Chandler, AZ March 2021

M A R C H 2 02 1

Home Sweet Home HOME + DESIGN O RG AN IZ E YO U R C LO SE T U N I Q U E FI REPL AC ES A T EEN SPAC E G E T S A M AK EOVER

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

MARCH 2021 PUBLISHER

Joyce Selk | joyce.selk@lifestylepubs.com EDITOR

Home Sweet Home

Michelle Glicksman michelle.glicksman@lifestylepubs.com AD DESIGNER

Miranda Read

I DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU, BUT I’VE SPENT SO MUCH TIME AT HOME

L AYO UT DESIGNER

OVER THE PAST YEAR, THAT I’VE BEEN MOTIVATED TO UP THE GAME IN MY

Emily Lisenbee

HOME. I cleaned out closets, organized my pantry, and yes, began to dream about

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

remodeling my home.

Angel Fuchs, Susan Lanier-Graham, Mary Hampton, Alison Stanton

In our Home Issue, we tackled a few of those subjects.

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

David Apeji, Lindsay Borg

We spoke to HGTV + DIY Network’s Bargain Mansions designer Tamara Day on kitchen remodels, have tips to organize your closet, have a baluster remodel, and showcase some unique fireplaces by interior designer Dena Thomas.

For those who have your eye on a new home altogether, mortgage lender Caroline Strok shares the information you need to know about mortgages.

Speaking of kitchens, if you’re like me and are preserving your kitchen’s resale value (ahem, at least that’s what I tell my husband each night when I don’t cook—I’m keeping it in pristine condition!), stop by BKD’s Backyard Joint for some of Chef Mark Coakley’s creations (we feature him in this issue, too).

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

Whatever your house renovation plans or dreams are, I hope that your space has the

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

most important thing of all—that your house is a home, filled with love and laughter.

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

Yours,

REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

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

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

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Chandler Lifestyle | March 2021

accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

INSIDE THE ISSUE MARCH 2021

FEATURES 18 Q&A with Caroline Strok of Ocotillo Home Lending Everything you need to know about home loans in 2021

24 The Heat is On Simple, Stunning, Stylish: Today's Unique Fireplaces

34 Chef ‘Fell in Love With Food’ as a Teen Mark Coakley From BKD's Backyard Joint

18 42

42 Change Up The Look Swapping Out Balusters is an Easy, Impressive Project

34

24

DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

8

Good Times

14

Around Town

18

Financial Buzz

24 Renovate & Refine 30 Open House 34 Hops & Vine 38 Lifestyle Calendar 42 Inspired By

Women of Chandler 2021 SUBMISSION DEADLINE OF 3/20/2021

2020 Women of Chandler Recipients

THE AMAZING WOMEN OF CHANDLER Now taking nominations for women who live and/or work in Chandler having a positive impact on our community.

Think...

Please send name, phone, email and brief description to

entrepreneur, animal advocate, community leader, first responder, artist, educator, charity contributor, philanthropist, mom, etc. Ladies will be featured in our May 2021 issue.

Nominations accepted through 3/20/2021.

chandler@lifestylepubs.com

GOOD TIMES

Chandler International Film Festival The Chandler International Film Festival had an amazing and successful weekend, with 120 films from six continents and 30 countries represented. Arizona-based film, The Unhealer, premiered, which features celebrities Chris Browning and Elijah Nelson. The amazing variety of films drew many celebrities, Chandler City Council members, Chandler International Film Festival board members, and other dignitaries to the festival.

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Chandler Lifestyle | March 2021

MLK Jr. Celebration Caravan Chandler4Change is a diversity and inclusion organization looking to build relationships between diverse groups to increase opportunities for everyone. The group felt compelled to mark the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday with a COVID-safe caravan through the streets of Chandler. Over 100 cars, vans, trucks, motorcycles, bicycles, fire, and police vehicles came together to demonstrate their theme—Remember to Live the Dream.

CityLifestyle.com/Chandler

9

GOOD TIMES

ICAN Youth Center Renovation Reopening After featuring ICAN Youth Center on a Live.Love.Local series a few months ago, Mindy Jones Nevarez of Amy Jones Group noticed that the teen center needed some love. Turns out, the center's own renovation plans fell through due to lack of funding. So, they decided to partner with a dedicated team of business partners and vendors to get the job done.

City Council Installation On Jan. 14, the City of Chandler held an installation ceremony to swear-in recently elected Councilmembers Christine Ellis, OD Harris, and Mark Stewart. The City is making history with Councilmember Ellis becoming the first Black women to serve on the Chandler City Council. Get to know the new Councilmembers by watching this video: Youtu.be/Vc4nUqz8TmI. Connect with your Councilmembers at ChandlerAZ.gov/citycouncil.

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Chandler Lifestyle | March 2021

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GOOD TIMES

26th Annual Multicultural Festival The annual Chandler Multicultural Festival was held virtually this year. The hour-long event, hosted by Dr. William Crawford and TV Host Lashay Marks, featured four performing artists, including Arizona Rhythm Connection, Ballet Folklorico Quetzalli-AZ, K-pop group ERA, and Stilicho. It also included a henna demonstration and three cooking segments on how to make several cultural culinary delights. To watch, visit ChandlerAZ.gov/multiculturalestival.

