Chandler, AZ December 2020

D E C E M B E R 2 02 0

Holiday Cheer LI F E + C U LTU R E G I F T S FO R E VERYO N E O N YO U R L IS T LO CAL J E WEL RY S TAR FOOD + DRINK T H E N E W H O T SP O T

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BVA

LIFESTYLE LETTER

DECEMBER 2020 PUBLISHER

Joyce Selk | joyce.selk@lifestylepubs.com EDITOR

Joy and Cheer in Chandler

Michelle Glicksman | michelle.glicksman@lifestylepubs.com AD DESIGNER

Miranda Read

HAPPY HOLIDAYS, CHANDLER! For some, this holiday season may look different

L AYO UT DESIGNER

than in years past—I know for me, we’re forgoing the big holiday extended family

Emily Lisenbee

get-together we typically have, and getting together over Zoom.

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Still, that doesn’t mean we can’t bring holiday cheer and joy to ourselves and oth-

Sue Baldini, Alison Bailin Batz, Maria Eilers, Michelle Talsma Everson

ers. Our family will still be giving gifts to each other, as well as giving back to those

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

less fortunate. If you need help with either, check out our gift guide, which not only

Lindsay Borg

highlights gifts from local Chandler businesses as well as national ones, but gives ideas on how you can give back to some of our area’s nonprofits. With the pandemic, many of them are coming up short this year, whether that's in regards to donations or volunteer hours. See how you can help and give back to our community.

Speaking of our community, this month we feature Cassy Saba Shovak, a Chandler native who is now a well-known jewelry designer. Aren’t her designs amazing? Also, Chandler resident David Perez Vazquez, who is making an impact on others; the new hot spot The Stillery; and, for those who need some decorating inspiration, we’ve got that, too!

If you’re like me, 2020 is a year you’re happy to leave behind. It’s been a strange one.

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

Still, the holidays are always a magical time, even if they may look a little different

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

this year. We wish you the best of everything, and a joyous season.

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

Happy holidays, Chandler! We can’t wait to see you next year!

REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

Yours,

Michelle Glicksman, Editor

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MASSACHUSETTS | MICHIGAN MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA | NEW JERSEY | NORTH CAROLINA OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON | PENNSYLVANIA | SOUTH CAROLINA TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

CityLifestyle.com/Chandler ON THE COVER Holiday cheer PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED 4

Chandler Lifestyle | December 2020

Proverbs 3:5-6 Chandler Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Chandler area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors.

Information in Chandler Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

In your corner, just around the corner Banner Ocotillo - Now open Here to meet the needs of Chandler residents and members in the surrounding communities. Banner Ocotillo Medical Center opens with an emergency room, labor and delivery, imaging, surgery, cardiac services, intensive care and room to grow.

Located on Alma School, south of loop 202 San Tan. 1435 S Alma School Rd, Chandler, AZ 85286 • BannerHealth.com/Ocotillo

Banner Health is committed to providing safe places for care.

Learn more at Banner Health.com

INSIDE THE ISSUE DECEMBER 2020

FEATURES 16 Gift Guide: Perfect Presents Need some gift-spiration?

We've got you covered

22 Bring on the Bling Cassy Saba Shovak helps customers sparkle and shine

26 New From Nashville Arizona-born, Tennessee-raised restaurant and bar The Stillery opens its doors

26 38

38 Connecting During COVID One local teen is making a difference with a pen and paper

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22

DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

8

Good Times

12

Around Town

16

Local’s Choice

22 Local Limelight 26 Hot Spot 32 Renovate & Refine 38 Inspired By 40 Lifestyle Calendar 42 DIY

GOOD TIMES

CCA Under the Stars: On the Terrace On Oct. 24, Chandler Center for the Arts had its first in-person live performance as part of its intimate outdoor socially distanced series. Fifty attendees enjoyed the smooth vocals of local artist Joe Bourne. His upbeat and sweet tunes entertained attendees with jazz, blues, and swing. The show was the first of six in the series.

Banner Ocotillo Opens to Serve Growing Chandler Community Banner Ocotillo Medical Center in Chandler opened in November, offering convenient, safe, comprehensive medical care to the community. Starting with 124 patient beds, it is designed to grow and offers emergency care; intensive care; endoscopy; cardiac services; imaging, surgical services; and women and infant services, including labor and delivery with the ability to care for babies born at 32 weeks and older.

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Chandler Lifestyle | December 2020

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Moving forward together!

www.amyjonesgroup.com

Call Us: (480) 250-3857

Each office is independently owned and operated

GOOD TIMES

One Small Step | Clothes Cabin's Donor Appreciation Aloha Happy Hour One Small Step | Clothes Cabin hosted a donor appreciation Aloha Happy Hour in late October to celebrate one year in their new location. Phoenix Phreeze was on site with its Tiki-style Hawaiian snow truck, offering cool treats to guests. Guests mingled with board members and toured the facility.

