|
Happy Tuesday, East Valley. In today’s edition: Merry Merchantile Market, A Christmas Carol, Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade, and more.
Let’s get to it — Cait Baker
|
š° In the news
Beginner-friendly AI and coding: Mesa Community College will offer Introduction to AI and Introduction to Python in spring 2026, with Python credits accepted by ASU and AI course a prerequisite for Chandler-Gilbertās AI bachelorās — get all the details.
Accessible playground coming to Kiwanis: Tempeās Kiwanis Park renovations began Monday, closing playground, ramadas, and restroom and concession building. North field, dog park, and lake access remain open, with completion expected summer or fall 2026 — see what’s open and closed.
AI leadership shifts stateside: Industrial AI firm Cognite has moved its global headquarters from Oslo to Tempe. The relocation is expected to create more than 100 Phoenix-area jobs across engineering, sales, and corporate functions — read the full story.
Compare rates for free: The national average for car insurance is around $175 per month. Paying more than that? Same, so I did some shopping around and ended up cutting my premium in half. If you haven’t checked in a while, you’re probably overpaying too — here’s the comparison tool I used.
Identity theft is up 25%: Last year, Americans lost $12.5 billion to ID theft & fraud, and the stories behind those numbers are brutal. My friend just told me his dadās on his fourth replacement credit card. Other folks have woken up to empty bank accounts or their personal info dumped online after a breach. Aura catches these kinds of attacks early by monitoring for new accounts, weird money movements, leaked data, and other red flags so youāre alerted before things blow up ā learn more about it here.
|
š«¶ We got your back
Virus prompts equine closures: As of Dec. 6, Tonto National Forest has closed equestrian access along the Lower Salt River after several horses showed signs of vesicular stomatitis virus. Horses and donkeys are barred from certain areas through March 6, 2026, unless lifted sooner. Other recreation stays open. Owners should consult a vet if symptoms appear. Get closure details and symptoms.
Feel-good Mediterranean fare: Luna Grill just opened its 54th spot in Eastmark (9317 E. Ray Rd., Mesa), serving grill-to-order kabobs, bowls, and the fan-favorite Santorini bowl. Through year-end, kids eat free for rewards members with an adult entrƩe. Join the Club Luna app for perks, and expect more Arizona locations in 2026. Get all the details.
Cozy stout season, sorted: Chilly East Valley nights call for a proper winter pour, and 12 West Brewing ā Downtown Mesa obliges with rotating taps, a roomy two-level patio, and Midnight Run, a coffee stout brewed with local beans. Bring a friend, lean into sweater weather, make it a midweek ritual.
Thinning hair? Same: Iāve been shedding a lot, and recently noticed my ponytail feeling thinner. After way too much panic-Googling, I decided to take Hersā online quiz. They recommended a Biotin + Minoxidil green-apple gummy for regrowth and overall hair health. The whole thing was surprisingly easy: just verify who you are and a licensed provider signs off. Hereās the quiz if you want to check it out.
Makeup that actually works: My sister and I were talking the other day about how the makeup we used in our 20s… just doesnāt work now that weāre in our 30s and 40s. Laura Gellerās entire makeup line addresses this shift, with formulas that smooth, brighten, and actually stay put. If youāre in the same boat, their curated kits are worth a look.
|
š Around town this week
All events are subject to change without notice. This is entirely outside our control. Please check official event pages and social media for the most up to date information.
This week
š° Exclusive Chateau de Vie Night Tour @ The Lavender Farm at Chateau de Vie | Wednesday (12/10) at 6:45pm ā After-dark at ChĆ¢teau de Vie means a 75-minute guided wander through hidden corners, both third floors, and a few of the homeās more unusual stories. Explore the preservation stories, then hit the Roadside Stand for private shopping, a lavender lemon sugar cookie, and bragging rights. $45, Chandler.
