The Groves Report - December 2017

Isabella Sierra proudly represents her Girl Scouts troop at Red Mountain Library’s Kidsgiving Day.

Northeast Mesa among city’s most prosperous ZIP codes

By Wayne Schutsky

e East Valley is rife with prosperity, according to a recent economic analysis of ZIP codes across the country, though that affluence is not evenly distributed throughout the region.

e Economic Innovation Group, a bipartisan public policy organization, recently released e 2017 Distressed Communities Index, which analyzes a range of economic factors in communities across the country and ranks ZIP codes and cities using a cumulative distress score.

e index revealed that Mesa is a diverse community with distressed and prosperous pockets throughout the city. Mesa neighbors Gilbert and

ZIP Codes...continued on page 5

For Mountain View junior, drug prevention mission is personal

By Marilyn Hawkes

Tyson Henry is only 16 years old, but he’s mapped out an ambitious plan for his future: Finish high school, go to college and enter the Marine Corps Officer’s Academy with the end goal of securing a position with the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA).

A Mountain View High School junior, Henry is a member of the East Valley chapter of Young Marines, a national youth and education organization that puts an emphasis on leadership and good citizenship. One of Young Marines’ pillars centers on “Closing the Gateway on Drugs,” an initiative to raise awareness about drugs that can be easily accessed by children and young adults.

Henry...continued on page 6

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Contributors

Tayler Brown, Crystal Lewis Brown, Catherine Shappell, Jan D’Atri, Joe Gilmore, Marilyn Hawkes, Heidi Hurst, Wayne Schutsky, Laurie Struna

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Cover Photo: Tim Sealy

Copperstate celebrates flight

By Joe Gilmore

ere was a near-constant roar of jet engines when the Copperstate Fly-In landed at Falcon Field recently. e volunteer-run Copperstate Fly-In brings together 4,000 aviation enthusiasts and pilots, and 500 aircraft, ranging from light sport to warbirds. eir looks and styles were so eclectic that it was almost Dr. Seuss-like. ey were sights to behold. ere were red

planes, blue planes, zebra-striped planes; planes that were huge, planes that no reasonably sized person should ever fit into, planes designed and painted like Woodstock from the Peanuts comics or the Cracker Jack kid.

Citizens could inspect the planes, with some pilots available to answer any questions. e interaction was among the long list of activities that included workshops, pilot forums, aircraft rides and exhibits, youth educational activities, career information, drone education and food.

A lot of time and preparation goes into planning these events, thanks to Copperstate president Stephen Bass. He jokingly said his favorite part was when the event

ends, but quickly added he knows the Copperstate Fly-In has a positive impact on the community. Proceeds from the Copperstate Fly-In support scholarship programs for youth seeking careers in the aerospace industry. is is the second year it was held at Falcon Field.

“We thought that by moving up to the Phoenix metro area, we could get more people through the gate,” Bass said. “ at’s important to us.”

Jary Wesley has been a Copperstate volunteer for 31 years.

“It’s always been fun, with a

tremendous number of airplanes,” she said. “ e airplane people are just really special.”

Wesley stressed that she and others look forward to this annually.

“ e vendors like coming, the people like coming and the pilots like coming,” she said. “We like it this time of the year.”

Falcon Field ramped up for the event several months before. Airport Director

Corinne Nystrom and the Falcon Field team allowed travelers to bring tents and RVs to the airfield.

Chandler outranked posher locales like Scottsdale, San Francisco and Seattle on the report’s list of the most prosperous large cities in the country. Arizona and California were the only states with three municipalities listed in the top 10 on the most prosperous cities ranking.

“ e big dividing line at the city level tends to be an old and new question,” said John Lettieri, EIG co-founder and senior director for policy and strategy.

“ e places that are newer and faster growing tend to be more prosperous… the older, slower growing cities tend to be at the lower end of the prosperous spectrum.”

e group considered poverty rate, median income ratio, percentage of the population over 25 without a high school diploma, and percentage of adults between 25 and 64 who are unemployed.

It also looks at community-based factors like housing vacancy rate and the percent change in the number of jobs and businesses in the community between 2011 and 2015.

EIG then classifies communities as prosperous, comfortable, mid-tier, atrisk or distressed based on the distress score.

“At the community level, (we are looking at whether) places are seeing business growth or business decline,” Lettieri said. “At the center of this question is do you have growth or decline in your stock of businesses.”

e report also signaled out Arizona Congressional District 5 – which includes Gilbert, Queen Creek and parts of Chandler and Mesa – as the eighth most prosperous congressional district in the country.

Only 0.5 percent of all residents in the district live in distressed communities, while 61.4 percent live in prosperous communities.

EIG defines prosperous communities as those with a distress score of 20 or below, which ranks in the top fifth of all ZIP codes included in the study.

Unsurprisingly, the top five most prosperous ZIP codes in Mesa are on the east side of the city and include 85207, 85215 and 85213.

All three of those ZIP codes have distress scores under 27, which is well below the Valley average of 42.4. ose ZIP codes benefit from low housing vacancy rates and median incomes that are 10 to 30 percent higher than the state’s median income. ey also have a low rate of adults without a high school diploma.

Each of those ZIP codes has roughly 28 percent of prime-aged adults out of work, which falls in line with Mesa averages.

On the employment front, 85207 stands out with a 25.5 percent increase in employment between 2011-2015.

e most prosperous ZIP code in Mesa is 85212, home of residential and employment hubs like the Eastmark masterplanned community and Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport. e ZIP code has a distress score of 11.6 and a poverty rate under 10 percent

While most ZIP codes in the East Valley are considered prosperous or comfortable, those designations are by no means a blanket designation for the region.