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Chandler Lifestyle | December 2020

CityLifestyle.com/Chandler

11

AROUND TOWN VB Cosmetics Inc. is a manufacturing company engaged in the creation and sale of cosmetics and personal care products. It is also the inventor of Dazzle Dry®, a quick-dry, award-winning, and proprietary nail polish system that is revolutionizing the U.S. nail salon and spa industries.

VB Cosmetics plans to be fully moved in by April 2021. DazzleDry.com

GILA RIVER HOTELS & CASINOS DISTRIBUTES OVER $76,000 TO THREE NONPROFITS At a time when nonprofits are experiencing financial hardship, a donation from a local gaming

NEW PLACE TO SHOP: THE CHANDLER MUSEUM STORE

enterprise helped provide relief to three nonprofit organizations throughout the Valley.

Gila River Hotels & Casinos – Wild Horse Pass,

Chandler Museum opened its new Museum

Lone Butte, and Vee Quiva distributed a year’s

Store in November, offering shoppers a variety of

worth of its self-excluded jackpots to three local

quality gift items, including locally made pieces that

nonprofit organizations during its Gila River Cares

capture the culture, history, and art of Chandler.

Week of Giving. In lieu of the enterprise’s annual

Find options like saguaro cactus earrings; copper

Gila River Cares Night of Giving event, team mem-

ornaments and magnets made from repurposed cir-

bers from Gila River Hotels & Casinos visited the

cuit boards; and historic images from the Chandler

selected nonprofits throughout the week to sur-

Museum Collection. There's also the ostrich section—a

prise the organizations with the funds.

nod to Chandler’s ostrich history—with ostrich-themed socks, ostrich feather earrings, and more.

Over $76,000 of self-excluded jackpot funds were distributed to the nonprofits to enhance the lives of

The store is located in the Museum's lobby, 300 S.

Arizonans through educational programs and chil-

Chandler Village Drive. ChandlerAZ.gov/museum

dren’s welfare. The recipients included Pawsitive Friendships (Gilbert): $25,473.26, Child Crisis Arizona (Mesa): $25,396.99, and Miracle League of Arizona (Scottsdale): $25,396.99.

Earlier this year, all Arizona based 501c3 status nonprofit organizations recognized by the IRS were eligible to apply to receive the self-excluded jackpot funds and a committee from Gila River Hotels & Casinos selected the recipients. PlayAtGila.com

HEATHER L. ANGUIANO NAMED TO THE 2020 CLASS OF NATIONAL DISTINGUISHED PRINCIPALS Heather L. Anguiano, principal at Hartford Sylvia Encinas Elementary School, was recently named to the 2020 Class of National Distinguished

VB COSMETICS, INC. ANNOUNCES NEW CHANDLER HEADQUARTERS VB Cosmetics recently signed a 40,000-squarefoot lease to expand and relocate its corporate

the

National

Association

of

Elementary School Principals (NAESP). The program recognizes public and private school principals who make superior contributions to their schools and communities.

headquarters, R&D, and manufacturing operations in

Criteria for selection of the principals requires

Chandler. The company will be moving into the Lotus

that the honorees are active principals of schools

Project, located near Kyrene Road and the Loop 202.

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Principals by

Chandler Lifestyle | December 2020

Tis the Season for Wisdom where programs are designed to meet the academic and social needs of all students, and where there are firmly established community ties with parents and local business organizations.

Fifty principals were awarded the 2020 honor.

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

WREATHS ACROSS AMERICA UTILIZES TECHNOLOGY TO HELP FULFILL MISSION

SHOPPING CALL DR. SHAH WRAPPING SEE DR. SHAH BAKING REMOVE YOUR WISDOM TEETH BY DR. SHAH CHECK YOUR BENEFITS BEFORE THE YEARS END.

Wreaths Across America (WAA) is the

“Use ‘em or lose ‘em”

nonprofit organization best known for placing veterans’ wreaths on the headstones of our nation’s fallen at Arlington National Cemetery. However, today the organization, in total, places more than two million sponsored veterans’ wreaths at over 2,200 participating locations nationwide.

In order to achieve this mission in this challenging year, the organization had to be open to new approaches, and partnered with organizations willing to share new technologies, while helping achieve its ultimate goal of fulfilling

WIS DOM TEETH

I MPLANT S

JAW PAIN

NISH SHAH DMD, MD, F.A.C.S Board Certified Oral Surgeon

the mission to Remember, Honor, and Teach, in part by placing veterans’ wreaths at the headstones of all fallen U.S. service members.

The organization has been raising funds through its existing website, Wreaths Across America Radio, AT&T's Text to Donate program, virtual events, and more.

Chandler: 2450 W Ray Rd. Suite 1, Chandler AZ 85224 San Tan Valley: 36327 N. Gantzel Rd. Suite 102, San Tan Valley AZ 85140

(480) 814-9500

You can sponsor a wreath for $15 at WreathsAcrossAmerica.org. Each sponsorship goes toward a fresh bal-

AZORAL.COM

sam veteran’s wreath that will be placed on the headstone of an American hero on Dec. 19, National Wreaths Across

CHANDLER’S EXPERT FOR THE MOST ADVANCED ORAL SURGERY CARE

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Chandler

13

AROUND TOWN America Day. Text WREATH22 to 20222 to sponsor a wreath right from your phone.

