December 2018
“Old Number 30,” a World War II-era C-47, refuels at the Vintage Wings and Wheels Car Show.
Negotiations underway for industrial spec lease
Mesa is a renter’s paradise where cost is concerned
By Connor Dziawura
By Taylor O’Connor
Longbow Gateway One speculative industrial project, at nearly 150,000 square feet, can accommodate 1,200 square feet of office space and has a 32-foot clear height and fully secured truck court. (Photos courtesy CBRE)
Several tenants are actively looking at moving into Mesa’s Longbow Gateway One speculative industrial project. Located near the southeast corner of Higley Road and Longbow Parkway, at the 300-acre mixed-use commercial Longbow Business Park and Golf Club development, the property has been vacant since The Opus Group finished construction earlier this year.
Longbow...continued on page 6
Mesa realtor Karen Brand said, along with affordable rent prices, crime isn’t rampant.
When it comes to East Valley cities, rental costs are more expensive than other areas of Arizona. Mesa is different. In a report by WalletHub, Mesa was ninth among the top 100 U.S. cities in which to rent. The study compared the cities by affordability and quality of life. Mesa Realtor Alejandro Rojas agreed the city is affordable. “The farther you move from Phoenix, the less rent becomes,” he said. “With Mesa, you are still in the metro area with newer suburbs and easy access to the city, and it’s cheap.” Emily Covey of Mesa moved from
Renter...continued on page 8
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Leon Natker has worked as an anthropologist, archeologist, museum curator and opera company general director. Recently, he took on a new role as the executive director of the Mesa Historical Museum. At the museum, he has been building relationships with local leaders and community members. Among his first tasks will be to find a permanent home for the museum “A lot of families have things sitting in the attic or sitting in the basement for decades and decades that belonged to grandma or great-grandma,” Natker said. “I want them to feel this is a safe place to donate the objects and then keep it for all time. We need to have a safe place here, and that’s what we are trying to create.”
Natker said as executive director, he will bring a broader worldview to the position. “I’m a big-picture guy,” Natker said. Dedicated to the preservation of Mesa’s history, the museum holds exhibitions at a location on Main Street in Downtown Mesa and stores its collections at the historic Lehi campus, which houses a 1914 schoolhouse. The museum has used the Lehi School and its auditorium as exhibition spaces. The museum will start having exhibitions in the school building by February, but the school’s auditorium needs to be renovated to meet modern building regulations. Museum exhibits have been on topics such as the history of the Cactus League and the local TV program The Wallace and Ladmo Show.
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Natker hopes through the museum to share the history of the Mormon settlers, Hohokam people, Chinese immigrants and African-American and JapaneseAmerican communities who have helped to shape the city. He said it is important for local people to know about different aspects of Mesa’s history, including its canal systems, early baseball teams and Japanese internment camp. “Mesa is a diverse community. It has many stories, and we want to tell them all, the good, the bad and the ugly,” Natker said. “We’re not going to hide from things that went wrong, but we also want to make sure that everybody knows about the good things and the innovative things that happened here.” Before moving to Arizona for his position as Mesa The museum already has an Historical Museum director, Leon Natker worked for the Albuquerque International Balloon Museum in extensive collection of artifacts, New Mexico. (Photo courtesy Leon Natker) which Natker plans to continue to build on and bring up to meet while working as the general director national standards. with Lyric Opera San Diego, when he “It’s great that we have all the artifacts spent time in Vienna and Munich lookthat we do, and we have tens of thou- ing for old scores and scripts for operetta sands of artifacts, but they don’t do any- productions. body any good if you can’t see them, and He has a master’s degree in museum you can’t do research on them,” Natker studies from the University of New Mexsaid. ico and archeology and anthropology “So, the priority is getting them into from Eastern New Mexico University. a state people can see them. They can Before moving to Arizona for his new learn about the stories, and students can position, Natker worked in New Mexico come and do research.” for the Maxwell Museum of AnthroRight now, he is working with a team of pology, the Albuquerque International three with focuses in exhibition design, Balloon Museum and the Museum of museum studies and history. He plans to Indian Arts and Culture. continue to grow in his team, bringing Helping an organization to grow isn’t in more curators specializing in specific a new experience for Natker. areas of study. During his early career, he played a pivNatker said as the executive director, otal role in the restoration of the 1928 it is important to have a background in North Park Theatre in San Diego. He organizing, fundraising and researching, also started an academy for low-income and his inquisitive mind also makes a middle and high school students. history museum a good fit for him. In Mesa, he plans to create a scholar“I’m very much a researchaholic. As an ship program geared toward high school archeologist/historian type, I can get lost seniors interested in studying history. in a room full of artifacts very easily. It Although his work with the Mesa Hiscan be pictures from just a few years ago torical Museum is already requiring a or boxes of implements that come from a lot of his time and energy, Natker feels century or more ago,” Natker said. up to the challenge because of his past Originally from Chicago, Natker start- work and studies. ed out in the performing arts, studying “I think that’s why the board chose at the Juilliard School before going on to me. What needs to happen in Mesa is become an actor. not new to me. I’ve done this,” Natker He took an interest in archeology said.
