THE POWER OF WOMEN
Partner
Years
Rob Castellini | Josh Mendoza | Mike Mendoza
VETERAN ROOF GIVEAWAY
At Spencer 4 Hire Roofing we believe it is essential to give back to our community and support those who support us. We have decided that on the 4th of July, the best way to celebrate our country’s freedom is by supporting those who have afforded us those freedoms.
We are giving away ONE FREE ROOF ($13k Value) to a deserving Veteran. Have someone in mind? We are looking for someone who inspires and is deserving. This giveaway is limited to homes in the following zip codes 85044-85045-85048. The nominee must be the owner of the home. The winner will be announced at our celebration on July 4th; details to follow.
Women Who Inspire
May is that month when we prepare for long, bright days ahead. It is also the month when we celebrate the incredible women who shape our lives. And this May issue is bursting with stories that truly capture the spirit of strength, resilience and the beauty of women in this community.
We offer a glimpse into the art of crafting a perfect day – those quiet moments of joy and connection that make life so rich. You'll also meet Stephanie Cox, a local powerhouse who, in the face of her own challenges with MS, is pouring her heart into making a real difference. Her story is a testament to the power of the human spirit.
And speaking of community, we're thrilled to introduce you to Dr. Mayorga, a hometown hero who has returned to her roots, bringing her expertise back to the place she grew up. We’ll also journey into the world of traditional beadwork with Mariah Abeita, whose exquisite creations are a living legacy of her Diné tribe.
What I love most about my role at Ahwatukee City Lifestyle is the chance to connect with the remarkable women who, with each passing day, make a profound difference. Their ability to uplift, inspire, love and contribute to a brighter world is nothing short of extraordinary. To the women who seamlessly juggle so many roles, immeasurably improving the lives of those they touch, I offer my heartfelt thanks.
This issue is a celebration of the women who inspire us, who remind us that strength comes in many forms, and that even in the midst of life's challenges, there's always room for beauty, for connection and for the simple joys that make our days truly special.
So, grab a cup of something refreshing, find a cozy spot, and let these stories fill you with inspiration. I hope you find as much joy in reading them as we did in bringing them to you.
BETH DEL VILLE, EDITOR @AHWATUKEECITYLIFESTYLE
May 2025
PUBLISHER
Sherry York | sherry.york@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Beth Del Ville | beth.delville@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Alison Stanton, Gretchen Pahia, Beth Del Ville
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Stephanie Slezak
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich
LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick
inside the issue
From Passion to Practice
The
Rooted in Tradition
Mariah Abeita
The
One
and a
A ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES
Green Chile Love Opens First Permanent Location
What started as a food truck has now found a brick-and-mortar home in Ahwatukee. Green Chile Love is a local family owned and operated restaurant serving New Mexico and Colorado cuisine featuring the hatch green chile, known for its distinct smoky flavor and spice level ranging from mild to extra hot. The location, on the southeast corner of 40th Street and Chandler Boulevard, serves breakfast all day alongside favorites like burritos, tacos, enchiladas and more. GreenChileLove.com
Clean Eatz Serves Healthy Food, Meal Prep
Clean Eatz, recently opened in the Ahwatukee Foothills Towne Plaza, offers a variety of delicious and affordable options at their dine-in cafe menu, including burgers, wraps, flatbreads, bowls and more. In addition, they offer a meal plan service where customers can order online and pick up in-store a selection of prepared, heat-and-eat meals for the week. CleanEatz.com
KETAMINE-ASSISTED EMDR THERAPY
Ketamine-Assisted EMDR Therapy is a powerful and integrative approach to healing . This innovative treatment combines the power of Ketamine with EMDR Therapy to help process trauma, release emotional pain, and he al.
Ketamine-Assisted EMDR Therapy might be for you, if you are experiencing: Depression Anxiety PTSD
Feeling stuck in current treatment
EVERYONE DESERVES AN OPPORTUNITY TO HEAL
Ketamine-Assisted EMDR Therapy supports deep healing, helping you release what no longer serves you. SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION TODAY
Dr. Eddie, a psychiatric nurse practitioner, provides expert Ketamine treatment while Dr. Chante, a highly skilled and compassionate EMDR therapist, guides the therapeutic process. Together, they offer a unique and effective approach to help you rewire, release, and heal. H ealing is closer than you think.