MONEY FOR TEACHERS: EDUCATORS CAN APPLY FOR SRP EDUCATION GRANTS Salt River Project is offering grants for teachers looking for ways to engage their students. Teachers are encouraged to apply for classroom grants to enhance learning in the classroom in the areas of math, science, engineering, and technology, as well as social science.

The SRP Classroom Connections program consists of Learning Grants

by SRP, which provide funding of up to $5,000 per school for projects and programs that incorporate innovative teaching strategies in math and science, and meet performance standards as dictated by the Arizona Academic Standards; and Social Science Grants by SRP, which supports the enrichment and enhancement of classroom instruction in the disciplines of history, geography, civics, government, and economics, and meet performance standards as dictated by the Arizona Academic Standards. Up to $2,500 is available per educator.

All educators at public and nonprofit private schools in metropolitan Phoenix, Pinal County, Gila County, Yavapai County, Page, St. Johns and Navajo Generating Station community chapters are eligible. SRP contributes more than $1.3 million to education initiatives, grants and partnerships throughout Arizona.

To apply, visit SRPNet.com/grants.

Would you like to get in touch with us? We would love to hear from you!

Contact us at CityLifestyle.com/ Chandler using the Get In Touch link and let us know what you think.

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Chandler Lifestyle | December 2020

CityLifestyle.com/Chandler

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LOCAL’S CHOICE

gift guide PERFECT PRESENTS NEED SOME GIFT-SPIRATION? WE'VE GOT YOU COVERED

HO

YS HAPPY H DA OL LI I 16

LIDAYS HAP HO PY

Y DA

PY

APPY HOLI DA S H YS

Y HOLIDAYS PP HA HA P

Chandler Lifestyle | December 2020

ARTICLE MICHELLE GLICKSMAN PHOTOGRAPHY LINDSAY BORG (SELECT PHOTOGRAPHY)

g i f t s fo r :

BUYING LOCAL

1. LOVE YOUR FACE SPA PACKAGE includes Hydrafacial, Epionce Lytic Gel Cleanser, Epionce Lytic TX and Epionce Renewal Face Creme, $349 at LazadermAZ.com | 2. HOME DÉCOR vases, $39-$139; pillows, $149; throws, $139-$159 at SpiceUpYourHome.com | 3. AT HOME WINE TASTING EXPERIENCE from d’Vine Gourmet, Arizona Grown, $99.95 at DVineGourmet.com | 4. COLORING BOOK AND COLORED PENCILS from Chandler Museum’s gift shop, book, $12; colored pencils, $11.50 at ChandlerAZ.gov | 5. HOBO BACKPACK AND WALLETS are both stylish and functional, backpack, $299; wallets, $58-$138 at Shoe Thrill, ShoeThrill.com | 6.

CHARCUTERIE from Mingle & Graze feeds 4-6, $55 (other sizes available) at MingleAndGraze.com | 7. JEWELRY from Brighton, $40$68 at JudyWearBoutique.com | 8. BUSHNELL WINGMAN golf tracker, $150, and Bushnell Your V5 Tracker, $299 at HornaceksGolf. com | 9. ACTIVITY BOXES from Chandler Museum’s gift shop include the themes Cotton for the Preschool Activity Box, $12, and Frank Lloyd Wright for the Kids Activity Box, $18 at ChandlerAZ.gov

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Chandler

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LOCAL’S CHOICE (CONTINUED)

g i f t s fo r :

GIVING BACK

1. ONE SMALL STEP l CLOTHES CABIN is in need of gently used athletic shoes for all ages, men’s clothing, and monetary donations, OneSmallStepAZ.org | 2. CHANDLER COMPADRES is holding Operation Santa again this year, and is accepting toy donations for it at the Boys & Girls Club Chandler Compadres Branch until Dec. 11, ChandlerCompadres.org | 3. LIVE LOVE is collecting new blankets and slippers for senior adults at its drop-off location at Grove Coffee, 2777 S. Gilbert Road, or monetary donations at WhatIsLiveLove.org/give | 4. CHANDLER CENTER FOR THE ARTS has an Adopt-A-Seat program where a $250 donation on someone’s behalf has their name affixed to a seat in one of the theatres, ChandlerCenter.org | 5. MATTHEW’S CROSSING is in need of people to conduct food drives, either traditional or virtual, MatthewsCrossing.org/host-a-food-drive/ | 6. FANS ACROSS AMERICA CHARITABLE FOUNDATION is in need of everything from diapers to silverware and gift cards, FansAcrossAmerica.org | 7. AZCEND can use monetary donations, people to host virtual food drives, volunteers, diapers, and hygiene kits, AZCEND.org | 8. NEIGHBORS WHO CARE not only needs volunteers, but the nonprofit is now eligible for the Arizona Tax Credit as a Qualified Charitable Organization (QCO #22246), NeighborsWhoCare.com | 9. ONE DOG ARIZONA is accepting donations through its PayPal account at onedogarizona@gmail.com or through its Amazon Wish List (One Dog Arizona), Facebook.com/onedogaz 18

Chandler Lifestyle | December 2020

g i f t s fo r :

EVERYONE ON YOUR LIST

1. PHOENIX COOKS by Christina Barrueta, where over 50 Phoenix chefs and mixologists share their favorite recipes, $29.99 at Amazon. com | 2. BLAZE BARWARE LIDDED ICE BUCKET from Thomas Fuchs is handmade and constructed of multicolored ombré stainless steel, $75 at TFC-NYC.com | 3. MR. WONDERFUL ROBE tells him how much you adore him, $95 at LosAngelesTradingCo.com | 4.

