Courtesy, integrity, self-control, perseverance, indomitable spirit.

These are the tenets students at Brother’s Taekwondo live by.  For these martial artists, taekwondo is more than a sport, it is a lifestyle.

“It teaches respect and discipline…and in this society we need more discipline,” said Grand Master Peishan Kang (more commonly known as Mrs. Kang), 7th degree black belt, wife of Grand Master Jong Kil Jang, a 9^th degree black belt (the arts highest possible rank) and former US National Women’s coach.

Both are owners and instructors at Brother’s Taekwondo.

On December 1st, 50 students gathered at the Tempe dojang (a Taekwondo school), 6356 S Price Rd, to test for their next belts, including 10 who were testing for their black belts.  The age of the pupils ranged from 3 to in their mid-70s.

The students were energized and excited.  Parents and family members sat in the wings, smiling with one another and chit chatting about life and the test.

The students opened with their oath: 1. I will observe the tenets of taekwondo.  2. I will respect the instructor and seniors.  3. I will never misuse taekwondo.  4. I will be a champion of freedom and justice.  5. I will build a more peaceful world.  6. I will achieve the rank of black belt.

This was followed by a demonstration by some of the students.  All different belt levels, the performers came together and demonstrated their flipping techniques, self-defense techniques and then ended with a clever movement piece to Psy’s “Gangnam Style.”

After everyone settled from the excitement of the performance, Grand Master Jong Kil Kang imparted words of wisdom to the budding students and prepared for the beginning of the test.

“You understand?” Grand Master Kang asked after his speech.

“Yes sir!” the class replied.  All answered with respect, knowledgeable of the fact that they were in front of a legend.

Grand Master (which is the title given to those with a 6^th degree black belt or higher) Jong Kil Kang’s résumé is expansive and impressive.  Starting taekwondo training in 1956 in Korea, he received his first degree black belt two years later at the age of 13.  After 30 years Grand Master Kang was honored with his 9th degree black belt from the World Taekwondo Federation.

He founded his first taekwondo school in Seoul, Korea in 1967.  Since then he has opened over a hundred schools around the world, including seven in Mexico, nine across the United States and sum hundred in Taiwan.

Grand Master Kang also taught the U.S. Special Forces (Green Berets) in 1985 and was the U.S. National Coach for the 1983 Taekwondo World Championships in Denmark.

Despite his immense accomplishments and legendary background, to his students he is the kind, funny, passionate instructor that encourages vigor and enthusiasm but demands discipline and respect.

“I’m so grateful to have him [Grand Master Kang] as my coach…he’s the best I’ve ever had,” first-degree black belt Lynda Christopher said.

The belt testing consisted of five parts: Warming up, demonstrating forms, self-defense techniques, board breaking and sparring.

Each belt has a different form associated with it to showcase that you are ready to proceed to the next level.  Likewise, testers are required to perform a variety of self-defense procedures including knife skills, which increase in difficulty as the belts get higher.

The board breaking is arguably the most exciting part.  The lower belts performed simpler techniques, usually standing in one spot and punching or kicking the board.  However, higher belts are required to demonstrate complex moves, such as a 360° kick (where you spin and jump in the air) or a technique where students fly through the air (sometimes over people) and attack the board with their foot.

After the board breaking, the students sparred with one another, demonstrating their responsive abilities.  And then the test was complete.

They lined up in perfectly even rows and awaited their new belts, which were distributed by the black belt students and the teachers.

The younger kids waved to their family, excited by their accomplishment. Some students received trophies for best forms, best sparring, best defense, etc.

The art of taekwondo is a lifestyle and a family.  Following the test, family members and students gathered together for the Brother’s Taekwondo annual Christmas party, excited by what they accomplished and ready to get to work again soon so they can test again in June of 2013.

For more information on Brother’s Taekwondo and prices of lessons, please visit www.brotherstkd.com.

Theater is a place to lose oneself in a real-time fantasy.  It is a source of entertainment that allows the audience to remove themselves from the rigors of their daily life for a few hours.  For many, seeing a play is a special night out—often accompanied with dinner, a pair of high heels and a tie.  All too often, however, theater goers forget that these actors and actresses do not have the luxury of starting over nor of the immense work and preparation that goes into the creation of the fantasy.

According to the Broadway League, the official source for the Broadway theater industry, 12.3 million people saw a Broadway show in the 2011-2012 season.  Production genres can include musical theater productions, tragedies, comedies, operas and more.