HEALING IS POSSIBLE
ROMPASSION TOPRACTIC
ARTICLE BY GRETCHEN PAHIA
PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEPHANIE SLEZAK
THE JOURNEY OF DR. KRISTEN MAYORGA
“My goal as a dentist is to help people regain that confidence, let their light shine and live life to the fullest and the healthiest.”
From the beginning, Dr. Kristen Mayorga knew that she was interested in a career in medicine, and it was early on in her life where dentistry caught her attention. This was all thanks to her neighbor who was a dentist.
“He invited me to his office, allowing me to observe, assist and experience firsthand the intricacies of the profession. Through him, I was also introduced to many of his colleagues,” shares Dr. Mayorga. “While babysitting for their families, I listened to countless conversations about the impact dentistry has, not only in improving oral health but in changing people's lives.”
The exposure at an early age ignited a passion that only intensified year after year. Dental school continued to fuel her appreciation for the profession, where she discovered the unique blend of science, art and problem-solving that went into the field.
For Dr. Mayorga, practicing dentistry is not just about fixing teeth, it's about
restoring confidence. “I believe a smile is the window to the soul. Most people hide their true selves when they feel self-conscious about their smile. My goal as a dentist is to help people regain that confidence, let their light shine and live life to the fullest and the healthiest.”
As for Ahwatukee, this has always been home to Dr. Mayorga. She was a member of the first graduating class at Kyrene de la Colina, attended middle school in the area, and graduated from Mountain Pointe High School. Colorado was home during dental school, but she always knew she would want to return to Ahwatukee. Her mom still lives in the home where she was raised, which makes her roots in the community that much deeper.
To Dr. Mayorga, Ahwatukee is a symbol of a small-town sanctuary in the middle of the city. She enjoys the close relationships and the small-town charm it represents to the community. She sees dentistry as a
“Ahwatukee is a like a small town within a big city, and that sense of community is something I truly cherish.”
means of giving back to that community that raised her, not just a job.
“Ahwatukee is like a small town within a big city, and that sense of community is something I truly cherish.”
When it comes to her family, Dr. Mayorga first met her husband early on in their school days, and they reconnected during the time she was getting ready for dental school. He is a Major League Baseball agent and baseball is a family affair. “We are now parents to two sons, Cannon and Cash, who are both very involved in baseball. Last summer, we enjoyed watching the boys compete on the Ahwatukee All-Star team.”
Their love of sports goes beyond playing the game, as they are also season ticket holders for the Arizona Diamondbacks and regularly attend Phoenix Suns and Arizona Cardinal games. “More than just entertainment, these sporting events are a great way for our family to bond and feel a greater connection to the larger Phoenix community,” shares Dr. Mayorga.
Dr. Mayorga’s dedication to the community extends beyond her dental practice as well. Her practice, Desert Dentistry, proudly sponsors Ahwatukee Eats, the popular monthly food truck festival. The event, which features a petting zoo and themed games, offers a wonderful way to engage with the community. “During Halloween, for example, there's a live band along with allergy-free trick-or-treating where we get to a lot of the kids come out
in their cutest costumes!” Dr. Mayorga says that participating in this monthly event is a great way to connect with community members and enjoy a fun Friday night together.
Her commitment to giving back doesn't stop there. “Desert Dentistry recently hosted a clothing drive for the California fire victims. We partnered with Girls Change the World, and together we were able to donate over 50 bags of clothing to children in need.”
Dr. Mayorga shares that witnessing the Ahwatukee community’s generosity once again made her believe in the power of people coming together for a cause.
Her history with Desert Dentistry is one of growth and commitment. Dr. Mayorga started with the practice as a hygiene assistant when she was just 16. She returned as a dental assistant during summers while in college and she returned as a dentist full-time following dental school. Two-and-a-half years ago, she had the opportunity to purchase the practice, and the rest is history.
Dr. Mayorga's story beautifully illustrates the integration of personal and professional life. Her dedication to dentistry, evident from her early days to clinic ownership, is mirrored by her commitment to Ahwatukee. This is not merely her workplace, but her lifelong home, where she raises her family and actively serves her community.
