TRIB PICK

Cactus League spring training games

If you're looking for a freak show, you could try riding the light rail, but if you want to see all types of folks, take in a spring training baseball game.

There's something about baseball being played in the warm, spring sunshine in Arizona that lures folks from near and far and draws them away from work and school.

You'll see the old-timers, men and women who remember when Ernie Banks was a rookie, keeping a scorecard and savoring every bite of that stadium hot dog.

You'll see the youngsters, kids taking the day off from school, hustling up to the rails in between innings, hoping to get a ball tossed their way.

You'll see the young party crowd, guys and ladies skipping work or college classes to sit on the grass berm beyond the outfield wall. They'll be the ones in bikini tops (for the ladies) or shirtless, soaking up some sun, some suds and heckling the rookie who misplays a ball in the outfield. That is, if they are even paying attention to the game at all.

In between, there are the business men and women who are at an afternoon "meeting," and out-of-towners, who are easy to spot because they are either really pale or really sunburned, depending on how long they've been in the Valley.

Hohokam Stadium (Chicago Cubs), 1235 N. Center Street, Mesa
Contact: (480) 644-4451
Website: http://hohokamstadium.com/spring_training.aspx
Tempe Diablo Stadium (Los Angeles Angels), 2200 W. Alameda Drive, Tempe
Contact: (480) 350-5265
Website: http://www.tempe.gov/diablo/springtraining/default.htm

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READER PICK

LightningOctopus

Ready to get your geek on? Lightning Octopus gives you the low-down on everything happening in the Valley’s geek culture. Excellent photography, a calendar of upcoming events and a map of geeky hang-outs -- Lightning Octopus has plenty for you to live long and prosper. Blogger Jonathan Simon was recently rewarded for his efforts with the title of official blogger for Memorial Day weekend’s Phoenix Comicon.
http://www.lightningoctopus.com/

Voter Comments:

“Not only is his blog fun and entertaining to read, it’s full of amazing photography and info on all of the amazing geek culture that is happening throughout the Valley.”

“Excellent information, witty writing & great photography!”

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READER PICK

A.J. Romero at Inside the Bungalow

Good coffee is important -- and A.J. Romero at Inside the Bungalow in Mesa won’t let you down. He’ll get your order right and serve you with a smile. He’ll even remember your favorite morning brew, even if you’re too groggy to remember it yourself.

48 N. Robson, Mesa
(480) 844-2353
http://insidethebungalow.com

Voter Comments:

“He is always sunshiny pleasant, remembers EVERYone and shows love to all -- bilingually!”

“Friendly, remembers favorite drinks of customers.”

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READER PICK

Miranda Coxon at Uncle Bear’s Grill & Bar

Miranda Coxon has just what you need in a bar tender. She’s friendly, fast and gets your drink order right every time. Oh, and she’s not bad on the eyes either.

Southwest corner of Baseline & Ellsworth, Mesa
(480) 986-2228
http://www.unclebearsbarandgrill.com

Voter Comments:

“Amazing personality and super hot.”

“Fast, friendly with a bad ass attitude.”

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READER PICK

Burn Down the Charade

This band keeps it simple -- just a keyboard and a guitar. The indie rock duo from Mesa are childhood friends who have maintained not only a friendship but a striking musical collaboration that has created a cultish, dedicated following.
http://www.myspace.com/burndownthecharade

Voter Comments:

“Great sound without all the bells and whistles -- just a keyboard and guitar!”

“Their sound is awesome and I like the broken down simplicity of a two-man band.”

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TRIB PICK

Tempe Public Library

If you think a library is just a quiet place with books, then you haven't visited the Tempe Public Library. Loaded not only with literature, but also computers, DVDs, magazines and newspapers, classes for all ages, reading groups, work spaces, comfy chairs and its own cafe, Tempe's library is the East Valley's best place to read, watch, discuss, and learn.

The children's department offers a range of activities from storytimes for little ones to a writing club for teens. For adults, the Great Books Discussion Group offers readers a chance to enrich themselves by reading and sharing such works as Wole Soyinka's "The Lion and the Jewel," while the Mystery Lovers Club tackles such titles as "Tell No One" by Harlan Coben.

Computers and other resources are available for job hunters, and, through a partnership with ASU, the library offers many computer classes.

Tempe Connections, a program aimed at the 50-plus crowd (although adults of all ages can participate), includes classes, information about work options and volunteer work. The program is housed in an area that includes outdoor patios and a cafe.

Any Maricopa County resident can apply for a free Tempe library card.
Location: 3500 S. Rural Road, Tempe
Contact: (480) 350-5500
Website: http://www.tempe.gov/library/

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READER PICK

Sabercat at Stapley Junior High School in Mesa

Nothing says domination like an extinct feline, right? The mascot is said to be so dedicated that it shows up at all school events, even in the summer.

3250 East Hermosa Vista, Mesa
(480) 472-2700
http://www.mpsaz.org/stapley/

Voter Comments:

“Original idea that fits in with the prehistoric symbolism used as a theme throughout the school campus.”