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It looks like that may finally change. According to John Werstler, senior vice president with industrial and logistics at commercial real estate services and investment firm CBRE, a single user is in negotiations for the property. It could see results as soon as the coming weeks. Werstler could not disclose which company, though he called it “out of the box.” “We’ve got probably three or four others, call it, 30- to 50,000-square-foot users that are actively looking at the property, almost all of them, it’s kind of interesting, in the aerospace industry,” he added. At nearly 150,000 square feet, the building also accommodates 1,200 square feet of office space and has a 32foot clear height and fully secured truck court. The aerospace interest fits well with the area, Werstler said, considering the speculative industrial project is close to Falcon Field Airport and Boeing, as well as Able Aerospace Services at the Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport. “In general, the market, right now, is healthy,” Werstler explained. “I’ve been in the business for 35 years and this is one of the healthiest markets we’ve seen in quite some time. “The thing that’s interesting about Falcon Field, though, even though there’s been a lot of new speculative industrial product – mostly general industrial product and warehouses are
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what’s been built in this cycle – there’s been a lot of that product built down around the Chandler Air Park, there’s been a lot of it in the Sky Harbor Airport area, but really up until Opus built this building and then EastGroup built another building over on the other side of Boeing, there really hasn’t been any new speculative product built in Falcon Field.” Opus saw that, as well as the potential for demand, so, the property was built, Werstler said. Longbow Gateway One comes in addition to other Opus Group projects including the 540,000-square-foot Goodyear Crossing Industrial Project in Goodyear and the 393,000-square-foot Opus Airport Industrial in Phoenix. Though the nearly 150,000-squarefoot Mesa property is suitable for a single tenant, should the active negotiations for the unidentified user fall through, the property can be split to accommodate a variety of interested smaller users. Werstler said projects such as these are constructed with the expectation of being flexible to a variety of tenants’ needs, mostly within the warehouse and manufacturing realm, as well as being fully leased in about a year. Though details surrounding the ongoing negotiations could not be disclosed, Werstler expects the building to be operating within the next six to eight months, though the process would be complete more quickly if the single user is confirmed. December 2018
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Renter...continued from page 1 Utah to the city and only planned to stay for the summer. But she stayed because of its affordability and proximity to family. “It is definitely more reasonable pricewise to live in Mesa than other areas near here. I looked at places in Scottsdale, but it was too expensive,” she said. According to RentJungle.com, the average cost for a one-bedroom apartment is $978 per month and a two-bedroom apartment is $1,157. The rent prices are lower than any other East Valley city. In Scottsdale, Chandler, Gilbert and Tempe, the average cost of rent for onebedroom apartments range from $1,000 to $1,400, and two-bedroom apartments are $1,200 to $1,500, the website reported. Arizona’s third-largest city, according to World Population Review, Mesa has a population of over 490,000. It experienced a growth rate of 2 percent from 2016 to 2017. Business is booming, too. In 2016, the city of Mesa reported four companies, Apple, Dexcom, DuPont Fabros Technology and Niagara Bottling, invested in land in the city and will
bars, but Covey said she cannot find much for nightlife. Covey, 21, still wishes there were more nightlife opportunities and chances for her to meet people her age. She said there are a lot of families and kids in Mesa, but many college-aged adults. “Everything here closes way too early or I have to drive for 30 minutes or more for any nightlife or anything alive,” Covey said. Other than the lack of nightlife, Covey said she enjoys the area. Mesa Realtor Karen Brard said along with inexpensive rental prices and accessibility, crime, like neighbor disputes, isn’t rampant. For WalletHub Emily Covey enjoys living in Mesa because it’s safe and and Safewise reports, safety inexpensive. (Photo by Pablo Robles) was a factor. In 2018, Safebring more than 700 jobs with them. A wise.com analyzed FBI data and concity of Mesa demographic report lists cluded Mesa ranked ninth among the over 3,000 restaurants, eateries, night- Top 10 safest places in which to live. clubs, microbreweries and pubs. It was based on the number of violent There may be many restaurants and crimes and property crimes per 1,000
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people from the most recent FBI crime statistic report in 2016, Safewise said. Violent crime is defined by FBI Uniform Crime Reporting Program as “four offenses: murder and non-negligent manslaughter, rape, robbery and aggravated assault.” Property crime “includes the offenses of burglary, larceny-theft, motor vehicle theft and arson.” Mesa had 4.29 violent crimes committed per 1,000 people and 23.45 property crimes per 1,000 people, according to Safewise.com. That’s more than 2,000 violent crimes and over 11,000 property crimes in a city with nearly a half million residents. Overall, Rojas said the WalletHub report will have little effect on price rises. The area has been growing steadily for years, and what he and his colleagues have been seeing is “the prices have been stagnant.” “Mesa is an area that continues to grow and plans to continue growing,” Rojas said. He said this is a strong area for people to consider moving to, and this report will guide them to the area.
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COMMUNITY
Humana donates knitted, sewn and crocheted items to Banner By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski More than 500 knitted, crocheted and sewn items, including caps, breast cancer pillows, blankets and stuffed animals – all made by hand for cancer patients – were donated by Humana to Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center. The items were made by the Humana Charity Crafters, a group of mostly senior women who meet weekly to knit, crochet and sew items for charity. Several of the ladies were on hand to donate the items to Angie Wiebler, volunteer program supervisor with Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center. The caps and blankets will be dis-
tributed to cancer patients, who often express feeling cold from chemo treatment. The pillows are shaped like hearts so patients who have had a mastectomy can place them in their armpit to relieve pain and discomfort. The crafting group meets from 12:30 to 2 p.m. Mondays at Humana, 5943 E. McKellips Road, Suite 106, Mesa. The group is open to anyone, and all crafting materials are provided by Humana. For more information on the group and the Humana community location, residents can call 480-325-4707.
The Humanity Charity Crafters created items for breast cancer patients at Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center. The group includes, from left, Carole Ann Fox, Darlene Knueppel and Barbara Keller. (Photo courtesy Humana)
Mesa Boy Scout troop inducts seven new Eagles By Nearby News staff An East Mesa Boy Scout Troop recently celebrated a major achievement for its unit as seven members received their Eagle rank – scouting’s highest honor. That brought to nine the number of scouts from Troop 999 who became Eagle Scouts this year. The troop is based at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at Val Vista Drive and McLellan Road. The seven who were inducted into the Court of Honor in a ceremony were preceded in achieving Eagle rank by a pair of brothers, Barrett and Benson Gunn, the sons of Blake and Brooke Gun. Barrett, 16, is a junior at Mountain View High School while his 14-year-old brother is a freshman. Both brothers, as most of the other Troop 999 Eagles who made that rank this year, earned far more than the 21 badges that comprise one of the eligibility requirements for Eagle rank. In addition to that requirement, scouts also must complete a community service project that usually involves organizing a number of individuals in executing that effort. Barrett, who earned 31 badges, led a school supply drive for children at Sunshine Acres for his project while his brother Benson, who earned 36 badges, organized a crew to paint citrus trees that line the streets of his Kensington Page 10
New Troop 999 members were inducted into the Court of Honor during a recent ceremony. (Photo special to Nearby News)
Groves neighborhood. Five of the seven other new Eagles this year in Troop 999 also attend Mountain View. One exception is Josh Jones, 14, an eighth-grader at Stapley Junior High. The son of Rusty and Ashley Jones, Jones organized the construction of picnic tables for the Arizona State Fish Hatchery for his Eagle community project and has earned 31 merit badges. The other was Paul Castleton, a 14-year-old freshman at Heritage Academy and son of Mark and Sharee Castleton; he put together white boards for Hale Elementary School.
The other newly inducted Eagle Scouts from the troop are: Caleb Jones, a 16-year-old junior and son of Ryan and Michelle Jones. He organized a shrub-planting project at Ishikawa Elementary School; Conner Allen, a 14-year-old freshman who is the son of Jennifer and Chris Allen, planted eight shade trees in Kensington Park and organized a cleanup of the dead wood and debris in the citrus grove on the north side of Brown Road in the Kensington neighborhood. Allen also earned 51 merit badges given by scouting for various academic, personal and community accomplishments.
