Archive for August, 2009
Francesca’s Collections
Hey it’s Tourism Terrie and I’m back. Last night after work I was meeting friends for dinner near Dana Park Village just off Val Vista and the 60. I had some time to kill before dinner so I did some looking around in some of the Dana Park Stores. Most of them I had been in many times but I discovered a little boutique that I fell in love with. It is called Francesca’s Collections, and let me just say what a collection. It is an eclectic array of jewelry, purses and clothing, every girls dream. The sales staff is friendly and helpful but not pushy. They welcome you as you come in the door, tell you about any specials going on and away you go. I love this kind of shop, you can tell the owner really loves what she is doing by the way everything is arranged and displayed. I found it delightful and plan to go back when I don’t have people waiting for me and in a hurry to eat!
Whether you’re looking for a gift for yourself or someone else you most certainly will be able to find it in Francesca’s. www.FrancescasCollections.com
480.545.2685
1660 S. Val Vista Drive #116
Mesa, AZ
85204
Add comment August 27, 2009
Get a taste of “the Keys”, in Mesa
Although I have these thoughts on a daily basis….being GoGo Ginger really keeps me on my toes…It happened recently when I attended a catered event at the Islamorada Fish Company (located inside of Bass Pro Shops).
“Where we are bringing the best possible seafood from “The Keys” to the deserts of Arizona”.
I have taken a few groups and out of town guests to Islamorada since it’s opening in June of 2007. But as I entered the restaurant for my networking event, I realized that I have overlooked this fantastic place to escape for a cocktail or happy hour in my own backyard.
When you walk in from either entrance (from the store or separate outdoor entrance) you eyes are immediately drawn to the 13,000 gallon salt water aquarium that separates the bar from the dinning room. I spent about 10 minutes just staring at the tropical fish…and they were probably staring back at me.
Islamorada Fish Company - 13000 Gallon Salt Water Aquarium
Then I proceeded to the main dining area where I tasted treats placed along the fifty-foot fireplace in the center of the room. (while it is not being used now, it does offer a cozy feeling during the winter months)
While I am mundane and always order the Mahi Mahi for dinner, I truly enjoyed the featured appetizer items last week: the Smoked Wahoo Dip (An Islamorada original recipe with smoked wahoo served with Club crackers) and the fried Alligator (hand-breaded tender American alligator served with our homemade gator sauce)
Their happy hour consists of a select list of fruity cocktails and appetizers at a reduced price.
You can view their current menu online at: http://www.fishcompany.com/Page/Mesa-Arizona.aspx
Dave Kemmer, General Manager
Islamorada Fish Company
1133 N. Dobson Rd., Mesa, AZ 85202
restaurant (602) 606-5500
www.fishcompany.com
Opens at 11am Daily
So…I will make a conscious effort to stop by this relaxing, tropical getaway from time to time….see you there, GoGo Ginger
Add comment August 19, 2009
TGI-Free!
For anyone still blaming the economy for ruining your social life, now you have no excuse with the many FREE events and opportunities in Mesa. Locals are already anticipating the shorter days that are fast coming (here’s to dusk approaching at 7:30 p.m. these days!) and you can see folks worshipping the breeze in the air (ok, not gonna say we’ve cooled off but will say the wind makes the heat that much more tolerable in August). Now, it’s just a matter of picking and choosing your next outing – in Mesa of course! For dog lovers, art fans and those that just appreciate a full-sensory stroll along Main Street will definitely want to plan for a Friday Night Out in Downtown this Friday – Dog Days of Summer!
Second Fridays are held from 6 to 10 p.m. along Main Street. On the docket this week (Aug. 14) is a doggie costume contest, talent show, free water/biscuits, and loads of boutiques, cafes, restaurants and galleries waiting to host you and your pooch to a night on the town! www.downtownmesa.com
Add comment August 12, 2009
A Friday Night in Downtown Mesa
Have you ever considered a Friday Night in Downtown Mesa other than the 2nd Friday celebrations?
By The Way the 2nd Friday Event is next week August 14th from 6pm-10pm and the theme is “Dog Days of Summer“.
