Ahwatukee, AZ May 2024

THE Women’s ISSUE

“When

SAVVY SOLUTIONS FOR TODAY’S REAL ESTATE MARKET

Buying and selling a home can be challenging. You need an agent who is laser-focused on your unique needs. Having lived and worked in Ahwatukee and the southeast valley for over 20 years, my passion for this community comes through in my warmth, work ethic, philanthropic endeavors, and connections with a clientele who are as committed to me as I am to them! From staging and prepping, to spearheading renovations, finding contractors and delivering expert market advice, I will dedicate myself to your project as if it were my own. Give me a call or scan the code for a complimentary market analysis on your home and find out why important decisions demand Savvy Solutions.

real estate report

Rec ent ly so l d p roperties in Ahwa tu kee.

Love For the Ladies

Women can do all the things that men do, but often through a different lens that adds a valuable perspective. Regarding the workplace, decades of studies show that women leaders help increase productivity, enhance collaboration, inspire organizational dedication and improve fairness.

Incredible women—we are them and we know them. These women are business owners, lead large teams, teach or work in the STEM arena, nurture and raise incredible human beings, give tirelessly to their communities and the causes they care about, and make a difference in innumerable other ways.

This issue is for the ladies and it packs a punch. We showcase the many different aspects of women and the incredibly diverse insights, skills, talents and styles that they possess. We want to celebrate what makes them stand apart.

Our publication is fortunate to partner with many female business owners and we look forward to continuing to highlight them. This month we share therapist Dr. Chante Pantila and her mission to empower other women. Her social media is a testament to all the ways she seeks to support countless females. We should all strive to be so supportive of others as the inspirational effect it has is immeasurable.

Women continue to do amazing things in our community, our nation and the world. The more we applaud their accomplishments, the more encouragement we pass to younger girls to continue exploring, building, curing, leading, inventing and teaching.

Cheers to celebrating women and all that they have to offer!

May 2024

PUBLISHER

Sherry York | sherry.york@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Beth Del Ville | beth.delville@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Alison Bailin Batz, Alison Stanton, Mindy Wester, Beth Del Ville

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Qiana Kelsch, Stephanie Slezak, Mindy Wester

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

AD DESIGNER Whitney Lockhart

LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.

SHERRY YORK, PUBLISHER @AHWATUKEECITYLIFESTYLE

The Empowerment Revolution

Dr. Chante Pantila is on a mission to nurture community, encourage healing and celebrate the power of femininity

Girls Getaways

Fabulous ways to spend the night, weekend, or even longer spoiling mom

Marathon Swimmer Calls

Claire Russell finds joy and fulfillment swimming in open water

Spectacular Spread

Transform your Mother’s Day celebration into an unforgettable experience with a stunning charcuterie board

Myranda Fine Jewelry Offers Timeless and Stunning Jewelry

Renowned local jeweler Myranda Molina (formerly with Christopher & Myranda Fine Diamonds) has launched Myranda Fine Jewelry with new locations in both Chandler and Scottsdale. Her exceptional whiteglove service and strong focus on customer relations and service will continue in order to create a memorable experience for each of her clients by creating exquisite custom jewelry pieces that reflect each client’s unique personality and style. From engagement rings to statement necklaces, Myranda Fine Jewelry will continue to offer custom orders, repairs, appraisals, and jewelry cleaning services. MyrandaFineJewelry.com

The Empowerment Revolution

Dr. Chante Pantila is on a mission to nurture community, encourage healing and celebrate the power of femininity

ARTICLE BY BETH DEL VILLE

PHOTOGRAPHY BY QIANA KELSCH

Dr. Chante Pantila, a devoted therapist with a deep passion for empowering women, embodies the essence of womanhood in both her personal and professional life.

“I love being a woman,” Dr. Chante shares with genuine enthusiasm. “My mom is also very feminine, and I definitely get it from her. She taught me to own being a woman. My mom is beautiful with long, flowing hair, and we both have an affinity for fashion.”

From a young age, Dr. Chante gravitated toward all things feminine, and some of her earliest memories include the joy of playing with Barbie dolls, styling their hair and dressing them up.

“I think these are the same things I love about being a woman,” Dr. Chante reflects. Her love for the expression of femininity extends to her professional space, where pink takes center stage. From the branding to the office decor, the color is seamlessly integrated into Dr. Chante's therapeutic haven.

“Pink is just one of those hues that speaks to me on a deeply aesthetic level. It's a part of me and the brand,” she shares, explaining how her signature color represents the celebration of womanhood in all its facets.