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His brother Drew Allen, a 16-yearold sophomore, came close in the merit badge category with 46 badges. For his Eagle project, Allen painted a women’s shelter for A New Leaf. Grant Hansen, an 18-year-old senior and son of Van and Shauna Hansen, organized a project that repaired sidewalks at the Cooley Park ballfields near his church; Jake Barton, a 14-year-old freshman and son of Barry and Laura Barton, organized the collection and distribution of used furniture for refugee families relocated to the Valley. Barton earned 36 merit badges. December 2018
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COMMUNITY
Karen Brard and Alejandro Rojas
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looking back By Shannon Maki, Mesa Historical Museum
Mesa preschool teacher named ‘Ambassador for Excellence’
Women and the war effort
By Jessica Suriano
During World War II, women played important roles at home and abroad. On the home front, women filled in working at defense plants, a typically male job, because there was a severe shortage of labor and a high demand for war products. Most women did remain at home doing household chores and caring for the children. They contributed to the war effort by planting Victory Gardens, recycling and buying war bonds.
Armed with degrees in neurobiology and art history from Cornell University, Maria Barker thought becoming a developmental pediatrician was the ideal career – but she quickly learned that wasn’t the case. The Mesa woman was juggling medical school study sessions and application deadlines when she realized teaching was her true calling. While prepping for the possibility of medical school, she started working part-time at a behavioral school for children with autism as an instructional Maria Barker said her students’ functional communication skills give them power in their day-to-day lives. (Photo assistant. courtesy Maria Barker) “Little by little, I started developing a passion for education creativity for the students throughout rather than the medical side,” she said. the day. For her students, she said, learn“As I started to work with families more, ing functional communication skills is and actually go to a lot of those doctor’s what gives them power in their day-toappointments, I did not feel that same day lives. connection that I wanted to have with “I don’t want anyone to leave my the kids.” classroom not being able to express She promptly switched gears and re- something – one of their own personal ceived her master’s degree in education thoughts – or in some way be able to from ASU – and has never looked back. communicate with another person,” Her path led to Red Mountain Cen- she said. ter for Early Education, where she works Barker said she didn’t think she would as a special education teacher for pre- be chosen as an Ambassador for Excelschoolers. lence this year, but to her school’s prinNow, she has been recognized by the cipal, Allen Quie, the recognition made Arizona Educational Foundation as one perfect sense. of five Ambassadors for Excellence. “She’s very passionate,” Quie said. Her teaching strategy combines op- “She’s a leader on the campus. She’s a portunities for movement, music and leader for our program.”
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When women weren’t helping on the home front, they were suiting up. Roughly 350,000 women joined the Nurse Corps, women’s Marine Corps, and served as pilots in the WASPs (Women Air Service Pilots). More than 140,000 women participated in the Women’s Army Corps (WAC), while 100,000 females were in the Navy’s Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service (WAVES). About 23,000 women served in the Marine Corps Women’s Reserve (MCWR), and 13,000 women enlisted in the Coast Guard Women’s Reserve. Top: Mesa women maintained and repaired the aircrafts that were used to train pilots during World War II at Falcon Field. Left: Young women rolled bandages at the Mesa Women’s Club during World War II. (Photos courtesy Mesa Historical Museum)
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Vintage Wings and Wheels Car Show Connoisseurs of vintage airplanes and cars stopped by the second annual Vintage Wings and Wheels Car Show hosted by the Commemorative Air Force at Falcon Field. Warplanes and hotrods were on display under a warm, fall afternoon, dazzling visitors with a glimpse into the glory days of motoring and aviation. hearsay
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1. Among the muscle cars and vintage trucks, a tiny 1972 Honda 600 coupe, owned by Chuck Dean and Janice Klein, drew a number of curious onlookers. 2. Shiny hotrods and dusty old warplanes shared the tarmac at Falcon Field. 3. Fresh off their flight through the past aboard the vintage C-47 “Old Number 30,” Heather Campbell, Ignazio Arriu and Hiana Durham remarked about how smooth and gentle this 60-year-old airplane flew. 4. Bill Hoke inspects the ejector seats of the F-4 Phantom. 5. Lots of chrome and shiny paint jobs festooned a section of taxiway with “Old Number 30” looming large behind them. 6. Members of the Mercie J Autoshop team welcomed visitors in a vintage hotrod of their own. From left are Ellen McNickle, Andrew, Eliana and Michael Glandon. 7. Full of happy passengers, the vintage warplane “Old Number 30” roared over the crowd shortly after takeoff. 8. As though she planned it, Breanna Mazza found a plane that was dressed just like her. 9. Alex Walsh climbs aboard the World War II B-17 bomber Sentimental Journey for a tour of the cockpit. 10. The Walsh family enjoyed the day of history and fun together. From left are Ava, Kelly, Allison, Alex and Chris Walsh. 11. Robin Jeans and Bill Hoke admired the shiny aluminum body of one of the spectacular vintage aircraft in the Commemorative Air Force hangar. looking back
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FAMILY TIME
Familytime
‘Pizza and pipes’: Immersive family fun at Organ Stop Pizza Photos and Story by Kimberly Hosey “Pizza and pipes.” It’s a slogan and experience that has all but faded to a distant memory – except for the nightly dinner performances at Organ Stop Pizza, 1149 E. Southern Avenue, Mesa. The venue has been a fi xture for decades, but I got to refresh memories of my own – and make new ones – thanks to the captivating experience of an Organ Stop dinner and show I shared with my 16-year-old son. The spacious, two-story building houses a dining hall with long communal tables that host hundreds of diners each night. The real focus is the Mighty Wurlitzer, the world’s largest Wurlitzer pipe organ and one of the most unique and complex musical instruments. The Wurlitzer was constructed for the Denver Theater in 1927, when massive theater organs accompanied silent movies. Half a century later it landed in Arizona, has moved and been expanded over the years, and now the organ draws visitors – and organists – from around the globe. Organ Stop Pizza has been a Valley favorite since 1972. The instrument at the center of it all is more like multiple organs in one and boasts pipes and other components from around the world. The largest pipe is 37 feet long and weighs 2,200 pounds. This massive organ’s capacity was evident as soon as my son and I entered, as we were hit with waves of music: a rendition of various Star Wars tunes, rendered festive and massive on the room-sized instrument. Before we’d even ordered our pizza, my son was hooked. The fare at Organ Stop is enjoyable; starting with personalized pizzas, pasta, sandwiches, or a trip to the salad Page 14
bar and wrapping up with a visit to the dessert counter later if you still have room. The restaurant offers various sodas, wines and beers. Make sure to bring cash or checks; Organ Stop does not accept cards. There is an ATM in the lobby.
