tag, bumper boats and a pizza parlor. Think you’re brave enough to take on Double Dare?

SLOAN PARK/RIVERVIEW PARK

attractions mesa

2330 W. Rio Salado Parkway and 2100 W. Rio Salado Parkway 480-668-0500 and 480-644-2352

The Chicago Cubs call Sloan Park their home-away-fromhome. The gorgeous ballpark has everything you need to enjoy spring training. Right next door is the Riverview Park. Complete with the Genesis mesh-rope climbing structure, ramadas, and a fishing lake, Riverview Park is a hotspot to kick back and relax with the family.

SUPERSTITION FARMS

3440 S. Hawes Road

602-432-6865 or superstitionfarm.com

This family dairy farm offers a petting zoo, hay rides and a variety of farm activities. It’s open daily for tours, but also host a weekly farmer’s market and a number of seasonal events. n

outdoor fun mesa

DESERT BELLE TOUR BOAT

14011 N. Bush Highway

480-984-2425 or desertbelle.com

This double-decker boat takes passengers on a 90-minute narrated cruise around Saguaro Lake, where there are scenic views and the chance to spot wildlife, such as eagles and bighorn sheep. The vessel has an on-board snack bar and restrooms. Cruises are available year-round. Friday and Saturday sunset cruises feature a live band upstairs and condensed narration downstairs.

MESA AQUATICS

480-644-2352 or mesaaz.gov/parksrec/ aquatics

For families without a backyard swimming pool, Mesa has a winning solution: 10 affordable aquatics complexes. The facilities host public swim hours, swim lessons and special themed activity days—and some take the idea of a public pool to a whole new level. The FlowRider, for example, the main attrac tion at Rhodes Aquatic Center, is a wet ride that combines the feel of snowboarding, skateboarding and wake-boarding. Admission to Mesa pools is about $1.25-$4 per person, and family season passes and discounted punch cards are available.

SRP CANAL PATHS

602-236-3126 or srpnet.com/water/canals/distances.aspx

Local power company Salt River Project operates more

than 100 miles of irrigation canals across the Valley, and the canals’ wide shoulders have become favorite routes for walkers, runners and cyclists who prefer not to exercise on busy roads. The 18-mile long Consolidated Canal runs through Mesa, Gilbert and Chandler. SRP’s website gives an online map of it and other canals, and allows you to calculate distances between your desired start and end points.

SALT RIVER TUBING

9200 N. Bush Highway 480-984-3305 or saltrivertubing.com

No boat? No problem. This place will give you an inner tube and a ride in an old school bus to and from the Salt River for $17 per person. Float trips take two to five hours, depending on which route you take and the river’s water level. The service runs from about April through September each year. Children must be at least 8 years old and 4 feet tall for tube rental.

SAGUARO LAKE

14011 N. Bush Highway 480-986-5546 or saguarolakemarina.com

Rimmed by canyon walls dotted with saguaro cactus and Desert bighorn sheep, this lake reaches its max boating capacity most weekends and holidays April through October, humming with a frenzy of jet skis and water-skiers. The bay in front of Butcher Jones recreation site is closed to motorized watercraft, and even more tranquility is possible in the secluded upper reaches of the lake, where you’ll find campsites reachable only by boat. More than 2,000 fish habitat structures enhance fishing on the lake, and there’s a marina with a restaurant. Fees are $6 per vehicle and $4 per watercraft.

SAGUARO LAKE RANCH

13020 N. Bush Highway 480-984-2194 or saguarolakeranch.com

This rustic guest ranch sits under majestic cliffs on a pretty bend of the lower Salt River and offers horseback riding, kayaking and tubing. You don’t have to stay overnight to partake. Becoming An Outdoorswoman, a sleep-away camp for women 18 and older that focuses on building outdoorsy skills, is held there each winter.