Amy Jones Group's Women in Leadership Event The Amy Jones Group hosted its second Women in Leadership Event at Parlay Kitchen and Cocktails in Chandler on Feb. 5.

It was an event where local businesswomen came together to network; enjoy breakfast; and listen to a special guest speaker, La’Vista Jones, talk about leveraging love languages in business relationships, the work place, and personally. Taking care of yourself IS taking care of your business.

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Chandler Lifestyle | March 2021

CityLifestyle.com/Chandler

13

AROUND TOWN the Ostrich Festival will unfortunately be postponed. We hope to share more information on new fall dates soon.” OstrichFestival.com

THIRSTY LION GASTROPUB LAUNCHES CENTRAL KITCHEN ONLINE FOOD HALL The restaurateurs behind Thirsty Lion Gastropub recently launched Central Kitchen, an online food hall operating out of the Chandler Thirsty Lion location, to provide guests with diverse cuisine options from one central kitchen. Four new restaurant concepts were developed for Central Kitchen, each featuring unique culinary directions and scratch-made food available for takeout and delivery from the one central website.

BASHA HIGH SCHOOL'S LEO CLUB DONATES TO AFMA FIREFIGHTER CHARITIES Chandler school district teacher and Basha High

“Central Kitchen fills a need in the restaurant space by providing multiple culinary offerings from one hub," says John Plew, president and CEO. "Guests can order the food that everyone in their home is craving under one ticket."

School's Leo Club advisor Rachel Chiaramonte

The Central Kitchen website has a food hall

is also a member of the Sun Lakes Breakfast

appearance with five (including Thirsty Lion) dif-

Lions Club, as well as a volunteer with the

ferently branded restaurants. Takeout and delivery

Arizona Fire & Medical Authority’s Fire Corps

is available from the concepts, which include Soy

(AFMA) in Sun Lakes. Her Leo Club (future Lions)

Joy (rice bowls, sushi, ramen, and other Asian

donated toys and stuffed animals to the AFMA

favorites), Southern Jewel (Southern fried chicken,

Firefighters Charities annual toy drive. Photo, from

Nashville hot chicken, sliders, and Southern spe-

left: Fiirefighter Ryan Krause, Chiaramonte, fire-

cialties), Killer Wings (boneless and traditional

fighter Matt Nasr, Basha student and president

wings), Pizza and Spice (gourmet specialty pizzas

of the high school’s Leo Club Megan Fought.

and salads), and Thirsty Lion Gastropub (start-

Photography Brian Curry

ers, burgers, sandwiches, salads, and specialty

OSTRICH FESTIVAL POSTPONED UNTIL FALL OF 2021

entrées). CentralKitchenFoodOnline.com

Chandler's popular yearly Chandler Chamber Ostrich Festival, scheduled to be held this month, has been postponed until fall. The Chandler Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with Steve LeVine Entertainment and Public Relations, determined that this decision would be in the best interest of the community due to the continued health concerns surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic and the state orders prohibiting mass gatherings of over 50 people, as well as the current hold put on special event licenses.

The Chandler Chamber of Commerce is working with the City of Chandler to confirm new fall dates.

"It is a difficult time but the safety and well-being of our community is our top priority,” says Terri Kimble, president/CEO of the Chandler Chamber

14

CHANDLER CITY COUNCIL ELECTS A NEW VICE MAYOR

of Commerce. “Based on the state and federal

With a unanimous vote, the Chandler City

executive orders on large gatherings still in effect,

Council recently elected Councilmember Mark

Chandler Lifestyle | March 2021

Stewart as the City’s new Vice Mayor. Stewart will serve in the position through Jan. 13, 2022.

A resident of Chandler since 2001, Vice Mayor Stewart began his first term on the City Council in January 2017. He spent more than 20 years with Fortune 50 organizations, and now owns a marketing and brand company, Concept2Completion.

Vice Mayor Stewart was recently re-elected for his second term on the Chandler City Council, which is set to expire in January 2024.

GILA RIVER HOTELS & CASINOS GUESTS DONATE MORE THAN $125,000 Over the last 14 months, through the Everi Cares Kiosk, guests at Gila River Hotels & Casinos - Wild Horse Pass, Lone Butte, and Vee Quiva donated a total of $125,511.93 to Valley nonprofits Beyond Autism, Foundation for Blind Children, Hope Community Services, and UMOM Day Centers.

Everi Cares is a charitable giving application programmed into the kiosks on the casino floors that provides guests the opportunity to donate their change to nonprofits from their winning ticket vouchers.

Beyond

Autism

(Scottsdale)

received

$35,752.07; Foundation for Blind Children (Phoenix/ Chandler) received $35,717.07; Hope Community Services (Peoria) received $28,196.28; and UMOM New Day Centers (Phoenix) received $25,846.51.