POWERSHOT ZOOM is Cannon USA’s first-ever compact telephoto monocular—perfect for capturing the whole family, and small enough to store in a purse, gym bag, or backpack, $299.99 at USA.Canon.com | 5. BLACK & WHITE DIAMOND FLOATING NECKLACE with three white diamonds inside that slide up and down, and black pavè set diamonds, set in white gold, $725 at CassySabaJewelry.com | 6. J.R.R. TOLKIEN QUOTE PHONE CASE by Eli Cases is made from natural materials, hand-crafted and engraved, and is truly art in your pocket, $35 at EliCases.com | 7. CUSTOM SOCKS featuring your pet’s picture, $25 at MyPetsies.com | 8. BIRTHDATE CANDLE incorporates personalized astrology, tarot, and numerology, $38 at BirthdateCandles.com | 9. HD GOLF ELECTRIC SCOOTER from Phat Scooters, previously awarded the coveted “Editor’s Choice” from Golf Digest, $3,650 at PhatScooters.com

CityLifestyle.com/Chandler

19

HAPPY PATIENTS ARE OUR BUSINESS

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20

Chandler Lifestyle | December 2020

BARROSPIZZA.COM

@ BARROSPIZZA

LOCAL LIMELIGHT

BRING ON THE BLING Cassy Saba Shovak

CASSY SABA SHOVAK HELPS CUSTOMERS SPARKLE AND SHINE

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Chandler Lifestyle | December 2020

THE DIAMOND DISTRICT IN NEW YORK CITY IS A LITTLE

ARTICLE SUE BALDINI

SLICE OF PARADISE FOR JEWELERS AND BUYERS ALIKE.

PHOTOGRAPHY LINDSAY BORG

Some of the best suppliers, designers, and merchandise in the world can be found there. That’s why Chandler’s Cassy Saba Shovak became an integral part of that community. Her studio, Cassy Saba Jewelry, is located right in the heart of it.

“There is nowhere else like it,” she says. “Just on this block [47th Street], there are over 1,500 small retailers, and hundreds of diamond and gemstone suppliers. It’s just amazing; I love it. ” Shovak says she is able to charge wholesale prices for her engagement rings because the best of the best can be found right at her fingertips. She can go next door and find an exquisite stone, and then go a little farther down the block to have a setting made. Her personal connections allow her to find just the right fit for every one of her clients.

Cassy Saba Jewelry specializes in engagement rings, wedding bands, and anniversary gifts. A lot of millennials, she says, prefer custom engagement rings, so they’ll steer her to their girlfriend’s Pinterest or Instagram page, let her know their budget, and ask her to make something special and unique.

“Or, say you have your grandma’s stone and you want to get engaged but don’t have enough money for a ring,” she says. “I can create a ring around that stone. I want people to know how special they are no matter what their price range is. I offer collections at any price range, and many lower budget engagement ring options. It is such a stereotype that guys think they have to have a certain amount for a ring to get something nice.

“It’s interesting because this year, despite COVID, engagement ring sales have been up quite a bit, but I’m noticing it’s really non-traditional stuff,” she says. “They want me to use a lot of colored stones. And, I just did a ring with a raw diamond which had a really cool feel. The industry is always changing, which is fun, so you have to keep up with it but also be true to yourself.”

All her diamonds and stones are handpicked, and besides diamonds, she offers gems such as tanzanites, rubies, sapphires, emeralds, and tourmalines. One thing she loves to do is mix gemstones with diamonds.

Shovak does a lot of custom work, which is one of her favorite things to do.

“I really like working one-on-one with a customer, making it a very special and unique experience for them,” she says. “The client is always part of the process.”

She gets a lot of her ideas from architecture, from living in New York City, and from traveling. A lot of times a client will send their own inspiration and ask her to turn their ideas into something amazing. Or, they’ll see a piece and like the basic elements, but want her to add her own special flair.

“I will do pieces for someone’s grandma, but also the granddaughter, so I kind of have to switch it up for every generation,” she says. “So, I can stay with the classic while also keeping up with the trends.”

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CityLifestyle.com/Chandler

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LOCAL LIMELIGHT (CONTINUED)

Cassy Saba Shovak

CassySabaJewelry.com

24

Chandler Lifestyle | December 2020

She also recycles old jewelry that may have been handed down from loved ones or found in an attic somewhere. Shovak will redesign it and make it into something new and beautiful that someone will want to wear.