We took our seats on the second floor, but you’re golden just about anywhere. The main floor is wide open and usually full of diners as the Mighty Wurlitzer looms overhead. We had a different idea: From the second floor, especially with a seat at the edge, we could take
A performance at Organ Stop Pizza is an immersive concert, with the organist controlling the sounds of organs, pianos, xylophones, drums, horns and more; as well as projections, the motion and color of lights, bubbles, and even the occasional puppet show.
But the food isn’t really why you’re coming here. The main course is the music. After we’d ordered our pizzas – onion and mushroom for me, extra cheese and tomato for him – we made our way to the dining hall. The organist for the night, award-winning organist Lew Williams, was between performance sets. My son immediately made a beeline for the front of the stage that had a small dish and cards so guests can make requests. Williams is joined by Organ Stop’s other permanent musician, Charlie Balogh, along with several other elite musicians.
it all in. “Grand Old Flag,” “Somewhere Beyond the Sea” and “Ob-La-Di, Ob-LaDa” played before our number lit up on the order board. For each song, we were treated to a mesmerizing combination of effects: dancing spots of light, different colors lighting up on cue, a giant flag lowering from above. “He controls everything in the room!” my son exclaimed. He was nearly right. Williams didn’t just sit and play a keyboard. He “played” a console with over 1,000 keys, buttons and switches that control about 6,000 pipes, 17 percussion instruments, two pianos and more. When he played the
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organ, an orchestra joined in: We heard drums, clarinets, saxophones, trumpets, xylophones and more. The light show was part of it, as well as kaleidoscopic projections, puppets, and even bubbles coming from blowers along the ceiling and a disco ball throwing out shards of light. The entire meal is a sensory experience. As I returned with our pizzas, the concert was picking up: Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody” lit up the room, and my teen even tolerated me singing along (for a few seconds). “We Are the Champions” followed, as well as “My Heart Will Go On,” a ton of Disney songs, classical music, “America the Beautiful,” the “Mission Impossible” theme and selections from “The Phantom of the Opera.” This last one was my son’s request, and he was on the edge of his seat – literally – waiting to hear it. He was not disappointed. Though it’s one of the most common requests, it also seemed to be a favorite of Williams, who was as into the performance as many guests. The pipes glowed aqua green, deep blue-violet, fiery red and more as he performed the piece. We had stayed through two sets when we realized there was only one left and we hadn’t gotten dessert. My son asked to stay for the last one – and if you don’t have a teen, let me tell you, this enthusiastic request alone made the trip worthwhile. We hustled to get some ice cream before the dessert counter closed and returned to our seats for more Disney selections, the big-band hit “In the Mood,” “Take Me Out to the Ball Game,” and – once again – Star Wars tunes, in a medley with Star Trek. For all its charm, for all its immersive appeal, I realized I hadn’t appreciated Organ Stop Pizza enough as a kid. Other kids, as well as folks of literally all ages, seemed to know better. Because my son is in three bands at school and considering pursuing music education, I definitely should have revisited earlier. But your kids don’t need to be obsessed with melody or acoustics: They’ll love the immense helpings of music along with the food. And if they get antsy, there’s an arcade in the lobby. This holiday season, it’s a great time to bring out-of-town guests as well as
Organ Stop...continues on page 15 December 2018
FAMILY TIME
Kumon of Mesa-Las Sendas enrolling students By Steven Solomon As a mother and former teacher, Morgan Wehner truly believes in the Kumon method. After all, her learning-disabled children achieved great success with it. “I have five kids and all of them have benefited from the Kumon program in different says,” said Wehner, who Kumon is an after-school math and reading enrichment protaught high school in gram that serves children in preschool through high school. (Photos courtesy Kumon Math and Reading Center) Ahwatukee. “Four of them have various learning “Traditional tutoring focuses on the disabilities and one of them is advanced. work the student is currently getting, Seeing both sides as an instructor and a whereas Kumon baselines the student parent has been absolutely eye opening. I to see where they are most comfortable,” love that Kumon allows you to meet the Wehner said. “We begin our work and students where they are at and then help program at an easy level and build our them advance with their own ability.” curriculum around that level. We want As a result, Wehner opened the Kumon to see our students succeed from the beMath and Reading Center of Mesa-Las ginning.” Sendas at 2383 N. Power Road, Mesa. Kumon has more than 4 million stuFounded in 1958, Kumon is an after- dents enrolled at nearly 25,000 learning school math and reading enrichment centers. Each family is screened to ensure program that serves children in preschool the parent and child have enough time through high school using an individual- and commitment to attend classes twice ized approach to help children develop a a week. Tuition is $150 per month, and solid command of math and reading skills. after an average of two years in the proThrough daily practice and mastery of gram, students exit two years above the materials, students increase confidence, grade level when they began. improve concentration, and develop betFor more information, call 480-397-9670 ter study skills. Kumon has been serving or visit kumon.com/mesa-las-sendas. children worldwide for 60 years.
Organ Stop...continued from page 14 your kids. The venue’s winter hours, which continue through March, are 4 to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 4 to 10 p.m. Friday, 3 to 10 p.m. Saturday, and 3 to 9 p.m. Sunday. You’ll really want to check out Organ Stop Pizza during the Christmas season, when they deck out for the holidays and play favorites like “Sleigh Ride,” “Winter Wonderland,” “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” and more. The selections are available for purchase on Williams’ Holiday Pipes album, available in the Organ Stop gift shop along with other selections from performing musicians. The restaurant is closed on ChristDecember 2018
mas, but has special hours Christmas week: 3 to 9 p.m. December 23, 3 to 8 p.m. December 24, 3 to 9 p.m. December 26 and 27, 3 to 10 p.m. December 28 and December 29, 3 to 9 p.m. December 30, and 4 to 8 p.m. December 31. You might have visited Organ Stop Pizza as a kid. You deserve to go back, whether it’s to relive memories with your own kids or (like us) start some new traditions.
Tickets Start at $18! Restrictions, exclusions and additional charges may apply. Subject to availability. Tickets at market pricing. Purchase tickets at venue box office, ticketmaster.com or call 800-745-3000.
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IF YOU GO What: Organ Stop Pizza Where: 1149 E. Southern Avenue, Mesa Info: 480-813-5700, organstoppizza.com Competitors shown are subject to change. © 2018 Feld Motor Sports, Inc.
