Tuesday, August 16, 2016

Ever Evolving... Queen Creek, San Tan Valley


Lots of fun stuff opening up in Queen Creek.  It's happening folks.  The long awaiting shopping and dining experience is finally here.  Queen Creek Marketplace and The QC District has exploded with new shops and restaurants.

We now have a drive through Starbucks!!!!  We have a movie theatre!!!! Sprouts is here for some fresh food shopping.  Denny's is alive and well and a few more spots to open soon.  Below are a few photos from a drive by.  Go QC!

Next weekend Homegoods opens with some fun door buster shopping.  See link below.







Sunday, December 13, 2015

Putting on a Smiling face, even in difficult times

Sadly this week one of our local Queen Creek institutions had a devastating fire take place on their property. Schnepf Farms, who have been providing agri-entertainment and events for years in the Queen Creek area suffered a fire at the old homestead. The Evolution of Queen Creek sends condolences to the family and we will pray that this will not affect your business as you are appreciated in the community.

Saturday, April 12, 2014

I'm baaaaaack.

Greetings from Queen Creek, San Tan Valley & Pinal County. I've been off the blogging path for quite a while, partly because not much had changed in the area in a while an I just did not think there was much to blog about. Recently there have been a few activities in the area that seem to tell me that we are in growth mode again in the QC area. We have a new freeway extension being built near the Mesa Gateway airport and a new housing development un the same area. I've noticed that the traffic has certainly increased during my morning commute going north on Ironwood. The last time I saw this much traffic and this many trucks was during the fist housing boom here 8 years ago. Much has changed. The area now has it's own little hospital, Banner Ironwood. There are a few more new small businesses popping up. Not too many smoke shops and cash advance stores that I was fearing. A few of the original businesses are still faring well. My favorites of course are Sushi Creek, The Olive Mill, the Pork Shop and Schnepfs Farms. These four staples are the best of the entrepreneurial spirit of small businesses that I love. So, there are some new ventures happening around the area that deserve some note and I hope to rev up this blog and talk about them. If you have a favorite you'd like for me to discuss or review, please send me a note. Thanks, QCEVO

Sunday, March 4, 2012

Good Life Festival - San Tan Valley



Two weekends ago my husband and I attended the Good Life Festival at Encanterra. The show included Pat Benetar and her husband along with Eddie Money.



I wanted to recommend this venue. We really enjoyed ourselves and if you are like us, we loved the fact that we did not have to drive 30 minutes to an hour to see a show and then drive home. The show was also in the afternoon.



We bought the mid-priced seats at $40. After fees for the two of us we paid $103 to attend. Our seats were in Section 2 in about the middle of the seats with a direct view of the stage. It was not too crowded and the show was very good. The crowd was pretty mellow and the average age of the crowd was about 50 years old. The music was perfect for those of us reliving our 20's as the rockers were also the same age (but still rockin' it).



There is a VIP option and then a lawn option. The lawn option is with blankets. I feel that any of the seats were great but if you are like me I like to sit so the $40 were good for me.



Parking - Parking is $5. You are directed away from the venue and have to walk a bit to get back to the concert area. You are also conveniently walking through the model home area. VIP parking is $25. When we left, we did not have to walk the circuit again as there were buses that took you back to the parking lot.



If you go, be prepared to buy food and drink as you cannot bring this in with you. Also, wear a hat and dress cool. The weather was perfect at the show we attended but if the Arizona weather starts to break it could get crazy hot. No shade.



I would recommend the shows. The next one is going to be March 29th. See this link for more details.

Thursday, February 23, 2012

This Changes Nothing



This changes nothing. I make no choices on who I vote for because of their sexuality or lack thereof.

Wednesday, February 8, 2012

Racing Hearts Charity Car Show & Free Paper Shred Day



Racing Hearts Charity Car Show
Date:
Saturday, February 11, 2012 - 10:00am to 2:00pm


TCH is hosting its first annual Racing Hearts Car Show and free paper shred day.