š· Austin Hope Family Wine Dinner @ Legends Showcase Bar & Grill | Thursday (12/11) at 6:00pm ā Craving a proper date night that doesnāt involve a bowling alley and a coupon? Legends in Chandler is pouring Austin Hope wines with a four-course pairing, live piano, and candlelit supper-club vibes, all for $69. Prime rib, white chocolate mousse, and you wonāt have to clean up afterward.
š A Christmas Carol @ Hale Centre Theatre | Friday (12/12) at 2:00pm ā Scrooge, spirits, and a whole lot of seasonal redemptionāthis beloved classic returns with the polished, immersive staging Hale Centre Theatre is known for. Expect detailed sets, rich costumes, and moments that might give you a chill thanks to the Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come. Itās a timeless reminder to slow down, show kindness, and enjoy the season.
š¼ Hi-Fi Holiday Concert @ Hale Centre Theatre | Friday (12/12) at 4:00pm ā f your holiday cheer needs a boost, this concert offers a curated lineup inspired by classic Christmas records, performed by standout vocalists from across the country. Expect warm harmonies, nostalgic favorites, and an uplifting atmosphere thatās easy to enjoy.
This weekend
šŗ Phoenix Feline Fanciers 32nd Anniversary “It’s Feline A Lot Like Christmas” @ Mesa Convention Center | Saturday (12/13) at 9:30am ā Celebrate Phoenix Feline Fanciersā 32nd anniversary with an allbreed cat show featuring impeccably groomed cats, knowledgeable judges, and festive touches throughout. A fun, relaxed way to enjoy the seasonāno snow required.
šļø Merry Merchantile Market @ Scottsdale Civic Center | Saturday (12/13) at 10:00am ā Skip the mall and hit Scottsdale Civic Center for a two-day holiday market with nearly 200 local makers, quality gifts, and civilized cheer. Shop, do the hat and charm bars, enjoy free entry and parking, let the kids meet Santa, and bring the dog.
š
Santa at City Hall Car Show & Holiday Market @ Chandler City Hall | Saturday (12/13) at 11:00am ā City Hall turns into a North Pole with better parking, mixing a holiday market and a car show with hundreds of rides. Kids get Santa pics and free crafts. You graze food trucks, shop local vendors, and bring a new unwrapped toy for the drive.
š¤ Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade + Holiday Market @ Tempe Beach Park | Saturday (12/13) at 4:00pm ā Tempe Town Lake is lighting up with the boat parade, a holiday market, eats, sips, and top-tier people watching. Come early to shop and let the kids charm Santa. Stay for twinkling boats, fireworks, and, yes, clear bags.
š Star Party @ Veterans Oasis Park | Saturday (12/13) at 6:00pm ā Trade screen glow for starlight at Veterans Oasis Park. Telescopes, friendly astronomers, and views of the moon, planets, nebulae, and clusters, all free. If clouds crash the party, the Nature Center has experiments and crafts, and you can learn more about constellations in a relaxed, accessible setting.
š Phoenix Run/Walk @ The Cloud at Kiwanis Park | Sunday (12/14) at 8:30am ā Whether your knees still sprint or prefer a scenic stroll, join the Phoenix Run/Walk at The Cloud in Kiwanis Park to back Parkinsonās research. Think cardio with a conscience, plus neighborly vibes. Register, bring your crew, and turn steps into real progress.
Wanna see more? Browse our full events calendar ā
|
š¶ Live music & entertainment
|
š ļø This house is wild
Listed by: Bobbee Kornhoff (OMNI Homes International)
Custom 2011 build on a quiet Gilbert cul de sac, 4 beds, 4.5 baths, and 4,113 square feet on nearly three quarters of an acre. Split plan, soaring ceilings, and a 20 foot disappearing glass wall, en suite bedrooms, and an office that opens to a private patio.
Chef’s kitchen stacks GE Monogram double ovens, CafĆ© fridge, 5 burner range, and pantry. Primary suite brings a spa wet room with dual heads and a freestanding tub. Backyard plays hard, saltwater pool and spa with lagoon shelf, putting green, built in BBQ, RV gate, five garage spaces plus workshop.
Take a peek inside ā
|
|
|