“So many older pieces are super dressy or outdated-looking, and we can put it in a simple everyday pendant or bracelet. It’s really fun to change things up, and that’s a big part of my business, too.”

Shovak has an interesting background.

Shortly after arriving in New York nine years ago, and while managing her own business, she began working with Ivanka Trump’s jewelry brand, where for five years she helped develop collections, source stones, and assist with marketing, production, and sales. Through that experience, she was able to form many close relationships with people in the Diamond District and develop a high level of expertise and top-notch customer service skills that enabled Cassy Saba Jewelry to flourish.

She also gets to work with some fun clients. One of them, Melissa McCarthy, had her design all her jewelry for her Ghostbusters tour.

Shovak is also a designer for E! News, and provides pieces for the hosts to wear, as well as for some of the celebrities featured on the show.

She and her husband, Joe Shovak, whom she met in New York and who is also in the jewelry business, used to do fun, educational videos on their YouTube channel as “The Jewelry Couple.”

The videos are helpful for choosing and learning about jewelry, she says. For example, when a man is buying an engagement ring, but doesn’t know how to go about it or what kind of stone or shape to get, these videos can help guide him.

These days, Shovak splits her time fairly evenly between Chandler and New York City.

“But I have clients everywhere, not just in New York and Arizona,” she says. “I’ll make appointments in person if people are in one of those two states. If not, we can FaceTime, Skype, or email.”

CityLifestyle.com/Chandler

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HOT SPOT

PHOTOGRAPHY LINDSAY BORG

ARTICLE ALISON BAILIN BATZ

New From

General manager Ian Barcelou

Nashville ARIZONA-BORN, TENNESSEE-RAISED RESTAURANT AND BAR THE STILLERY OPENS ITS DOORS

26

Chandler Lifestyle | December 2020

CHANDLER HAS TACOS TO THANK

an extensive pizza program, and gastro-

FOR THE STILLERY, A NEWLY OPENED

pub-style takes on classic comfort foods.

BAR AND RESTAURANT CONCEPT AT

“Eventually, we evolved the cocktail pro-

NEW SQUARE, WHICH WAS ORIGI-

gram to fit our clientele’s preferences for whis-

NALLY FROM NASHVILLE AND KNOWN

key and bourbon-based cocktails as well as

FOR ITS SCRATCH KITCHEN, MASON

seasonal favorites, shining a spotlight on local

JAR COCKTAILS, AND SPOTLIGHTING

distillers whenever possible,” says Sargent.

LOCAL SPIRITS AND LIVE MUSIC.

“We did keep the initial moonshine vibe, how-

“So this is funny,” says co-owner Steve

ever, by offering them in mason jar glasses.”

Sargant. “I am a Tucson native, and my

Buoyed by success, the team opened a

co-owners Steve and Alane Kovach have

second location in Nashville a few years

lived in Chandler for 30 years. As Arizonans,

later, and then their minds started wan-

we know good tacos. Yet, the taco story is

dering west.

about Tennessee.”

“The building of the New Square was

Kovach, as it turns out, was spending sig-

kismet timing, and the perfect home for The

nificant time in Nashville in the early 2010s,

Stillery’s Arizona location,” says Sargent of

working as a contractor on the Music City

the modern, sustainable mixed-use devel-

Center. By 2014, frustrated by the lack of

opment in Historic Downtown Chandler.

fast (yet still sit-down) options in the area,

“Those who have ever been to our orig-

he decided to develop a gourmet taco shop.

inal location will feel right at home, as will

“We’d already known each other from

our first-time guests,” he says.

mutual friends, but when I heard about the

The space itself is over 7,000 square feet,

project I thought it was a good fit for us to do

with about 5,500-square-feet inside and

something together,” says Sargent, a 20-year

another 1,600 outside. The interior, very much

veteran of the hospitality industry. “Who better

similar visually to the initial Nashville venue, is

to bring Tennessee good tacos than a team

meant to pay homage to the great distilleries

from Arizona, right?”

in the nation with reclaimed barn wood, and

After a few years in business, the two came across a large building coming up for lease near their taco spot, and were inspired yet again.

“Nashville is nicknamed Music City USA, so we really wanted to tap into the spirit of that,” says Sargent. “In 2015, The Stillery was born.”

brick throughout. Like the flagship location, there are also copper accents throughout.

“While the copper look—to us—initially felt very much like our other locales, given it is one of the Five Cs of Arizona, it really gives it a local vibe, too,” says Sargent.

Large garage doors open to a spacious patio overlooking the New Square court-

A sensation from day one, the first loca-

yard, and whether inside and out, it is

tion initially had a heavy focus on moon-

hard to miss the showpiece of the space:

shine cocktails, live music almost daily,

the stage.

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CityLifestyle.com/Chandler

27

HOT SPOT (CONTINUED)

THE TUNES As the largest music venue in Chandler, The Stillery currently features live music Thursday to Sunday at dinner, as well as during brunch on the weekends. During dinner, expect local and regional solo acoustic acts, as well as some special guests the owners are flying in from Nashville from time to time. After dinner each night, there will also be a “late night” act performing—most often a popular local band or solo act.

