Let’s Play in the Snow!

We are now in the month of December and you know what that means! Snow, Snow, and more Snow! Maybe not here in the Valley at least but up north there is plenty of snow! A couple of my friends and I were debating whether to go have an overnight “snow play day” up in Flagstaff but thanks to azcentral.com once again I found a couple of good snow play recommendations for sledding, skiing, and snowboarding, so it looks like we’re definitely going now! Here are just a few places suggested by azcentral.com for some fun in the snow

Sledding/Snow Play Areas

1. Oak Hill Snow Play Area
Features: Only soft flexible materials may be used here - no metal, wood or hard plastic sleds are allowed. Inner tubes are best. Toilets, designated parking area.
Status: Open.
Where: From Williams, take Interstate 40 east to the Pitman Valley Exit (No. 171). Turn north, then proceed east on Historic Route 66 for about two miles.
Admission: None.
Details: 800-863-0546

2. Crowley Pit Snow Play Area
Features: No restrictions on snow play materials. Toilets on site.
Status: Open.
Where: From Flagstaff, take U.S. 180 north. About a mile north of the Flagstaff Nordic Center, look for the parking sign near Mile Marker 233.
Admission: None.
Details: 928-526-0866, www.fs.fed.us/r3/coconino/recreation/peaks/winter-rec-opportunities.shtml.

3. Wing Mountain Snow Play Area
Features: Only soft snow play materials are permitted on the trails - no metal, wood or hard plastic. Toilets, concessions.
Status: Open.
Where: From Flagstaff, drive about 10 miles north on U.S. 180. Near Mile Marker 226, turn west on Forest Road 222B and proceed about a mile to the parking area.
Admission: $10 per vehicle.
Details: 928-226-0493, snowplayaz.com.

Skiing and Snowboarding

1. Arizona Snowbowl
Features: Four lifts, 32 trails. Open to skiers and snowboarders. Lessons and rentals available.
Status: Open.
Where: From Flagstaff, take U.S. 180 north about seven miles. Turn right on Snowbowl Road and continue seven miles to the ski area.
Lift tickets: $26-$53.
Details: 928-779-1951, arizonasnowbowl.com.

2. Sunrise Park Resort
Features: Eight lifts, three peaks, each with several trails.
Status: Opens Dec. 23.
Where: From Show Low, drive about 30 miles southeast on Arizona 260. Turn south on Arizona 273 and proceed about seven miles to the ski area.
Lift tickets: $16-$57.
Details: 928-735-7669, sunriseskipark.com.

3. Mt. Lemmon Ski Valley
Features: Two lifts, 21 trails. Lessons and rentals available.
Status: Awaiting more snow.
Where: From Tucson, take the Catalina Highway off Tanque Verde Road. Drive 4.2 miles to the Coronado National Forest boundary and continue 26 miles to the Ski Valley turnoff. Turn right and drive one mile to the ski area.
Lift tickets: $15-$37.
Details: 520-576-1321, skithelemmon.com.

4. Elk Ridge Ski and Outdoor Recreation
Features: Tow rope, 9 trails. Tubing, lessons and rentals available. A snowmobile can take experienced skiers higher on the mountain, at no extra charge.
Status: Opened Dec. 12.
Where: From Williams, drive south a couple of miles on Fourth Street (which becomes Perkinsville Road). Turn right onto Ski Run Road (also posted as Forest Road 106) and proceed about 1.5 miles.
Lift tickets: $15-$30.
Details: 928-814-5038, elkridgeski.com.

Cross-Country Skiing

1. Flagstaff Nordic Center
Features: 25 miles of groomed trails. Lessons and rentals available.
Status: Opened Dec. 10.
Trail passes: $10-$18 (skiing); $5-$10 (snowshoeing).
Where: From Flagstaff, take U.S. 180 about 15 miles north. The center's parking area is near Mile Marker 232.
Details: 928-220-0550, flagstaffnordiccenter.com.

2. Hannagan Meadow Lodge
Features: 16 miles of groomed and/or marked trails. Ski and snowshoes rentals available.
Status: Call for details.
Trail passes: Free.
Where: From Alpine, drive 22 miles southwest on U.S. 191.
Details: 928-339-4370, hannaganmeadow.com.

3. Mormon Lake Lodge
Features: 17 miles of trails. Ski rentals available.
Status: Call for details.
Trail passes: $8 per day.
Where: From Flagstaff, drive about 20 miles southeast on Lake Mary Road (Forest Road 3). Between mile markers 324 and 323, turn west on Lake Mary Loop Road (Forest Road 90) and proceed about seven miles to the lodge.
Details: 928-774-0462, ext. 10, mormonlakelodge.com.

These are just a few of the awesome places you can visit and do various snow activities in. I really recommend heading up north to check out some of the snow we have here in Arizona. The drive to Flagstaff is only about 3 hours from Phoenix so a short little day trip can easily be done. Hopefully this weekend I’ll be up there with my plastic sled hitting the slopes! For more information call or visit the websites of the areas. I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday and have a Great Day!!!



Lonni Summers

Another Semester Completed

Bubbling in the last answer on my scantron sheet, I stop, review the entire Geography final I just finished, check my answers one more time, grab my things, turn in my test, and I walk out of my last lab science class I ever have to take. “Thank God! I’m DONE!!!! Oh My Gosh that test was flipping Hard!”. This is the exact thought that passes through my brain. At first I could not have been happier. I mean, I’m done with the semester, got pretty good grades, and now I get a month to catch up on all the sleep I didn’t get this semester. I should be happy, right? Then it hits me, school is almost over for me and graduation is literally around the corner and a small sense of sadness washes over me. My college life is moving so fast and it feels like I just got here. I can still remember my freshman year, walking around campus, feeling like I was beginning something new and exciting. I never dreamed it would go by this fast, but I guess it has.

Looking back at my college career, there have of course been many ups and downs, good times and bad times, laughter and tears, but despite it all, I would not change one single thing. It’s kind of crazy to think that this will all be over in about a year. That seriously just boggles my mind! Where did the time go?! In some way it is a little weird thinking that I will really have to enter the real world and be a real responsible adult, not just a college student. I will admit that I am very excited about my future in the Tourism industry and looking forward to really immersing myself in it but at the same time it is a little bit scary. Exciting, but just a little bit scary.

With another semester completed, I come closer to graduation but until that day comes, I am going to enjoy the rest of my time here at Arizona State University because before I know it, I’ll be in a maroon cap and gown walking out with that special piece of paper in my hand. For all new and current ASU students, my advice to you is to really get all you can out of your time here and love the good times you have while at ASU because it will fly by faster than you could ever imagine. I hope everyone is having a great break so far and catch up on as much rest as you possibly can! Have a Fantastic Day!!!



Lonni Summers

It’s About that Time!

Winter break, for many of us, is almost within our grasp, and for others, you might already be enjoying the leisure and laziness that happily comes with winter break. For those of us that still have finals (like myself, I’m not done till Wednesday!) keep pushing on! We are almost done! Now before we enjoy the awesomeness of our well deserved break here are a few tips/suggestions I have picked up over the past couple semesters that I believe will help many of us college students.

1. First and foremost, Study For Finals!!! Even if you think the class is easy as pie, STUDY! You never know what curve balls professors might throw in.
   
2. Sell back your textbooks. You can do this through the bookstore where they will give you cash upfront for your books, and usually you get a coupon for 20% off clothing and gifts which is great for buying more ASU gear! I have also heard from other students that you can sell your books online through eBay, Amazon, and various other websites.
   
3. Save the Holiday shopping for the end of finals or at least till the last week of finals. I found that I got way too distracted from studying and it just got too complicated trying to figure out what family and friends wanted and still study and retain information for my tests. So if you can, try to save the shopping for the end of finals.
   
4. Stay focused and motivated. I know with me, towards the end of the semester procrastination really starts to kick in. Don’t give in to it! Keep pushing through those tough projects and test. Trust me; it’ll pay off in the end.
   
5. Last but not least, take small breaks when you need them. We all need time to eat and rest, so don’t overdo it on the studying. As one professor once told me, “Study smart, not hard”. If you try to cram too much information into your brain at once, you’ll get information overload, so take it easy. Study your material, but try not to cram it all in your head all at once.
   