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FAMILY TIME
ECA contributions provide transformative student opportunities By Laurie Struna, Mesa Public Schools College tours provide a valuable opportunity for high schoolers to plan their future. However, the cost of travel can be prohibitive to many families. This October, Mesa High teacher Jenny Brierton took her students on a four-state college tour, thanks to extracurricular activity (ECA) tax credit contributions from the community. Brierton is a coordinator for Mesa High’s Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) program. AVID is a college readiness program designed to prepare students for life after high school, and one important component is to help students overcome obstacles and achieve success. With a cost of $675 per student, the college tour was a hardship for many of Brierton’s students. Luckily ECA monies were available to fund 90 percent of the trip. Brierton accompanied 48 students and four chaperones on the sevenschool college tour, where they participated in team-building experiences and
In four days, students from Mesa High AVID toured seven colleges in four states. (Photo courtesy Mesa Public Schools)
a visit to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. “Having the opportunity to experi-
ence college programs in person is a game changer,” Brierton shared. “It is the place where our students will call home during their college years. They need to feel comfortable so they can continue to learn, grow and contribute as members of the community.” Senior Yamiletzy Moreno shared the AVID trip helped her select the college she will attend next fall. Without ECA, she wouldn’t have been able to experience what her future may hold. “I made a lot of great friends on this trip and created unforgettable memories,” Moreno said. “The most important
part is that I got into one of the best business schools in Colorado, and I can’t wait to attend The University of Northern Colorado.” ECA tax credit program is an easy way to help Mesa’s students while enjoying a dollar-for-dollar credit. Each year, eligible Arizona taxpayers may donate up to $200, or $400 if filing jointly, to extracurricular programs. Eligible taxpayers will receive the money back as a credit when filing their state taxes. “Every dollar counts when it comes to ECA monies,” said Carol Alexander, supervisor of student activities. “If a community member would like to contribute but doesn’t have a specific student or school in mind, we can direct funds toward the schools that need it most.” For more information or to contribute online, visit mpsaz.org/eca. Mesa residents are invited to call 480-4720133 with questions or to contribute via phone. NNM
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December 2018
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December 2018 reel2real
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Gingerbread Rock
Merry Main Street 2018
Celebrate the holiday season around the Downtown Mesa Christmas Tree. Enjoy live music, vendors, light-up rideable Frozen sleighs and compete in the gingerbread housemaking competition. The contest is open to the first 25 families who preregister with at least one adult and child under 18 years old. When: 5 to 9 p.m. Thursday, December 13 Where: Downtown Mesa, 1 N. Macdonald, Mesa Cost: Free Info: 480-890-2613, downtownmesa.com
Venture through Jack Frost’s Food Truck Forest or take a ride on the Polar Express. This downtown festival is full of Christmas festivities for the whole family. On Fridays and Saturdays enjoy free visits with Santa around the Christmas Tree. When: Various times until January 4 Where: Downtown Mesa, North Center Street and West Main Street, Mesa Cost: Free, $10 for one hour of skate time and skates Info: merrymainst@mesaaz.gov, merrymainst.com
Vertuccio’s Christmas Farm Lights Celebration
Bring the family to play in 20 tons of snow. Bounce houses, reindeer games and food trucks are all included at the event. As part of the Bike & Pedestrian Program, embark on a group bike ride afterward through Alta Mesa’s neighborhood to see the Christmas lights and holiday decor. When: 2:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, December 15 Where: Alta Mesa Park, 1910 N. Alta Mesa Drive, Mesa Cost: Free Info: mesaaz.gov
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Vertuccio Farm is hosting its first Christmas Farm-Lights Celebration. Experience more than 2 million lights stretched out over 10 acres. There will be a skating rink, a 50foot Christmas tree and other activities. When: Various times through January 11 Where: Vertuccio Farms, 4011 S. Power Road, Mesa Cost: $15-$20 Info: 480-882-1482, vertucciofarms.com
Cyclomesa Winterfest 2018
Hanukkah Storytime
Tillie Tortoise and the Christmas Surprise
The whole family is invited to celebrate Hanukkah and learn about the wintertime festival of lights. Join a guest presenter for songs, stories and a menorah craft. When: 9:30 to 10 a.m. Friday, December 7 Where: Red Mountain Library, 635 N. Power Road, Mesa Cost: Free Info: 480-644-3100, mesalibrary. org
This original holiday story is presented by the East Valley Children’s Theatre’s Express Acting Troupe. The show welcomes children of all ages. When: 6 to 7 p.m. Monday, December 3 Where: Dobson Ranch Library, 2425 S. Dobson Road, Mesa Cost: Free Info: 480-644-3100, mesalibrary. org
Noon Year’s Day Celebration
Bicycle Basics for Kids
Children are invited to ring in the “noon year” with party hats, stories and noise makers. Sparkling cider will be provided. When: 11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Monday, December 31 Where: Mesa Public Library, 64 E. First Street, Mesa Cost: Free Info: 480-644-3100, mesalibrary. org
This instructional event teaches kids ages 5 to 11 the importance of bike safety. Each participant will receive a free bike helmet. Registration is limited so sign up by 5 p.m. Tuesday, December 4. When: 3 to 4 p.m. Wednesday, December 5 Where: Red Mountain Library, 635 N. Power Road, Mesa Cost: Free Info: 480-644-3100, mesalibrary. org
December 2018
Speak, You Speak, We All Speak Shakespeare!
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All ages are invited to learn about the most famous author of all time. Explore the works of Shakespeare through activities, games and discussions. Southwest Shakespeare Company’s resident company member, Breona Conrad will be joining the event. When: 11 a.m. to noon Saturday, December 8 Where: Mesa Public Library, 64 E. First Street, Mesa Cost: Free Info: 480-644-3100, mesalibrary. org
Learn how to make websites and computer games – no prior experience necessary. For ages 8 and older, kids can follow lessons at their own pace and be coding in no time. When: 4 to 5:30 p.m. Thursday, December 13 Where: Dobson Ranch Library, 2425 S. Dobson Road, Mesa Cost: Free Info: 480-644-3100, mesalibrary. org
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FOOD & DRINK
what’s cooking? By Jan D’Atri
Easy Guacamole Salsa Chicken Enchiladas
Five is the magic number for this recipe: It has only five ingredients and in the “easy & delicious” category, it’s a 5-star. So this is my gift to you this holiday – the gift of simplicity. This Guacamole Salsa Chicken Enchilada Casserole could be a new go-to favorite because one jar of a store-bought savory sauce does pretty much all the work! Herdez Guacamole Salsa is one of the newest products in the Herdez family of salsas, and I’m happy to have stumbled upon it because of this recipe. You may have seen it on grocery store shelves and wondered what to do with it. This enchilada recipe is the perfect place to start. The guacamole salsa is a rich and creamy blend of avocado,
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Guacamole Salsa Chicken Enchiladas Ingredients: - 1 package (8) corn tortillas - 1 (15.7 oz) jar Herdez Guacamole Salsa - 1 cup half and half - 1 cooked rotisserie chicken - 1 (12 oz.) package cheddar cheese or Mexican blend
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Directions: Remove all skin and bones from rotisserie chicken. With your hands, tear off chicken into strips. In an 8-inch skillet or saucepan, heat Herdez Guacamole Salsa and cream, stirring to combine. Dredge both sides of a tortilla in the warm salsa, then place in a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish. Fill the lower third of the tortilla with a few strips of chicken and about 2 tablespoons of cheese. Roll up tortilla. Repeat with remaining tortillas, chicken and cheese to fill up casserole dish. Pour the remainder of the salsa over the enchiladas. Sprinkle the rest of the cheese over top. Bake at 350 degrees for about 15 minutes. To get a golden-brown top, turn on broiler mode of oven and cook for about 5 minutes or until browned. Serve immediately.