Check-in for show cars begins at 8:00am.


Where:TCH/The Centers for Habilitation215 Lodge DriveTempe, AZ


Pre-Registration $10.00 per carIncludes goody bag, dash plaque, and food coupon.
Pre-Register On Line at tchcarshow.eventbrite.com
Or mail in Registration Form attached to the bottom of this page.

Registration limited to the first 110 cars


Prizes awarded for show cars

Voting done by donation

Collect donations before the show and increase your chances of winning a prize


Free Admission for the PublicBring the family and enjoy Music, Food, Arts and Crafts, and Raffle

Prizes!Every show car and guest who brings a box of paper to be shredded will get a raffle ticket.

Proceeds Benefit Individuals with Disabilities and Special Needs
More Information contact Dawn Hocking:



480-730-4221 or dawnhocking@tch-az.com

Thursday, November 10, 2011

Javelina Jundred Run. - Head to Fountain Hills this Weekend!








FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY this weekend in Fountain hills.


The Javelina Jundred run 11/12-11/13. Proceeds go to the McDowell Mountain Park Trail Fund.




For more detailed information click HERE.

























Monday, October 31, 2011

Happy Halloween

Happy Halloween.

Be careful driving and watch for children.

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

Halloween Spirit of Giving Gala

If you are looking for a fun adult Halloween Party in the Phoenix area I'd like to recommend a party that benefits a local non-profit organization. The event is the TCH Monster Mash.

The Centers for Habilitation (TCH) has been empowering people with special needs since 1967. TCH is focused on offering services that help their clients live up to their full potential.

The Monster Mas will be held Saturday, October 22, 2011 7-11pm. Location - 4633 E Ray Rd., Phoenix AZ. (Former Stein Mart location)
Tickets are $60 each and reserved tables are available. Guests will enjoy a thrilling evening of costumes, live music, dancing and a spine-tingling Haunted House with food and drink, raffles, prizes and a silent auction. MC'ed by 12 News Anchor Scott Light.

For more information about sponsorship opportunities or to make your reservation, visit www.tch-az.com or call 480-730-4221.

Sunday, August 21, 2011

3rd Haboob in a month

We had some crazy dust storms here in the past month. This photo is from last week on my commute home. We ended up with some wonderful rain and ended with a rainbow.
I hope everyone is having a great August.


Friday, August 12, 2011

Full Moon Hike - San Tan Mountain Regional Park

It's been a hot month here in the San Tan Valley but that's no reason not to enjoy the desert beauty around us.




This Saturday, August 13th there is a Full Moon Hike at the San Tan Mountain Regional Park in Queen Creek. You will be guided by a ranger for a 2.2 mile stroll along the Stargazer Trail.



We are assured that this will be a gentle hike at a gentle pace so hikers can enjoy the nighttime environment. You may want to bring a flashlight.


Where? San Tan Mountain Regional Park
6533 W. Phillips Rd., Queen Creek.
Cost: $6 per vehicle
Phone: 480.655.5554



Sunday, July 17, 2011

San Tan Valley Sonoran Dog Lovers Rejoice!


Here in Arizona we have a delectable treat called the Sonoran Hot Dog. It is a hot dog wrapped in bacon and smothered with some awesome ingredients that may or may not include beans, Mexican cheeses and crema, onions etc.


My favorite so far has been from Moreno's Mexican Grill on Arizona Ave in Chandler.

Today while shopping near my house at the Fry's on Combs Rd. I noticed that we now have a Moreno's in Queen Creek! I am so excited as now I do not have to drive across town for my cravings. I recommend the award winning Sonoran Style hot dog $2.79. Also they have an awesome HUGE fresh Shrimp Cocktail that is loaded with shrimp $10.79. The shrimp cocktail is enough for two but you may not want to share. Enjoy one of their awesome aguas frescas too!