These are just a few tips and I’m sure there are plenty more but do what is best for you and your finals. Good Luck with the rest of your finals and have a Great Day!!!



Lonni Summers

Sweet Hotel Deals!

Thanks to azcentral.com Deal of the Week, I found some great specials going on at the JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort in Phoenix. This is an amazing hotel and if you get the chance this winter break I highly suggest doing one of these specials. Here is a list of just a few of the specials offered at the JW Marriot.

• Cloud Club Elite Package for Two
• An Unlimited Golf Experience for Two
• Girlfriend's Spa Getaway for Two
• Revive Spa Romance for Two
• Stay Two Nights, Get the Third Night Free!

These are just only a few of the deals offered and there are plenty more on the JW Marriott website. Be sure to check out some of the awesome perks that come with these packages as well. With school almost over, I think we all deserve a little R & R and a reward for all our hard efforts this semester. I hope this fall semester has treated you all well and good luck with finals!!! Have a Fantastic Day!!!



Lonni Summers

CFE Opportunity!

Still need a few CFE hours before the end of the semester? There is this great opportunity for students this Friday December 4th to volunteer at the Phoenix Art Museum for First Friday. The deadline to work this event is Wednesday December 2nd. To volunteer for this event be sure to email studio@enterlaruche.com with your info and interest.

Besides the fact it is First Friday that night, it is also the Phoenix Museum’s 50th anniversary. This is sure to be an exciting event and one you definitely do not want to miss out on. Plus, you get to earn CFE hours at the same time! If you are not volunteering be sure to check out the First Friday event and all the cool activities that will be happening in the museum. I hope everyone had a Wonderful Thanksgiving Holiday and enjoy the rest of your week!!!




Lonni Summers

A Thanksgiving Blog

With the holidays right around the corner and Turkey Day on Thursday I thought I would get a little personal and share a little holiday story/advice for everyone. Now I know that Thanksgiving is all about family but let’s not forget about what brings our family to the table…. The Food!!! Thanksgiving is what my family and I call the Olympics of Eating. It’s the best! Now its tradition in my family for everyone to pitch in and help out with the cooking duties and I’m always in charge of the mashed potatoes and let me just say, I can make some pretty amazing mashed potatoes. Now what goes with mashed potatoes? Gravy of course! About 2 years ago my mom decided to assign me the duty of not only making the mashed potatoes, but also making the gravy that goes along with it. Gravy does not seem that hard to make and I watched my mom years before make it. Didn’t really seem like there was much to it but yeah, I was wrong.

My mom had already cut up all the giblets everything was all set up for me. All I had to do was boil the stuff in a pot and slowly add cornstarch to thicken the sauce. All was going well until I had to add the cornstarch. I started to add the cornstarch power into the mix and stirring then adding some more. I then noticed my gravy was lumping and not thickening. I proceeded to taste test my gravy, then I gagged. It tasted AWEFUL! Not knowing what to do to save the gravy, I added more cornstarch, which of course did not help at all. Finally giving up, I ran to my mom for assistance. She asked me what I did and I told her step by step what I did. She then stopped me at the cornstarch step and started to laugh. Apparently I was supposed to mix the cornstarch with water then slowly add it to the rest of the ingredients in the pot. No one told me this! With a pot full of nasty gravy, we had to run and get gravy at the store. I attempted the next year to make gravy, but still came out as a failure. Thankfully all turned out well and no one was upset with me, but now either someone else makes the gravy or we buy it.

I really hope this story gave some of you a laugh because I know it cracked my family up when I messed up the gravy. They kept asking me “Who ruins gravy?!” and to this day, I still don’t know. My little word of advice is to make sure you know what you’re in that kitchen on Thanksgiving because even the simplest things can go wrong. I also looked up some Thanksgiving dishes and ideas so feel free to take a look and get some ideas or learn to make something awesome for Thanksgiving. You can check out azcentral.com and click on the food tab at the top of the webpage or you can take a look at foodnetwork.com for some more great tips. On that note, I hope everyone has a great Thanksgiving Holiday and enjoy your break. You deserve it!



Lonni Summers

Special Events and CFE Hours

Interested in Special Events? Want to earn some CFE hours while learning about Special Events? Monday November 23rd from 1pm-3pm there will be a Professional Workshop held in UCENT in room 822A. This workshop will cover Event Planning Design and Décor and also contracts.

This is a great workshop for those interested in Special Events and also for any Tourism students who are also interested in the Special Events field. This is just one way to get some expert advice about this field, learn some more about Special Events, and also earn a few CFE hours if you need some! Be sure to check this event out, I’m sure it’ll be awesome! Have a Wonderful Day!!!



Lonni Summers

Registration for Classes and My Frustration

Registration for classes can be a very fun experience for many, but for some it is anything but enjoyable. I’m usually one of those students that love signing up for classes and getting ready for a new and exciting semester. That was until I experienced getting a late registration date. Like many sophomores, I got a late registration date (Nov 11 to be exact). Not thinking much of it, I honestly thought I would get into all the classes I needed for the Spring semester. WRONG! When I hopped on my laptop and got all ready to sign up for my classes two of the five classes I needed were completely filled with no more room for little old me. Now mind you, I actually need these classes for my major. They weren’t electives, they were actually required courses (the courses are TDM 325 and TDM 415). Not going to lie, I was a little upset because I was really looking forward to taking these particular classes. Thinking that maybe I could change this, I went up to see an advisor to see if there was some way I could possibly get into these classes. I was put on a waiting list and told that I would be informed later on in the day if they had opened up more seats. This was on Thursday; it is now Monday and still no word. I am assuming that no seats have been opened so I will probably have to make my way back to see an advisor and inquire about these two classes. I know I can take these classes in the Fall, but honestly I was really hoping to take them this Spring.

This whole late registration appointment is somewhat of a downer for us sophomores and I wish the University had a different way for us to get into our classes. I have talked to many other students from the Tempe and Downtown campus and those with late registration dates were not too happy about it. I’m sure there is some particular reason we have the system the way it is, but either way, I am still a frustrated student that couldn’t get into certain classes due to a late registration appointment. I guess we’ll see if ASU can work some magic and get me into these classes! Other than that, I hope the semester is going well for you all and don’t worry, Winter Break is just around the corner! Have an Awesome Day!!!



Lonni Summers

Historic Tempe

Today in my Geography lab we did a lab on re-photography lab. This is where we look at old photos of a site then take another photo and compare the differences. Today we got to take a little field trip and compare old photos of Old Main, then we traveled down to Mill Ave and looked at a couple of different historic buildings. It was pretty cool looking at the old photos and then comparing them to what the building now looks like. One of the buildings is called the Laird & Dines Building which is now a Hooters. Other buildings we examined were the Tempe National Bank building and the Andre Building which is now Rula Bula. It was fun learning the history behind each building and comparing the picture to what it looks like today. If you ever get a chance, visit http://www.tempebeach.com/museum/ and learn more about awesome Tempe and all the history the city has that you never realized! Have a fantastic day!




Lonni Summers

Hotel Deal in Sedona!

Once again azcentral.com to the rescue! Today I found the deal of the week in their Travel section and it just so happens to be in Sedona, AZ! The hotel is called the Kokopelli Suites and this particular hotel is running a few awesome deals for Arizona Republic readers! If you book your stay online and enter in the promo code AZ when looking for availability, you should come across some of the fabulous deals they are running.

The hotel also has some current specials that are available to you! One is a 50% off special, and it is from November 1st - January 31, 2009. Enjoy 50% Rack rate on our Sugarloaf Suites ($179 per night to $89.50) on any stay! Pricing is based on single or double occupancy. Please use Promo Code 50 when checking availability. *(Sunday - Thursday stays only, excluding Nov. 24-28 & Dec. 24th - Jan. 2, 2009)

The next deal is the Santa Express. This great Christmas getaway for you and the kids includes a one night stay in our newly renovated Sugarloaf Suite with two queen beds. Your stay will also include a complimentary breakfast, wireless internet access, and use of our outdoor heated pool and whirlpool. Make it a festive occasion on the Verde Valley Railway’s Santa Express- fun for kids of all ages! Join Santa and Mrs. Claus on their adventure through the Verde Canyon. Everyone will join the fun singing Christmas carols, drinking hot chocolate, eating Christmas cookies, and candy canes. Kids will also have the chance to make their Christmas wish list and sit on Santa’s lap. If you are really lucky you may even see an elf or two! $245 for 2 Adult Coach class tickets and 1 Child Coach Ticket. The Santa Express runs every Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday December 2nd- December 23rd with a 1pm Train Departure.