Mesa, for example, has six ZIP codes that qualify as prosperous or comfortable, meaning they have a distress score of 40 or lower.

e city also has five ZIP codes that fall under the at-risk or distressed designation.

Mesa’s second most populated ZIP code, 85201, is also its most distressed with a score of 84.2. at ranking largely stems from its poverty rate of 25.2 percent, which is nearly 10 points higher than the national average of 15.5 percent.

e ZIP code also has a higher than average percentage of adults without a high school diploma (29.1 percent) and the median wage in the community is only 70.4 percent of the state’s median income.

While 85201 saw slight business growth between 2011 and 2015, the overall employment in the area dropped by nearly 5 percent.

ZIP code 85202 — which includes

the Fiesta District — has slightly better measurables than 85201, though it still falls under EIG’s at-risk designation.

e report shows the community has seen business loss and negligible job gains between 2011 and 2015.

One way a city like Mesa can promote the growth of prosperous communities is by encouraging homegrown businesses that “have skin in the game,”

said EIG cofounder and executive director Steve Glickman.

He added Mesa underperforms in this area versus the state as a whole.

“You have to be an attractive location for entrepreneurship in general,” Glickman said.

e city recently adopted the Southwest Redevelopment Area Plan to provide incentives that could entice businesses to invest in the Fiesta District. e city plans to transform it from an aging retail district to an employment center.

“A place can appear prosperous because it is not accessible to lower- or middle-income people,” Lettieri said. “Part of this is (showing) how you got there and how you can allow access to lower- and middle-income people –how you can connect places and people so you are sharing that prosperity.”

Prosperous and distressed communities in the same region also should work together to develop strategies to improve overall regional prosperity, Lettieri said.

He added distressed communities need to “connect their fate with the more prosperous areas, (because) the most poisonous thing for a distressed area is being disconnected.”

Henry...continued from page 1

But Henry’s interest in drug abuse prevention is personal. His 21-year-old brother has struggled with substance abuse and bipolar disorder. “I’ve seen how it has affected him,” he said.

As a result, Henry organized a community awareness event in late October at the Tempe Elks Lodge to combat opioid abuse, open to community members, educators and parents. He selected the event for his Distinguished Order of Merit Award community service project. “ e whole point of the event was to get opiates off the streets.”

e event attracted about 100 people and featured speakers, including someone from the DEA, as well as community partners who distributed useful information.

During the event, Henry also handed out prescription drug disposal kits for participants to take home. “You unseal the small bag with charcoal (inside) and throw in your opiates or prescription medication, fill it with water and it’s

completely biodegradable,” he said. “ e water makes it inert.”

So far, Henry has given out 1,800 disposable kits.

During 2017, Henry was named his unit’s Young Marine of the Year. Recently, he was awarded the Battalion Young Marine of the Year award, which makes him eligible to compete for regimental and then division Young Marine of the Year. If he clears those hurdles, he will compete for National Young Marine of the Year in May.

When he’s not busy with Young Marines, Henry plays varsity baseball at Mountain View and is a member of the school’s Toro Links crew, an ambassador program to help new students become acclimated to the school.

As for his goal of working for the DEA, Henry became inspired during a Young Marine trip to Washington, D.C. e group visited DEA headquarters and attended a presentation by a DEA agent. “It’s really interesting to me, but that’s down the road,” he said. “I really want to go to college.”

Holiday hazards often start in the kitchen

By Tayler Brown

Nothing feels more like the holidays than a bountiful meal surrounded by friends and family. However, the Mesa Fire Department would like to remind residents to be fire-conscious in the kitchen this winter.

Fire officials said they receive an influx of kitchen- and cooking-related emergency calls during the holidays. In 2016, there were 129 such calls during the year, many of them during the holidays.

“People get distracted,” said Deputy Chief Forrest Smith of the Mesa Fire Department. “Family and friends are over, and we tend to forget about things in the kitchen.”

Fire officials ask residents to keep an eye out for kitchen hazards, and to be prepared if a fire does break out. Smoke detectors should be fully functioning, and flammable items should be kept away from cooking appliances.

Joe Kalfus, a veteran commercial chef and culinary instructor at the East Valley Institute of Technology, said many kitchen fires happen due to a lack of preparation.

Kalfus recommended the hosts finish cooking before guests arrive. If they need to cook while guests are stopping by, they should remain alert.

“One thing we do in our kitchen is clip kitchen timers to our shirts or pockets,” Kalfus said. “Instead of just depending on the oven timer, with a phone alarm or kitchen timer you can have something on your person and you can hear it easier.”

Cooking turkey

One of the biggest holiday traditions is cooking a turkey. Whether you cooked it in the oven or fried it, it is important to stay safe.

“ e most dangerous part about frying a turkey is actually putting the turkey into the oil,” Kalfus said.

Be sure not to overfill fryers with too much oil. And always keep in mind manufacturer guidelines because each fryer is different.

Burn injuries

It is also important to practice kitchen safety to prevent burns.

“A lot of the time burns that you would get in the kitchen do not come from fire,” Kalfus said. “Some of the worst burns that you can get come from the fat and steam.”

e Arizona Burn Center, the state’s only nationally verified burn center, reported that 26 percent of burn injuries in 2016 were due to scalding.

Suzanne Buchanan, a burn outreach educator for the facility, said many people don’t immediately realize the severity of their burns.