“In film you have multiple takes,” said freshman and theater major Angelica McGrew at Northern Arizona University.  “If a director doesn’t like a certain aspect, he can change it and start over. If the lights go out in a middle of a scene, the director yells ‘cut’, fixes the problem, and goes on with the scene once again.  Live theater is a whole other game. If someone messes up, you have to fix it on the spot. The lights go out? Actors have to improv [improvise] the scene and integrate a reason why the lights are malfunctioning, all while staying in character.  This is all while the techies [technical staff] are running around like mad men trying to fix the situation,” she said.

The success of a live show is dependent upon a hardworking and talented cast.  The process begins at auditions.  Actors line up, résumé and head shot in hand, ready to show the directors and producers just what they’re made of.  For straight plays, actors usually prepare a one minute monologue—a speech delivered solo.  However, sometimes directors will have performers read from a script without ever seeing it before (a cold read) or will have actors prepare a segment from the picked show.  For musical theater, typically thespians prepare a 16-32 bar piece of music showcasing their abilities and resembling the style of the show.

This process can take days or weeks to finish before directors and producers decide who they want to see again for “call backs.”  This is where actors will dance, read role specific parts and/or sing specific songs.

For Megan Thompson, the 19-year-old Gilbert native and longtime theater performer (16 shows around the Valley) callbacks are her favorite part.

“By this point, you know you are good enough to be here.  The directors saw something in you.  Now is your opportunity to really show them what you’re capable of and go above and beyond the other performers,” Thompson said.

After call backs have finished, which can take upwards of 5 hours, hopefuls return home and the decision making begins.  It can be several days before actors hear if they have been cast or not.

Finally, the final decision is made and the cast list is posted.

“It’s exciting seeing your name on that list,” Thompson said.  “And from there it is only the beginning.”

And thus, rehearsals start.  Most theaters rehearse 4-6 days a week, ranging from 2-12 hour rehearsals.  Here, actors memorize entire shows, prepare dance numbers, prepare blocking (stage placement) and dig into character development and show meaning.  The entire rehearsal process can be as little as two weeks to 2 months.

“Once you are in a show, that show consumes your social life,” added McGrew.  “You are constantly at rehearsals, tech runs, and actual shows. You will only go home to sleep a few hours and the whole process starts all over again.”

For 10-year-old Charlie Siegel, his favorite part of the theater process is getting costumes for the first time.

“It really gets you into character”

For McGrew, she enjoys getting ready with fellow cast members on opening night.  It rids them of nervous energy and reminds them they are more than cast mates, they’re family.  They’re people that depend on each other for a successful performance.

Actors and techies arrive hours before the show actually begins to ensure their microphones work, all their props are in place and that they have ample amounts of time to get ready (some make up routines can take hours to prepare).  Then, the audience finds their seats, the tech crew double checks their levels, the actors prepare for their big debut.

“I love standing backstage and hearing the opening number,” Siegel said.  “It’s such a thrill.”

And just like that, the performance begins…

And ends.

Sometimes mistakes are made (which are typically only noticed by the performers and tech) but nonetheless actors prepare for the next day (where they may have another three performances to produce), bodies rested, energies high and old mistakes noted.

Before they know it, the run of the show has ended and the whole process begins again.

For many, this is not a paid gig but a passion and hobby.

“I try to give the audience a little peek into my soul every time I perform,” Thompson said.  “They don’t understand that they fuel my performance.  Every applause, every laugh, every whistle encourages me to really dig deeper and try to shine a little brighter.”

Theater is an art, one that that Becky Martinez, producer and board president at the Mesa Encore Theatre does not see leaving anytime soon.  It is an art that needs hundreds of man hours and requires willing and talented performers to create that real-time fantasy for the audience to enjoy.

It’s fascinating to explain the atmosphere at Scottsdale’s Desert Stages Theatre.

Kids of all ages laugh with one another, chasing each other across the stage and into the depths of back­stage.  Adults interact with the children and each other, singing, giggling, and smiling.  Family members talk with other family members, their friends, about their daily lives and trials—planning lunch dates and sleep overs for the kids.

See, Desert Stages is more than just a theater.

It’s a family.

For many aspiring actors, Desert Stages Theatre, DST as it is referred to by its performers, is the kick off point for their acting career.  Casting 200 or more children as young as 3 years old in each youth show, actors travel from around the state to DST to perform.

Kiara Adams is an 8-year-old Cave Creek starlet, who has been in 11 shows at DST.  Her little sister, Ava, 6, has been in 8 shows.

“My favorite part about theatre is when you sing and act and when you have an audience to perform for and I love it when friends are there to watch,” said Kiara Adams.

Kristin Alba, 18, has been with DST since she was 9, performing in over 30 shows in the children’s theater and adult’s theater.