The last special is the Sedona at Sunset Romantic Vacation Special. Enjoy a relaxing stay in one of our single King suites and an amazing sunset ride through the western canyons of Sedona. Your accommodations with us will include deluxe continental breakfast, high speed wireless internet, luxurious bedding, friendly service and many other amenities. Start your sunset tour with a stop at Page Springs Winery on Oak Creek for a tasting session and a $15 credit towards one of their fine wines; then set off to explore breathtaking landscape of Sedona's outback country. As you ride along your guide will share his knowledge of an area once home to the Apaches and Sinagua. Price: $329 plus tax

I hope some of these awesome hotel deals caught your interest and now maybe you can start planning a little getaway after finals are done! Yay! We have about a month left of school so keep on trudging! You’re almost done!!! Have an amazing day and enjoy your Wednesday off!



Lonni Summers

Registration for Spring 2010

The Fall semester is coming to an end and you know what that means! It’s time to sign up for the Spring Semester! For many of you, registering for classes is a breeze but for those of you having some trouble, don’t fear, help is here! If you log on to your myasu and look at your list of classes (this should be listed under “My Classes”) you should see a tab that says “Spring 10”. Click on this tab and then click on “Registration” on the bottom left hand corner. After that you are free to roam and add whatever classes you need for the spring semester!

If you are interested in something new and exciting there is a new course being offered in the Spring. It is PRM 494/REC 598 cross listed as REL 494/REL 598: Place and Meaning. Students will read and discuss theoretical literature on “place” in a variety of fields (philosophy, anthropology, natural resource social sciences, and humanities). This is offered to graduate students and upper undergraduate students. If this sounds interesting to you, sign up for it! Hope this semester is treating you all well, and don’t worry we’re more than half way done with the Fall!



Lonni Summers

Creative Ways to Get Rid of Your Pumpkin

While pondering an interesting blog topic, my fellow StAR Eddie, gave me a great idea. He proposed that I blog about fun and different ways to get rid of your Halloween pumpkin. This lead to us doing some serious research on YouTube and finding the most different and out there ways to get rid of a pumpkin and still have some fun with it! Some of these ideas include a trebuchet, dropping it down on a bus, explosion (safety first and a permit is probably required), and last but not least lighting the pumpkin on fire then launching it. Now Eddie and I realize that most of these ideas are a bit crazy and most we probably would not be able to do, the videos however were a ton of fun to laugh at. I hope you have just as much fun watching the videos as Eddie and I did. Enjoy!


Lonni Summers

A Vampire Tale

For my birthday my dad bought me tickets to “A Vampire Tale”, a performance put on by Scorpius Dance. Being a dancer myself and a fan of the performing arts, I am so Excited for this performance. I have read nothing but awesome reviews about this show and I can’t wait! This performance will be at The Phoenix Little Theatre, located on 100 E. McDowell Road. This show is running till November 7th, so get your tickets while you can! This should be a spectacular event and is sure to entertain. If you would like more information you can visit The Phoenix Little Theatre website or the Scorpius Dance website. With Halloween just around the corner, how awesome would it be to see a vampire dance show?! I say, pretty darn awesome! With that being said I hope everyone has a safe and fun Halloween this Saturday and also come out and enjoy the Homecoming activities on Saturday and support our Sun Devil Football Team! Happy Halloween and Go Devils!!!!!

Lonni Summers

GlendOberfest

Shameless Promotion!!! For my Special Events Management class, our big project this semester was to put on the Haunted House for the City of Glendale. This Halloween event will be taking place on Halloween evening at the Sahuaro Ranch Park Historic Area from 5pm to 10pm and the best part is that ADMISSION IS FREE. Yeah that’s right, FREE! All of the Special Events students worked very hard on this and most of us will either be in the haunted house acting out a scene or doing behind the scene work, so you just might run into someone you know! The theme is “Sinister Sinema” and basically the spectators enter the haunted house and witness different reenactments of different scary movies. Trust me, it’s pretty darn scary so we recommend not bringing the little ones or anyone under the age of 11 into this particular attraction.

Along with the awesome Haunted House, there will be plenty of other attractions for everyone to participate in. There will be plenty of games, on-site trick or treating, and even a parade! This is a great event for everyone including families. Remember this is a FREE event so come out there on the 31st and support your fellow ASU peers and all the hard work they put into this event. This event will be a ton of fun! If you have any questions about this Halloween event, please visit their website for more information. Hope to see you all out there!



Lonni Summers

Hotel Deals!!!

While surfing on azcentral.com I found some great hotel deals! If by some chance you feel like taking a small weekend vacation after midterms, well then, this is for you! Listed are a bunch different hotels with different specials and offers and most of them are running till December or January.

The deal: Staycation at W Scottsdale.W Scottsdale has a deal for Arizona residents: Pay from $199 a night and get a room, drinks for four and VIP access to bars. Available through Dec. 30.Details: 480-970-2100, whotels.com/Scottsdale.

The deal: $100 resort credit at Desert Ridge Resort.Stay at the JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort & Spa and get a $100 resort credit for each night of your visit. You can use the credit for golf, spa treatments or dining. Room rates From $189 per night, based on availability. Good through Jan. 31.Details: 480-293-5000, www.jwdesertridgeresort.com. Use promo code D50.

The deal: Fall savings at Four Seasons Troon North.The Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North is offering a variety of fall packages. The "Stay Longer" deal includes a third night free with the purchase of two nights. Rates begin at $295 a night. Valid through Jan. 3. The "Experience More" package includes a $100 resort credit when you book two nights. This offer is good Nov. 29-Dec. 22. If golf is your thing, the "Fall Golf" special includes a casita guest room, one round of golf per person per paid night, access to the driving range and breakfast or lunch in Crescent Moon. Rates begin at $530 per night for a single or $705 per night for a double, through Jan. 3.Details: 480-515-5700, fourseasons.com/scottsdale.

The deal: Rate special at Westin Kierland.Stay one night at the Westin Kierland Resort and get 50 percent off the second night. Offer valid with a minimum four-night stay (two nights at full price, two at half price) through Dec. 31 when you mention the "Better Tomorrows" package.Details: 800-354-5892, kierlandresort.com.

The deal: Second night half price at Wild Horse Pass.For every night you pay the regular rate, get the next night for 50 percent off (minimum two-night stay) at the Sheraton Wild Horse Pass on the Gila River Reservation. Rates from $209 per night. The offer is good through Dec. 31. Stays must be prepaid and are not refundable.Details: 866-716-8134, www.wildhorsepassresort.com. Use promo code ZBT.

The deal: Golf at Xona Resort Suites, Scottsdale.The "Grip It Rip It Package" features savings of up to 65 percent on one-night stays and 55 percent on two-night stays through Dec. 31. Stay up to four nights for $129 per night and get a round of golf at the TPC Champions Course (worth up to $131). Get a second round of golf for $99. The package also includes a breakfast buffet at Asada Desert Grille.Details: 800-903-4057, www.xonaresort.com.

The deal: Ocatilla at Arizona Biltmore.Check out this "hotel within a hotel" with a package that starts at $299 per night, based on availability. It includes an Ocatilla Club Room with mountain views and lounge access, 50 percent off spa services, continental breakfast, resort fee, plus lunch and dinner for two at Biltmore restaurants.Details: 800-950-0086, use promo code P5; or www.arizonabiltmore.com, select the "All-Inclusive Package".

The deal: $100 resort credit at Montelucia.The "Great Escape" offer at the Intercontinental Montelucia Resort & Spa in Paradise Valley provides a $100 credit to be used anywhere on the property, including Joya Spa, Prado restaurant and Kasbah Pool Bar and Grille. A two-night minimum stay is required. Subject to availability.Details: 888-627-3010 or www.icmontelucia.com. Use promo code Great Escape.