“ ink of it as a sunburn,” Buchanan said. “You may not think that sunburn is that bad, but a couple hours later, when you go to bed, that burn may have evolved and is a lot worse.”

Buchanan reminds people to only treat burns with room-temperature water. Minor burns will usually heal without further treatment; however, if burns are severe, seek medical attention.

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Family time yilFam etim

Let’s Go Krazy

Trampoline park offers 28,000 square feet of fun

By Crystal Lewis Brown

Confession: As much as I love doing stuff with my kids, sometimes I just want to be a lazy parent. Sometimes, I don’t want to play cars, and I’m not interested in lying on the floor and playing a onehour board game in which I pretend to be an adult with responsibilities and mortgages. (Why would I want to play a game that’s exactly like real life?) And when I’m feeling like a lazy parent, my first thought is finding something that will 1, Tire the kiddos out and 2, Give them a variety of play options so they don’t get bored 10 minutes into the outing.

Enter: Mesa’s Krazy Air Trampoline Park.

With 28,000 square feet of action – plus a snack bar – there is enough activity to keep them entertained throughout the entire hour. Pricing starts with an hour’s worth of time, though you can get a second hour for half off. Once you’re in (and sign your waiver) you receive a colored wristband that staff uses to announce when time is up. at’s good, because once the kids are off and running, it’s easy to

forget what time you arrived. We were surprised at the park’s size.

According to general manager Chelsea Wilmoth, there is tons to do inside.

“Ninja Courses, foam pits, dodgeball, basketball, slack line, fidget ladders and trampolines of course,” she said.

“We also have a ‘Kid Zone’ area and we offer special needs discounts along with Family Night, Black Out Night (Teen Night) and Mommy and Me.”

From the moment their shoes came off and the trampoline socks came on, (bring them back next visit for a discount) my kids never stopped. I followed them into foam pits, trampolines and a dodgeball game in which a heroic dad braved a dozen kids in and kept my tiny kindergartner from getting out. During our visit, there were also a couple of parties going on in a large party room that accommodates multiple tables.

“We are one of the biggest trampoline parks in the state of Arizona, and everything is included with the admission price. ere is no extra charge

to attend special areas,” Wilmoth said. “People love our parties, too, the best part is you don’t even have to clean anything up, you leave that for us.”

Wilmoth also offered a few tips for those visiting.

“Filling out a waiver before coming in can save you some time,” she said. “We do have in-house waiver stations, but it can save some time doing them beforehand.

“Also wearing athletic wear is best. It can get pretty intense from jumping.”

And don’t worry if you, like me, didn’t get to eat lunch before you leave home or pack the many water bottles we in Arizona get used to toting across town.

“We do have a cafe in the park,” Wilmoth said. “We sell pizzas, chicken strips, French fries, drinks and even water bottles.

“ e best part is that everything is cooked in our quick-air ovens, noting is deep fried. So, it’s healthier and quick. A large pizza takes about 4 minutes.”

Despite my intention to focus on work while the kids jumped – I even had my notepad and pen out – I couldn’t help but follow the kids as they explored the area. While I loved watching them jump, I must admit that my favorite part of the trip was watching two ladies – sans kids – run through the park and jump on the trampolines. It struck me then that this family-friendly spot could also serve as a fun girls’ day out activity. Wilmoth said what I witnessed wasn’t an isolated event.

“Parents and adults love jumping,” she said. “We get anywhere between 2 years old and even grandparents will jump.”

Krazy Air hosts a Mommy and Me jump time from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday to ursday. If the child is younger than 7, they can jump for two hours, while an adult is admitted free.

“We even play Disney music,” Wilmoth said. “I’m not sure who enjoys it more – the kids or the adults.”

We hear someone over the loudspeaker that the time for purple bands was up; that was up. e boys swapped out their socks, put on their shoes and headed to the car. By the time I reached the 101, I peeked in the backseat to see them both soundly sleeping. If that’s not a sign of pure childhood enjoyment, well, I don’t know what is. And we’ll most certainly be back.

IF YOU GO

Mesa Superintendent to retire

By Heidi Hurst

After nine years leading the largest school district in Arizona, Mesa Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Michael Cowan has announced he will retire at the end of the 2017-18 school year.

“I have had the distinguished honor of leading the finest educational institution in Arizona,” Cowan said. “As I begin this next chapter in my life, I will leave knowing each dedicated Mesa Public Schools employee will continue the important work of educating every child and preparing them for college, career and community.”

Before becoming superintendent in 2009, Cowan served as associate superintendent, assistant superintendent of curriculum and instruction, director of science, social studies and world languages, and district science specialist. He joined the district in 1988 as a teacher, educating students at Irving, Lehi and Porter elementary schools.

“In my 30 years at Mesa, I have watched the needs of our learners

grow and change,” Cowan continued.

“It has been my unwavering passion to ensure we provide appropriate services for all students, especially those most at risk.”

Under Cowan’s leadership, the district has established innovative programs and comprehensive services to support student achievement.

e district has widely adopted Advancement Via Individual Determination, or AVID, a program that focuses on developing a growth mindset in students and a college readiness culture in schools.

rough Equal Opportunity Schools (EOS), the district has increased enrollment of underrepresented populations in advanced high school courses. Most recently, Cowan spearheaded the launch of new grading practices that best represent a student’s level of proficiency on established skill-based standards.