“When I started in this career, I wanted to decorate with pink, but was told I needed

to pick more gender-neutral colors. When I moved to my current office, it was an opportunity to rebrand, and I, of course, chose pink.”

In Dr. Chante's office, the warm and welcoming ambiance reflects her commitment to creating a comfortable environment for patients to share their vulnerabilities, triumphs, and embark on a journey of self-restoration and growth.

“Just the other day, a friend and colleague sent me a screenshot from a consultee of mine who created a social media post about her positive experience with me. She discussed how I have been so easy to connect to and how everyone deserves the kind of support I have to offer,” she says.

Dr. Chante's dedication goes beyond individual therapeutic sessions; she extends her support to fellow therapists through

“I WANT WOME N TO SEE HOW TRULY AMAZING THEY ALREADY ARE , THAT THEY MAT TER AND REMIND

consultation and supervision. “Women have been inspired to create their own offices based on their experiences working with me,” she explains. “I’ve encouraged their growth along the way, and I love seeing their careers unfold. I foster a community of empowered women who are inspired to achieve their full potential because of my influence. I am still in contact with them and excited for their evolution.”

Others also echo these sentiments, acknowledging Dr. Chante as a beacon of support and encouragement within the community.

“Another colleague said that I’m known in the community for rooting people on. I believe everyone deserves the opportunity to heal and progress,” she adds, underlining her commitment to fostering positive change in the lives of those she touches.

As Dr. Chante continues to support women within her therapy office, she also recognizes the

THEMTHATTHEY’RE

MORE THAN

significance of building a sense of community. In addition to her patient sessions, she actively participates in and hosts various networking events that contribute to the investment of women.

“I love being able to cultivate connection in the way that I do and in the way that women understand. I’m big on building community. I love that women are emotional beings and how this contributes to relationship dynamics,” she explains, emphasizing the importance of emotional connections.

Dr. Chante envisions a ripple effect of empowerment that touches the lives of women on a broader scale. With her heart dedicated to uplifting women, Dr. Chante stands not only as a therapist but as a catalyst for change, breaking down barriers and inspiring women to embrace their inherent strength.

“I think that being a woman, and seeing the fight for equality in the simplest ways really motivates me,” she shares. "Being a woman of color allows for opportunities where I need to fight harder for a place in this world. Now that I am paving my own lane, I want to be able to inspire others with similar stories to do the same.”

Dr. Chante’s journey is not just about encouraging individual women, it's about creating a movement that breaks down boundaries and encourages women to celebrate their uniqueness and embrace their strength.

“I want women to see how truly amazing they already are, to recognize that they matter, and remind them that they’re more than enough,” Dr. Chante says. “To feel empowered on a daily basis, take a deep breath and remember who you are.”

DoctorChante.com Dr. Chante Pantila DBH, LPC CA LPCC-11292

TO RECOGNIZE ENOUGH.”

Girls’ Getaways

Fabulous ways to spend the night, weekend, or even longer spoiling mom

ARTICLE BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

A Waldorf Astoria Resort

There is a gift that all mothers want from their adult daughters more than anything else this Mother’s Day; and it is neither flowers nor cards. They want uninterrupted time together!

Why not make this year’s celebration extra special by surprising mom with a girls’ getaway, be it overnight, for the weekend, or even longer?

Pueblo Bonito Emerald Bay

FOR A DAY: COTTONWOOD

Cottonwood is just 90 minutes north of the Valley, but it feels like another world. Usually about 10 degrees cooler than in anywhere in greater Phoenix, its walkable Main Street is kissed with wine, olive oil, and chocolate tastings thanks to Tantrum Wines, Four Eight Wineworks, Winery 101, Arizona Stronghold, and Provisioner; epic eateries in Nic’s, Pizzeria Bocce, Strada at Bocce, Crema Craft Kitchen, and The Tavern Grill; local ale houses in Belfrey Brewery and THAT Brewery; and a destination winery called Merkin Hilltop that offers a gondola ride to its front door and delights in pairing wines with hand-crafted pastas and homemade gelato. Together, this hidden gem culinary mecca makes it the perfect spot for a quick overnight “foodcation” together. There is even a half-mile wooded trail whose entrance is on Main Street, making it easy to burn off all the yummy food and drink together while enjoying the outdoors.

Merkin Vineyards in Cottonwood.