“While we have a big focus on country music, you can also expect our performers to play a mix of classic rock, current hits, and contemporary favorites,” says Sargent, noting they hope to expand and offer even more music in 2021.

THE EATS And then there is the food.

“My team and I take great pride in the development of our menu, and we are committed to making local connections so we can use as many local ingredients as possible as we move into 2021 and beyond,” says Sargent.

The lunch and dinner menus are separated into five main categories: starters, greens, house specialties, rustic pies (aka pizza), and two-handed sandwiches (aka big ole’ sandwiches and burgers).

In the starter section, the term “elevated comfort food” comes to mind with eight to 10 tasty options, including Sriracha Devil Eggs with crispy prosciutto, parmesan cheese and chives; JalapeñoBacon Rangoons, which are essentially deconstructed, re-imagined jalapeño poppers wrapped in crispy wontons with house-made ranch dressing for dipping; and Brussels Sprouts roasted with garlic and parmesan cheese, and served with both ranch and a spicy firecracker sauce.

The greens section has traditional Caesar, Chop-Chop, and Wedge, as well as more exotic offerings including Thai Chicken

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Chandler Lifestyle | December 2020

with Napa cabbage, and a Strawberry Gorgonzola with candied pecans.

There are currently four house specialties including Mac & Cheese, Hot Chicken Tenders with house-cut fries, Catfish & ‘Chips,’ and Hangar Steak with compound butter. There will be seasonal and daily specials offered, as well.

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Each of the 11 rustic pies on the menu is individually-sized, and baked in a 700-degree brick oven. Some of the options include Firehouse Pie with hot Italian sausage, grilled onions, roasted jalapeños, and red sauce; Hot Chicken Pie with Nashville hot chicken, white sauce, cheddar, mozzarella, and bacon, as well as a ranch-infused crust; and Tomato+Pesto with roasted tomato, basil pesto, red sauce, mozzarella, parmesan, and herbs.

Finally, there are eight sandwiches and burgers from which to choose, including one called The Carnivore, which has an eye-popping four patties made using brisket, chuck, and pork belly piled high, bacon, cheddar, pepper jack, roasted garlic aioli, and barbeque sauce.

THE DRINKS Of course, one needs something special to wash all of the amazing food down. Enter the cocktail menu. Here, expect to see local spirits and beers shine as The Stillery proudly serves O.H.S.O. Gin, San Tan AZ Rye, Fossil Creek Whiskey, San Tan Hefe, Papago Orange Blossom, Grand Canyon Sunset Amber, The Shop Beer Co. Crispy Blond, Grand Canyon Sunset Amber, and many more.

Cocktails are served in mason jars, and of particular note are the Strawberry Rye, made with San Tan Rye, muddled strawberries, ginger beer, and lemon-lime soda; Dreamsicle with Ole Smokey Orange, vanilla-infused moonshine, orange juice, and lemon-lime

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soda; and the Smokin’ Mule, with Fossil Creek Whiskey, gingerbeer, amaretto, and lime.

There is wine by the bottle and glass, as well.

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Chandler Lifestyle | December 2020

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31

RENOVATE & REFINE

ARTICLE MARIA EILERS

All Is Bright

THREE TRENDING WAYS TO DECORATE YOUR HOME’S EXTERIOR FOR SPREADING HOLIDAY CHEER THIS YEAR

32

Chandler Lifestyle | December 2020

W

ouldn’t it be nice if this year more of us were able to wrap our neighborhoods and city with that holiday cheer and spirit? A festive home can be

a reminder that all the good things about the holidays—like love, family, hope, faith, and giving—are still worth celebrating. When dressing up your home’s exterior, let your personality shine through in your choice of lights, garlands, accents, and colors.

For those who favor the classic look of rooflines and windows trimmed in warm white lights, know that the investment in a quality light string product is worth it because timeless will always be on-trend.

After your lights are hung for this simple yet sophisticated backdrop, opt for natural elements to elevate the look.

Nat ural and Nost al gic #1

Hang garland and wreaths to reflect nature. Baskets filled with birch logs add warmth, while mixing textures that complement each other. Fabric can soften the look and add a cozy aspect to your design; look for something in burlap or white to follow the monochromatic color scheme.

So how do you advance this look from common to custom? Find ways to make it personal! Take that old pair of ice skates from Nana out of the attic and set them near the door.

If you have cherished memories of sled riding, find a vintage wooden sled to lean against the porch or mailbox. Pick up pine cones and fill vintage crates with them.

Designers today are consistently showing their take on mixing old and new pieces. These smaller accents most often bring the biggest smiles; they allow you to reminisce and share stories of their meaning with others, which is one of the truest meanings of the holidays.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Chandler

33

RENOVATE & REFINE (CONTINUED)

There is an increasing number of influencers and designers using bold colors for interior paint and furniture. If you’re the kind of person who loves incorporating color, like making a statement with your front door, why stop there? Bring that brightness into your color choices for Christmas decorations.