Results of these efforts are reflected in the district’s many National Merit Scholarship finalists and Flinn and

Questbridge scholars, 27 A+ Schools of Excellence named by the Arizona Educational Foundation, 16 Civic Engagement Schools recognized by the Arizona Department of Education

and 2017 National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence Franklin at Brimhall Elementary. Cowan is widely regarded as an expert on public policy and innovative educational practices. He is a member of the national Large Countywide and Suburban District Consortium that advises federal legislators, sits on e College Board’s Superintendent Advisory Council and serves as president of the Arizona Association of School Administrators. He also serves in a leadership capacity for many community organizations, including Mesa United Way, Mesa Chamber of Commerce, Mesa Public Schools Foundation, Boy Scouts of America and Arizona Brainfood.

Beginning in July, Cowan and his wife, Amy, will lead a three-year mission for their church in a yet-tobe-determined location.

Court is in session at Shepherd Junior High

By Laurie Struna

“Will the court please stand and raise your right hand,” said the bailiff as he administers an oath to jurors about to hear a case.

As attorneys analyze details for prosecution and defense of the respondent, the judge provides instructions to jurors. e twist? All participants are eighth-grade students in Larry Johnson’s gifted American studies class at Shepherd Junior High School.

Johnson’s students are participating in Teen Court, the Maricopa County diversion program. Teen Court participants determine sentences for eligible Maricopa County teens who are first-time offenders and have admitted responsibility for low-level misdemeanor crimes.

Students prepare for trial

Today the media center becomes a courtroom. Johnson’s students hone their skills in a final dress rehearsal to prepare for a real case. Students spend months training to participate in Teen Court hearings by learning about the judicial system, studying

cases, portraying all roles and gathering sufficient information to assign consequences.

Johnson coaches his students, reminding them to speak loudly and enunciate their words.

“Remember to slow down, and don’t be nervous,” Johnson told his class. “ e

defendant and jury members need to hear you, or we aren’t doing our jobs.”

Reinforcing good citizenship

For more than 19 years, Johnson has worked with the Maricopa Juvenile Probation Office to provide his students with this powerful educational experience. Teen Court is an alternative to institutional sentences for young offenders at risk. e program helps reduce juvenile crime within the community through peer influence. Students learn about the legal system, develop public speaking skills and help right the wrongs defendants commit.

“It’s interesting to learn that people

my age commit crimes,” said student Ariel Fendenheim. “It’s serious, and we are learning how to understand a problem from both sides to address it.”

Sentences include community service, writing essays and public apologies. Johnson said Teen Court is successful because teens are more likely to ask and answer the tough questions about why a crime was committed.

“It’s a humbling experience to be judged by your peers,” Johnson said. “ e experience is life-changing. Once sanctions are completed, their criminal record is wiped clean. is is important when teens apply to college or for a job.”

Students are more engaged in learning and retain information longer when they can apply it to real-life situations. Teen Court participants receive service hours and the satisfaction of helping other teens turn their behaviors around.

“Knowing that our cases involve real people makes it interesting,” said student David Gagon. “Determining an appropriate punishment teaches us about the consequences for breaking the law.”

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top 10 family events

Las Sendas Elementary School Performance

Students will perform holiday songs for shoppers at Superstition Springs. When: 11 a.m. to noon Monday, December 18

Where: Superstition Springs’ Outdoor Amphitheater, 6555 E. Southern Avenue, Mesa

Cost: Free Info: 480-832-0212, superstitionsprings.com

The Nutcracker

Ballet Etudes takes to the stage for the 31st annual production of The Nutcracker, featuring a cast of more than 100 dancers from around the Valley. When: 7 p.m. Friday, December 8; 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Saturday, December 9; 3 p.m. Sunday, December 10; 7 p.m. Friday, December 15; 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Saturday, December 16; and 3 p.m.

Sunday, December 17

Where: Mesa Arts Center, 1 E. Main Street, Mesa

Cost: $25 and $29, $5 for lap children Info: 480-644-6500, mesaartscenter. com, balletetudes.net

Breakfast with Santa

Visit with Jolly Ole St. Nick for a good cause. Proceeds from the breakfast benefit the City of Mesa’s Community Spirit. The two breakfast timeslots include a pancake breakfast, craft and a photo-op with Santa.

When: 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. Saturday, December 16, with breakfast served until 9:15 a.m.; and 10 to 11 a.m. with breakfast served until 10:45 a.m.

Where: Mesa Convention Center, 201 N. Center Street, Building B, Mesa Cost: $7 for adults and children older than age 1 Info: 480-644-PLAY, mesaaz.gov/ parksrec

Merry Main Street

Revelers are filling downtown Mesa for Merry Main Street. Featuring the Winter Wonderland Ice Rink, Santa’s sELFie Village, Mesa Christmas Market, Jack Frost Food Truck Forest, musical performances and more.

When: Various times through Friday, January 5

Where: Downtown Mesa, Main Street and Macdonald

Cost: Free admission Info: merrymainstreet.com

Trains in the Garden

Christmas Open House Tours

Arizona Big Train Operators are celebrating the holidays with G-scale garden railroad displays in the gardens of 11 homes and the lobby of Cardon Children’s Medical Center.

When: 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Saturdays, December 9 and December 16, and Sundays, December 10 and December 17

Where: Valleywide; addresses

available on website

Cost: Donations accepted Info: azbigtrains.org

Winter Break Dance Camp

Certified dance instructors will teach kids ages 7 to 12 hip-hop, jazz, swing and other forms of dance.