This is just one way to get away from it all and take time out for you! I hope some of these hotel deals caught your attention and you get started on your mini vacation! If you would like more information visit azcentral.com and click on the “Things to Do” tab. Have a fantastic day everyone!!!



Lonni Summers

Walk to Save Animals!

Today in class a fellow student of mine informed me this great event called Walk to Save Animals. It is on Saturday November 14th, 2009 at the Tempe Beach Park from 10am to 2pm. This event is so wonderful because not only do you get to bring all your doggies with you, but you are also raising money for a great cause. This 2K or 5K Pet Walk raises money and awareness for the Arizona Animal Welfare League and SPCA and also help thousands of homeless animals find homes. You can create your own team or help sponsor/donate to help another team.

Besides the actual Pet Walk there will be plenty of other activities at this event as well. There will be an activity area, booths set up in the Pet Zone, and also food and refreshments for both you and your pet! This is a great way to get out and enjoy the weather, have some fun with your pet, and also raise money for an awesome cause! Hope this sparked some interest for all you pet lovers out there! This is definitely an event you don’t want to miss! For more information about the Walk to Save Animals or if you want to register a team visit their website at http://www.aawl.org/AAWL_walk_2009/default.asp Have a Great Day!!!

Lonni Summers

Haunted House Anyone?

While surfing around on azcentral.com I came across an amusing “How to” guide. This particular guide was “How to Survive a Haunted House”. It gave me the Do’s and Don’ts of how to go through a haunted house. Some of these tips are really funny but great advice nonetheless! Here are just a few of the tips mentioned and if you would like more check out azcentral.com and click on the “Things to do” tab.

Do know that the actors at the houses can't touch you. They can scream and chase you with chain saws, but that's as far as it goes.

Do practice calming exercises while standing in line. Be prepared for the sensory-manipulation scare tactics, like low lighting and misdirection, used by haunted house creators.

Don't close your eyes the whole time. It would be a shame to waste hard-earned money by missing out on what you paid to see.

Do wear comfortable shoes. Standing in line to get into a house of horror and running out of it take up most of the night. Don't be the cliche scary-movie character who trips and falls when the bad guy's hot on her heels.

Don't act scared. The actors are trained to find and frighten the vulnerable people. Try being the first one to go into a room; odds are they'll target the person behind you.

Now that we’re in the awesome month of October, be sure to try and hit up one of the many haunted houses/mazes that the Valley has to offer. Some scary haunted houses include The Gauntlet, The Nest, and Arizona’s Original Scream Park. These are just a few out of the Many offered this October and for more info check out azcentral.com, so get out there and get scared!!!!



Lonni Summers

Downtown Events!

There are events galore at the Downtown Campus this month! Besides the fact that it is My Birthday today (Yay!!!), there are other events going on! Thanks to the Downtown Devil News I found a couple of events that would be great for students to partake in.

Wednesday October 14, 2009
Interviewing and Professional Dress Workshop
12:45p.m.; Historic Post Office, Suite 110
How should you answer behavior-based questions? What are the do's and don'ts of dressing for success? Learn about the latest trends in the world of interviewing and how to prepare to make the best impression visually and verbally.

Friday October 16, 2009
Family Weekend Reception
5:00 p.m.; Civic Space
Start Family Weekend by joining other members of the ASU family at this light reception.

Saturday October 17, 2009
Family Weekend Tailgate
5:00p.m.; Old Main Lawn – Tempe Campus
Join us for food, fun, and BBQ at this alcohol-free event. Parents and families will have an opportunity to learn more about their student's activities, and connect with organizations on campus.
ASU vs. Washington
7:15p.m.; Sun Devil Stadium

Monday October 19, 2009
How to Prepare for the Career Fair Workshop
12:45p.m.; Historic Post Office, Suite 110
Improve your professional and networking skills while discovering what employers will look for at the Fall Internship & Career Fair! Learn the answers to the following questions and many more: What is the best way to approach an employer at their booth? Should you place your nametag on your right or your left? How many resumes should you bring?

Wednesday October 21, 2009
Internship and Career Fair
11:00a.m. – 2:00p.m.; A.E. England Building
Attend the Fall Internship & Career Fair at the Downtown Phoenix campus. From freshmen to alumni, this event is for ALL STUDENTS and is a good place to begin gathering information about your career options. Enjoy this networking environment! Explore opportunities in a range of industries! Discuss internships & career related positions! Dress professionally & bring resumes! To watch a video on How to navigate a career fair, link here: students.asu.edu/career/events.

Saturday October 24, 2009
Fall into Service
7:00a.m. – 12:30p.m.; St. Mary’s Food Bank
Breakfast and lunch provided, call today to register: 602-496-0973

I hope some of these events spark some interest and everyone will check them out! Hope everyone has an “Eventful” day!



Lonni Summers

Nonprofit Career Month

The month of October usually means Halloween, candy, and of course three of the StARs' Birthdays! Also this happens to be the Nonprofit Career Month. Although my major deals with Tourism, in the College of Public Programs, all the majors in one way or another relate to each other. With that being said, take a look at this video from idealist.org to learn more about Work that Needs You. Have a fantastic day!!!


Lonni Summers

Arizona State Fair Coming Soon!

October 16th. You may be asking yourself “What is the big deal about the 16th”? The answer is “It’s the opening day of the State Fair”! YAY! It’s sure to be amazing! Filled with fun, happiness, and joy, the State Fair is by far one of my most favorite things to attend every year. With all the rides, exhibits, concerts, and Food, there is always something there to keep you entertained!

This year the concert lineup is sure to impress. Just to name a few there will be Bob Dylan, Stone Temple Pilots, The Black Crowes, Old School Jams, David Cook, Little Big Town and Billy Currington, and Kelly Clarkson. This is just a fraction of the bands and artists playing at the Fair this year.

If concerts aren’t your thing, there will be plenty of rides to keep you busy! From the Ferris wheel to the mini roller coasters, there is a ride for everyone and every age group. Tickets for the rides will be put on a credit card sized pass that will hold “e tickets” which are the electronic tickets that you will use to get on the rides. The costs for tickets are $20 for 40 tickets, $50 for 100 tickets, and $100 for 200 tickets. The Fair will be running some ride specials throughout the week including unlimited ride wristband days on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

These are just a few of the events going on at the State Fair this year. I hope this has got some of you stoked for this Fair season; it should be a great one! On that note, Have a Great Weekend!!!



Lonni Summers

So Many Activities for this Week!!!

I was looking for different activities to do for this week and thanks to azcentral.com I found a ton of events for this entire week! If you’re bored or are looking for something to do, check out azcentral.com and check out their “Things to Do” section. I’m sure you’ll find something that catches your fancy. Here are some of the event s and activities that are going on this week.

Monday: The Killers at the Dodge Theater. 8pm and Tickets cost $33-$44

Tuesday: Creed at Jobing.com Arena. 7:30pm and Tickets cost $10-$85

Wednesday: Arizona Iron Chef. At 6pm in the Sub-Zero/Wolf Showroom. Cost $65 and reservations are required.

Thursday: Jamie Foxx “Blame it Tour” at the Dodge Theater. At 7:30pm and Tickets cost $59.75 - $69.75.

Friday: Phoenix Fashion Week at the Hotel Valley Ho. This is a three day event from Oct 1st-3rd. It is from 9am to 2pm and Tickets cost $165 for 3-day VIP package; $60 for VIP per day; $75 for 3-day general admission; $30 for general admission each day.

Saturday: Oktoberfest at Fountain Hills, Tempe Town Lake, Phoenix Old World, and Litchfield Park. Times and cost vary from location to location.

Sunday: “Star Wars: In Concert” at the Jobing.com Arena. Show times are 2pm and 7pm. Tickets cost $294.75 for the platinum package; $144.75 for the hot seat package; $29.75-$69.75 general admission.

These are just a few of the exciting events taking place here in the Valley. If you want more info or want to find other activities visit azcentral.com and click on the “Things to Do” link. There is a ton of events that you can attend this week and I hope everyone finds something that is particularly interesting to them. Have an awesome day everyone!!!



