Life Coach in Mesa, AZ

Mesa, Arizona, United States--Organ Stop Pizza, a restaurant located in Mesa, Arizona, is the home of a giant Wurlitzer theater organ; powered by three turbine blowers (with a fourth as a standby) it has more than 7,000 pipes, rises above the audience on an 8,000-pound rotating hydraulic elevator to sit 10 feet above the 700-seat dining room; the organ has 1,074 keys, buttons, and switches linked to a series of xylophones, glockenspiels, gongs, and cymbals to create the sound of a full orchestra, setting the world record for being the World’s Largest Wurlitzer Pipe Organ, according to the WORLD RECORD ACADEMY.

Photos: World’s Largest Wurlitzer Pipe Organ: world record in Mesa, Arizona. Photo: Organ Stop Pizza

"Each night in Mesa, Arizona, the largest theater pipe organ ever created rises above the audience on an 8,000-pound rotating hydraulic elevator to sit 10 feet above the 700-seat dining room. The organ has 1,074 keys, buttons, and switches linked to a series of xylophones, glockenspiels, gongs, and cymbals to create the sound of a full orchestra. Nightly shows also include dancing marionette cats, disco balls and spectacular light shows," the official website says.

"While diners sup below, four industrial blowers pump pressurized air through the 6,000 pipes of the 1927 Wurlitzer organ, which is insured for $5 million. The performance hall restaurant serves 300,000 visitors each year, while the organ plays classics like “The Flight of the Bumblebee,” “The Hills Are Alive” from “The Sound of Music,” “The Circle of Life” from “The Lion King,” the “Star Wars” theme, and “God Bless America.”

"Organ Stop Pizza is a restaurant located in Mesa, Arizona. Its primary attraction is as the home of what it says is the largest Wurlitzer theater organ in the world. Powered by three turbine blowers (with a fourth as a standby) it has more than 7,000 pipes. The original organ was built for the Denver Theater and was installed in 1927. It saw service there until the 1930s. Rebuilt in 1975, including pieces from other Wurlitzers, its current spec is a 4/82 (4 Manual 82 rank organ)

"It is a frequent recipient of Phoenix New Times annual "Best of Phoenix" awards. The first Organ Stop Pizza location opened in 1972 at the corner of 7th St and Missouri Ave in Phoenix, Arizona. A second location opened in Mesa near Southern Ave and Dobson Rd in 1975. There was also a location in Tucson for a short time.

"In 1984, the original owners of the restaurant sold the Phoenix location to a local real estate developer who subsequently closed it. The original Mesa location was sold to an employee of the restaurant the same year. In 1995, the original Mesa location was closed and replaced by a new, larger facility near Southern Ave and Stapley Dr." (Wikipedia)

"Featuring the largest Wurlitzer Theater Pipe Organ in the world, the master musicians play everything from Bach to rock while customers dine on delicious pizza, pasta, salad, soft drinks, beer, wine and delicious ice cream!

"Walk through the double-door entrance of Organ Stop and you're immersed in an old-school counter service pizza joint. It's like the local haunt you visited as a child, complete with a small arcade and a souvenir shop. The mouthwatering aroma of baking dough and fried food fills the space as you follow a steady line of couples, birthday partiers, and families to the register.

"One side of the counter serves up main courses including pizza, plus garlic bread, mozzarella sticks, fried zucchini, fried mushrooms, and other classic, casual Italian fare. The other side dishes out sodas by the pitcher, beer, wine, and ice cream for dessert. After ordering, you hang a right at the end of the counter, and the building suddenly opens into an expansive dining room and concert hall," the Phoenix New Times reports.

"Occupying the entire wall behind the stage and scattered throughout the room are pipes, cymbals, cajons, and even a stray piano, all of which are connected to the massive, ornate organ in the center of the display. As the lights dim, a hush falls over the chaotic room, and a stage slowly begins to rotate and rise out of the ground."

Fun facts about Organ Stop Pizza in Mesa

1. The original Organ Stop Pizza opened in 1972 in Phoenix. It was sold to a developer in 1984 and demolished. An office building now occupies its location at Seventh Street and Missouri Avenue.