“You just feel comfortable there,” Alba said.  “People make you feel like you belong.  All of my best friends are from DST.”

Desert Stages is a non-profit, 501(c) (3) with an annual budget of $900,000, said Laurie Cullity, executive director and co-founder of the theatre.

The reason they survive?  Volunteers.

While many theaters around the valley also depend on volunteerism, Cullity said DST is special because it involves every member of the family.

“When I was in theater, I went. I rehearsed. I left,” Cullity said.  “My mom maybe did my hair [before a show], but at DST we try to involve mommies and daddies and brothers and sisters in many ways.  We are unique because we are very family oriented.  Everyone is part of the magic.”

Desert Stages was started by visionary Gerry Cullity, his equally talented wife Laurie, and Gerry’s devout mother, Joan Thompson in 1995.  Starting in a Scottsdale strip mall near Granite Reef Rd and McDonald Drive, the team built a name for their theater by performing a variety of shows including original works by Mr. Cullity, and encouraging kids of all ages to be a part of the live theater life.

“He never gave up on anyone,” said Alba.  “He paid special attention to every single person.”

In 2005, a year after Desert Stages moved to its new dream home at 4720 N. Scottsdale Rd., Mr. Cullity passed away from a heart attack.

“It was a hard loss for the theater,” said Jessica Frieling, long time performer and affiliate of DST.  “I have witnessed the theater go through a lot since then.”

On top of the relocation of the theatre, DST has endured many challenges.  Most recently was the loss of Audrey Johnson, the long time and much beloved parent coordinator for the troop.  Nevertheless, Desert Stages has banded together to keep the theater and its participants strong.

“It’s like a family,” stated Frieling.  “When you suffer a loss, your family comes around to lift you up and keep you going.  The thing that theaters have and families have is resilience and it’s through the new families and people that we keep going.  That’s why it’s called Community Theater.”

Desert Stages is funded by ticket sales, donations and grants.  Much of the budget goes towards standard operating expenses including an electricity bill that averages $3,000 per month, and a large rent payment.  The rest of the budget includes royalty payments, which can be upwards of $1,000 per show title, prop costs, stage designs and staff payments.

Desert Stages’ main stage, an in-the-round 136 seat theater, is one of only a few in-the-round theaters in Arizona.  Audience members completely surround the cast and are, consequently, provided with a more intimate and interactive theater experience.

Unlike many theaters in the valley, DST has two stages in its 6,500 square foot building.  Its Actor’s Café has 60 seats and is a traditional, proscenium-style theater.

Desert Stages Theatre continues to grow and prosper in their downtown Scottsdale home.  And despite its losses and hardships, DST continues to live by this vision statement:

“Scottsdale Desert Stages Theatre exists to create ‘moments’-that instant in time when an actor truly connects with his audience on a human level. For the actor, it is a time of self-fulfillment; for the audience, it is a time when hearts are touched. It is a moment that is special.  A moment that empowers.  A moment that creates change.  Our vision is to provide as many actors as possible with the opportunities to experience these ‘moments’; to explore and expand their creative talents and their dreams; to entertain; to develop and nourish their love and appreciation for theatre; and to enrich-and maybe even change-lives through this theatrical experience.”

For more information on auditions, donations and upcoming shows, please visit www.desertstages.org.

Catherine Morris is as sweet as the cakes she makes.

A 21-year-old education major at Mesa Community College, Morris started decorating cakes six years ago when she took just one lesson at her church.  She then developed her skills by working at Walmart for 10 months decorating their cakes. From there, she began making cakes out of her home for her friends and family and is in the works of opening her own business, Cat’s Cakery.

“Initially I thought this was just going to be a hobby,” Morris said.  “But then prices went up for ingredients and then recently I thought this could potentially be a business.  I would have to go to school and get a business degree and train under someone, but I would love to open up my own bakery one day.”

Morris has made in the hundreds of cakes, she reckons, ranging from birthday cakes to wedding cakes and for other special events.  Describing her cakes with pride and a sense of accomplishment, she says each one is “thrilling.”

“Once you put frosting on a cake, you can’t really take it off,” Morris said.  “There’s no going back.”

Recently, she made a three-tiered wedding cake for a friend.  The bottom tier had a swirly, filigree design, the middle covered with flowers, and the top had a quilted pattern.  Each tier had a ribbon separating them.  This cake took about a day and a half to make, baking time included.  Though on average, most standard, 9-inch round cakes take a few hours to construct.

The cake the made her realize she could do more than just frost was one she made for a friend for her birthday.  It looked like an open book, with pages and a bookmark and along the sides had flowers and fondant all over.

“It was really creative for me,” she said.