USERY MOUNTAIN REGIONAL PARK

3939 N. Usery Pass Road. 480-984-0032 or maricopacountyparks.net

This 3,648-acre preserve is crisscrossed by about 30 miles of trails, from the flat, stroller-passable Merkle Trail to Wind Cave Trail, one of the East Valley’s most popular climbs. A smorgasbord of programming includes everything from preschooler nature walks and full moon hikes to presentations on desert survival, birding, photography and stargazing. You can also picnic, ride your own horses, camp or mountain bike in the park. There’s a $6 entry fee per vehicle. n

Baja Joe’s Mexican Cantina, 1927 N. Gilbert Road, Mesa, specializes in authentic Sinaloan Style Mexican Seafood, as well as traditional Mexican dishes.

Formerly known as Restaurant Sinaloa until 2009, the restaurant has undergone many changes without changing its efforts to keep traditions alive.

It features a 3,000-square-foot Sports Cantina and live music venue, classic restaurant bar, a newly remodeled dining room and a 1,200-square-foot beach patio.

While guys can watch sports games on big TVs, Baja Joe’s also offers a fun place for dates and a homey atmosphere for families with live music five nights a week.

Its signature dishes are Parrillada Mariscos and Parrillada Mexicana. Parrilladas are cookouts and both the seafood and the chicken-and-meat platters offer enough food for two or more people.

Located on the southeast corner McKellips and Gilbert Roads, Baja Joe’s is open 9 a.m.-11 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 9-2 a.m. Friday and Saturday. Takeout orders are available. n Information: 480-655-1828, bajajoescantina.com.

Historic Mining Camp Restaurant Presents

CALL IT NEW/CALL IT ANTIQUE

2049 W. Broadway Road. 480-464-1234 or facebook.com/ callitnewcallitantiquemesa

This 43,000-square-foot antique mall, consignment and resale center features over 200 dealers of vintage and older items. Shoppers can jump back in time at Call it Antique and browse among thousands of antiques and collectibles in a 30,000-square-foot area. Or, customers can shop for great gently used clothing, furniture and household items in the Call it New consignment and resale center, which makes up the rest of the extensive space. This combination of the old and the newer creates a unique destination for the entire family, as proven in the first location, which started in April 2011 in Stevens Point, Wisconsin.

DANA PARK VILLAGE SQUARE

1758 S. Val Vista Drive. 480-584-6181 or danapark.com

This outdoor shopping center on the edge of Mesa and Gilbert is the perfect spot to shop till you drop. With upscale touches like marble columns, courtyard fountains and date palm-lined sidewalks, is home to stores like Potato Barn, Z Gallery, Anthropologie, Chico’s, Talbot’s and White House Black Market get all your high-end shopping done without the trip to Scottsdale. Appetizing restaurants include local faves Sauce and Pita Jungle, California Pizza Kitchen, Buca di Beppo, RA Sushi, and Arizona’s only TQLA.

DOWNTOWN MESA

Along West Main Street between Mesa Drive and Country Club Drive. 480-890-2613 or downtownmesa.com

With its wide sidewalks shaded by palo verde and colonnades and interesting mom-and-pop shops, downtown is the cure for bigbox burnout. A wide range of retailers offer everything from jewelry

to custom picture framing, and dining options run the gamut from Thai to pizza to a cookie bakery to a wine bar. Check out a small but well-chosen collection of clothing and accessories at salon/boutique Adorn Style Lounge, grab a cup of joe at Gotham City Comics & Coffee, and find shabby chic treasures at the monthly Old Brick House Vintage Market.

FIESTA MALL

1445 W. Southern Ave. 480-833-4121 or shopfiesta.com

The epicenter of Mesa’s Fiesta District, Fiesta Mall is home to national brands like Best Buy, Dick’s Sporting Goods and Forever 21, as well as specialty eateries such La Parrillita Mexican Grill and Chinese Dim Sum. Doors open for the “Get Fit at Fiesta” mall walkers program at 6:30 a.m. Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. Saturday and 9 a.m. Sunday.

MESA MARKET PLACE SWAP MEET

10550 E. Baseline Road. 480-380-5572 or mesamarket.com

This market features more than 1,600 retails spaces, filled with knickknacks, home improvement products, souvenirs, craft products, art work and just about everything else under the sun, spread out over more than a mile. If you need some wheels to help you navigate the vast space, there are scooters, wheelchairs, wagons and strollers available for $4-$7 a day. Hours change depending on the season, so be sure to call or check the website before you head out to shop.