Try bright lights in unique colors, and remember to think outside the box, too. Wrap your lights around trees, bushes and cacti. Spheres can be hung in trees or lined along a driveway or path.

When it comes to deciding which colors you want to go with, decorators say there’s no wrong choice!

It’s not just red and green that make something look like Christmas, but rather

Merry and Bright #2

how you use the colors to represent the holidays: think bows, ornaments, tree lights, and wrapped boxes.

Of course, there are

ways to keep things looking chic rather than chaotic.

The professionals say sticking with the Rule of Three is a no-fail strategy for any space, including the outdoors. Try selecting your three colors from a master pattern or inspiration piece in the design; for the exterior, this could be an entryway rug or ribbon on a wreath. Also, don’t get caught up in keeping things even—the tried-and-true decorating ratio of 60-3010 ensures your three colors are balanced but still give a pop for interest.

34

Chandler Lifestyle | December 2020

While this year we may not be inviting as many people inside, the front entryway still sets the tone when greeting

guests.

For those who choose to only

Coz y Entr yway #3

try these ways to

make

it

warm and welcoming—even

if

only

for

create memories

decorate here,

the

Amazon

ONE STEP AT A TIME

and

DoorDash drivers.

It’s all about layering, meaning finding a balance of different sizes and textures. Start by putting down a larger, patterned rug with a festive holiday mat on top. This area is also a great place to incorporate fresh elements like poinsettia plants or small evergreen trees in planters for height. Set lanterns filled with candles or ornaments at the base of your planters. Then, position special holiday artwork with uplifting messages or your favorite Christmas song lyric nearby.

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One trend that seems to be decking more halls (and front doors) in place of a wreath is a hanging basket. Some great fillers to help achieve a contrast of textures and heights besides traditional greenery are winter berries, metallic painted sticks, pinecones, and fabric bows or curls.

Finally, soften things up by adding cozy elements like holiday pillows

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Chandler Lifestyle | December 2020

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INSPIRED BY ARTICLE MICHELLE TALSMA EVERSON PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Connecting During COVID ONE LOCAL TEEN IS MAKING A DIFFERENCE WITH A PEN AND PAPER

AS A BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING MAJOR,

“It provides companionship and the ability to

ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY FRESHMAN

connect with another person during the pan-

DAVID PEREZ VAZQUEZ PLANS TO SPEND

demic,” he says.

HIS FUTURE CAREER MAKING THE WORLD A

“We are so grateful when volunteers like

BETTER PLACE. And, even though the Chandler

David reach out because they want to make

native is just getting started in his studies, he’s

a difference in the community,” says Shawn

already making a difference.

Donnelly, community engagement officer at St.

A member of the Next Generation Service

Vincent de Paul. “Sharing our Help From Home

Corps, he had to complete community service

Guide with him and providing David the chance

hours before the semester started—but with the

to select a way to give back that was meaning-

pandemic, opportunities to volunteer in-person

ful and uplifting for him is half of St. Vincent de

were hard to come by. So he found the next best

Paul’s mission.”

thing—volunteering by writing letters to the res-

While Perez Vazquez has experience volunteer-

idents of Ozanam Manor, a transitional housing

ing for other nonprofits in person, he says that

facility at St. Vincent de Paul.

writing letters has taught him that there’s more

“It [writing letters] was difficult at first because

“Even though my service hours are done, I

Perez Vazquez explains. “But, I kept it informal—I

plan on continuing writing. The severity of this

introduced myself, delved deeper into my inter-

pandemic is not decreasing, and there’s always

ests, and made it an open-ended conversation.”

something we can do to help each other.”

Three to four letters into writing, he began receiving replies.

38

Chandler Lifestyle | December 2020

than one way to connect with a person.

I had no specific name of who I was writing to,”

To learn more about volunteering with St. Vincent de Paul, visit StVincentDePaul.net.

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DECEMBER

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

1-31

4-6

12, 19

COMMON THREADS

FALL TEMPE FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS

NUTCRACKER SUITE

Linda Anderson’s quilts tell the com-

Wander amongst artist and vendor

Complete your holiday season with the

pelling

booths

The Gallery at the CCA

Downtown Tempe

Virtual

throughout

joy and sparkle of The Nutcracker—

many cultures around the world using

Downtown Tempe. This festival consis-

even in 2020. Ballet Arizona plans an

images gathered from her travels.

tently ranks among the Top 100 Classic

abridged version of Ib Andersen’s criti-

Her realistic depictions celebrate the

& Contemporary Craft Shows in the

cally lauded Nutcracker that will stream

ordinary moments of people’s lives

nation by Sunshine Artist magazine.

on demand. Some of the most beloved

that often go unnoticed, capturing the

There will also be food trucks avail-

Nutcracker pieces will be presented in

essence of the humanity we all share.

able. TempeFestivalOfTheArts.com

Ballet Arizona fashion, with no shortage

narratives

of

people

from

spread

safely

ChandlerCenter.org

of magic and exquisite performances.