Photo by Greg Bernstein

Tavern Hotel in Cottonwood

The best part: Main Street is also home to The Tavern Hotel, an ideal choice to make one’s home base. Nearly a century ago the historic section of the hotel was once a barn and through the years it housed various businesses until 2011 when it was fully renovated by an Arizona family to become Cottonwood’s first boutique hotel. It is a blend of light, bright rooms with vibrant yellow Adirondack chairs on each balcony and large cottages designed for a good girls’ night, especially the two-bedroom option that comes complete with a well-appointed kitchen and family room. There is also a pool on property for guests, and all those who book a room are treated to a welcome cocktail at the attached Tavern Grill as well as discounted bites at Crema Craft Kitchen for brunch the next morning. OldTown.org

FOR A LONG WEEKEND: EMERALD BAY

Mazatlán, which is just two hours from Phoenix via daily non-stop flights on American Airlines and remains on the same time zone as Arizona yearround, has long been considered a mecca for those seeking sun and fun in the heart of Mexico. The Zona Dorada – or Golden Zone – of the city is particularly popular for its bustling string of waterfront hotels and buzzy nightlife.

However, just 20 minutes north of the sometimes-crowded Golden Zone sits Pueblo Bonito Emerald Bay.  A laid-back, beachfront wonder dotted with greenery in every direction and secluded by design, Pueblo Bonito Emerald Bay’s aim is to merge Mazatlán’s rich history with a world-class luxury experience that is especially perfect for a long weekend with mom.

The all-inclusive property, which is kissed with mangroves, palm trees, and natural waterways, sprawls across 20 acres of the Pacific Ocean. Given its expansive size, the resort is able to offer all guests suites ranging from approximately 500 square feet

“Pueblo Bonito Emerald Bay’s aim is to merge Mazatlán’s rich history with a world-class luxury experience that is especially perfect for a long weekend with mom.”

to nearly 1,000 square feet, so there is ample space for both mother and daughter (even in the closet). And despite its expansive size, everything feels just steps away, including a glistening beach that is accessible via a short walk beyond the resort’s four crystal-blue pools along a serpentine trail frequented by inquisitive pink flamingos.

Pueblo Bonito Emerald Bay is also home to the 16,500-square-foot Armonia Spa, which was named among the “Top 20 Best Spas in Mexico and Central America” by Conde Nast Traveler, and features both on-property culinary outlets – notably a French eatery and a stunning international bistro – and exclusive access to Casa 46 nearby. Famed for its authenticity and tribute to the founders of the city, Casa 46 is equal parts interactive museum, art exhibit, and vibrant mixology bar, with Michelin-level cuisine.

Finally, between the property entertainment and concierge teams, everything from eco-tours and boating to tennis and snorkeling are available at the touch of a button. PuebloBonito.com

Pueblo Bonito Emerald Bay

FOR EVEN LONGER: MAUI

Looking for the ultimate mother-daughter spa escape? Consider splurging on a trip to Maui’s iconic Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort. Earlier this year, the lauded beachfront resort opened its $55 million, 50,000-square-foot Kilolani Spa, the crown jewel in what has been a sweeping renovation to the 40-acre property that also included the debut of five re-imagined restaurants; new modern interiors; and striking upgrades to all rooms and suites.

Pueblo Bonito Emerald Bay

Now the largest spa in the state, this bucket list place for all things pampering is inspired by the Hawaiian moon calendar and boasts 40 treatment rooms, native botanicals, signature products hand-crafted on Maui, and holistic treatments such as sound healing.

Meant to be a full sensory experience over a series of days, the spa features open-air hydrothermal gardens with cleansing showers, a sauna, a steam room, a vitality pool, waterfall showers, and a garden. Connecting these spaces is the hydrothermal circuit designed to welcome groups to experience wellness together. At the heart of Kilolani Spa is the only Hammam in Hawaii, which is a multicultural sanctuary designed for communal rituals and private treatments. There is also a meditation lounge, which invites guests to partake in guided meditation using innovative harmonic therapy, and a reflection lounge, which offers inspiring ocean views. Outdoors, the saltwater pool is a soothing flotation experience, flanked by halotherapy-infused infrared saunas.

Beyond the traditional and moon-inspired spa experiences, Grand Wailea also offers immersive cultural opportunities including hula lessons, craft making, and a lūʻau featuring Hawaiian ceremonies, music, and dishes such as poi, kālua pig, poke, and haupia. GrandWailea.com

The Great Gatsby Charity Gala

August 10th | 5 PM

Pueblo Bonito Emerald Bay

Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort

Sheraton Grand Wild Horse Pass

5594 W Wild Horse Pass Blvd, Chandler

MARATHON SWIMMER Calls Ahwatukee Home

CLAIRE RUSSELL FINDS JOY AND FULFILLMENT SWIMMING IN OPEN WATER

ARTICLE

BY ALISON STANTON

PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEPHANIE SLEZAK AND PROVIDED BY CLAIRE

RUSSELL

Claire Russell learned to swim when she was a little girl growing up in England.