2. The original Mesa location opened on June 20, 1975, the same day that "Jaws" hit theaters.

3. In 1975, you could get a small cheese pizza for $1.33. A "Giant" pizza would run you $5.71.

4. Organ Stop's Mighty Wurlitzer Theater Pipe Organ boasts nearly 6,000 pipes.

5. Over 7.3 million people have dined while listening to the organ maestros play at the Mesa Organ Stop.

(Source: AZ Central Read More...)

The Arizona Report says.

"The world’s largest Wurlitzer pipe organ is domiciled in the Valley of the Sun and valued at over $4 million. The almost 6,000 pipes are a treat to hear and behold. A visit to this pizza parlor is a sensory experience.

"The vibrato from the bass notes thumps your chest. The multi-colored light show mesmerizes children who gaze toward the ceiling and point to a cascade of bubbles."

Testimonials from TripAdvisor

"When In Mesa you must visit the Organ Stop Pizza Place.The restaurant has a balcony or upstairs open to the bottom floor. Half an hour after opening the music begins. as the Wurlitzer rises out of the floor. It is a sight to behold with a set of 32' wood diaphones (visible from the front of the building), 6000 pipes, 78 ranks,17 tuned percussions and innumerable traps and effects.The 43 foot ceilings provide unparalleled acoustics. It is the largest Wurlitzer in the world. The organ may be played by one of three people, Charlie Balogh, Lew Williams or Donna Parker. All are very accomplished reknowned musicians. We saw Donna when we were there. It was an amazing experience, good food, great entertainment for the entire family."

"Good Pizza and an excellent show. Well worth every minute spent. The organ is a thing of wonder to behold."

"One of largest Pipe Organs in the World. Organist is extremely talented and plays requests, standards, and all types of music from Chicago to Handel to Frank Sinatra. Can go there and just sip a Coke, or enjoy salad, great pizza, dessert, etc. A feast for the eyes, ears, and mouth!"

"Eye popping Wurlitzer. AMAZING! The service was terrific, friendly, prompt, efficient and the pizzas were really, really good. I was pleasantly surprised that the food was so enjoyable and inexpensive. If you don't like pizza, there is spaghetti, lasagna, etc., and a very good salad bar. I highly recommend this terrific place for all ages. Birthday celebrations on the day I was there included an 8 year old, an 88 year old, and a 91 year old! Can't wait to go back!"

"The organ is incredible and the place is run and maintained as well as it's organ. Great family stop. Don't forget the ice cream!"

"Eat a pepperoni and mushroom pie to the soothing sounds of "Anchors Aweigh" or "Over The Rainbow" played on a 6,000-pipe theater organ," the Roadside America reports.

"Inside this building is a huge dining area with a beautiful Wurlitzer organ. The organ rises from the center of the stage and is played by one of four specially trained organists. The surrounding area is filled with accompanying instruments and the billows for the organ are behind glass for all to see. A light show also accompanies the music. Also, the pizza is totally awesome.

"Epic place to visit with company. Be sure to use their song request cards to suggest music to play."

Only In Your State reports.

"Organ Stop Pizza may have an unusual name, but once inside this eatery, you’ll be keenly aware of what it all means.

The restaurant, located in Mesa, is home to what is regarded as the biggest and the best pipe organ in the world. And you get to watch, and hear, it in action while you chow down on one of America's favorite meals: pizza.

"The first time you eat at Organ Stop Pizza, the outside gives you a sense that you're not walking into a typical pizza joint. The building is colossal; big enough, in fact, to hold a theater. The gargantuan dining hall is two stories, and every seat at every table has a prime view of the singular wall that holds the 15 ranks/sets of pipes. The ceiling height is 43 feet, creating an unparalleled acoustic sensation."

"This massive instrument boasts some 6,000 pipes and requires four huge turbine blowers to operate. The console sits on an 8,000-pound rotating hydraulic elevator. With 43-foot ceilings, you can rest assured the sweet sounds are audible from any seat in the house. Some of the world’s most acclaimed theater organists entertain the guests, managing a mere 276 keys and 798 stops and controls," the Arizona Oddities reports.

"Organ Stop Pizza possesses all the ingredients of a great pizza parlor, yet people aren’t just drawn here for the Spicy Italian or Hawaiian pies. They are mesmerized by the melodies of The Mighty Wurlitzer – the world’s largest pipe organ.

