July 09, 2021
It's Always Cool in Mesa
Mesa's Mayor Giles has launched a "Cool" new podcast. Tune in to learn about our unique and interesting history from a lifelong resident.
It’s Always Cool in Mesa is a podcast that shares the stories behind some of Mesa, Arizona’s most loved outdoor adventures, culinary treasures, and unique history. From Santa Claus falling to earth at the first Merry Main Street to today’s popular ice rink; a Mesa grocer swimming the dangerous communist infested waters of Viet Nam to paddle boarding down the Salt River; and why the Queen of England purchased plots at the City Cemetery. The stories of Mesa are fascinating!
“I’m excited to share with you some of the great places, people and stories I hear about as mayor. I’ll feature locals who can help me shine a spotlight on some possibly unknown treasures in our city. You’ll be delighted to discover all the ways Mesa can surprise you!” – Mesa Mayor John Giles
Episode 1: Why This Podcast?
In this episode, "It’s Always Cool in Mesa" Host, Mayor John Giles, is interviewed by "It’s Always Cool in Mesa" Producer, Brian Nissen, on exactly what "It’s Always Cool in Mesa" means and why we should be talking about it.
Episode 2: This is the Queen’s Property!
What is the connection between the Historic Mesa Cemetery and the Queen of England? The answer is 23 Royal Airforce pilots. How they ended up in our Cemetery is one of Mesa’s treasured stories.
Episode 3: Sarah Williams: “I’m not afraid of failure.”
Sarah Williams gets a lot done. A lot. If she gets a good idea, even if it’s a little crazy like paddle boarding in the desert, or a lot crazy like goat yoga, she goes for it. Her two winning attitudes are, she doesn’t overthink things and she’s not afraid of failure. Did we mention her Guinness world record? Be brave, people.
Episode 4: The Master of Mekong Plaza
If you drive down Dobson Road in Mesa, Arizona you'll quickly see that we have the most vibrant center for Asian culture in the entire Southwest. It's called the Asian District, and it all started in 2008 with MeKong Plaza. The story of the man behind MeKong Plaza, Peter Quach, is one for the ages - from his escape from communism to his battle against all odds to live the American dream.
Episode 5: The Diving Lady Lives
If you’ve been to downtown Mesa lately, you realize big things are happening. But you might not realize this: Part of the reason lies three miles to the east. The Diving Lady sign. What’s she got to do with Mesa’s downtown renaissance? You’ll have to listen to find out.
For the direct link to the full podcast series (and to keep up with new episodes): https://www.mesaaz.gov/government/mayor-council/mayor-john-giles/it-s-always-cool-in-mesa
Available on Apple, Google Podcasts and Spotify
Hosted by: Mesa Mayor John Giles
Produced by: Brian Nissen
Supported by: Visit Mesa & Mesa Chamber of Commerce