At the time, Russell didn’t realize that what started as a casual activity would eventually lead to her becoming a marathon swimmer, conquering some of the coldest and most challenging bodies of water on Earth.

Russell was inspired to try open water swimming in 2007, shortly after enjoying a winter dip in a heated outdoor pool.

“It was a particularly windy day, so it was whipping the water as I was swimming. I thought it must be a bit like this swimming the English Channel,” Russell says, adding that she quickly reminded herself that a heated pool was not the same as an open body of chilly water.

After doing some research, Russell learned there was a lake five miles from her home where she could experience open water swimming.

Intrigued by the idea, Russell gave the sport a try, and was delighted to discover that she loved it.

While swimming solo across the English Channel was inconceivable at that point, Russell did feel confident enough to attempt a relay with three other swimmers. From then on, the swims became longer and more challenging.

“A group of us in the U.K. were preparing to swim Windermere, which is the largest lake in England and notoriously cold,” Russell says, adding that she was pleasantly surprised to discover how tolerant she was to frigid water.

“I went on to swim an ‘Ice Mile,’ which is a mile in water below 40 degrees Fahrenheit.”

In 2018, Russell swam the English Channel on her own, and in 2022, she swam around Manhattan Island in New York.

Photo by Stephanie Slezak

“It’s a sport done with friends from all walks of life that share a passion for the water, and cake!”

“My faith has been a very important part of this journey. I appreciate now that the initial thought came from God and He has been working in me over the last 16 years,” she says, adding she finds strength from this Bible verse:

“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you: and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you.” (Isaiah 43:2).

After Russell’s husband Robin was transferred from Germany to Phoenix for his work, she immediately got busy researching local places to train.

“Canyon Lake and Saguaro Lake are just over an hour’s drive. I have swum every week through the winter, with a handful of likeminded friends, followed by shivering and laughter,” she says.

Speaking of friends, Russell genuinely enjoys the camaraderie she experiences with other open water swimmers.

“There is a strange juxtaposition about open water swimming. You spend hours alone in the water, with no walls, no chlorine and no lines to follow. But it is enormously social during the time spent before and after a swim, whether it is a short cold swim or a six-hour long training swim,” she says.

“It’s a sport done with friends from all walks of life that share a passion for the water, and cake! It is almost compulsory to eat cake post swim.”

This September, Russell plans on swimming Catalina Channel in California, which will complete the “Triple Crown of Open Water Swimming.”

Russell, who is a retired diabetes specialist nurse, recently started working part time in the Walgreens pharmacy to help pay for the estimated $6,000 needed for the fees, support vessel, kayak and other costs.

She is also open to working with a sponsor who could help fund the swim, which could last as long as 20 hours.

Russell encourages anyone who is interested in open water swimming to do plenty of research before jumping in a local lake.

“There are certain safety considerations to open water swimming, especially in the cold. It’s important to have someone experienced with you to talk you through what to expect, what is normal and how to stay safe in and out of the water,” she says, adding that this is a great time of year to start.

“The temps are around 62 degrees Fahrenheit at the moment and are rising. Get in before it’s too hot!”

Spectacular Spread

Transform your Mother’s Day celebration into an unforgettable experience with a stunning charcuterie board

As Mother's Day approaches, it's time to go beyond traditional gifts and express your love with a feast for the senses. Create a captivating and vibrant charcuterie board that brings together a symphony of sweet and savory delights, edible rosettes and an array of delectable treats that are as pleasing to the eyes as they are to the palate.

At the heart of this spectacular spread, a bouquet of floral offerings takes center stage featuring assorted chocolate florets, delicate white rose wafers, and salami and cheese blossoms. Perfectly crafted and delicious, they establish the visual and gastronomic theme for the entire display. Accompanying the spread are glasses adorned with edible floral rims, beckoning you to sip and savor the essence of spring; dried lavender, marigold, rose, lemon peel and lily garnishes provide vibrancy and are entirely edible. Elevate the visual appeal with rose-folded napkins and a sprinkle of seasonal flowers atop layers of fresh greenery.

Complement your floral artistry with a curated variety of cheeses, prosciutto,

colorful olives, fresh blueberries and strawberries, and candied oranges. Fragrant rosemary bread is perfectly paired with choice preserves, honey and olive oil.