SUPERSTITION SPRINGS CENTER

6555 E. Southern Ave. 480-832-0212 or superstitionsprings.com

Anchored by Dillard’s, JCPenney, Macy’s and Sears, this indoor mall attracts shoppers with more than 150 stores and eateries, including Bath & Body Works, Down East Basics, The Children’s Place, Olive Garden and The Cheesecake Factory. Amenities include an ornate double-decker carousel that’s a must-stop for families, an indoor kids play area powered by National Geographic Kids, a discount movie theater, and an outdoor amphitheater that hosts a summer concert series and a variety of community events. n

How to become a successful stepmother

BY DR. CHERYL SMITH TIMES PUBLICATIONS GUEST WRITER

Stepfamilies are the fastest-growing family structure in America. In the past three decades, they have become far more common than the traditional, nuclear family. Traditional families—with the first marriage of a husband, wife and at least one child under 18, all living together—represent fewer than 25 percent of American households.

There’s no shortage of research about the complexities of remarriage, but challenges are magnified when children from previous marriages are involved.

At the heart of this challenge is the ambiguous role of the stepmother. Because expectations and responsibilities vary dramatically across American society, stepmothers seem almost doomed from the start.

In fairytales, stepmothers are evil, duplicitous and dangerous. In modern day, the word “stepmother” all-too frequently connotes “gold-digger” or “home-wrecker.”

health and wellness mesa

line, in books and in counseling—to help them articulate their roles, expectations and commitment to their marriage and children.

As a start, these stepmother “don’ts” will go a long way in helping stepmothers avoid pitfalls, promote peace in the home, protect the new marriage, and smooth the transition for children who may be struggling to accept their parents’ divorce:

• Don’t make any decisions that the biological mother and father should make. The stepmother has only the rights either biological parent gives her. It’s especially important to steer clear of medical, dental, academic or religious decisions.

Combined with peripheral challenges like exwives, custody agreements, parenting skill sets, the quality of the husband-wife relationship, the gender and age of stepchildren, and countless other factors, the odds for marriage success are dismal: remarriages fail more than 60 percent of the time.

It’s a gloomy outlook, to say the least, but education and actionable information—including what not to do as a stepmother—can dramatically improve remarriages, strengthen relationships with children and increase the likelihood of success and happiness.

All is not lost, especially for couples who seek out resources—on-

• Don’t expect your stepchildren to forgive a premarital affair that breaks up their family. This may sound harsh, but stepchildren are likely to blame their stepmom for everything that goes wrong, particularly when their parents’ divorce is the result of an affair. In this case, stepmothers must understand and prepare for the long road ahead, and accept the possibility that their stepchildren may never grant their forgiveness.

• Don’t try to rescue your new family. They don’t believe they are broken. Accept them exactly as they are—and exactly as they are not.

• Don’t be a “super good stepmom.” Whether the kids live with you full- or part-time, it’s unrealistic for you to assume all of the household and parenting responsibilities like cooking, cleaning, helping children with their homework, driving them to lessons and activities, etc. Clearly define your role and responsibilities with your husband to stave off resentment, exhaustion and marital conflict.

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• Don’t pretend that the stepfamily is like an ideal, traditional family. It’s not the same, yet too many starry-eyed couples stumble into remarriage, taking for granted their blended family will be happy and harmonious. Couples must expect the integration of their new family to take time—perhaps as long as five to seven years. The transition is a process that requires time, patience and, above all, realistic expectations.

• Don’t neglect your marriage. It’s easy to get caught up in the demands of everyday life, but marriage is the foundation of a successful blended family, and requires time, love and careful attention.

• Don’t assume that your husband’s money is yours for the spending. While this may have been the case in your first marriage. Finances are an area of extreme sensitivity in remarriages, so make sure you’re on the same page from the get-go.

• Don’t flaunt your newfound wealth. This is offensive to your stepchildren, their mother, and your husband’s friends and family.