When: 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Wednesday, December 27, to Friday, December 29

Where: Kaleidoscope Dance, 2848 S. Carriage Lane, Mesa

Cost: $35 per child, per day; $95 for all three days Info: 480-692-0332, kaleidoscope-dance.com

Mesa Arizona Temple

Flower gardens, a nativity scene and thousands of lights adorn the downtown Mesa landmark. Visitors can catch Christmas concert performances nightly in December through Christmas. When: 5 to 10 p.m. through Monday, December 25

Where: Mesa Arizona Temple, 525 E. Main Street, Mesa

Cost: Free Info: mesachristmaslights.com

ZooLights

ZooLights returns to Phoenix Zoo to celebrate the holiday season. Guests can enjoy a lakeside Music-inMotion show, as well as plenty of childfriendly options.

When: 5:30 to 10:30 p.m. nightly through January 14

Where: Phoenix Zoo, 455 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix

Cost: $17.95 any night, $21.95 any night with Dinos in the Desert, $12.95 value nights, $16.95 value nights with Dinos in the Desert Info: phoenixzoo.org/event-items/ zoolights/

Chabad of Mesa Hanukkah/ Menorah Lighting Ceremony

Chabad of Mesa will perform a Hanukkah/ Menorah Lighting Ceremony in the Sears Court on Superstition Springs’ lower level. When: 3 to 5 p.m. Sunday, December 17

Where: Superstition Springs’ Outdoor Amphitheater, 6555 E. Southern Avenue, Mesa

Cost: Free Info: 480-832-0212, superstitionsprings.com

Santa’s Wonderland

Santa’s Wonderland returns to Bass Pro Shops. Families are invited to enjoy free photos with Santa and holiday activities.

When: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily to Sunday, December 24

Where: Bass Pro Shops & Outdoor World, 1133 N. Dobson Road, Mesa Cost: Free Info: 602-606-5600, basspro.com/ shop/en/santas-wonderland

around the neighborhood

Red Mountain Library holds Kidsgiving Day as a way for kids and parents to share goodwill to those in need and those who serve our country through “Operation Gratitude.” Holiday greeting cards are handcrafted for members of our military services while gift bags filled with fun activities are created for the patients at Phoenix Children’s Hospital. Kidsgiving Day saw a great turnout of creative and enthusiastic kids and their folks to share their goodwill.

1. Jonathan Stumbaugh and mom Naomi create gift bags for kids at Phoenix Children’s Hospital. 2. Ronin Luitjens chooses the perfect color for his creation. 3. Zoey Yaksitch applies cool sports stickers to her “Operation Gratitude” card to a member of the armed services. 4. At 15 months old, Elliana Hurley can barely reach the table top, but enjoys the fun of coloring and creating. 5. Brooke Yaksitch flashes a winning smile.

6. Twins Sage and Kiera Barron double the fun of giving with flare. 7. Blake Yelverton gets creative despite his injury. 8. Spencer Yelverton chats with Librarian Lois Hoover about the PCH gift bags.

By Catherine Shappell

Celebrate the holiday season in Mesa

e gift giving, dazzling lights and the winter-wonderland feeling of the holiday season has returned. Downtown Mesa may have all the necessities to meet those holiday needs, from picking up festive gifts to finding merriment and entertainment for the whole family.

is season brings classic performances to Mesa Arts Center’s stages, including e Nutcracker, Handel’s Messiah and Mannheim Steamroller. Symphonies, choirs of Christmas carolers, and a few other magical holiday surprises await.

e Store on the MAC campus is a one-stop shop for one-of-a-kind handmade items. An array of artful merchandise including paintings, scarves, jewelry, pottery, photography and glass are for sale. Artists are

available throughout the day demonstrating their crafts and techniques.

Art classes at MAC make great gifts. With more than 1,000 classes for children and adults during the year, the choices include artistled classes like calligraphy, jewelry, dance, ceramics, photography and metals, designed to help students of any age and any skill level.

Gift cards to Mesa Arts Center are flexible gift options. Gift cards are accepted for performances, memberships and art classes.

After visiting MAC, stroll through Merry Main Street in downtown Mesa, now through January 5. e

event features an ice skating rink, visits from Santa, a Christmas market, the Main Street Express Train and more.

e Christmas Lights on the Mesa Arizona Temple grounds are an annual event; the display is a spectacular sight, with hundreds of thousands of colorful lights. For more information, visit mesaartscenter.com, merrymainst. com, and mesachristmaslights.com.

The Duttons’ matriarch is grateful for family time

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

Sheila Dutton never expected she would become a musician.

Her husband, Dean, was a tenured economics professor, and she saw music as a “true weakness.” Now the couple lead e Duttons, a multigenerational family of musicians who found fame thanks, in part, to appearances on America’s Got Talent’s second season.

“I never imagined I’d be in music, period,” she said with a laugh. “I am the most unlikely person in the world to be doing what we’re doing. I was slow to come around to the idea. I thought it was maybe a frivolous activity, going

FOR MORE INFO

What: The Duttons

Where: Dutton Theater Mesa at East Valley High School, 7420 E. Main Street, Mesa

When: Various times Saturday, December 9, to Saturday, March 31

Cost: $7 (children 4-12), $14 (teens 13-18) and $29 (adults 19 and older)

Info: 480-840-6874, theduttons.com

School starts August 9

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around performing for people.

“I had a series of experiences that really opened my eyes to the effect music has on people,” she adds without elaborating. “ en, after several of those experiences in the 1980s and 1990s, I supported what the kids wanted to do.