Lonni Summers

Drive-In Movie Idea

For this Friday, my date and I were trying to figure out something to do that wasn’t too expensive but would be fun for the both of us. He and I have been on dates before and we’ve done the whole movie thing but I didn’t really want to do that again. I started brainstorming some ideas and some of them included a night hike on South Mountain, picnic, or even just going to the movies again! Then it hit me, I suggested we go to the movies, but in a nontraditional way. Hence the drive- in movie idea was born!

I started looking up locations and prices and finally came across one that was close by. It is called the Scottsdale 6 Drive-In. It is located on McKellips Rd. and it is literally down the street from the Tempe Marketplace so if you and your date wanted to grab a bite to eat then head over to the drive in, you won’t have to worry about a long drive. This place is awesome for dates and also families because it only cost $6.25 for adults and kids 5-11 cost only $1.00 to get in and also all movies at the this drive-in are double features. That means you would see two movies for the price of one!

The management suggests getting there early so you can get a good spot. Also you can bring in blankets, lawn chairs, pillows, and even sleeping bags into the complex which is awesome! If you are looking for something fun to do that won’t cost you an arm and a leg I highly suggest checking out the drive-in movies. If my date and I decide to go, this will be my very first drive-in movie! If you have any questions or concerns you can check out their website for what movies are playing and the show times. Hope everyone has a great weekend!



Lonni Summers

Fall Frenzy Crazy Fun!

Just this past Saturday I went to Fall Frenzy to see a couple of amazing bands including Blink 182! This being my first kind of outdoor musical festival, I was so excited! I brought along my friend Reyna with me and on Saturday at 1:30pm we stood in a LONG line to get into the Tempe Beach Park and have what would surely be one of the craziest fun times, Ever.

After waiting in line for about 30 minutes we finally made it through security and we were in the park at about 2:15. The first band up was Authority Zero. We missed the first few songs but we caught a couple of good ones including “One More Minute”. Having not eaten all day, we made our way to the food vendors. If there was ever a place I would spend the most money for the day, it would have to be all the food tents they had set up. There was everything from Indian Fried Bread and burgers to Snow cones and Jamba Juice. Reyna and I decided to split an Indian Fried Bread with the all the works. The price for food was kind of expensive, but we were expecting that even before we got there. With our tummies full we headed back to the main stage to get ready for the next set.

Up next was Asher Roth. At this time, the heat was really starting to kick in and it was getting hot! Even with the heat the crowd went nuts for Asher Roth. He had so much energy and was a big crowd pleaser. He got the crowd going with his hot singles “I Love College” and “Be by Myself”. Everyone was dancing and just having a good time. Next up was Anberlin. This band was a little heavier but they totally rocked out! For some reason the sound quality was a little off and it was hard to hear some of the vocals during their set, but all in all it was fun. At this point, the crowd was getting bigger and now starting to create mosh pits. This part of the event was a little scary, especially when you don’t want to be in the mosh pit! With all the aggressiveness of the “pits”, Reyna and I avoided them.

After being in the heat for so long, we needed to refuel ourselves. We headed back to the food vendors, bought some curly fries with cheese (yum!) and more bottle water. The band that was up next was Pepper. We missed about half of their set but what we did get to see was pretty good. There was a lot of dialogue between the band members that was a little raunchy, but funny. After Pepper, Slightly Stoopid took the stage. At this point the crowd was really getting rowdy and pushy. Reyna and I made a BIG mistake and wore flip flops to the concert and of course our feet got stepped on like crazy! Yet, when Slightly Stoopid started to play, the masses calmed down and we all just vibed out and danced to the music. Slightly Stoopid put on an awesome show! We loved them!

After an awesome show Slightly Stoopid put on, the next band really had to rock. Unfortunately, the next band, in my opinion, didn’t really deliver. Fall Out Boy came on and they did alright. The band was greeted with cheers and boos as well. Many in the crowd were not feeling the music and continued to boo the band. Fall Out Boy did their set and continued to endure the negative energy. They did ok, but I was really expecting more out of the group. After their set was done, they pretty much just walked right off stage. After, it was the moment we had all been waiting for. The main reason many of us endured 8 hours of heat and sweat. Blink 182 was up next.

The crowd’s energy began to build and build as the roadies set the stage up for Blink. Everyone in the crowd was getting restless and anxious. At this point I was just being violently jostled around and shoved by people trying to push their way forward to the stage. It was literally just bodies to sweaty bodies, and of course my feet were getting stepped on every second. This had to be a scary low point in the concert because it was hard to breathe let alone move.
Unfortunately I saw a couple pass out and hit the floor from the closeness and heat. These unlucky ones had to be rushed out of the crowd and taken to the medical tent. Just when I thought I couldn’t take it anymore, the lights come up and the emcee announces that he had some bad news. He said “The bad news is… we ran out of churros, But here is BLINK 182!!!”. The crowd roared with excitement and then Blink took the stage.

Blink dominated that night! Not only were they amazingly awesome, but they were so dang energetic! Musically they did mess up on a few of their faster songs, but I don’t think the crowd minded that much. The band really showed off musically on some of their slower songs such as “I Miss You” and “Stay Together for the Kids”, which is one of my personal favorites. During their entire set they were happy, fun, and just awesome to watch and listen to. Everyone completely rocked out, and I mean we all Rocked out Hard!

Drained of all energy, hungry, dehydrated, bruised, sore and sleepy, I still couldn’t come down from my natural high I got from the concert. I was just so dang happy! I have to say that had to be one of the best times in my life. Even though I went through a world of pain and because of it and ended up bruised and sore, it was SO worth it. Next time I just have to remember not to wear flip flops! Fall Frenzy was so crazy fun, and I can’t wait for the next one!


Lonni Summers

International Day of Peace

Once again in my Inclusive Communities class, we had another great guest speaker. Today Judy Butzine came in and spoke to our class about the International Day of Peace which will be taking place on September 20th and 21st. There will be a ton of activities in the Downtown Phoenix area on both of those days and so much for everyone to partake in.

Monday is the official Day of Peace and some the activities include yoga at the Japanese Friendship Garden in the morning, a peace program in the ASU Downtown Campus lobby, and also a Flash Mob Dance in the Arizona Center. These are just a few of the activities and there will be plenty more throughout the day.

This is a great day to not only explore Downtown Phoenix but also get involved during our International Day of Peace. If you would like more info about some of the events taking place that day take a look at their calendar and scroll all the way to the bottom and you can view the list and times of the events. I hope everyone will participate in one of these events, it should be a great day! Hope everyone has a Peaceful Day!


Lonni Summers

The Japanese Friendship Garden

Just last Wednesday in my Inclusive Communities class Diana Larowe, the Executive Director of the Japanese Friendship Garden, came and spoke to our class about this spectacular place. The Japanese friendship Garden is located on North 15th Ave, literally just a few blocks away from our lovely Downtown Campus. This garden is just amazing. It is a complete Japanese garden with a pond filled with Koi, a tea house, and of course all the beautiful vegetation all around.

Diana told our class about how the garden was started and all the history behind the Japanese Friendship Garden. She also informed us of the many upcoming events in the near future. Some of these events include Gong Meditation, Otsukimi Moonviewing festival, and the International Day of Peace. I highly suggest checking out some of these awesome events, but that’s not all! If you would like CFE hours you can actually work at some of these events! This is a great and fun way to get a couple of CFE hours. The Japanese Friendship Garden also needs volunteer docents to give tours to visitors and also they need gardener volunteers to help tend to the garden. All of these things are great ways to get some experience in tourism, nonprofit, or parks and recreation.

The Japanese Friendship Garden is a great place to visit and just relax. It is also an awesome place to get some CFE hours if you need them. If you at all interested in volunteering for the Japanese Friendship Garden visit their website and also you can contact Diana Larowe at 602-256-3204. Hope everyone has a Great Day!!!



Lonni Summers

Experiencing ASU Football!

This year I decided to purchase ASU season passes which grants me access to all home football and basketball games. This is my second year at ASU and I never got the chance to experience a football game my freshman year. With seven home football games I was totally stoked to have season passes. My excitement was deterred due to some scheduling conflicts including having to work on the very first game of the season. Saturday morning I got up and got ready for a long day of work at Big Surf Waterpark, I then received a call from my boss informing me that the park would not open that day due to the weather. With a grin on my face, I hopped right back into bed and slept! Upon waking up, my dad asked me what my plans for the day were and just like that, I realized I could now go to the football game! I got part of my homework done, then after threw on my gold Sun Devils shirt, and headed towards my very first college football game.