Despite her being around cake all the time, Morris said she still enjoys eating it.

“I eat cake a lot.  I try not to eat the frosting but it always happens.  I make cakes for myself and my family and I always think I am going to get tired of them, but I haven’t so far.”

Morris admires the work of Chef Duff Goldman of Charm City Cakes in Baltimore. Goldman’s bakery was the star of Food Network show “Ace of Cakes.”

“I wish I could make a cake with him!  His cakes are incredible.”

Her favorite technique as of late includes frosting a cake with a straight edge, putting it in the freezer for 45 minutes and then using the straight edge again to chip off the excess frosting.  Morris said it makes for a perfectly smooth surface and a nice blank canvas.

The advice she gives to aspiring bakers:  “You have to stick with it.  I have already come so far but have a lot to learn,” she said.  “I never dreamed that I would be doing any of this.  It has really been a blessing in my life.”

“The revolution has begun.”

The revolution is that of Independent voters in Arizona and across America yearning for better representation.

These were the words spoken by Mickey Edwards, former Republican congressman from Oklahoma and current Aspen Institute political leadership member.  He and Jacqueline Salit, former campaign chief for New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg, spoke to a crowd of nearly 80 people on Wednesday, Oct. 18.  The event was entitled, “Taking the Partisan out of Politics,” and was held at the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism in Downtown Phoenix.

The event was hosted by the Morrison Institute for Public Policy, a unit of Arizona State University that reaches those who shape public policy.

Despite Independent voters accounting for nearly 33 percent in Arizona and nearly 42 percent nationwide, Edwards and Salit fear the current system in Arizona and elsewhere inhibit Independents from having a voice.

“We’ve created an unrepresentative set of elected officials,” Edwards said.

The event speakers discussed a variety of issues including Prop121 in Arizona, similar to the “Top Two” primary system used in California, and the overall impact that Independent voters will play in upcoming elections.

Proposition 121, known as the Open Elections/Open Government initiative, “would amend the state Constitution to give Arizona what is commonly known as a top-two primary system.  In this system the primary, in effect, becomes more like a general election in which all candidates and all voters may participate regardless of party affiliation,” according to the Morrison Institute’s website.

A similar system has been developed in California and is currently through its first round of votes for their representatives.  Likewise, a “Top Two” system was attempted by Salit and team in New York but did not succeed in its attempts.

Nevertheless, Salit claims Prop121 is a good move for Arizona.  “With a political structure that excludes 4 out of every 10 Americans, this system is not a true representation of what many Americans want,” said Salit.

The youth in America will also contribute to the success of the “revolution.”  Salit explained that young people come into the political system as independent minds, searching for ways to participate.

Janelle Wood, the 2010 Independent gubernatorial candidate, continued to say that the youth are informed and looking for people with character. “They are asking the tough questions and sooner or later elected officials will have to answer to the youth.” Voters will decide on Prop121 and several other propositions and initiatives on Nov. 6.

On Friday, Sept. 21, the Mesa Performing Arts Center played host to a group of representatives from a number of universities that are setting up branches in the city of Mesa.   As part of the “Mesa Counts on College” initiative, the Mesa’s Higher Education Conference and Expo introduced the presidents of Albright College, Benedictine University, Westminster College and Wilkes University to the general public.  Hosted by Mayor Scott Smith of Mesa and City Manager Chris Brady, the forum gave the universities the opportunity to discuss their plans for furthering education in Mesa and their perspective on the importance of working together as a community.

“We needed more options,” said Mayor Smith in his address to the community.

The journey of bringing the out of state schools began nearly four years ago.  The city, Mesa Community College and Mesa Public Schools together received a $250,000 planning grant from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and the National League of Cities for Communities Learning in Partnership.  Subsequently, in 2010, Mesa was one of only four cities to receive a three-year $3 million implementation grant from the Gates Foundation.

“We’re not a community that shies away from challenges,” said Mayor Smith in his speech.  “[And] Mesa cannot be satisfied with average.”

The four of the five 3rd level schools’ presidents spoke at the event.  The fifth, Upper Iowa University, which had just the previous day announced its intention to set up a branch in Mesa, was not present.  The speakers all expressed their excitement and hope for the future of Mesa and also discussed what makes each school different and a perfect fit for Mesa.

“We [Westminster College] are an international community,” said President George B. Forsyth of Westminster College.  “Sixteen percent of our student body comes from 70 different countries…so not only are we sending students around the world, but we are bringing the world to our campus.”  President Forsyth continued on to say that “Mesa will become our sandbox,” which is why they picked Mesa for their expansion.  “[It will become] our innovation incubator for thinking creatively.”