To reach Dr. Mayorga and her practice, learn more at DesertDentistry.com
Women’s Health and Dental Hygiene
Women juggle countless responsibilities- whether you’re a working professional or a stay-at-home mom, your role is important. Amid the busyness, don’t forget to prioritize you. Oral health and hygiene are essential to your overall health and wellness. Take a moment for yourself and come meet us a Desert Dentistry. Whether you’re looking to get back on the path to better health or want to brighten and enhance your smile, we’re here to helpevery step of the way. We cannot wait to meet you!
Call Today to Schedule Your Dental Hygiene Appointment or Your Cosmetic Dentistry Consultation
and Evening Appointments
Rooted in Tradition
MARIAH ABEITA WAS INSPIRED TO OPEN HER OWN JEWELRY BUSINESS TO HONOR HER INDIGENOUS HERITAGE
ARTICLE BY ALISON STANTON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEPHANIE SLEZAK
For as long as she can remember, Mariah Abeita has loved anything to do with creativity and craftsmanship.
When she was about 8 years old, Abeita, who is from the Navajo Tribe Diné, began making jewelry that was inspired by her Indigenous heritage and the stories behind the traditional designs.
In 2020, Abeita, who teaches fifth grade at Great Hearts Archway Chandler Academy, launched her own jewelry business, Pony Puff Beads.
“The decision to open my own business came as I recognized the importance of sharing these stories and connecting with others through my art,” Abeita says, adding that she creates beautiful, beaded pieces that honor traditional designs with a modern twist.
This approach allows Abeita to celebrate her heritage in a way that resonates with contemporary aesthetics, making her work meaningful and accessible to a broader audience.
“In our culture, we live and walk in beauty. ‘Hozho’ is the word we use to signify the balance of peace, balance, beauty and harmony.”
Abeita says she enjoys thinking outside of the box when creating jewelry; for instance, using a variety of interesting materials like cornhusk.
“Corn is not only a vital part of our heritage, but also a symbol of sustenance and connection to the earth. Through my work, I honor this tradition and celebrate the beauty and versatility of cornhusk in my art,” she says.
“I also create earrings featuring cute sheep, which hold special significance in our culture. Sheep represent community, nurturing and connection to our land. Through my designs, I celebrate this important symbol and share its meaning with others.”
As an Indigenous jewelry artist and a teacher, Abeita finds a rewarding balance between creativity and education that allows her to achieve her goal of “walking in Hozho.”
“My role as an educator allows me to share knowledge and inspire others, while my art enables me to express my cultural heritage,” she says.
PonyPuffBeads.com
THE POWER OF Pedals and a Purpose
ONE WOMAN’S UNSTOPPABLE SPIRIT AND DEDICATION TO IMPROVING THE LIVES OF OTHERS
ARTICLE BY BETH DEL VILLE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEPHANIE SLEZAK
When you walk into locally owned Curbside Cyclery – a bike store staple in Ahwatukee for more than 16 years –you’re greeted with, of course, bikes galore, all manner of accessories for everything from street rides to mountain bike adventures, and the affable shop owner herself, Stephanie Cox. Cox and her husband Mike own and operate the retail and repair shop.
With an endearing smile and caring disposition, Cox is every inch the helpful and knowledgeable retailer. But her positive impact on the community extends beyond ensuring customers get the help they need to be successful on a bike. Cox is committed to helping fundraise to find a cure for multiple sclerosis and raise awareness of the illness.
Her passion is personal. In 2020, at the height of the pandemic and arguably the busiest time to be a bike shop owner, Cox was diagnosed with MS, an unpredictable and debilitating central nervous system disease that disrupts the flow of information within the brain, and between the brain and the rest of the body.
The diagnosis was a shock, but Cox quickly found her inner strength.
“Had I heard about MS? Yes, of course, but I didn’t know much about it. So, I found myself getting an education in MS through the National MS Society website,” Cox shares.
Thanks to family, friends, faith and a sense of humor, Cox discovered a desire to transform what she says was something potentially life-shattering into something life-affirming.
“I realized that I had an opportunity to do something positive, to make a difference and to take some control back from a life being hijacked by MS,” she says. “The bike shop girl should just get on her bike and ride Bike MS, right?”
