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Mandala Tearoom May Newsletter

It has been said that the only thing in life we can 
consistently count on is change. Of course with change, 
there are endings and beginnings. T.S. Eliot summarized 
this nicely by saying, “in my end is my beginning”. Often, 
people struggle with change and transition in fear of the 
unknown. With that in mind, we must look at ways to embrace 
and celebrate our endings and beginnings and view 
transitions as opportunities to transform into something 
greater. The following quote from the I Ching summarizes 
this poetically: 
 
The way of the creative works through change and 
transformation, so that each thing receives its true nature 
and destiny and comes into permanent accord with the great 
harmony: this is what furthers and what perseveres. 
—I Ching 
 
We would like to share with you some of the transformations 
that are taking place here at the Mandala Tearoom: 
 
Ending 
Rhea Ashcraft, a.k.a. the artist, has decided to depart 
from the Mandala team and focus her efforts on her life 
passion of creating beautiful and intriguing art. Hopefully 
you have had the chance to admire her creations that have 
been on display inside of Mandala. If not, please check 
them out before June 2nd. If you are interested in 
purchasing any pieces of art, please contact Rhea directly 
at: rladesigns@cox.net or 480-415-5331. 
 
Beginnings 
We are excited to announce that Jessica Metz, RD, CD has 
accepted the position as the new co-creator of the Mandala 
Tearoom effective June 6th. Jessica has partnered with 
Jennifer Miranda-Gunn as co-owner. She will serve as the 
COO and Culinary Manager striving to bring Mandala to the 
next level of tantalizing vegan cuisine.  
 
Jessica is a Registered and Certified Dietitian with 
greater than 15 years of formal education in nutrition and 
food sciences. Her main nutrition focus is on finding 
optimal health through a plant-based, whole foods diet.  
 
Prior to life at Mandala, she has directed the clinical 
nutrition department for a multi-facility healthcare 
organization. In addition, she has coached numerous 
individuals and groups to find a path of wellness through 
lifestyle change. With her strong education and work 
experience, Jessica is a sought after speaker and writer on 
nutrition and wellness in topics such as vegetarian diets, 
functional foods, sports nutrition, cardiovascular wellness 
and food allergies. 
 
Jessica is excited to join forces with our new head cook, 
Jaymes, in creating balanced and enticing vegan dishes.  
 
Transformation 
Like all newly traveled paths, we expect some bumps in the 
road. Please bear with us through this phase as we 
transition and transform to bring you even better cuisine 
and service paired with our outstanding teas.  
 
If you have ideas and feedback you would like to share 
please contact us.  
 
Food comments email Jessica at: jessica@mandalatearoom.com  
 
Service comments email Jennifer at: 
jennifer@mandalatearoom.com 
 
In the meantime, we hope to see you at some of the May 
events (see calendar). Please stay tuned for the exciting 
things that are brewing at the Mandala Tearoom. A sneak 
peak is listed below.  
 
Coming soon 
Summer menu renovations  
Addition of a raw foods menu 
Saturday and Sunday Vegan Brunch  
Nutrition + Culinary Lectures and Classes  
Opening of the Mandala Apothecary - an organic beauty 
boutique and healing spa adjacent to the tearoom. Check it 
out at www.mandalaapothecary.com.