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(Photo courtesy Jan D’Atri)
tomatillo, chiles and spices with a bit less kick than most salsas, but the flavor is all there! All you need is a jar of this special sauce, some corn tortillas, rotisserie chicken, some cheese and cream, and in about 20 minutes, you’ll have a fantastic meal. It’s as easy as it gets, but if you want to take the dish to a new level of flavor, I’ve added an additional recipe for homemade tortillas. Es delicioso!
Want to make your tortillas from scratch? Try this easy recipe!
Homemade Corn Tortillas Ingredients: - 1 cup corn meal - 1 cup flour - 1 egg - 2 cups water - 1/4 teaspoon salt Directions: In a bowl, whisk together corn meal, flour, egg, water and salt. (Batter should be consistency of thin pancake batter. Add more water if needed.) Heat a small amount of oil or cooking spray in a small cast iron skillet or crêpe pan. With a ladle measuring cup, pour a thin layer of batter in pan to make a 6-inch tortilla. When tortilla forms bubbles, flip and cook for about 30 seconds. Put on plate and cover with towel to keep warm. Repeat until batter is used up. Watch my how-to video for Guacamole Salsa Enchiladas here: jandatri.com/recipe/ guacamole-salsa-enchiladas/
December 2018
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During OK Go: The Live Video Tour, the band live-scores the videos, which take center stage. (Photo courtesy OK Go)
By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski mom section
Merry Christmas From Our Family To Yours
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OK Go celebrates 20th anniversary with family-friendly show Since OK Go formed 20 years ago, the band has produced elaborate music videos to go with its smart, melodic pop songs. When its 2006 video for “Here It Goes Again” went viral, it became a thing to dance on treadmills. To celebrate its two decades in music, OK Go is taking its video tour and live concert experience on the road. The guys will perform a live soundtrack to their pioneering videos. “For years, we have been highly involved in making visual stuff,” said lead singer/video director Damian Kulash. “It’s time to put on a different kind of show. The videos that we’re famous for take center stage. We play along with them. We’re live-scoring the videos. We’re performing the songs, but somehow the experience is really, really different from the crowd perspective. They’re sit-down events in theaters and they’re family friendly.” Guitarist Andy Ross created an app that allows fans to play along with the songs on handbells, Kulash said. “It’s a really, really fun show,” he said. The challenge with touring a show like this is telling enough people ahead of time that this isn’t the typical concert. “The mega fans, the people who are following us on social media and are dialed into what we do as a rock band, they show up and have a great time,” December 2018
Kulash said. “It’s reaching out to the people who don’t check what’s happening at the rock club this week. The people who are 18 to 35 are the ones who are going to rock shows, mostly in sweaty, loud bars. We love those kinds of shows, but as a culture, we’re so used to putting someone in a particular category. The truth is, those boundaries are getting blurred. This shouldn’t be filed under ‘rock band comes to town.’” These diverse performances are punctuated by casual Q&A sessions, and it all adds up to a totally new type of event: part rock show, part film screening, part Blue Man Group, part pop-up magazine and all OK Go. OK Go’s work has been honored with a Grammy, three VMAs, 21 Cannes Lions and The Smithsonian Ingenuity Award. They’ve written op-eds for The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal and Rolling Stone, they’ve testified before the U.S. Congress, and they’ve collaborated with Google and The Muppets. They’ve, too, worked with UCLA biochemists to encode their work in strands of DNA. At okgosandbox.org, OK Go is teaching students through the fun of its music videos. For example, kids can learn algebra, principles of gravity and how a 4-second shot becomes an amazing 4-minute video in “The One Moment.” Check out how to make music from
anything you can get your hands on, just like OK Go in “Needing/Getting.” “We have an educational nonprofit we launched at okgosandbox.org,” he said. “We’ve been contacted by teachers who use videos to teach math, science, art and music. We tried to make materials to make that easier for teachers to join in. It’s a website of teaching materials.” Kulash just wants to make things different. “We love the energy and the catharsis of a rock show, but after doing a few of these, we realize it’s such a different thing,” Kulash said. “We’re adding a new branch onto what we do. There’s an intermission. It’s that kind of show. It’s nice to see people enjoying themselves in a different way. We’re so used to people dancing, crowding together and doing what they do at a rock show. They’re enjoying things in a more comfortable way.”
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Located at 777 Highway 260, 3 miles south of Pinetop, AZ For more information go to Hon-Dah.com or After a day the HighorCountry, hiking, Callboating 800-Way UpofHiexploring (800-929-8744) 928-369-0299 or fishing, come in from the outdoors and play in our 24 hour Casino on 800 plus “HOT” slot machines or try your hand at live Blackjack or Poker. Enjoy a meal from Indian Pines Restaurant and re-energize in the Timbers Lounge with live entertainment 6 days a week. After a fun filled day, relax in our heated outdoor pool or hot tub. Dream of your next adventure in one of our 128 oversized Hotel rooms. Bring your RV to the Park in theID White MustLARGEST showRVMilitary orMountains. DD214 Now with over 500 spaces.
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Join us for the Christmas Buffet TuesdayOn Friday December 25, 2018 September 28, 2018 Hon-Dah Resort Casino & Conference Center 11:00 am till 9:00 pm will host the The Run to the Pines pre-car show. There will be a parade of pre-1970 vehicles. In the evening there will be a BBQ dinner, entertainment and giveaways. Open to the public. The BBQ dinner is hosted by the Run to the Pines Car Club.