1-JAN 3 SUGARLAND

Dr. A.J. Chandler Park West

Celebrate the

holiday

5

Also, special behind-the-scenes content

CHANDLER FIRE DEPARTMENT TOY DRIVE

12 SIPPIN’ SANTAS PUB CRAWL

Chandler Fashion Center

season

and dancer interviews. BalletAZ.org

with

Brighten the holiday season for Chandler

this new, interactive holiday display. Snap

children who might otherwise go without

a selfie in the candy sleigh next to the

through this Chandler Fire Department

This self-guided crawl features 26 of

Tumbleweed Tree, slide down the Fruit

toy drive. Toys will be collected in the

downtown’s jolliest bars and restau-

Roll Up Slide, climb over giant marshmal-

parking lot west of the south-facing

rants. Participants can enjoy a $4 drink

lows spilling out a life-sized cup of hot

entry point of Chandler Fashion Center,

special at each location with the pur-

chocolate, and dance through the candy

from 2-8 p.m. Anyone who donates a

chase of a $20 ticket. Costumes are

canes. At night, the display showcases

new, unwrapped toy will receive admis-

encouraged to enhance the fun. This

Sugarland’s Canal of Lights, a walkway

sion to Santa’s Enchanted Fire Village,

year, the event includes increased safety

over the Commonwealth Canal, where col-

where children can meet Fire Santa and

measures, including staggered regis-

orful lights “dance” to themed music.

see his fire truck. ChandlerAZ.gov/fire

tration, lowered capacity, and the avail-

DowntownChandler.org/sugarland

1-JAN 31

Downtown Chandler

ability of the Dine in the Park program.

12, 19

DowntownChandler.org/sippinsantas

18

ZOOLIGHTS

UNDER THE STARS: CCA AT THE MUSEUM

The Phoenix Zoo's ZooLights, presented

The CCA is bringing music to Chandler

by SRP, is back with millions of twinkling

Museum! Enjoy an intimate performance

lights, dazzling animal sculptures, and

in the museum's illuminated outdoor

The glamorous Savoy Ballroom launched

the Wildlife Lantern Safari, which fea-

living room. This collaborative concert

the careers of new musical artists, includ-

tures 66 creatures—polar bears, mam-

series is limited to 50 attendees, and

ing Ella Fitzgerald. Chandler Center for the

moths, peacocks and more, all aglow.

includes access to the Museum’s exhib-

Arts, and Chandler Cultural Foundation

This year, in addition to the traditional

its after hours. On Dec. 12, it's Legendary

Board Member and hostess LaTricia

walk-thru experience, there are also

Ladies of Soul, while Dec. 19 is Holly Jolly

Woods present this night of art and

Cruise ZooLights nights, a drive-thru

Christmas. ChandlerCenter.org

jazz music in the spirit of The Savoy. On

Phoenix Zoo

experience. PhoenixZoo.org

300 S. Chandler Village Drive

A NIGHT AT THE SAVOY - WITH JAMISON ROSS Virtual

the evening’s virtual stage, presented

by Mahogany Xan Communications, LLC, is one of the hottest young names in music, GRAMMY®-nominated Jamison Ross. ChandlerCenter.org

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Chandler Lifestyle | December 2020

CHANDLER 480-665-5600 2925 South Alma School Rd. Suite 6 Open 7 Days

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41

DIY

THE LOST ART OF T H A N K YO U NOTES ARTICLE AUBREY SEWELL

IN A DIGITAL WORLD OF EMAILS AND TEXTS, THE SIMPLISTIC, AND ONCE STANDARD “THANK YOU” CARD HAS FADED. Does that mean we are no longer appreciative and grateful for the nice gestures that are extended to us? Absolutely not! We are just caught up in those casual platforms of communication, that we don’t take the time to sit down and give the time and attention to craft our heartfelt thanks in a way that shows purposeful thought.

The written word is proof on a page and this is valuable for so many reasons. Gratitude spurns happiness, but thankfulness is tricky; the only way it is known is if it is verbally acknowledged. Writing it down is evidence of that feeling. Putting words on a page is also more intentional than shooting off a text or email. Communicating your thanks in the common, oversimplified fashion isn’t necessarily bad, but setting aside time be “old-fashioned” with pen and paper, demonstrates the value you place on what has been done for you. Plus, handwriting is an extension of who you are as a person. It breathes your life onto the page. It exudes your voice, your spirit and your message in a way that is uniquely yours.

With the holidays just around the corner, there is quite a fine line between the gratefulness of Thanksgiving and the endless spending of money on the endless lists for Christmas for people who anxiously have the “gimmes.” It’s important to navigate those waters, to cultivate a giving spirit as well as an appreciative heart, and establish an attitude of thankfulness. Receiving such a novelty through the mail is both meaningful and memorable and sending a special gift like this is a blessing to both the recipient and the sender.

42

Chandler Lifestyle | December 2020

HELPFUL “THANK YOU” TIPS Send a thank you within a week of receiving someone’s gesture Use “snail mail” Be specific: mention the particular item or action you are grateful for Be genuine Personalize it: colored writing utensils, hand-lettering, or cards made from family photos Think outside the box. If writing REALLY isn't your thing, send a video of you verbally thanking them.

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