My husband took an early retirement to do this full time.”

e Branson, Missouri-based band is headed to Mesa, where it begins its winter residency at the Dutton eater Mesa at East Valley High School on Saturday, December 9. e family has performed here since 2005, and in 2010, it partnered with EVHS to renovate and update its auditorium.

e Duttons have five shows during their time here, which wrap March 31. Christmas with the Duttons hits the stage from Saturday, December 9 to Saturday, December 23. A variety show comes to EVHS from ursday, January 18 to Saturday, January 27. Pickin’ and Grinnin’ showcases e Duttons’ favorite bluegrass and country tunes

from ursday, February 1 to Saturday, February 24. e band will “Duttonize” rock songs from ursday, March 1 to Saturday, March 17, and it performs its most requested tracks from ursday,

March 22 to Saturday, March 31, during End the Season in Style

e Duttons are skipping their New Year’s Eve shows this year because it falls on a Sunday, the day they do not perform.

“We feel honored to be able to do this because of the sweet experiences and the joy we feel, and the happiness that so many people experience when they come to our show,” she said.

“It leaves me with this feeling of humble gratitude, like how can anything so good happen?

ere’s something about the family that resonates with a lot of people. is has done so much for our relationship with our children. ey knew they were loved because we practiced with them every day. It’s not the material things you do for your children. It’s the time we spent with the kids that has made a huge difference in our family.”

events calendar

Joy to the World: Christmas Around the World

Millennial Choirs & Orchestras ushers in the holiday season with Joy to the World: Christmas Around the World

Featuring some of the most beloved Christmas carols and holiday favorites from across the globe, the group’s annual Christmas concert will feature hundreds of musicians, including the Youth Choirs, the Grand Chorus, and the Symphony Orchestra.

When: 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. Friday, December 1, and Saturday, December 2

Where: Mesa Arts Center, 1 E. Main Street, Mesa

Cost: $20-$41

Info: 480-644-6500, mesaartscenter. com

Downtown Mesa Festival of the Arts and Farmers Market

welcomes those who wish to get better acquainted with others and to participate in social and charitable activities.

When: 9:30 to 11 a.m. the first Wednesday of each month, including December 6

Where: Grace United Methodist Church, 2024 E. University Drive, Mesa

Cost: Free Info: 480-848-5146, evfanaz.org, evfanaz@gmail.com

Merry Makers Ballroom

Dance with Route 66 Trio

The Route 66 Trio performs during the weekly dance.

When: 7 to 9:30 p.m. Thursday, December 7

Where: Las Palmas Grand, 2550 S. Ellsworth Road, Mesa

Cost: $7 members, $8 nonmembers Info: 480-654-1994, dancemm.com.

Sonoran Desert Chorale’s Desert Voices of Christmas

Familiar carols, a new Gloria that features two of the finest organs in the Valley, and joyful voices lifted in songs of the season fill the second concert of the chorale’s 24th season.

When: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, December 9

Where: First United Methodist Church, 15 E. First Avenue, Mesa

Cost: $18; $15 for seniors and students in advance; $20 and $18 at the door Info: 480-305-4538, sonorandesertchorale.org

Siamese to the “naked” Sphinx to the Abyssinian and the large Persians. They will compete for best in show in 10 judging rings. Kitties will also partake in costume contests and a best decorated cage competition.

When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, December 9, and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, December 10

Where: Mesa Convention Center, 263 N. Center Street, Mesa

Cost: $9 adults; $7 seniors/military; $5 for children 3-12 accompanied by an adult, under 3 free.

Info: phxfeline.com

Citrus Gardens Country Store

The public is welcome to shop and peruse the various display tables of crafts, jewelry and quilts, among other items.

When: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, December 9

Where: Citrus Gardens Mobile Home Park, South Hall, 4065 E. University Drive, Mesa Cost: Free Info: 480-218-4421

Red Mountain High School

JROTC’s Holiday Fun Run/ Walk

Participants are invited to dress in their favorite holiday attire and run or walk for a good cause.

When: 8 a.m. Saturday, December 16

Where: Red Mountain High School, 7301 E. Brown Road, Mesa Cost: $10; $40 group fee Info: 480-472-8150, 480-472-8151

This extravaganza features the work of established and emerging artists including woodworking, metal crafts, food items, jewelry, paintings, photography, handmade soaps and holiday gift items, among many other items for sale.

When: 2 to 8 p.m. Saturdays

December 2 and December 16

Where: Downtown Mesa on Macdonald Street, off Main Street

Cost: Free admission Info: dtmesafest.com

East Valley Friends and Neighbors

A nonreligious and nonpartisan group, East Valley Friends and Neighbors

Merrymakers Ballroom Dance

The Swing Memories Big Band performs at this weekly dance. When: 7 to 9:30 p.m. Thursday, December 21

Where: Las Palmas Grand, 2550 E. Ellsworth Road, Mesa

Cost: $7 members, $8 nonmembers Info: 480-654-1994, dancemm.com

New Year’s Eve Dinner Dance

The Rich Howard Band hits the stage to help ring in the New Year.

When: 6 p.m. to midnight Sunday, December 31

Where: Sunland Village Auditorium, 4601 E. Dolphin Avenue, Mesa Cost: $45 in advance, reserved seating Info: 480-832-9003

your spouse or your named beneficiaries have had a change in circumstances (financial or personal). You should have your estate plan reviewed if:

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on the town

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

Tom’s BBQ masters the art of barbecue and fried fish

Tom’s BBQ is synonymous with award-winning dishes like brisket, burnt ends and pulled pork sandwiches.

