Nineteen lucky ASURA members had a relaxing, educational, and companioable all-day get-together on Thursday, November 6, 2008. We had beautiful weather, which was great because that made it comfortable while we were touring out of doors.

In the morning we had a guided tour of Cosanti, including a foundry pour of cast bronze bells and information about the architectural innovator Paolo Soleri. We saw a spectacular display of wind-bells in the galleries, and there was time allowed for shopping.

We then moved on to lunch at El Chorro Lodge,

Known for its old world Arizona charm in Paradise Valley, we enjoyed a beautiful desert view and a delicious meal that included the house specialty - sticky buns!

After lunch we departed for Taliesin West, Frank Lloyd Wright's winter headquarters and architectural school started in 1932. The originally designed complex is still a working community of student architects, with approximately 70 residents, and it is the international headquarters for the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation. We had a lovely and very interesting tour there, and we learned quite a bit about Mr. Wright and his family.

Our mini-coach transportation was comfortable and competent, and we arrived back at the Tempe Public Library right on time, about 4 p.m.