Bike MS is the fundraising cycling series event for the National MS Society and the largest charity cycling series in the world.
Cox said she wondered if it was even possible to do the event, given her MS symptoms that make riding a bike challenging. But in early 2021, with the support of her neurologist and medication that renewed her confidence and improved her health, Cox and a girlfriend decided to train for and ride Bike MS together, taking place in October of that year.
“Our original two-woman team, Curbing MS, morphed into a 20-plus member team that first year,” says Cox. “I sent out an invitation to family, friends and clients to join me for the event. In that invitation, I disclosed my diagnosis, thus putting a name and face to MS, and requested support of my fundraising efforts.”
MS Warrior award, which recognizes individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the fight against MS. Her Bike MS team now boasts 30 members, she sits on the Bike MS committee, and serves as the chair of the I Ride with MS workgroup, which recognizes, supports and celebrates Bike MS participants who have disclosed they are living with MS.
“I had an opportunity to do something positive, to make a difference...”
- Stephanie Cox
While MS presents ongoing challenges, Cox works hard to balance her vibrant life, filled with purpose and passion. In addition to managing Curbside Cyclery and her involvement with Bike MS, she is a travel consultant with Critics Choice Vacations and supports her still-independent 97-year-old mother. This dedication to all facets of life underscores her resilience—a testament to the power of living a full life.
That first year, the fundraising phenom personally raised a total of more than $11,000, with a team total of more than $25,000. Since then, her fundraising efforts for and involvement with Bike MS have grown. In fact, last year, Cox received the prestigious Kelly Glawe
“I hope my message is one of hope, faith and encouragement,” Cox says. “You are not alone, regardless of your journey, hardship and struggles. I’ve had to reframe the why me? question to why NOT me? No one escapes the world without challenges, but how we respond to those challenges defines us, not the challenge itself.”
To support Cox’s fundraising efforts, visit Events.NationalMSSociety.org and search Stephanie Cox or Curbing MS.
CurbsideCyclery.com
Amy O. Duenas
Carrie P. Cravatta
Dori L. Eden
Q & A A Most Delightful Day
There’s a certain magic in the everyday, isn’t there? A quiet beauty woven into easy moments. We’ve gathered four stories, four unique visions, from women who understand that magic intimately. Join us as we explore the art of a perfect day, shared through personal visions of some of the women who bring this magazine to you each month. Let it serve as inspiration for a wonderful Mother’s Day for yourself, your mother or another special woman in your life.
Four women share a personal portrait of the perfect way to spend a day
Stephanie Slezak
Alison Stanton
Photographer Contributing Writer
A perfect day would start with a sunrise workout at my favorite local gym to get me feeling great, followed by a coffee and breakfast date with a friend—of course, my pups are right there with us.
After that, I’d head home to shower and freshen up before heading to lunch restaurant crawl, hitting up local favs with a couple of girlfriends where we share yummy dishes at each spot. As the afternoon winds down, I would meet my husband for a long walk on a South Mountain trail near our house.
To finish up the day, I would pick up dinner from my favorite local restaurant and head home for a cozy movie night with my family and dogs, all of us in our PJs, snuggled up on the couch. We’d finish off the night with dessert, homemade brownies with ice cream and all the toppings (dessert is a huge deal in our house) —pure bliss.
While I can think of many ideas that would qualify as a “perfect day,” I thought I’d borrow inspiration from one of my favorite songs, “Heavenly Day” by Patty Griffin. The song is about a really great day that Griffin had with her dog. As a dog mom to Lainey, a rescue pup from Arizona Border Collie Rescue, I completely understand this.
Lainey and I are both natural early birds, so we’d start our day with a nice long walk around our Lakewood neighborhood, meeting several fellow walkers and dog friends along the way. We’d also see and/or hear many of the owls that call our neighborhood home.
Next, we’d hop in the car and head to Starbucks, where I’d enjoy a latte and Lainey would get her usual “pup cup.”
After a dinner of cheeseburgers on the grill –including a small patty for Lainey – we would relax on the couch until bedtime.
This would truly be a Heavenly Day.