Still, manager Stephany Say and owner Rick Pawlak, the nephew of founder Tom Ryan, frequently see first-time guests at its McKellips Road restaurant.

“We’re seeing so many new faces,” she said. “We’ve been here for 15 years and it’s amazing how many people say, ‘We’ve passed by for 10 years, but we’ve never gone in.’”

Barbecue may be the meat of the matter, but diners love the Friday fish fry. Say said the dish is toppling pulled pork as the most popular menu item.

“ e fish is a real flaky, thin white fish that’s breaded to order,” she said. “It’s fantastic. It has a really light flavor. It’s not fishy. We make the tartar sauce inhouse. Actually, we make everything except for our hamburger buns and dinner rolls in-house, including the side

dishes and desserts. e meat is smoked in-house.”

Other popular menu items include salads, homemade side dishes, fried food favorites, Chicago favorites, burgers, chicken sandwiches and desserts.

To accommodate the Friday night crowds, Tom’s BBQ remodeled its patio, adding three televisions and family-sized picnic benches, several years ago. Other amenities include a full bar with sit-down service at the McKellips location, while the food truck and catering business originates at its Southern and Country Club restaurant.

“Catering is a big part of the business,” Say explained. “We do offer full-service catering and food truck service. e food truck service is so popular. It goes to festivals. It’s fun. ere’s no clean up. It’s reasonably priced, considering what you get. You get a lot of meat.”

Catering and the food trucks offer the

Many of our locals have known us as Bistro à la

same items on the restaurants’ menus. But Pawlak has an open mind, Say explained. He takes advice from diners as well as those who frequent his food trucks. For example, barbecue nachos

consider themselves and the community as family.

“We’re allowed to bring our children to Sunshine Acres if we’re doing a big holiday party,” Say said. “We’re very close here. My daughter works here. My son has worked festivals. Kids come here in high school and work through

Tom’s BBQ

5005 E. McKellips Road, Mesa 480-924-6019, tomsbbq.com

The days of driving to Scottsdale

The days of driving to Scottsdale for dinner are over. Lunch Tues - Sat 10:30am - 2:30pm

(we want you to be “happy” but mostly come to socialize) Tues - Sat 3:00pm - 6:00pm

H iday Happenings

By Jan D’Atri

Here’s a one-pot wonder that creates 4 extra dishes what’s cooking?

We’re heading into the busiest time of the year for entertaining, shopping and cooking for family and friends. Here’s a wonderful one-pot wonder that makes four additional leftover dishes.

(Photo

courtesy Jan D’Atri)

Recipe #1: Pepperonata/ Ratatouille

Ingredients:

- 1/4 cup olive oil

- 1 large sweet yellow onion, cut into 1 1/2-inch chunks

- 3 cloves garlic, chopped

- 1 large leek, cleaned and sliced into 1-inch chunks

- 5-6 Roma tomatoes, seeded and cut into 1 1/2-inch chunks (or 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, cut in half)

- 1 large eggplant (or two medium), peeled and cut in 2-inch cubes

- 2 red bell peppers cut into chunks

- 2 zucchinis cut in 1-inch cubes

- 1 cup broccoli florets

- 1 fresh jalapeño, chopped fine

- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped

- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

- 1/2 teaspoon pepper

- Dash of red pepper flakes, optional

Directions:

In a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium heat, sauté onion, garlic and leeks in olive oil until lightly brown. Add the tomatoes and simmer for about 5 minutes. (1 pint of grape or cherry tomatoes can be used.) Add eggplant, red peppers, zucchini, broccoli, basil, chicken broth, salt, pepper and red pepper flakes. Stir and cover, cooking for 15 minutes on low heat. Uncover and gently stir. Cook for 15 minutes longer. Vegetables should be thick with a little broth. Serve over rice or pasta.

Leftovers recipe: Chicken Pepperonata

Grill, bake or pan fry a chicken

breast or large boneless chicken thigh. Place a couple of tablespoons of the Pepperonata broth in a pie pan, baking dish or small sheet pan. Place the cooked chicken on top. Add several slices of your favorite cheese on top of chicken. Spoon several tablespoons of Pepperonata over chicken. Top with a few shreds of cheese. Bake at 375 degrees for about 10 minutes or until cheese has melted.

Leftovers recipe: Steak pizza

In a small baking sheet, spread out refrigerated pizza dough. Bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes or until golden. Spread Pepperonata over dough, sprinkle with leftover steak or chicken and cheese. Return to oven. Bake until cheese is melted, about 10 minutes.

Leftovers recipe: Minestrone soup

In a medium saucepan, add 2-3 cups of Pepperonata and 2 cups of water or chicken/vegetable broth. Bring to a boil for a delicious instant minestrone soup. Sprinkle with fresh grated parmesan cheese.

Leftovers recipe: Pepperonata Fritatta

In a 6-7 inch skillet, on medium high heat, add 1 1/2 cups Pepperonata. Whisk together 3 eggs and 2 tablespoons of milk. Pour over the Pepperonata.

Add 1/2 cup shredded cheese over top. Turn heat to low, cover and cook until eggs have set.

Board & Batten boasts iconic American food

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

$3,295

When Stonebridge Manor took over its food and beverage division four years ago, the move opened the doors to a sea of creativity. Owner Michael Mills envisioned a lunch bistro, new dishes and, perhaps, a standalone restaurant.

All of that came to fruition, with the four-year-old Bistro à la Mode folding into the new dining destination, Board & Batten. e gray- and white-hued restaurant opened in mid-November at the party and wedding space.