In high school I attended all the football games, but nothing could prepare me for this game. The energy is INSANE! Students, family, and even children were decked out in gold ready to cheer on ASU. The line to get into the stadium was so long and later I found out that people have been waiting in line since 3 o’clock in the afternoon! Thankfully my group got really good seats in the student section. As it got closer to kick off the energy in the student section continued to rise. It was nothing like I have ever seen or felt before. I couldn’t help but get sucked into it. Screaming at the top of my lungs and creating the Pitchfork with my fingers, I cheered on our ASU football team.

Shouting A-S-U, I watched our Sun Devils dominate the field that night, crushing the Idaho State Bengals 50-3. With numerous interceptions and touchdowns, the game surely did entertain the masses. When the game was over and the students started to file out of the stadium, I felt a great sense of pride being a Sun Devil. Not only because we won, but also just seeing all the spirit in that stadium and watching my fellow peers come together for this one event to support not only our football team, but our university as well. If you haven’t gone to a game yet, I HIGHLY suggest going. Even if you’re not a football fan I still believe every student should try going to a game least once in their college life. This game will forever be a part of my college experience and something I will always remember. Go Sun Devils!!!

Lonni Summers

What is a “New American University”?

Today in my Inclusive Community Development class, three students gave short presentations on diversity and some of the challenges that sometimes arise when there isn’t diversity. One student today began her presentation by asking the class “What comes to mind when you think of a New American University?” The class for the most part was pretty silent. I began to think about what it meant and the only thing that popped into my head was “Having a large student population!” One person yelled out “Michael Crow!” or “ASU”. The student presenter smiled and politely nodded at the answers and then gave her own interpretation of the meaning of a New American University.

She said at first she thought that it meant that the university was only meant for natural born Americans. She thought that it would discriminate against immigrants and transfer students from other countries. She believed that a New American University was something negative and she didn’t understand how ASU could possibly promote that. This was all before she did some research on her own. This student found that ASU becoming a New American University wasn’t something negative but actually something profoundly positive. ASU is trying to break the mold and make positive social, economic, and cultural changes. Arizona State is striving to make an impact on Earth for the better. After getting the real meaning of what a New American University was, her whole view on the idea changed. The student then went on to show a short video of what ASU is striving for and what a New American University really means.

After this student’s short presentation it really made me proud to be a Sun Devil and be a part of Arizona State University. I feel enlightened knowing what it actually means to be a New American University and it makes me want to be more a part of this change ASU is aiming for. Check out the amazing video our class got to watch and also check out this website to get a better understanding of ASU becoming a New American University. Have a Positive Impacting Week!



Lonni Summers

First Week Down!!!

First week of school is done and out of the way! This past week has been fun, exciting, and even a little frightening. All in all I have to say I’m really glad to be back at ASU and see so many new faces and also recognize some familiar faces as well. The first week of school I find is always pretty cool. It gives me the chance to get back into the groove of things, preview what my classes are going to be like, and start preparing for the challenges ahead!

So far my classes seem to be pretty good. I love learning all types of new material and each of my classes brings something different to the table. I believe my most challenging class this semester will probably be Special Events Management. This class consists of learning about events and all the work that goes on behind the scenes. Although this will be a tough class I’m so excited! The subject alone is intriguing and on top of that, our class gets the chance to put on an event! As the semester progresses I will keep you updated on our class event project.

We are now in week two of the semester and the real work begins! I hope everyone is enjoying their classes so far and learning as much as they possibly can! Have a Great second week of school!



Lonni Summers

First Day of School

August 24th 2009. The day many of have either been looking forward to or dreading. Today was our first day back in school! When I was getting ready this morning, it didn’t really faze me that I was actually going back to college. I wasn’t quite in the mind set yet. My first two classes were on at the Tempe campus, and literally taking my first step on to campus, it hit me like a ton of bricks. I’M BACK IN SCHOOL! Walking around campus and seeing all the hustle and bustle put a smile on my face. In some weird way I actually missed school and the craziness that comes with it. Just being on campus put my brain on “school mode” and I was ready to go!

My first class consisted of about 150 students and all of us were crammed into a lecture hall. After that first class I met up with some friends and headed towards the ASU watering hole, aka the MU. My next class was science and that also consisted of about 150 students as well. It wasn’t all that bad and honestly I really don’t mind big class sizes. It gives me the chance to meet more people! I then had another break and hopped on the lightrail and headed towards the lovely Downtown Phoenix campus. Before I entered University Center I thought that it would be a little calmer than that Tempe campus. I was wrong. University Center was packed with students, chairs were occupied in the lobby, and more students were just kind of walking around. I then realized that many programs had moved to the Phoenix campus, and with the programs, also came the students. Not that I’m complaining or anything, it was just different! Seeing so many students at once in the University Center is a change of pace. I’m excited to see new faces here at the Downtown Phoenix campus!

Now that I’m back on campus it really made me realize that summer is over and a new semester has now begun. Now I must say goodbye to my summer days and summer nights and say hello to all nighters! With that being said, I hope to make this semester the best it can possibly be, both academically and socially. Here’s to making a great fall semester and I wish everyone the very Best of Luck!!!! Go Sun Devils!!!!



Lonni Summers

Skate! Roll! Bounce!

Music blaring out of the speakers, lights flashing, kids laughing, and three college students in the skate rink having a blast. That was how I spent my Wednesday night! My fellow StAR, Kirsten, and a good friend of mine named Reyna; all went to the Cardinals Kickoff Skate at Skateland. We dressed up in our Cardinals gear and got in for free. The only thing we had to pay for was our skate rentals which was only $2.

Although Skateland is usually associated with middle school kids, we three ASU students had so much fun! We skated, took a ton of pictures, played skating games, and even won prizes for answering trivia questions. I haven’t been to Skateland since I was in middle school, but just being there brought back fun memories of skating around with friends. I wasn’t as graceful on the skates this time around but thankfully I didn’t fall! If you are ever looking for something to do with friends one night, I highly suggest going to Skateland! Its fun, inexpensive, and also a good workout! I posted a few pictures of the fun so feel free to take a look! If you want more info about Skateland’s hours or events visit their website. Have an amazing day!

Lonni Summers

Fall Welcome!

After a long and relaxing summer, school is now a week away and it’s time to get all the preparation going for classes! Yay! Time to hit up the bookstore, get your textbooks, supplies, ASU gear, and even buy season tickets! For all new incoming students Fall Welcome is an excellent way to start getting pumped for this semester! Starting on Wednesday there will be different events and activities for everyone at ASU. If you are coming to the Downtown Phoenix Campus this semester this is a great time for you to come take a tour of the campus and learn more about it. Also on Friday you will also have the opportunity to meet with the COPP StARs!

Fall Welcome is the perfect time to meet some of your peers, socialize, and also see how awesome ASU actually is! One of the activities on Friday is climbing “A” Mountain and Whitewashing the “A”. I remember my Fall Welcome last year and that was one of my first memories of being a Sun Devil and it was great! It is one of the University’s longest traditions and you would be missing out if you didn’t do it! It is something you will never forget.

With school just around the corner it’s time for us to get stoked for an amazing semester! If you have any questions about Fall Welcome or you just want more info about the event and activities that will take place, take a look at the website. Have a Great day everyone!



Lonni Summers

Skate Free at Skateland!

Remember those fun field trips when you were in elementary and middle school? Remember how Skateland was like the best field trip ever!? Well, get ready to relive those awesome adolescent memories because Skateland is offering a great special. Thanks to azcentral.com I found that the Skateland located on Ray Road is having a Cardinals Kickoff Skate and on Aug 19th from 5:30 to 8:30. If you come dressed in Cardinals apparel it is free admission! Skate rentals cost $3 for rollerblades and $2 for regular skates, or if you have your own skates bring them in!

This a great deal for anyone looking for some FREE fun. Bring your family and friends, strap on some skates, and hit the skate rink! For more information about Cardinals Kickoff Skate or Skateland visit their website or call at 480-917-9444. Have a fantastic day!