Benedictine University, which will be the first Catholic college in the state of Arizona, announced that it will offer exclusive scholarship options to those in the community.  They include a 25 percent discount for members of the Mesa Chamber of Commerce and their families, scholarships for local Catholic high school graduates and for young people who are active in their local Catholic parishes.

“We look forward to partnering with Mesa,” said President William J. Carroll of Benedictine University.  “We challenge you to challenge us to make us all better.”

For Albright College, this is their first out of state venture.  “I’m confident that we will find success here [in Mesa] because of our demonstrative abilities to teach common skills and instill common values in a wide range of students,” said Albright President Lex O. McMillan.

Wilkes University President Patrick F. Leahy said they were thrilled to be part of Mesa’s higher education initiative.  “Count us [Wilkes University] in, all in,” said President Leahy.

The response from the community has been positive, Vice Mayor Scott Somers said.  The biggest issue they have run into has been where to house all of these schools in Downtown Mesa.  Wilkes University will be housed in the former Mesa city court building, now called The Mesa Center for High Education, as will Westminster College.  Benedictine University will open at in the former Tri-City Community Service Center on Main and Albright College will be housed in the former Bank of America building in Downtown Mesa.

“People from all over can come and study here in Mesa,” said city councilman Chris Glover of District 4.  “This is an amazing experience and a momentous occasion.”

Albright College began offering classes this fall 2012 semester.  Wilkes University will begin its MBA program in the spring of 2013 and Benedictine University and Westminster College will start offering classes in the fall of 2013.

East Valley Teens: Are you passionate about aviation? Can’t help look up to watch an airplane fly over? Or just like speed? Then the aviation high school program at EVIT (East Valley Institute of Technology) might be just what you are looking for! It is located at Phoenix-Mesa Gateway airport, in a brand-new facility, with the goal of becoming the “Premiere Aviation High School” in the southwest. Eligible to attend are students in the east valley communities of: Gilbert, Chandler, Tempe, Mesa, Scottsdale, Fountain Hills, Apache Junction and Queen Creek.

Students arrive each day for instruction and hands-on learning for two and ½ hours, and then return to their home school. Currently, the courses in the EVIT aviation program are for elective credit, but plans are to obtain approval for core subject classes like Math and Science. It is a four semester program which covers most aviation industry topics including: air traffic, maintenance and technology, airframe and power plant, aircraft systems, history, and flight training. The program is accredited by the Aviation Accreditation Board International.

Aviation education in the East Valley strives to be an invaluable asset to the aviation industry in our state. For those students wishing to pursue a career as a professional pilot, aircraft mechanic, or other exciting aviation career options, EVIT is a pathway to the colleges and universities located at the Phoenix-Mesa Gateway airport: Chandler Gilbert Community College, University of North Dakota, and Arizona State University’s Polytechnic campus.  These high-quality programs are available to any student willing to do the hard work it takes for success.

The Chandler Gilbert Community College (CGCC) program offers the most successful aircraft mechanic program in the southwestern region. The goal of CGCC is to provide an excellent education that attracts topnotch students from around the southwest and the country. Those students are then recruited by aviation companies right here in Arizona.
Recent graduates are finding employment with aerospace companies, airlines, engineering firms, aircraft maintenance facilities and flight training facilities. Recruiters solicit students from the CGCC aircraft maintenance program yearly, and graduates are obtaining excellent employment right here in the East Valley.

The University of North Dakota (UND) has a satellite program in coordination with CGCC and EVIT. Students are concurrently enrolled with both schools and then will have the option to transfer to the Grand Forks, ND campus. Students from EVIT take flight lessons, and then obtain their private pilot license through the UND program while they are still in high school. This makes the program affordable, and is a route for students to continue with their flight training locally once they graduate from high school. Students can complete their private, instrument, commercial, multi-engine and instructor pilot certificates and the related course work to boost their college careers.  After students complete two years of training in Arizona, they transfer to Grand Forks, ND and finish their Bachelor’s degrees. Currently, the program has forty two students with six flight instructors; located in a new hangar with a classroom facility at the airport. The aircraft are 2006 Piper Warriors with glass panel displays. When students are ready for their Multi-engine training, they will fly a Piper Seminole. UND graduates often become Certified Flight Instructors (CFIs), and then corporate and airline pilots throughout the world.

Finally, Arizona State University (ASU), Polytechnic Campus, College of Technology and Innovation offers several aviation majors and Master’s degree programs all located at the Phoenix-Mesa Gateway airport. The facilities are world-class, hosting: full-motion simulators, aircraft engine labs, air traffic control simulators, and high quality aircraft and instruction for those who are pursuing their pilot certificates. Students graduating from ASU aviation programs obtain employment at local airlines and aviation companies as well as throughout the world. Alumni frequently return to visit, guest lecture, and encourage current students in the programs.