“We had the opportunity to have our own chefs and our own staff during the day when we weren’t having events,” Mills said. “In the summer, when it was slow, I still had to employ chefs and servers. We came up with the little lunch bistro, a place we could run during the week. Hence, Bistro à la Mode was born.”

Known for its grown-up grilled cheese and French-inspired menu, Bistro à la Mode was successful, but it was limited to lunch. Mills explained the restaurant didn’t work at night because patrons would have to share restrooms with guests in the mansion.

“ is (Board & Batten) all came about because I needed a couple of restrooms,” he said.

Board & Batten focuses on “American iconic food with a little bit of a twist,” Mills described. “It’s very approachable, very comfortable food.”

which Mills is particularly proud.

“I decided I wanted a porkchop, so I poured through my wife’s cookbooks and found one I needed to try,” he said. “I bought one from the butcher, did a taste test with my family, decided which sauce and brought it back to the kitchen. I said, ‘I want this on the menu – exactly like this.’” e two chefs, Greg Tompkins and Matthew Brotnov, made the necessary modifications, and now the marinated porkchop features caramelized apples, lemon caper sauce, roasted carrots and boursin mashed potatoes.

e pistachio-encrusted basa, or white fish ($20), is another of Mills’ favorite dishes. Bolstered by couscous, roasted seasonal vegetable and raisin chutney, the fish will appeal to seafood lovers and others.

“I do not eat fish,” he said. “But I can’t get enough of it. It does not taste like fish. It’s delicious.”

To top off the meal, Board & Batten offers Italian wedding cake (white coconut cake with cream cheese frosting and raspberry coulis); beignets à la mode; chocolate torte; and a salted caramel bar. All of those are $9.

Starters range from a charcuterie board ($18) to roasted beets ($11). Salads ($15-$17) are topped with interesting ingredients like maple dressing, candied pepitas and basil ranch. Among the entrees are fried chicken ($19); short ribs ($24); duck breast with mushroom duxelle, roasted sweet potatoes and almond green beans ($22); and a porkchop ($24), of

A Mountain View High School graduate, Mills described the Stonebridge Manor operation as having “good synergy.” e Gilbert resident hopes that feeling extends to the customers. Board & Batten’s staff prides itself on having top-notch customer service. Mills’ journey has been a fruitful one, and he hopes to continue it with Board & Batten.

Board & Batten: A Modern Bistro 4012 E. Palm Street, Mesa 480-641-4148, bbdining.com

business spotlight

By Tayler Brown

Elements provides peace of mind at Red Mountain location

Elements Massage is redefining relaxation by cutting loose from the spacentered business model to concentrate on unique techniques.

“Unlike other massage places, we do strictly massage,” said Troy Suzann Gatza, who owns and manages the facility at Power and McDowell roads with her husband, Ron.

“We focus on the therapeutic care and the relaxation and peace of mind for our clients.”

Elements Massage offers a variety of options, such as deep tissue, Swedish and hot stone massage, as well as aromatherapy. Specialized services like prenatal and Himalayan salt stone massage are available as well.

“ e Himalayan salt stone is really unique,” said Tryna Ayers, a massage therapist, who has four years’ experience. “ e salt stones provide minerals to the body while working with them, and the heat from the stones just turn your

muscles into butter.”

e Northeast Mesa location has nine rooms, including a couple’s massage room, and employs qualified massage therapists who “listen to your needs and employ the proper techniques to deliver a truly therapeutic experience.”

All massage options are customizable to offer the best experience to customers, Gatza said. e staff connects clients to massage therapists who can best address their needs and preferences.

Prices vary, but this Elements is offering $69 one-hour massages for new clients. e regular rate is $99. Elements Massage also has a membership program, “ e Elements Wellness Program,” that sells monthly massages at a discounted rate.

“We know some people are weary of long-term contracts, so we offer our membership on a month-to-month basis,” Gatza said.

Elements Massage’s staff prides itself

on great customer service.

“We treat our clients as if they were our family,” said manager Amanda Hartline. “We get to know them because we care.”

e Gatzas, who also own the Elements Massage at 1705 S. Greenfield Road, work hard to increase their clientele. At their South Mesa location, they care for more than 800 customers a month.

“It’s really all about the relationship,” Gatza said. “Here at Elements we want people to be connected to the best therapy.”

Elements Massage 6747 E. McDowell Road, Mesa 602-562-7401

elementsmassage.com/ red-mountain

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Walmart brings Pickup Tower to Northeast Mesa

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

Northeast Mesa Walmart shoppers are among the first in Arizona to experience Pickup Tower technology.

Functioning like a giant, high-tech vending machine, the Pickup Tower debuted recently at the Mesa Walmart at 2767 E. McKellips Road. For shoppers, it’s all about convenience. e tower can fill a customer’s online order in less than one minute. is is how it works: Shoppers using Walmart.com can select their items and choose the “pickup” option upon paying at the online checkout. A bar code is sent to the shopper’s smartphone. When the shopper visits the store to retrieve their items, they scan the bar code at the Pickup Tower. Selected items appear within seconds.

“ e Pickup Tower is one more way Walmart is helping our customers save time and money,” said Mesa Walmart Store Manager April Carpenter.

“Mesa customers have really embraced the new technology, which is ideal for shoppers onthe-go.”

In recent months, Walmart also launched Pickup Towers at Arizona stores in Gilbert, Glendale and Avondale. e technology is being expanded to additional stores nationwide.

e Pickup Tower is Walmart’s latest innovation in the competitive retail marketplace. In addition to

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