"The Mesa location opened in 1975. It moved to its current facility in 1995 on the corner of Stapley Drive and Southern Avenue. The owners of this location nabbed its Wurlitzer from the Denver Theater. It has been significantly rebuilt and enlarged throughout the years."

World’s Largest Wurlitzer Pipe Organ: Mesa, Arizona

Address: 1149 E Southern Ave, Mesa, AZ 85204

Directions: At Organ Stop Pizza. US 60 exit 181. Drive north a half-mile on Stapley Drive, then turn left at the light onto Southern Ave. The pizza mini-cathedral will be on the left; take the first left into the shopping plaza.

Cash and U.S. checks are the only currency accepted; they do not accept credit or debit cards.

Facebook: Organ Stop Pizza

Phone: 480-813-5700

Admission: Free to look.

website: https://organstoppizza.com/

Steps are now being taken to redevelop the shuttered Fiesta Mall in Mesa.

Developer Verde Investments filed pre-submittal documents to the city of Mesa earlier this month to redevelop the site into new retail, up to 4,000 multifamily units, flex office and open green space. Plans submitted so far don't include exact square footages of the new development.

Bill Jabjiniak, Mesa's director of economic development, said there's a long road ahead before anything happens in redeveloping the 80-acre site at the southeast corner of Alma School Road and Southern Avenue.

Next city officials will meet with Verde and its attorney Berry Riddell LLC to have the first conversation and give initial feedback for Verde to refine its plan based on what the city is looking for before it will formally submit a proposal.

Nelsen Partners has been chosen as the architect of the redevelopment.

"We're anxious for the mall to redevelop as well. We're grateful for the folks at Verde who are creating a vision. We just want to be able to do it together," Jabjiniak said. "The No. 1 question I get about southwest Mesa is 'what's going on with the Fiesta Mall?'... Any time we can improve upon a part of the city, it sets the tone for future investment."

Fiesta Mall is just one of several mall redevelopment projects that developers hope to reignite in the coming years. Ownership has changed hands at Paradise Valley Mall and Metrocenter Mall while Jericho, New York-based Kimco Realty Corp. just submitted plans to redevelop Christown Spectrum within the city of Phoenix. Park Central Mall in midtown Phoenix has become a sought-after location for creative office space and also includes hotels and a 278-unit multifamily housing structure.

Verde's initial plans with Fiesta Mall fall in line with the vision at each of the other mall redevelopment projects as there is a multifamily component. According to its pre-submittal documents to Mesa, the initial vision was to redevelop portions of the mall into office but the Covid-19 pandemic's disruption of the business world caused the developer to rethink those plans.

Tempe-based Verde began purchasing portions of the mall in 2015. It acquired the parcels from some of the mall's former big-box users Sears and Dillard's and from other entities that owned the land. The director of Verde Investments is Carvana's largest investor Ernie Garcia II, according to the Arizona Corporation Commission.

"The key words for me here are 'comprehensive vision' for the site. I think that's what we've been looking for versus a one-off vision that may have been talked about in the past," Jabjiniak said. "If you think of the access that this site has, you're on top of the 60; it's only a couple of miles over to the 101; and you're not that far from the 202. ... It all lends itself to a quality development."

Fiesta Mall was built in the 1970s. Dillard's Clearance Center was the last tenant that was operating at the mall before it closed in early 2020.

MESA, Ariz. — It's that time again. Time to check your lottery tickets because Arizona just had another big winner!

According to lottery officials, a winning ticket from the "Fantasy 5" drawing Monday night was sold in Mesa.

One lucky person hit the $350,000 jackpot after purchasing the ticket at a Mesa QuikTrip in Mesa.

Here are the details of the win:

Fantasy 5$367,000 jackpotQuikTrip5957 E McDowell RoadMesa, Arizona

If this is your ticket, don't forget to claim your prize.

>> Download the 12News app for the latest local breaking news straight to your phone.

On your phone: Download the 12News app for the latest local breaking news straight to your phone.