I had the pleasure of talking with a few students who are currently studying at EVIT. These students are enthusiastic about the program and are truly rising stars in the aviation industry in the East Valley.

Austin Lee from Mesquite High School in Gilbert likes the EVIT program “because the teachers are cool, know their stuff and break it down so students can understand it.”
He began the program as a Junior and plans to continue by obtaining his private pilot’s license through CGCC and UND, becoming the first pilot in his family. Austin recommends the program to others “because it is a good program to explore aviation, and students in the program are friendly and study hard.”

Michael Carleton from Corona Del Sol High School in Chandler is excited about the program and being around the other students who enjoy aviation.  He likes the teachers because they apply what they teach to everyday life. Michael is mostly interested in the Air Traffic Control (ATC) program, which he plans on pursuing further at UND or ASU when he graduates from Corona del Sol. He has been flying since he was 14 years old.

Anthony Felton from Marcos de Niza High School in Tempe says “I like how airplanes fly”, and after watching the now classic aviation movie, “Top Gun”, decided to become a pilot. The curriculum at EVIT has given him many opportunities in aviation that he did not know were available. He loves the instructors and plans to continue his education locally by taking classes and complete pilot training with CGCC and UND, eventually completing his degree with a focus on Unmanned Aerial Vehicles.

These students’ passion is a testimony to the type of excellent programs located here in the East Valley. The investment that EVIT, CGCC, UND and ASU is making in their students and programs attracts excellent aerospace and aviation companies to the East Valley and is truly an asset for all stakeholders.  As a community, these programs fuel growth and serve to raise our standard of living as highly skilled graduates attract aviation industry businesses to locate to the East Valley. This is a cycle of success that we can all be proud of.

Future students may contact the following for more information:

East Valley Institute of Technology
Captain Al  Mittelstaedt
(480) 308-4613
amittelstaedt@evit.com

Chandler Gilbert Community College
480-988-8000
askcody@cgc.edi

University of North Dakota
Aerospace Foundation FT
5733 S. Sossaman Rd. Mesa, AZ 85212
Rex Ginder, Site Manager
(480)988-8221
ginder@aero.und.edu

Arizona State University
Mary Niemczyk, PhD
Chair, Aviation Programs
College of Technology and Innovation
mary.niemczyk@asu.edu
phone:    480.727.1595

Situated in the heart of Apache Junction, near the base of its namesake – the Superstition Mountains – is the latest educational expansion to take place in the East Valley.  Opening its doors to registered students this August, Central Arizona College’s Superstition Mountain Campus will be up and running for the fall semester of 2012.

Challenged with rapid population growth, in 2004, the Pinal County College District began the initial phase of the Capital Development Plan.  The plan mainly addressed the need for new facilities and to make improvements and renovations on existing facilities, as well as the sources for the required capital.  In addition to donations and revenue bonds, the majority of the funding came from a General Obligation Bond that was approved by Pinal County voters in November of 2008.

Along with acquiring properties located in Maricopa and San Tan – and renovation work at Aravaipa, Signal Peak and the Casa Grande center – phase one of the Capital Development Plan included the start of the build out of the campus at Superstition Mountain.  In November of 2010, two years after county voters approved the measure, Adolfson and Peterson Construction broke ground in Apache Junction.

The land in Apache Junction owned by Central Arizona College was originally intended to be a retail/shop place, and had several buildings on it at the time they first broke ground on the new campus.  Those buildings have been utilized throughout the entire process, and CACC plans to renovate them as needed.  The first building to actually be built was the Central Plant, which was completed in April of 2011.

The new Central Plan building – which, and deservedly so, has gotten much of the attention throughout the construction phase – is a site to be seen.   The structure was thoughtfully designed and carefully constructed to bring a beautiful, natural-looking building to what was once a barren 63-acre plot of land.  “The form of the building, the form of the materials used, all relate to the surrounding area,” declares head architect, Will Craig, of Richärd and Bauer.  The building was built in the image of Superstition Mountain, and the 30-foot vertical striations were meticulously hand crafted in order to achieve this effect.

In addition to the Superstition Mountain appearance, the new campus has several other unique aspects to it.  Copper Clads can be found covering the Academics Building, all over its slant shaped roof, as well as along the bridge that connects the two buildings – which are the centerpiece of the entire campus.  But don’t expect the copper to oxidize and turn Statue of Liberty blue-green anytime soon.  Due to Arizona’s dry climate, it will take a few years to turn “penny-brown,” then anywhere from 50-100 years before it gets any green to it.