Lonni Summers

Hurry 4 Curry

For lunch today I decided to go on a little food adventure. After hearing continuous raves from my fellow StAR Amyann, I decided to try this place called Hurry 4 Curry. It is located in the Arizona Center right by the movie theater. When you first walk into this restaurant it’s small but cozy and really busy! The menu changes from day to day and the daily options are located on a TV screen. To order your food, you walk up to one of two touch screens and order what you want. Then the cooks whip it up and call your order. I was only there for a few minutes and their service is very fast. Even though it’s Indian “fast food”, the flavors are amazing! I ordered the Butter Chicken with a side of Basmati Rice and the flavors were great! The portions are just right and after eating I felt full but not over stuffed. This is great place to get really good food really fast. Also it’s a good way to try some new foods and expand your taste buds! If you want more info about Hurry 4 Curry and the amazing food they serve visit their website, or better yet just go there and order some food! Have a Flavorful day everyone!



Lonni Summers

Need a Mini Vacation?

While surfing around on azcentral.com I came across some pretty sweet hotel deals. If you’re an Arizona resident and you need some time to get away from it all then you might want to look into some of these local hotel deals.

The first of three deals is at a hotel called Aloft. This hotel is offering a special package for Arizona residents through September 7th. Rooms there will only cost $69 a night and in addition to that guest will receive about $70 in discounts for different activities around the Valley. Some of these discounts include $25 off a Sunrise or Sunset tour of Tempe Town Lake, $30 off a 50 minute massage at Massage Envy, and even $18 off a race package at the F-1 Race Factory. This hotel deal is really great and is full of different activities to fill your time. The Aloft hotel itself is amazing and located just a few minutes away from Downtown Tempe and the Tempe Marketplace. For info about the hotel take a look at their website. For reservations call 480-621-3300

The second deal listed was through hotels.com. If you book three nights or more through their website, guests will receive a $55 prepaid gas card! Hotels.com has so many options and choices when booking a hotel so you’re sure to find one that fits your needs!

The last hotel offer is through the Hampton Inn and Suites in Surprise, AZ. They are offering a deal called “It’s a Dry Heat” package. This package includes a room with two queen sized which cost $89 a night or you can choose a studio suite with either a king sized bed or two queen sized bed which cost $109 a night. On your stay there you will also receive a lunch sized cooler with bottled water, sunscreen, and trail mix, all of which you can use to get out into the great outdoors!

These are just a few summer deals I found but I am sure there are plenty more! If you want to have a little mini vacation right before school starts, try booking a hotel in the Valley and having a ton of fun right in the Valley of the Sun! Have a fun filled day!!!


Lonni Summers

Fall Frenzy 09!!!!!

So I know it’s a month away but I’m SO EXCITED for Fall Frenzy! For those of you who are asking yourself “What is Fall Frenzy?” well I have the answer for you! Fall Frenzy is three whole days of music and fun. From September 18th to the 20th there will be a ton of different bands performing and each day there is a new line up. Along with awesome music all day long there will be a bunch of different activities, attractions, and food! From water slides, a gaming center, and even a Ferris wheel, there is something for you to do.

I am attending the September 19th concert where Blink 182 will be performing! I am so stoked for this concert I can’t even contain myself! The bands performing that day will be Authority Zero, Anberlin, Pepper, Slightly Stoopid, Fall Out Boy, and Blink 182. If that wasn’t enough, I just found out today that Asher Roth will be performing and other acts will be added pretty soon!

This festival of music will be completely AMAZING! I highly suggest purchasing tickets to this event. Don’t miss out on all the fun! For more information about Fall Frenzy or where to buy tickets visit the website. Hope this blog got some of you amped up for Fall Frenzy! Have an Awesome Day!!!


Lonni Summers

D-Backs Game!!!

Just yesterday I went to the D-backs game. The D-backs played the Philadelphia Phillies and we were there to see it! Family friends of ours got us suite box tickets so we kind of got the luxury experience. The suite had a little sitting area with a big TV, an area outside the suite that had stadium seating, and of course there was a ton of food. We all were so excited about the game but we were even more excited to see each other. We haven’t seen each other in awhile so it gave us a chance to catch up and find out what everyone has been doing for the past few months.

The game itself was pretty entertaining. The D-backs were behind 4 to 1 but at the bottom of the 9th with one man on base, they knocked one out of the park! It was so awesome, but not enough to win the game sadly. The score was 4 to 3 and the Diamondbacks lost. Even though the home team lost, the night wasn’t a complete failure. I got to see friends and family and just have a good time with everyone which was the best part of my night!

My family is complete baseball nuts so they totally enjoyed the game. If you ever get a chance to hit up a D-backs game, GO! It is so much fun and if you’re around fun people you’ll have blast! Here is the website to check when the D-backs play, so get out there and watch some baseball!!!

Lonni Summers

Are you for Scuba?

Just this past Friday one of my fellow lifeguard instructors at Big Surf set up a Discovery Scuba lesson for all us supervisors and lifeguard instructors. She works part time at Sports Chalet and we all got the lesson for free! I have never done anything like this ever in my life so I was so stoked! At the Sports Chalet in the Tempe Marketplace, there is a decent size pool that goes down to about 13 ft. We all got our flippers and goggles and hopped into the water. We had two instructors and they were very excited to teach us. After we got into the water we put on our BCD’s which stands for Buoyancy Control Device. This thing looks like a vest and it holds your air tank. It also controls your buoyancy, so it can make you sink or float.


Before we got into the deep part of the pool we sat on the ledge and tested out our equipment out and learned how to use our BCD’s and how to breathe underwater with our Regulators. Once we figured all the equipment out we sat on a ledge under the water and the instructors slowly let us descend to the bottom of the pool and made sure we were ok as we sank to the bottom. After we reached the bottom it was a ton of fun! We got to swim around, play underwater football, swim through hoops, and we even drank Capri Suns under water! We spent about two hours just swimming and playing with all the cool scuba gear. Some of my fellow lifeguard instructors had waterproof cameras, so we took a load of pictures so I will be posting a few photos of the whole underwater adventure when I can.


This whole Discovery Scuba experience was so awesome and really peaked my interest into maybe learning more about scuba diving and actually take some of the classes they offer there. If you want more information about the scuba program at Sport Chalet visit their website and you can also call the Sports Chalet Tempe Marketplace location for more info as well. The number is (480) 966-9139. Hope everyone has an Adventurous Day!!!



Lonni Summers

Outdoor Adventures to be Had

Hiking is something I really enjoy doing. It’s a great way to get out of the house, get some fresh air, and enjoy nature. This summer I really wanted to do some hiking. I wanted to try some different trails so of course I hit up the World Wide Web for some more information. On Arizonaguide.com from the Arizona Office of Tourism I found a ton of places that sounded fun and exciting. This website is great if you’re looking for something to do around the state. Here are just a few trails that caught my interest and that I would love to go check out sometime.

1. Apache Maid Trail. Sedona
Apache Maid Trail skirts the rim of Wet Beaver Creek Canyon, one of the scenic red rock gorges that cut the southern rim of the Colorado Plateau. The trail starts at the mouth of the canyon and continues up this picturesque drainage, offering glimpses of the clear, cool stream, until it branches off from the Bell Trail to climb the canyon's north wall. Once atop the basalt flows that form a caprock in this area, the Apache Maid Trail winds along primitive jeep tracks across the grassy, juniper flats. From the trail, the canyon appears off to your right as an eroded rift in the ancient lava flow.

2. Humphreys Trail. Flagstaff
This steep mountain trail leads to the highest point in Arizona. If you consider it merely as a means to that end, however, you'll miss much of the reason to come here. Along its 4.5 mile course, a thriving alpine forest streaked with huge rock slides and avalanche tracks hugs the mountain's slopes. Scenic Hart Prairie stretches out the base of the incline and the Grand Canyon is easily visible on the horizon.