On your streaming device: Download 12News+ to your streaming device

The free 12News+ app from 12News lets users stream live events — including daily newscasts like "Today in AZ" and "12 News" and our daily lifestyle program, "Arizona Midday"—on Roku and Amazon Fire TV.

12News+ showcases live video throughout the day for breaking news, local news, weather and even an occasional moment of Zen showcasing breathtaking sights from across Arizona.

On social media: Find us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.

At 12News, we listen, we seek, we solve for all Arizonans. 12News is the Phoenix NBC affiliate owned by TEGNA Inc.

12News is built on a legacy of trust. We serve more than 4.6 million people every month on air, on our 12News app, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Twitter, and 12News.com.

We are committed to serving all of the Valley's communities, because we live here, too.

12News is the Official Home of the Arizona Cardinals and the proud recipient of the 2018 Rocky Mountain Emmy Award for Overall Excellence.

Stay connected by downloading the 12News app, available on Google Play and the Apple Store. Catch up on any stories you missed on the show on the 12News Youtube channel. Read content curated for our Spanish-speaking audience on the Español page. Or see us on the 12News Plus app available on Roku or Amazon Fire.

Catch up on the latest news and stories on the 12News YouTube channel. Subscribe today.

Benchmark Intends to Invest $20M and Hire up to 100 People to Support the New 64,000 Sq. Ft. Facility Focused on Semiconductor Industry Growth in the U.S.

TEMPE, Ariz., March 3, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Benchmark Electronics, Inc. (NYSE: BHE), a global provider of engineering, design, and manufacturing services, today celebrated the grand opening of its new Precision Technologies facility in Mesa, Arizona. The facility is designed to provide a number of key engineering and manufacturing solution services, most notably supporting the production of semiconductor capital equipment building blocks and solutions. Benchmark intends to invest roughly $20 million into capabilities and technology at the new facility, in addition to hiring 100 people to support this facility as the company ramps up with customers.

"Benchmark is a key solution partner to the capital equipment market worldwide and this new facility will enable us to support our customers in the U.S. and across the globe with next generation manufacturing and engineering solutions," said Jeff Benck, president and CEO, Benchmark. "The investments we're making to serve these customers will be critical to meeting the increasing demand for semiconductor capital equipment, especially with the growth in demand for semiconductors and new domestic fabs being built supported by the CHIPS Act incentives."

Benchmark celebrated the grand opening alongside Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs, Mesa Mayor John Giles, ACA President and CEO Sandra Watson, Benchmark customers, and Arizona dignitaries across the technology and economic development sectors who have been critical to Benchmark's expansion in Arizona.

"We are proud to celebrate the grand opening of Benchmark's new facility alongside the best and brightest technology leaders in Arizona," said Governor Katie Hobbs. "Since joining Arizona's thriving technology community, Benchmark has been an incredible partner, creating skilled jobs and advancing Arizona's innovation reputation. We look forward to seeing the great work done here at Benchmark Mesa to further enhance our growing semiconductor industry."

Benchmark is expanding its footprint in Arizona and bringing the new facility online today. The facility significantly expands the existing cleanroom capacity across its Precision Technologies group with additional opportunity for the vertical integration of key processes. These processes will include unique metal joining applications such as TIG welding and electron beam welding, precision cleaning and other chemical finishes. The expanded capacity will also bring new job opportunities in the region to support the growth of the industries Benchmark serves.

"Because of years of hard work and targeted investments at the local, state, and federal level, Arizona is well positioned to continue to lead our country in advanced manufacturing," Rep. Greg Stanton said. "There's no better example than Benchmark expanding their operations here in the East Valley. This new cutting-edge facility will help us take control of our semiconductor supply chains, protect our national security, and create good-paying jobs here at home."

"There is a significant amount of momentum for the semiconductor industry in Arizona and Mesa is a big part of that story," said Mesa Mayor John Giles. "The expanding footprint of Benchmark into Mesa further solidifies our city's role in helping to supply the Valley's growing semiconductor industry."

Benchmark retains one of the largest U.S. electronics manufacturing footprints, with major production facilities in California, Minnesota, Alabama, New Hampshire, and Arizona. In addition to its global headquarters in Tempe, the company now boasts three other manufacturing facilities in the valley including Phoenix, Tempe, and now Mesa. The company's manufacturing services, and global footprint are closely aligned to the semiconductor industry's geographic needs and facilitate the ability for customers to meet the rising demand. Benchmark's strategic investments in facilities, capabilities, and technologies also enhance engineering and manufacturing solutions close to the point of consumption for the U.S., European, and Asian markets.