Extend the creative flair to pastries, introducing a variety of shapes, colors and textures. Citrus-infused sugar cookies, raspberry tarts, mini strawberry Belgian waffles and salted caramels are visually alluring and add an extra layer of delight to the overall presentation.

The beauty of crafting a charcuterie board lies in its versatility – an opportunity to showcase your thoughtfulness and create an experience tailored to your loved ones. Consider swapping chocolates for macarons, experiment with your own garden herbs and infuse your spread with unique seasonal and local flavors.  A charcuterTEA is a delightful way to make your mother feel extra special. Simply fill a teacup with her favorite confections and unique flavor combinations for an individual experience of love and gratitude.

BY MINDY WESTER

“The beauty of crafting a charcuterie board lies in its versatility.”

It’s in the Bag

ARTICLE BY BETH DEL VILLE PHOTOGRAPHY BY QIANA KELSCH

I love a good handbag, be it trendy, flashy, sophisticated, timeless or anything in between. But moreover, I’m intrigued by what women carry in their bags; it’s like a little glimpse into the secret lives of ladies. And in honor of our annual Women’s issue, I thought I’d share one of my favorite bags, and what lies inside.

Belted bags are on-trend for 2024, and I adore this Tory Burch Lee Radziwill Double Bag (Nordstrom. com). It’s reminiscent of Fendi’s famed Peekaboo ISeeU bag, but at a more accessible price tag. I’m a firm believer that leopard is a neutral, and the bag is large enough to hold all my necessities and then some, like my son’s favorite chocolate lollipops from See’s Candy.

EVER WONDER WHAT AN EDITOR CARRIES IN HER HANDBAG?

“I’M INTRIGUED BY WHAT WOMEN CARRY IN THEIR BAGS; IT’S LIKE A LITTLE GLIMPSE INTO THE SECRET LIVES OF LADIES.”

First things first: my can’t-live-without-it essential is, of course, my iPhone. I find this wavy dark green case from Caseative (Amazon. com) to be delightful and functional. I enjoy the smell of Touchland hand sanitizer (Target. com), and this luxurious little hand lotion from Found which smells like orange blossoms (FoundDesign.co). I like this Tatcha The Serum Stick (Sephora.com) for a quit hit of hydration under my eyes or on my neck (especially good for air travel). I always carry a pair or two of sunglasses to fit my mood, and lately, I have been gravitating to these oversized Fendi Roma sunglasses (Fendi. com). I have no fewer than four of tubes of IMAGE Skincare Ormedic lip complex across my most-used handbags, it’s that good. The sheer pink balm is shiny, hydrating and, most importantly, not sticky (Amazon.com).

If I’m on the go and out for the day, I toss in makeup for touch-ups. My favorite foundation is No. 1 de Chanel (Ulta.com) because of its feel, coverage and perfect color-match to my skin. The Chanel Joues Contraste powder blush in the shade “In Love” (Chanel.com) is also at the ready, along with Nars Radiant Creamy Concealer (Nordstrom.com). In case I need a little spritz, I toss in my bottle of Angeli di Firenze perfume from Officina ProfumoFarmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella in Florence, Italy, the world’s oldest pharmacy that dates back to 1221 (SMNovella.com).

Finally, as I prefer pen and paper to a digital notes app, I always carry a notebook and pen to jot down story ideas, as inspiration can hit at the most random of times.

MAY 2024

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

THROUGH JULY 7TH

Barbie®: A Cultural Icon

Phoenix Art Museum

Barbie®: A Cultural Icon examines the evolution and impact of Barbie from child’s toy to global phenomenon. The major exhibition showcases more than 250 vintage dolls, including the original Barbie released in 1959, historical objects, video interviews with Barbie designers, and a life-sized Barbie Mirror-Pink Corvette. Visit PhxArt.org for details.

MAY 16TH - JUNE 29TH

Newsies The Broadway Musical

Hale Centre Theatre

Extra, extra! Read all about it! Based on a true story set in NYC at the turn of the century, the musical features a band of street kids who dream of a better life far from the hardship of the streets. Enjoy catchy songs and a posse of underdogs you can’t help but root for. For tickets and showtimes, visit HaleTheatreArizona.com

MAY 19TH

Boots In The Park

Tempe Beach Park

Head over to Tempe Beach Park for Boots In The Park, a one-day event filled with country music’s hottest artists, line dancing, beer and craft cocktails, locally curated food vendors, art installations, beautiful Arizona views, and so much more. Enjoy performances by Kane Brown, Lee Brice, Tyler Hubbard, Parmalee and Luwiss Lux. Visit BootsInThePark.com/events/tempe-az/ for tickets and details.

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