• Don’t force relationships with children who do not want or need another mother. Don’t assume a maternal role, have patience with your stepchildren, and build relationships only on their terms.

• Be respectful of the relationship between your stepchildren and their father. If you’re trying to win over your stepchildren, you may be tempted to grant them special privileges or say yes when their father says no. Undermining your husband is a definite “don’t” in building a successful stepfamily.

• Don’t force your way into the family system. Blend, don’t intrude. Follow the lead of your stepchildren, whether this means jumping in with both feet or retreating into the distance for a while.

• Don’t compete with your stepdaughter for your husband’s affection. Their relationship is sacred, and he will work to protect it now more than ever before.

• Don’t ignore or single-handedly try to resolve potential stepchildren problems. While patience is key in blending a family, that doesn’t mean you must go it alone or put up with abuse or mistreatment from your stepchildren. Discuss any concerns with your husband and work together to determine an appropriate response.

• Don’t shirk your responsibility to discipline your own children. It’s common for parents to feel guilty about divorce and to let their children behave in ways they never before would have tolerated. Now more than ever, your kids need clear boundaries and direction to help them navigate life after divorce.

• Don’t belittle, denigrate or seek revenge when the ex-wife violates your family’s boundaries. Regardless of the circumstances surrounding their divorce, this is probably the most difficult time of her life. It’s likely that she will violate your boundaries in some way, but manage the situation with maturity, grace and composure to protect your own marriage. n

Dr. Cheryl Smith, Psy.D, is a licensed professional counselor and a board-certified professional counselor with the American Psychotherapy Association, specializing in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and stepfamily issues. Information: Lifeworks Counseling, 602-690-8079.

Mountain View’s mission to create memories

Since 1951, three generations of the Coury family have served the mortuary needs of the East Valley through Mountain View Funeral Home and Cemetery, providing a setting of peace and beauty place where families can honor and remember their loved ones.

Father and son Daniel and Greg Coury have owned and operated Mountain View in Mesa since 2009, with the philosophy that their mission is to create lasting memories for families who have lost a loved one.

“We are here to create memories for the families and loved ones. We walk the families through the process and remain a source of support for them throughout the entire process,” he said

The Mesa facility is the only family owned and operated funeral home and cemetery in the East Valley. Mountain View operates with seven licensed funeral directors, led by Mortuary Manager Steve Adkins.

In addition to its on-site funeral home facilities, Mountain View offers 12 spacious Memorial Gardens that include 19 mausoleums, featuring the Wall of Peace with its waterfall and gated meditation alcove.

Mountain View’s facilities include an LDS Garden, dedicated to members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints faith, as well as other gardens on the property for Catholics, Christians, Masons and other affiliations.

The gardens consist of thousands of affordable ground spaces covered year-round with a rich green lawn and shaded by hundreds of trees.

“We maintain our cemetery ground to provide families with a place to say goodbye and a final resting place for their loved one,” he said. “We take particular care to maintain the gardens yearround to provide a welcoming space in which they can visit their loved one in the future.”

Mountain View offers a complete array of funeral services, including caskets, flowers, gravesites, burials, cremations and more, to help families complete all arrangements in a single place. The facility also offers a concierge service which can help families and visitors make arrangements with local hotels, restaurants, flo-

funeral services mesa

rists, car services and other companies.

Since becoming an owner with his father, Greg Coury has set about to learn firsthand all aspects of the funeral business, from accounting and maintenance to cleaning and lawn mowing. He said that gives him a unique perspective on his principal role at Mountain View, helping individuals plan for their funeral services in advance.

“Advance planning takes the burden of dealing with final arrangement from family members and makes sure the client’s final wishes are fulfilled,” he said. “It also allows them to take care of the financial aspects of the funeral, removing that burden from the family, as well.”

Mountain View Funeral Home and Cemetery is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays. However, the facility has a 24hour answering service should a need or questions arise outside of normal operating hours. n

Mountain View is located at 7900 E. Main St. in Mesa. You may contact them at 480-8322850 or by email at wecare@mvfuneralhome. com. For more information, go online at www. mvfuneralhome.com