IF YOU GO What: OK Go: The Live Video Tour When: 8 p.m. Friday, December 14 Where: Mesa Arts Center’s Ikeda Theater, 1 E. Main Street, Mesa Cost: $30-$50 Info: 480-644-6500, mesaartscenter.com Get a sneak peek at The Live Video Tour here: https://youtu.be/ Hvgzenf-b10
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Dave Koz returns to the Mesa Arts Center this holiday season. (Photo by Dave Steps)
(More than) 12 days of Christmas in Mesa By Elana Gonzales
Tickets Start at $15! Restrictions, exclusions and additional charges may apply. Subject to availability. Tickets at market pricing. Purchase tickets at venue box office, ticketmaster.com or call 800-745-3000.
STATE FARM STADIUM JAN 19 Competitors shown are subject to change. © 2018 Feld Motor Sports, Inc.
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This December, Mesa will end the year with a festive bang. Holiday happenings, downtown festivals and creative workshops are bound to keep residents and visitors entertained through the rest of 2018. At Mesa Arts Center, there’s something for everyone – tickets to your favorite holiday show, memberships for arts enthusiasts and one-of-a-kind arts gifts at The Store, an artist’s cooperative gallery. Gift cards are great for the person who has everything, and can be used for any of MAC’s drawing, jewelry-making or glassblowing workshops! Put on your candy-cane pajamas and hop on the Polar Express Light Rail car to visit Mesa’s annual Merry Main Street event, which runs through the holiday season. Start with ice skating at the Winter Wonderland outdoor ice rink at Mesa’s City Plaza, and then grab a treat and cocoa from Jack Frost’s Food Truck Forest in Pioneer Park. The local shops in downtown Mesa will also be bustling, offering the chance to snag a last-minute gift for your friend while they’re preoccupied with one of the many street activities or holiday movie showings. Take out-oftown guests to visit the four-story-tall Christmas tree in the center of it all, and if you run into Santa on Friday or
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Saturday, be sure to snag a sELFie with him at one of the many photo stations! The festivities continue at Mesa Arts Center with a full entertainment lineup. December performances kick off with Trey Anastasio on December 3 and Sing! An Irish Christmas on December 5. On December 9, The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, The Musical will show before a magical concert by Salt River Brass’ Holiday Pops. Dave “Santa” Koz & Friends will also be returning to MAC on December 15, followed by several performances of the Nutcracker by Ballet Etudes, a performance of All Is Calm: the Christmas Truce of 1914 on December 18, Jason Mraz and Toca Rivera on December 21, and Home Free on New Year’s Eve. If you find yourself wanting more, save room in your schedule for Mesa Arts Festival, December 10 and December 11. The festival will offer activities for the family, including artist demonstrations, live entertainment and culinary delights to enjoy.
IF YOU GO What: Mesa Arts Center Where: 1 E. Main Street, Mesa Info: 480-644-6500, mesaartscenter.com
December 2018
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December 2018 events calendar
Downtown Mesa Festival of the Arts Experience arts, crafts and food at the Downtown Mesa Festival of the Arts. Its mission is to encourage the economic and artistic growth of artists while building a sense of community in Downtown Mesa. The event is held on the first and third Saturday of every month. When: 2 to 8 p.m. Saturdays December 1 and December 15 Where: Downtown Mesa, 1 S. Macdonald, Mesa Cost: Free Info: info@dtmesafest.com, dtmesafest. com meet your neighbor
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Meet the Author: Paula Goldsmith Author and speaker Paula Goldsmith will sign her four books, which will be available for purchase. Guests will receive a gift with purchase. When: 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, December 1 Where: Red Mountain Library, 635 N. Power Road, Mesa Cost: Free admission Info: paulasstories.com
East Valley Friends and Neighbors Enjoy coffee and other refreshments while socializing with others in the East Valley community. From there, partake in activities and social groups such as luncheons, book reviews and more. A general meeting is held on the first Wednesday of each month. When: 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, December 5 Where: Grace United Methodist Church, 2024 E. University, Mesa
Cost: $25 per year Info: 480-828-5146, evfanaz.org
Fall Out to Lunch Concert Series Bring your blankets or comfortable folding chairs to these fun afternoons of free concerts. Food and beverages will be available for purchase, or you are welcome to pack your own picnic lunch. When: 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. Thursdays Where: Mesa Arts Center, 1 E. Main Street, Mesa Cost: Free Info: 480-644-6500, mesaartscenter. com
The Nutcracker Ballet Etudes presents its 32nd annual production of The Nutcracker. Follow Clara on a magical journey filled with swirling snowflakes and the Sugar Plum Fairy. Backstage tours will be offered after some performances. When: Various times, December 7 to December 16 Where: Mesa Arts Center’s Piper Repertory Theater, 1 E. Main Street, Mesa Cost: $6-$32 Info: 480-644-6500, mesaartscenter. com
Mesa Book Festival
David Archuleta American Idol’s season seven runner-up hits the Mesa Arts Center this holiday season. His new album Winter in the Air is his second Christmas album and contains a mix of covers and three original songs. When: 7:30 p.m. Thursday, December 6 Where: Mesa Arts Center’s Ikeda Theater, 1 E. Main Street, Mesa Cost: $45-$65 Info: 480-644-6500, mesaartscenter. com
The Smashing Pumpkins The Smashing Pumpkins make their second visit to the Valley this year, this time to the outdoor Mesa Amphitheatre, rain or shine. The band will be joined by Drab Majesty. Doors open at 4:30 p.m. and the venue enforces a clear bag policy. When: 6 p.m. Friday, December 7 Where: Mesa Amphitheatre, 263 N. Center Street, Mesa Cost: $59-$64 Info: 480-644-2560, mesaamp.com
More than 85 vendors will have a diverse offering of books. There will be author presentations and panels, as well as an open mic poetry stage. When: 2 to 8 p.m. Saturday, December 8 Where: Downtown Mesa, on Macdonald Street between Main Street and First Avenue Cost: Free admission Info: mesabookfestival.com
Wine Tastings at Board & Batten Learn about the intricacies of wine and food pairing. Board and Batten provides wine tastings paired with its entrees. Reservations are recommended. When: 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, December 12 Where: Board & Batten - A Modern Bistro, 4012 E. Palm Street, Mesa Cost: $20 Info: 480-641-4148, bbdining.com
The Robert Cray Band Legendary guitarist Robert Cray has over 40 years of performing under his
belt and has a spot in the Blues Hall of Fame. He has won five Grammys and 15 Billboard chart-toppers in his career. He returns to town to play the MAC. When: 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, December 12 Where: Mesa Arts Center’s Ikeda Theater, 1 E. Main Street, Mesa Cost: $38.50-$48.50 Info: 480-644-6500, mesaartscenter. com
District 4: The Poetry Reading Every third Thursday of the month, poets are welcome to try out their material at this open mic. District 4 will host two featured poets from the East Valley at each event. Those who sign up or are featured have a chance to be published in a new poetry anthology. When: 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday, December 20 Where: Jarrod’s Coffee Tea & Gallery, 154 W. Main Street, Mesa Cost: Free Info: 480-822-7146, jarrodscoffeeteaandgallery.com