"Today's exciting grand opening represents Benchmark's third since relocating its headquarters to Arizona in 2017," said Sandra Watson, President and CEO of the Arizona Commerce Authority. "With a global reputation for excellence, Benchmark Electronics' state-of-the-art operations will further enhance Mesa's vibrant technology industry and shows once again that Arizona is the nation's leading destination for advanced manufacturing."

To learn more about Benchmark's services and capabilities in semiconductor capital equipment, please visit the website at www.bench.com.

About Benchmark Electronics, Inc.Benchmark provides comprehensive solutions across the entire product life cycle; leading through its innovative technology and engineering design services; leveraging its optimized global supply chain; and delivering world-class manufacturing services in the following industries: commercial aerospace, defense, advanced computing, next-generation telecommunications, medical, complex industrials, and semiconductor capital equipment. Benchmark's global operations include facilities in seven countries and its common shares trade on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol BHE.

SOURCE Benchmark Electronics, Inc.

MESA, Ariz. — It’s a busy two weeks in Arizona for the LPGA and its developmental tour.

The Epson Tour’s Carlisle Arizona Women’s Golf Classic, which runs through Sunday, is being held for a third time at Longbow Golf Club in Mesa.

Next week, the LPGA returns to the Grand Canyon State for the first time since 2019 when the Bank of Hope Founders Cup was played in Phoenix. Superstition Mountain Golf & Country Club is hosting the LPGA Drive On Championship from March 23-26. The club also hosted the LPGA from 2004-08 for the Safeway International.

It makes for a pretty great situation for up-and-coming golfers to take advantage of back-to-back playing opportunities.

Despite an up-and-down week at the Carlisle, LPGA member Bailey Tardy is trying to make the most of consecutive weeks at golf courses just 21 miles apart. She said her first-round 79 on Thursday was due in part to key piece of equipment she forgot to pack.

“I didn’t have golf shoes the first day so I think that was my issue,” she said before showing off her new shoes. “Fifty dollars. PGA Superstore. Not the same ones, but I like them better.”

Tardy followed her 79 with a 64 to make the cut Friday.

Like Tardy, Canada’s Maude-Aimee LeBlanc will make her first 2023 LPGA start at the Drive On. And like Tardy, LeBlanc lives back east, so the Epson event is a great chance to prep.

“We haven’t played in Arizona in a while and I practice in Florida so it’s very different, the grass, the air. The ball goes a lot farther here,” she said, noting that she’s also breaking in a new caddie this week in Mesa.

There were 16 players who entered the Epson event also in the upcoming LPGA field, with Tardy among the 13 advancing to the weekend. Two of those advancing – Grace Kim and Celine Borge – are LPGA members who were 2022 Epson Tour graduates. Two others – Jaravee Boonchant and Karen Chung – are dual members, having finished between No. 21 and 45 in last year’s Q Series.

The other nine golfers who made the cut at Longbow are LPGA members: Lauren Stephenson, Lauren Coughlin, Pernilla Lindberg, Grace Kim, Amanda Doherty, Caroline Inglis, Valery Plata, Samantha Wagner along with Tardy and Leblanc.

For new Epson Tour chief business and operations officer Jody Brothers, his focus is on the first of the two events in Arizona but knows having the LPGA here next week helps on preparation and logistics for many players.

“They’re pros at traveling, but anytime you can settle in and get comfortable, whether it’s time-zone adjustment or green speeds or types of grass, I think that serves them really, really well,” he said.

Tardy missed out on her LPGA card for the 2021 season by a mere $343. Now that she has status, she’s not taking anything for granted.

“It’s just as hard to stay on the LPGA as it is to get your card.”

She’s also learned that a first-round 79 doesn’t have to ruin your week.

“Honestly, after the first round and then [bouncing back in] the second round is just never give up on yourself,” she said. “Just don’t harp on the bad things and focus on what you’ve done and rely on that to prepare yourself for the next day.”