“While I can think of many ideas that would qualify as a “perfect day,” I thought I’d borrow inspiration from one of my favorite songs, “Heavenly Day” by Patty Griffin. The song is about a really great day that Griffin had with her dog.” -Alison Stanton
Sherry York
Beth Del Ville
Publisher Editor in Chief
I would wake up early to read and enjoy a cup of tea. Then, I’d load up my pup, Hammy, and we meet a girlfriend to grab an iced latte and then head to a nearby lake for a long walk around the water.
Then I’d head home to shower and get ready, but I would leave my hair because my next stop would be to treat myself to a blowout. From here, I’d meet my new daughter-in-law and her mom at a cooking class. We then enjoyed shopping for some great new kitchen items.
Next, it would be off to an early happy hour with several friends. We’d share some wine and catch up on everything.
I would walk to meet my husband and our kids nearby for a fantastic dinner. I love to cook for them, but this would be a day for being treated.
We’d end the day by heading back to the house for games, desserts and a lot of laughter. It would be fantastic!
A perfect day starts with a slow morning. No alarms, just the gentle nudge of sunlight. I’d linger in bed, enjoying the stillness of my bedroom before the day begins.
Then, I’d head to my favorite Pilates class – a refreshing way to energize my body and mind, and a place to spend an hour with the friends I’ve made there over the years.
After class, a treat! A perfectly crafted iced latte from my favorite coffee shop, the kind that just hits the spot. Then I’d head to a flower arranging class with my best friend to create something beautiful from the colorful, fragrant blooms. After, we’d meander through shops, trying on clothes and just enjoying each other’s company.
The grand finale? Dinner at my favorite restaurant with my husband and son. A wonderful day capped off with laughter, delicious food and that warm, cozy feeling of being together.
“ A wonderful day capped off with laughter, delicious food and that warm, cozy feeling of being together.”
-Beth Del Ville
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events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
SUNDAYS
Ahwatukee
Farmers Market
Ahwatukee Swim & Tennis Center | 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM.
The Ahwatukee Farmers Market is back this month from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. before they move to summer hours beginning in June. Find fresh food, arts and crafts, food trucks and more at this signature weekly community event. For more information, visit ArizonaCommunityFarmersMarkets.com/Ahwatukee-Farmers-Market.
MAY 2ND
The Beach Boys
Gila River Resorts - Wild Horse Pass | 8:00 PM
The Beach Boys are back, and they’re bringing their legendary harmonies, endless energy and timeless hits to The Showroom. This is your chance to experience the magic of their music live – songs like “California Girls,” “Surfin’ USA,” and, of course, “Good Vibrations” will have you dancing in your seat. For details and tickets, visit PlayatGila.com.
MAY 16TH
Ahwatukee Eats
Desert Dentistry | 5:00 PM
In its final event of the season before going on hiatus until September, be sure to visit Ahwatukee Eats as they serve up food and fun at Desert Dentistry. A host of food trucks serving a variety of delectable eats will be in attendance at this family friendly event. Find out more on Instagram @AhwatukeeEats.
MAY 16TH
Ahwatukee Chamber Red, White and Blue Golf Tournament
Arizona Grand Golf Club | 7:30 AM
Join the 29th Masters Golf Tournament. The event kicks off with a 7:30 a.m. shotgun start. This year’s theme is “Red, White and Blue” and prizes will be awarded for best dressed foursome, man, woman, and cart, along with tournament champion and more. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Ahwatukee Chamber Community Foundation. Visit AhwatukeeChamber.com for more information.
MAY 23RD-25TH
“Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back” in Concert
Symphony Hall
The Empire Strikes Back like never before. The final performance of the film series for the 2024-2025 season, enjoy “Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back” on a giant screen projection as the Phoenix Symphony performs the iconic John Williams score live with the movie. For tickets and showtimes, visit PhoenixSymphony.org
MAY 27TH-JUNE 1ST
MAMMA MIA!
ASU Gammage
Set on a sunny Greek island paradise, a tale of love, friendship, and identity is beautifully told through the timeless hits of ABBA. On the eve of her wedding, a daughter’s quest to discover the father she’s never known brings three men from her mother’s past back to the island they last visited decades ago. Visit ASUGammage.com/MammaMia for tickets and showtimes.