Moreno's has a breakfast menu also. They are open M-Thursday & Sunday 6:30 am -9 and Friday and Saturday 6:30 - 9:30pm.

Location 85 W Combs, Queen Creek AZ (480) 358-4642.

Try it - You will love it!

Monday, March 21, 2011

Great Veggie Shopping in Apache Junction


With these times of high gas prices and budget crunching I would like to recommend one of my favorite shopping destinations in Apache Junction.

I have been shopping at Superstition Ranch Market for a few years. For me it is worth the drive for some great prices on fruits, vegetables and more. It all started with my first purchase a few years ago where I walked out of this market with a cart of great food for less than $20. You know I LOVE a good bargain. I work too hard for my money to waste it.
The fruits and vegetables are not the polished and unblemished versions you find at A.J's or Fry's, however if you are cooking with them and want great tasting food at a great price then you may want to check this out.
CHEESE CURDS!!!!! Superstition Ranch Market carries Arizona Cheese Curds that rival any found in Wisconsin.
Beans beans the magical fruit........ Tons of dried bean and soup varieties.
Rows of dried fruits and assorted old fashioned candies. Also salsas and local honey galore.
Also an assortment of old world style delicacies.
Superstition Ranch Market is located off Apache Trail in Apache Junction at 7 N 114th Street. Look for the bright neon hand written signs touting prices for their fruits and veggies.
If you try it and like it please leave a note and tell me what you think.

Sunday, February 27, 2011

Gateway Aviation Day - Open House


If you are looking for something to do in the area in March there will be an open house at the Mesa Gateway Airport at 5803 S. Sossaman Rd. If you have ever driven through the area but have never flown from this airport this would be a nice way to tour the facilities and get a close up look at some planes.
The event is called Gateway Aviation Day. It will be held on March 12th (2011) and will feature 30 aircraft displays and other exhibits. There will be a kids zone and food concessions.
The event will be from 9-2 and is free but canned food donations will be accepted for the United Food Bank.

Friday, February 18, 2011

Mc San Tan Valley


We have a new eatery in the San Tan Valley on Ironwood / Gantzel near Ocotillo. He looks like a happy buddha sitting on top of his Mc Restaurant.

Sunday, February 13, 2011

Happy Valentines Day

Happy Valentines Day to all of our Queen Creek / San Tan Valley friends.

If you are buying for someone special this week, consider buying local.

Sunday, January 9, 2011

Queen Creek Farmers Market looking for vendors.


Queen Creek Farmers Market is looking for vendors. The market is held in the green area parking lot next to the library.
I've been to some fabulous markets in Phoenix and Scottsdale. Vendors selling fresh cheeses, salsas, a great assortment of fresh veggies and fruit. It would be lovely to have some true vegetables and food items available at this Queen Creek market.
Please support this local market this year. Maybe it will attract more vendors.
For article from AZ Central click here.

Saturday, December 25, 2010

Merry Christmas


Merry Christmas to all !

Thursday, November 25, 2010

Thanksgiving Wishes


Happy Thanksgiving to my San Tan Valley / Queen Creek friends and others around the country. I wish you all great blessings and pray that improvements are ahead for our peole and country. I am thankful for many things today and that includes freedom of speech and the ability to write and comment on any given topic.
Have a great Thanksgiving everyone.

Sunday, November 14, 2010

Burrowing Owls in Queen Creek


Have you ever been driving around the farmland in Queen Creek and the San Tan Valley and noticed small owls sitting on the side of the road? These are burrowing owls.

I've spotted them many an afternoon on the side of the road on Signal Butte Rd., near Ocotillo Rd. I've also noticed that there is now a major housing development construction site being dug in the area. I'm thinking this is going to affect these little creatures immediately.

The little owls are not on the endangered species list but are on a conservation watch list.

Please view this video from the Arizona Game and Fish Department about our little local owls.

http://www.azgfd.gov/video/BurrowingOwls.shtml