“Symbolizes domination, determination, and that’s what Stapley Jr. High is.”

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READER PICK

Laurisa Meehan at Jack Barnes Elementary School in Queen Creek

Teachers are special. And it takes an extra-special teacher to teach special-needs children. Meehan loves her job and puts in the extra hours needed to provide the very best education for her students. As one commenter put it, “Laurisa should be a pattern for ALL teachers!”

Jack Barnes Elementary School
20750 S. 214th Street, Queen Creek
(480) 987-7400
http://www.barnes.qcusd.org/

Voter Comments:

“She is the most dedicated special education teacher I have ever known. She is dedicated to her students, their families and to her fellow teachers.”

“Mrs. Meehan is dedicated to her students and their needs.”

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Chris Russell at Stapley Junior High School in Mesa

The words fun and math don’t go together, except in Russell’s class. Somehow Russell passes along his love of math in new and inventive ways. It is said that you will never see him in his seat as he is constantly moving through the classroom assisting students with enthusiasm and a big smile.

Stapley Junior High School
3250 East Hermosa Vista, Mesa
(480) 472-2700
http://www.mpsaz.org/stapley/

Voter Comments:

“Funny, great at teaching, makes math fun!”

“He explains and teaches math so well! Nobody leaves his room without having laughed at least once.”

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READER PICK

Michael Baser at Mesa High School

“I am a miracle, and I can do anything.” That’s the motto that Baser lives by and expects his students to live by. He motivates them by inspiring them and keeping them entertained. He encourages his students to be the best they can be.

Mesa High School
1630 E. Southern Ave.
(480) 472-5900
http://www.mpsaz.org/mesa/

Voter Comments:

“Mr. Baser is a great motivator. He constantly reminds students of their own self-worth. He knows and loves the subject he teaches. He really wants to make the world a better place.”

“I am a miracle and I can do anything!”

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READER PICK

Stapley Junior High School in Mesa

Readers say two words sum up why Stapley Junior High is the best public school in the East Valley: Great teachers. Again and again, voters commented that the teachers at this school are dedicated to their students and create an environment where learning is easy.

Stapley Junior High School
3250 East Hermosa Vista, Mesa
(480) 472-2700
http://www.mpsaz.org/stapley/

Voter Comments:

“This school feels like family.”

“The warmth of the campus overflows to the classrooms, while every teacher’s expectations are set high for all students. The teachers provide the support to empower student achievement at all levels. Kids really do excel.”

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Academy with Community Partners

Size matters. Academy with Community Partners is a smaller school with smaller class sizes and more one-on-one time with teachers. The charter school also features longer classes and a four-day-a-week schedule.

433 N. Hall, Mesa
(480) 833-0068
http://www.acpathope.org/

Voter Comments:

“I like ACP because of the scheduling. I like being at school because I can get 1 on 1 learning from the teachers.”

“I like going to ACP because it’s small.”

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READER PICK

U.S. Rep. Jeff Flake, R-Ariz.

An honest politician? That’s what people think of Jeff Flake. Even when his opinions may be unpopular, he stands up for what he believes. Turns out there may be an honest person in Washington after all.

1640 South Stapley, Suite 215 (district office)
(480) 833-0092
http://flake.house.gov/

Voter Comments:

“Smart, sensible, hard-working representative for our state!”

“A sincere and honest politician actually exists!”

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TRIB PICK

Our Public Schools

Arizona's public schools - charter and district -- are facing another year of budget cuts. They've lost teacher positions, classroom aides and funds that pay for supplies.

Volunteers can pick up jobs like making copies for teachers or giving presentations for an Art Masterpiece program. Some volunteers fill in as playground monitors or are crossing guards. Others help students struggling with reading or write grants for teachers.

School districts may require fingerprint checks, especially if you're not a common face on campus. Check with your neighborhood school to see where your talents may best be suited.

Location: Any public school
Contact: Check the Arizona Department of Education's public school finder -- http://www.ade.state.az.us/edd/ -- to find a school near you.

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READER PICK

Gilbert Hospital

Gilbert Hospital prides itself on fast, courteous patient care. Apparently, that extends to employees as well. Positive attitudes, excellent leaders, a beautiful workspace and great pay and benefits all add up to a wonderful work environment.

(480) 984-2000
5656 S. Power Road, Gilbert
http://www.gilberter.com/

Voter Comments:

“We have excellent leaders, excellent benefits, a beautiful place to work and the most compassionate, loving, and caring family to work with. You can’t ask for better than that!”

“Good salaries, benefits, health plan and fellow staff. Here the staff comes first; we’re not top heavy with administrators.”

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READER PICK

Mesa Arizona Temple

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

101 S. LeSueur, Mesa
(480) 833-1211
ldschurchtemples.com/mesa

Voter Comments:

“It has so much heritage, and it’s beautiful.”

“Inspiring.”

“People from all over the country visit it. It’s a destination point. And I’m not even Mormon.”

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