To accompany the copper, the Superstition Mountain Campus will welcome students and visitors alike with artistically designed signs on each end of the campus.  The Monument signs – made out of polished, stainless steel – serve as the perfect gateway to the much anticipated new campus.  Students will have no trouble finding their way to the new educational facility.

Even though the Superstition Mountain Campus will somewhat focus on offering courses related to careers in health, CAC students will still be able to take a wide array of classes.  The campus is open for classes this fall, and future plans for the new location are to renovate old buildings and construct new ones as they are needed.

Nestled in the evening shadows of the Gilbert water tower sits a unique spot where the locals come to unwind after a tiresome day in the East Valley life.  Displaying its socially vibrant crowd outside, along the corner of Gilbert Road and Page Avenue, Postino East is conveniently located in the heart of historic Gilbert.

The inside is a complete contrast of the rural surrounding area.  The atmosphere instantly transports you to something that resembles a hot spot in Portland or Seattle.  A smiling hostess takes your mobile number down on an iPad installed into the hostess stand; she then says they will text you when your table is ready.  Don’t be disappointed by the brief wait though, because instead of an uncomfortable, crammed lobby, Postino East provides soon-to-be patrons a spacious cocktail lounge in which they can order drinks and allow the experience to commence.

Known for their Bruschetta and Panini sandwiches, my dining companion and I decided to order and split both, that way I could sample several exclusive options.  An order of Bruschetta allows you to choose four of their quite creative eleven options.  We decided to try: Fresh Mozzarella with Tomato and Basil, Warm Artichoke Spread, Brie and Apples with Fig Spread, and Salami with Pesto.

Although each topping was delicious, the Salami and Pesto was top notch.  The Bruschetta bread was thicker and softer than your typical Bruschetta base; however, the end result was even further than typical.  Smothered generously in mouth-watering pesto sauce, it only gets better when it’s topped with freshly shaved Italian salami.  It is truly a delightful treat in which I will return for more.

After relishing every crumb of the Bruschetta, and some excruciating thought and consideration, we compromised on the Chicken and Mozzarella Panini.  Loaded with juicy, tender chicken breast meat, combined with the perfect ratio of arugula greens and mozzarella cheese, and topped with a one of the kind spicy sun dried tomato mayo, this triangular sandwich proved to be a delicious match than my stomach just could not handle.  Nevertheless, I tried and tried.

Upon finishing our main course, and perfectly aware of the fact that I wore my looser-fitting jeans, I decided to order a dessert.  Postino East has just three options to choose from, but I can guarantee you the decision won’t be easy.  They offer a Crème Brulee, a chocolate Bouchon served with vanilla ice cream and a salted caramel sundae.  Since I’m the kind of guy who frequently goes back and forth between craving salty and sweet, the salted caramel sundae seemed the appropriate decision.  Appropriate is an understatement.  This dessert was so scrumptious that my stomach seemed to forget it was full, but only until about the time I put the spoon down after the last bite.

My Postino East experience was complete, and I was in a state of complete satisfaction.  From the first drop of wine to the last drop of melted ice cream in my sundae, Postino East delivered.

This one of kind, local dining establishment will surely provide customers with rich experience.  Whether it’s wine, music, or the renowned Bruschetta, Postino East offers the East Valley a perfect blend of rural and contemporary Gilbert.

It’s summer, but that doesn’t mean 13, 14 and 15-year-old East Valley students should be playing video games all day. Experts reveal that summer is one of the best times for high school freshman and sophomores to begin making important college decisions by going on campus tours, exploring potential careers and evaluating financing options. Sound overwhelming? It can be, but through the advice of peers, fellow parents and financial experts, the road to college becomes a little clearer.

Peer Advice

A few years ago Kryslen Holt was trying to decide her academic future. Now a senior at ASU’s PolyTech Campus in Mesa, Holt serves as a career peer in the Career Center. She spends her days helping ASU students make the important transition from student to professional.

Often however, she gets to work with young teens touring the campus. In addition to offering career assessments, she advises junior high and high school students looking to find success at the university level.

“We talk about what they can do at the age they are at, but emphasize exploring potential careers as early as possible,” explains Holt. “ If they are too young for internships, I tell them to seek out volunteer opportunities or try to get involved with a business that looks interesting even if it is just entry level – any exposure helps them get a feel for that industry and company.”

She added, “If they think they want to be a veterinarian, call a local clinic to do a shadow day or volunteer on the weekends – see if they can handle the daily tasks associated with that job.”