Caffeine and Classics - Monthly Car Show Check out a car show for all makes and models on the last Saturday of each month. Sip on a nice cup of coffee and take a look at premium cars. When: 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, December 29 Where: Streetside Classics, 614 E. Auto Center Drive Suite 101, Mesa Cost: Free Info: 480-926-1344, streetsideclassics. com
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Mike Lovato, left, and Steve Thomas built an arcade around their desire to introduce a younger generation to something other than a cellphone or television screen. (Photo by Katy Anderson)
Among the clatter of pinballs racking up points and soda cans being popped open are the sounds of children laughing and people smashing buttons on video games. StarFighters Arcade, a vintage gaming business located near McKellips and Greenfield roads, offers access to classic video games, pinball machines and snacks. Co-owners Mike Lovato and Steve Thomas opened StarFighters Arcade in 2014 after collecting and restoring gaming machines for years. Lovato said he first recognized his passion for restoring arcade games when he bought a Centipede machine for a new house and began fixing it. “I found out that I enjoyed the work and I just kept buying games until it got out of hand,” Lovato said. The arcade’s selection of games comprises arcade machines from community members, online sellers and other collectors, he said. The pair wanted to create a place in Mesa where people can go relive their youth through the experience of vintage games, Lovato said. “Our goal has always been to provide a family-safe environment where people can come and enjoy arcade gaming from the ’70s, ’80s and ’90s in as close as a real setting as you can get,” Lovato
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said. “We’re not a ‘bar-cade.’ We’re not anything other than strictly an arcade.” StarFighters Arcade has been open four years and offers unlimited gaming to customers for $11. The arcade also offers snacks and soda, but does not sell alcohol or other food items. Lovato said he and Thomas wanted the arcade to be a place where parents can bring in their children to play the classics. Other Mesa arcades, like The Grid: Games and Growlers, offer alcoholic beverages alongside the gaming experience. But Lovato said Thomas preferred to base StarFighters Arcade on what was popular in the ’90s: soda, candies, arcade games and pinball machines. Lovato said he and Thomas did a lot of research before starting the business and knew exactly the revenue they were giving up by not providing alcohol or food. “We knew the return wasn’t going to be as high without those two items, but we really wanted to do it to provide a resource for the community,” Lovato said. Julia LaRosa, a clinical assistant professor at ASU’s W.P. Carey School of Business who has a background in management and business consulting, said small businesses that specialize in a specific product like StarFighters Arcade have to listen to what their audience wants to be successful. “In an establishment like this, you’ve December 2018
that frequently brought junior high kids to StarFighters Arcade. She said she liked how everybody was able to enjoy the atmosphere no matter what they were into. “It definitely has more of that family feel, has the older style,” Wolford said. “Even the drinks and the food are just like soda or water and fun candy and gum… It’s just something that you can lose yourself in by being there a couple hours.” Lovato said he and Thomas hope to continue to grow with the Mesa community and provide their audience a place to experience gaming in the way it was intended to be. He said his favorite thing about the arcade, besides the Galaga machine, is seeing new people come in. “They’re walking through with their kids and they have a huge grin on their face,” Lovato said. “That is something you can’t buy. I’m just happy that we can provide that for the community.”
IF YOU GO What: StarFighters Arcade Where: 4840 E. Jasmine Street, Suite 102, Mesa Info: 602-513-9532, starfightersarcade.com
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got to really know who your target audience is, and you want to cater to them in very deliberate ways,” LaRosa said. Small businesses like StarFighters Arcade are most likely to fail when they do not conduct the proper market research to find their audience, LaRosa said. The small businesses need to make sure each customer is ecstatic with their product and “really go above and beyond, because there’s too much competition,” she said. In the case of StarFighters Arcade, the atmosphere attracts families in the Mesa area, Lovato said. He quantifies the arcade’s success by their ability to grow the business and give back to the community, whether it be through gaming experiences or charity events, Lovato said. StarFighters Arcade hosts two charity events a year where they raise over $1,000, including a yearly Christmas charity event for autism foundations, Lovato said. “Giving back to our community is a big deal for us,” Lovato said. “The more able we are to do that based upon our patronage is a measure for us of being successful.” Patron Maria Wolford used to be a youth group leader for a Mesa church
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Tips for buying a newly built home By Alejandro Rojas As anyone driving through Mesa can see, there is a lot of new home construction going on. Buying a new home can be a great experience. Buyers can customize their home, and there is nothing like walking into a new house for the first time that has your personal finishing touches. However, if you want the experience to go as well as possible, there are some things to consider before even stepping foot in a model home center. The first thing you will want to do is get a real estate agent. If you merely visit a builder without one, they will not allow you to add one later. In my experience, the builder’s salespeople are very friendly and helpful. However, they work for and represent the builder, not the homebuyer. Having a real estate agent allows the buyer to have someone on their side who can give advice, answer questions, champion you on any issues that arise, and get you in contact with other service providers should the need arise. The other great thing is that it typically does not cost you any extra. The builder usually pays the agent’s commission. The agent can also do the legwork of finding what construction is going on in your preferred area and schedule trips to look at the homes that best fit your preferences. Often homebuilders give great deals when you use their lenders, but do not be afraid to shop around. Their lender
might not have loans that fit your needs, and some lenders will match or beat the builder’s incentive. Another decision that can be difficult to navigate is customizing your home. Typically, a builder will only allow a limited number of options. Some builders give you a half dozen packages to choose from, and that is it. Others may have many more options but charge too much. In some cases, it may be best to bring in your own contractor once the home is completed to make the finishing touches. Once your home is complete, it is also wise to get a home inspection. Inspections are nearly always completed for resale home purchases, but they’re not as common with new home purchases. However, inspectors have shared with me horror stories of builders neglecting to complete vital home construction steps. Once the inspection is complete, an experienced real estate agent can help you negotiate the items getting fi xed and pressure the builder to get the fixes completed as soon as possible. Buying a new home can be a rewarding experience, and there are some great deals out there, but knowing what to expect can help curtail any surprises as you enjoy a home special built for you and your family. Alejandro Rojas is a journalist and real estate agent in the East Valley. He can be reached at email@alejandrorojas.realtor. Visit his website at newernest.com.
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