3. Kartchner Caverns State Park. Benson
Kartchner Caverns boasts many world-class features that have been protected since the cave was discovered in 1974. Kartchner Caverns State Park offers visitors to this very popular attraction both a cave tour and an opportunity to experience the site's excellent Discovery Center. All caves tours are guided by a park interpreter. Guests will be taken to the Throne and Rotunda rooms. The tour is one-third of a mile in length and the complete tour will last approximately 60 minutes, 45 minutes of which are in the cave.
These are a just a few of very many trails that are all around Arizona. I’m hoping to at least hit one these trails and see how they are in person. Hiking is so much fun so if you ever think about visiting a trail make sure to look at the Arizona Guide from the Arizona Office of Tourism. Hope this little gives you some insight and encouragement to get out there and hike! It’s a ton of fun! Have a great day everyone!

Lonni Summers

Concerts!!!

I love going to concerts and seeing artists live. I recently got tickets as a gift for a concert in September, but with my love for music I started looking for more shows that are coming to the Valley. Thanks to azcentral.com I found some pretty awesome concerts that will be here soon. Here are some upcoming shows that will be amazing and I really suggest getting tickets to!

1. July 24: Earth, Wind and Fire and Chicago at Jobing.com Arena. Tickets cost $29.75-$89.75

2. July 25: Keith Urban’s “Escape Together World Tour” at Jobing.com Arena. Tickets cost $20-$74

3. July 27: Aerosmith at Cricket Wireless Pavilion. Tickets cost $41-$206

4. July 27: Asher Roth and Kid Cudi at the Marquee Theatre. Tickets cost $32

5. July 28: Pat Benatar and Blondie at the Dodge Theatre. Tickets cost $42 - $54

6. July 29: George Thorogood and the Destroyers and Jonny Lang at Celebrity Theatre. Tickets cost $58-$88

7. July 31: Hollywood Undead at the Marquee Theatre. Tickets cost $23-$25

These are just a few concerts but there are a ton more! Get out there and see some live music! If you’re interested in looking for more concerts or events check out azcentral.com. Hope everyone has a Music filled day!!!

Lonni Summers

Career Field Exploration Opportunity!!!

While looking through the lovely E-update Jamillah Anderson sent for this week I came across a couple of CFE opportunities. If anyone still needs to fill their 200 hours (Like me!) then there might be a few opportunities available for you!

1. Crossroads Youth Intervention
Mission- To help children, youth, families and individuals overcome the challenges of life in the inner-city.
More information at http://www.cryi.org/

2. D1Football
Sports Recreation volunteers needed as soon as possible. Contact: Dyzell Wilson at Dyzell.Wilson@asu.edu.

3. Food for the Hungry
For more information about the Internship Program visit http://www.fh.org/help/students/internships or email david.curtis@fh.org or brittani.thielen@fh.org.

4. Greenbuild 2009
Greenbuild is the International Conference and Expo of the U.S. Green Building Council. It will be held at the Phoenix Convention Center November 10-13, 2009. Last year's Greenbuild in Boston had 29,000 attendees. We are anticipating amazing opportunities as a result of Arizona's hosting of Greenbuild. View Flyer

5. Hike in Phoenix
If you want to learn how to run a business and what is needed from an official business card, phone lines installation, reservations center, on line and telephone reservations, to processing a credit card transaction and ordering snacks and refreshment for guests, and Take a Hike while learning, email Rob@HikeInPhoenix.comto schedule an exploratory phone interview and see what this internship is all about, or call 877 Hike-PHX and ask about out internship.

I hope some of these offers are interesting to you and make sure to take advantage of them! Remember we need our 200 CFE hours to start our senior internship so try to get some hours done over the summer! If you have any questions or concerns make sure to contact your advisor. Have a fantastic day!!!

Lonni Summers

“The Hangover” and Caesars Palace

Just the other night I watched this hilarious movie called “The Hangover”. If you haven’t seen it, the movie takes place in Las Vegas and the main hotel the character stay in is Caesars Palace. Now I found it interesting that as I was looking up hotel deals I came across one in azcentral.com that mentioned an amazing deal for Caesars Palace. The resort is taking great advantage of its role in the movie “The Hangover” and is offering a spectacular deal. The Hangover package will be available for certain dates in July and the package includes a nightly rate starting at $120 and also a $50 food and beverage credit. This is a great deal for anyone and everyone who is looking to get out of Phoenix and have some fun!

If anyone has seen the movie then you know some of the crazy stunts the characters do and NO it is not allowed in the hotel, but if you are looking to visit Las Vegas then this may be a great deal for you to look into! If you want more information on the Hangover package for Caesars Palace here is the link to azcentral.com to read more about it. Here is also the link to check availability and to book a reservation if you want to take advantage of the package. Have an Amazing Day!


Lonni Summers

Take a picture and be on ABC 15!

Hey everyone! I just got this really awesome link forwarded to me by my fellow StAR Eddie. Today for only one second we will have a pure numerical order of time and date. At exactly 12:34pm and 56 seconds time and date will be 1-2-3-4-5-6-7-8-9. To me, that is just so cool! This only happens once each century and ABC 15 wants everyone to take a picture of themselves at that exact time and post it to their site. The photos will be put in a slide show on the site so make it a good picture! Be creative and have fun with it! Here is the link and hope everyone has a perfect numerical day!

Lonni Summers

Funny Videos!

Just this Friday, all of us lovely StARs had a photo shoot for our website. While we were sitting there looking pretty, Candi and Amyann found some amazingly funny videos which I will now share with you! Of course this really has nothing to do with school but we all need a laugh here and there.

The first video is the Turtle Dance. This has to be one of the cutest things I have ever seen! The next video is The Gummy Bear Song. By the end of this video I swear you’ll be singing all day! Enjoy!!!

Lonni Summers

Big Surf’s 40th Anniversary!

Hey everyone just wanted to give you a heads up about a great deal going on at Big Surf. Big Surf is celebrating its 40th anniversary and they have an awesome special. If you’re looking to cool off and have a ton of fun then you should hit up Big Surf. They are running a 4 for 40 deal online. You can purchase four tickets for 40 bucks! You can also do 5 for 50, or 6 for 60, and so on from there. The deal can only be purchased online and it is valid Monday through Friday from 2pm to 6pm. This is great for groups of people because everyone can pitch in 10 dollars and have a fun day in the sun!

There are plenty of attractions for everyone including our 2.5 million gallon wave pool which also hosts Body Board sessions Mon through Fri from 4:00 to 4:30. There are also plenty of body slides and tube slides as well.

Here is the website to visit to purchase the tickets http://www.golfland.com/tempe/. See you at the Wave Pool!

Lonni Summers

The Light Rail after 6 Months

It has been 6 months since the light rail opened and it is as busy as ever. An article in the Arizona Republic reviewed the Metro light rail system and had many positive things to say about the system. Ridership rose each month and of the 27 accidents Metro has been involved with, damage was mild and also Metro was not at fault.

After reading this article I began to remember conversations I had last semester with many of my peers commuting on the light rail and hearing their opinion on the whole operation. Many of the Downtown students use the light rail to commute back and forth instead of paying for parking or driving. Reflecting back on those conversations I realized that many of the student opinions I encountered were not always that positive. Many students disliked being crammed into train with a ton of people due to a baseball or basketball game. Some students also felt uncomfortable with the occasional encounter with a “sketchy” rider. I also remember many students complaining when the train was late due to an accident and because the train was late, they were late for their class. Now I realize that nothing is perfect but after reading the article in the Arizona Republic I found that the positives outweigh the negatives.

One awesome benefit of the Metro light rail is the money saved on gas and parking. As ASU students we all know how expensive a parking permit can be and if I can find a way to say a couple hundred bucks I’ll take it! Also rush hour traffic can be a pain to deal with especially if you’re driving back and forth from Tempe to Phoenix. The light rail avoids all that I-10 traffic and gets you from point A to point B without sitting bumper to bumper. By riding the light rail we also pollute less! We don’t use our cars with means less pollutants in the air. One other benefit of riding the Metro is meeting people. Yes it can be a little crowded at times, but I have met many interesting people and students while riding the train.

I have to say that the light rail is great for us students. It looks like the Metro light rail is here to stay and hopefully the longer it runs the better it will get! Any comments or concerns about the light rail feel free to let me know! Have an Awesome Day!!!!

Lonni Summers

Pictures from My Trip to the Philippines!