She also recommends involvement in high school clubs and extracurricular activities related to potential careers as freshman and sophomores before difficult career choices need to be made.

Mother Knows Best

During the past few years, Mesa mom Kindra Hughes has become a college expert through her own children’s experiences. With two children in college, a son that just graduated from Mountain View last month and a daughter entering her sophomore year at Mountain View next fall, Hughes has learned the dos and don’ts for helping her high school aged c hildren prepare for college.

“You have to start even before they are a freshman, when they are in junior high,” Hughes explains. “If they aren’t getting good grades in junior high or learning important skills like writing, it is too late to teach that once they are in high school when grades really count.”

Although Hughes’ children excel academically, earning exceptionally high marks on entrance exams and receiving scholarship offers, she admits college preparation is about more than just grades.

“It has been a lot of learning on my end with my older kids,” she explained. “Through trial and error we figured out what college entrance exams they tend to score higher on, when they do better on the test (fall junior year), and that you can practice as a sophomore before it counts. Just as important has been finding out early about scholarships from high school counselors or other parents, staying on top of college requirements that change frequently, and always letting my kids know what is expected.”

Parental expectations are a big part of her children’s success. The Hughes family emphasizes the importance of academic and fiscal responsibility early in order to prepare them for success in college when they are on their own.

“At our house college isn’t a question. We say ‘when you go to college, not if you go to college’, and our children know we expect them to make school a top priority and try their hardest,” explains Hughes. “We also try to prepare them financially by helping them learn to save for college, paying half for extras they want to participate in and general budgeting.”

“We worry if we just give them everything now, they won’t know how to provide for themselves later,” she added.

Another hard conversation the Hughes parents aren’t afraid to have with their children in high school is responsible career choices.

“While my oldest son has many interests and talents, he would have loved to just write all day – but my husband talked to him about choosing a career that could pay the bills and writing on the side,” said Hughes. “He lovingly, yet realistically let him know that just because something is interesting doesn’t mean you can make a living in it.”

Hughes has also seen the importance high school volunteer and extracurricular involvement can be. Not only does it look good on resumes and college applications, but it can help shape future career choices.

“A few of my kids have been interested in medicine, but when they struggled to find a hospital that would allow them to volunteer as high schoolers, they called around until they found a nearby nursing home they could help out in,” said Hughes. “Since then, several of my kids have been able to do extensive volunteer work there and figure out several aspects they liked and didn’t like for future careers.”

Hughes’ final words of advice to parents trying to help prepare their children for college may be somewhat surprising.

“I have to mention friends,” she added. “It is really important that your kids have friends that are also serious about going to college. If they hang out with kids that don’t take school seriously, it is harder for them to. My kids are around intelligent kids which not only pushes them academically, but helps them to think and talk about college more.”

Expert Opinion

As an East Valley father of two teen-aged daughters, student financial aid expert Brian Cox can empathize with parents struggling to prepare children for college. In addition to teaching smart financial habits and attitudes early, Cox recommends taking high school freshman and sophomores on campus tours to facilitate important conversations about potential careers and financing. Then parents can follow-up the in-person visits with online research to formulate the best plan for their family.

“Most parents and students don’t know about the free online resources that can help make college and finance conversations easier,” Cox explained. “Take the time to become the expert in your own financial future with resources that let your child compare different schools, see how likely they are to graduate and pay off loans, estimate salaries for different careers, and get a real glimpse at their future.”

Cox’s tips include:

1.   Compare starting salaries on www.salary.com to help shape future career choices.

2.   Research a school’s federal loan default rate, as an indicator of success in repaying debt. (http://1.usa.gov/CollegeDefaultRates)

3.   Look at each school’s new net price calculator to get a better feel for the actual vs. sticker price. Or try the University of Phoenix calculator.
(http://1.usa.gov/CollegeNetPriceCalculator)
(http://bit.ly/UoPCalculator)

4.   Compare each school’s four-year graduation rates, the percent of students who successfully graduate and in what time frame to help determine your chance for success. (http://www.collegeresults.org/)

5.   Consider the value of a state university (as well as commuting, if possible vs. staying on campus.) (http://bit.ly/ValueofStateSchool)

6. Shop around using a free resource like TuitionU.com to find the best/lowest rates for loans to fill the financing gap after you have exhausted free money (grants, scholarships) and cheap money (federal loan program.)

As an executive for Cology Inc., one of the nation’s premier student loan technology and core processing organizations, Cox sees first-hand the heartaches that can happen if parents don’t begin important college affordability and financing conversations at a young age.

“While difficult, talking to children early and frequently about college, the costs and plans to achieve goals is an important responsibility for parents,” Cox added.