Now back to things to do in Downtown Mesa on Friday or any other night…
The Cellar located just below Sun Devil Liquors has brought back wine tastings on Friday nights from 6:30pm – 8:30pm. This was my first time at The Cellar and the decor, artwork, and ambiance makes this a real jewel in the heart of Downtown Mesa. The friendly staff and local patrons added to an already enjoyable experience.
Then it was off to some poetry reading at Inside the Bungalow. I’ve never been to poetry readings nor did I know they were occurring right here in Downtown Mesa. This turn-of-the-century home is a pretty cool with two huge patio areas featuring coffees, teas, smoothies, and much more. It was amazing to see the passion of the different poets as the shared their art form with a packed audience on the front patio. Inside the Bungalow offers live music and even yoga!
Continuing with a Downtown Mesa Friday evening it was time for some food and karaoke at Kirk’s Sports Grill. Kirk’s is a fun neighborhood grill and bar featuring excellent food. Not to mention a bartender that can serve several patrons while singing his favorite song!
Downtown Mesa does have many unique treasures that can be experienced after the sun goes down, so next time Make it Mesa! And don’t forget your camera to take photos with the sculptures in the downtown area.
Add comment August 7, 2009
Take time to relax and support our troops!
If you have not had an opportunity to enjoy the massage and spa services available with Massage Heights @ Wildflower Village, next Tuesday is your opportunity to relax and do something great for our troops!
Yes ~ you can have a massage and support the Packages From Home organization at the same time. Just think ~ a relaxing one-hour massage for just $39.99, and Massage Heights is donating 50% of their proceeds to Packages From Home.
So Mesa… Check it out and make your appointment early as this day of relaxation will book quickly!
Have a relaxing good time…
Add comment August 6, 2009
♬ ♪ Happy Trails To You ♪ ♬
Usery Mountain Regional Park Opens New Nature Center
UseryVisitorCenterFront
GoGo Ginger here again!!
Sorry it’s been a while, but I was actually out exploring the desert….braving the heat!!
I spent 2 hours at Mesa’s Usery Mountain Regional Park last Friday morning getting to know “the lay of the land”. Usery Park just opened its brand new Nature Center last month and there is more to this building than meets the eye! The nature center is just before the pay station, so visitors can utilize the facilities at no charge!
Ranger Jennifer gave me a complete tour of the BRAND NEW Nature Center and drove me around the park to get acquainted with all the offering and amenities. I took pages of notes, but here are a few of the highlights about the NEW Nature Center…
Retail store offers snacks and cold beverages, souvenirs and outdoor necessities like sunscreen, hats and water bottles available for purchase; Cactus garden & boulders are all relocated from original site (prior to construction); Garden rooftop; 12 Solar panels for sustainable energy; Restrooms utilize waterless urinals and low flow toilets and an outdoor amphitheater (that will seat at least 100ppl)
UseryVisitorCenterBackPatio
General Park amenities: 4,000 acres, 4 playgrounds w/canopies, 75 campsites with hookups, Ramada sites to be reserved, Merkle Trail – Barrier Free (wheelchair/stroller accessible, via “paved” path), Vista Trail – has a sundial located at top of trail, great trail for toddlers and Equestrian Staging area and trails available, There are many monthly ranger lead programs to choose from, complimentary with regular park admission.
Now Ranger Jennifer & Ranger B are working on getting me out on the Merkle Trail, to get me away from this computer (
So plan a visit with Ranger Jennifer or Ranger B soon…..Free guided tours the New Nature Center now available in Mesa! August dates include the 19th and 27th. The official public Grand Opening ceremony and festivities are scheduled for Saturday, September 26th, so plan on visiting in August to beat the rush!
With the opening of the new center, they have implemented a new onsite Yoga classes, three times a week. You can register as a regular participant and drop-ins are always welcome.
Usery Mountain Regional Park
(part of the Maricopa Country Parks & Recreation Department)
3939 N. Usery Pass Road, Mesa 85207
(480) 984-0032
www.maricopa.gov/parks/usery
Park Hours: Sun-Thu: 6am-8pm & Fri-Sat: 6am-10pm – 365 days a year
until later, Hiking, Camping….Blazing New Trails with GoGo Ginger
Add comment August 4, 2009