Gila River Hotels & Casinos was the first gaming enterprise in Arizona to launch this unique charitable giving application in October 2019, and recently rotated the nonprofits to receive guest donations: Arizona Friends of Foster Children Foundation, Special

Olympics

Arizona,

Homeless

Youth

Connection and Free Arts for Abused Children of Arizona. PlayAtGila.com

CHANDLER PUBLIC LIBRARY SELECTED AMONGST 25 NATIONWIDE FOR PROGRAM GRANT The Chandler Public Library has been selected as one of 25 U.S. libraries to participate in Resilient Communities: Libraries Respond to Climate Change, an initiative of the American Library Association (ALA) that will help libraries engage their communities in programs and conversations on the climate crisis.

"We are so proud to be selected from a pool of more than 70 applicants to bring Resilient CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Chandler

15

AROUND TOWN Communities

to

Chandler

Sunset

Library,” says Library Manager Rachelle Kuzyk. “Working in a desert commu-

We are really feeling the Luck of the Irish with our amazing patients!

Although we may be slightly partial, our patients continue to be the absolute best in town!

We love seeing their smiling faces every day and having the opportunity to help them feel their absolute best!

nity, we understand the significance of addressing critical issues like climate change, climate resilience, and sustainability. We are looking forward to partnering with other local organizations that share the same goal of providing quality, fact-based programs on these topics to the community."

The grant award will enable a seed library to be developed and housed at the Chandler Sunset Library. Seeds will be donated by Native Seed Search, a nonprofit seed conservation organization based in Tucson, and Seed Savers Exchange, a network of gardeners interested in sharing seeds and preserving heirloom varieties. It will launch this spring.

Additionally, variety

of

there

will

be

programming

a

offered.

ChandlerLibrary.org

RINCHEM ANNOUNCES 50,000-SQUARE-FOOT, $10M EXPANSION OF CHANDLER FACILITY New

Mexico-based

Rinchem

recently announced a 50,000-squarefoot expansion to its existing building in West Chandler, located at 6805 W. Morelos Place. Construction of the shell is nearly complete, and the company plans to begin operating in the building by June 2021.

Rinchem’s existing building on this site is 100,000 square feet and was completed in 2015. This $10 million investment will lead to approximately

Andrea Stickland, DVM

Kristy Sorenson, DVM

Laura Diltz, DVM

Chelsie Daniel, BVM&S MRCVS

25 new jobs, with room for additional expansion in the future.

Rinchem is a chemical management company that provides high purity, pre-packaged chemicals and gases.

The primary industries that Rinchem

W. Chandler Heights Rd., Ste. 3 Chandler, AZ 85248

Located on the NW corner of Arizona Ave and Chandler Heights Rd in the CVS Pharmacy complex, across the street from the post office.

myvet@amcofc.com

www.amcofc.com

serves include pharmaceutical, biotech, semiconductor and aerospace.

“Rinchem tion 202

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Chandler Lifestyle | March 2021

for

is

in

growth

South

a

great

loca-

the

Loop

with

Mountain

Freeway

expansion providing further access to talent for West Chandler employers,” says Chandler Mayor Kevin Hartke.

“Our

West

Chandler

employment

corridor is home to nearly 30,000 employees and we are thrilled to see hiring growth from Rinchem.”

Richem.com

CRÈME DE LA CRÈME OPENS NEW CHANDLER CENTER

ARIZONA’S PREMIER MULTISPECIALTY MEDICAL CENTER

Crème de la Crème, a national operator of premium early education and child care centers throughout the United States, recently opened a new center in Chandler at 2105 W. Germann Road. It is now open for enrollment.

The

newly

constructed,

21,000

square foot state-of-the-art learning facility accepts children ages 6 weeks through 12 years, and is open Monday through Friday, 6:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Crème de la Crème offers all-inclusive programs for its age groups, flexible hours and days, and a state-ofthe-art campus that caters to the educational and social emotional needs of the children it serves. Enrichment classes, which are a part of the inclusive program, start at age 2 and include Coding & Robotics, Spanish &

Mandarin,

Culinary

Education,

S.T.E.A.M., Art Studio, Music, and Digital Education. Outdoor amenities include age-appropriate playgrounds, a soccer field, a baseball diamond, a basketball court, a tennis court, and a splash pad water park.

The Chandler location is the company's 47th location. Other Arizona locations are in Mesa, Gilbert, Peoria, and Goodyear.

CremeDeLaCreme.com/locations/ chandler-az

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

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17

FINANCIAL BUZZ Caroline Strok

ARTICLE SUSAN LANIER-GRAHAM PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Q&A with Caroline Strok of Ocotillo Home Lending EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT HOME LOANS IN 2021

WHILE WORKING WITH MORTGAGE LENDERS, CAROLINE STROK SAYS THAT TIME AND AGAIN SHE WATCHED FRUSTRATED, WOULD-BE HOMEOWNERS HAVE LOANS DECLINED BECAUSE OF THINGS OUTSIDE OF THEIR CONTROL. Strok knew there were better, more personal solutions.

She took her knowledge and experience and opened Ocotillo Home Lending. Strok offers answers to some of your questions about buying a home or refinancing.

WHY WOULD SOMEONE TURN TO OCOTILLO HOME LENDING INSTEAD OF USING THEIR OWN BANK? With my knowledge and experience, I can give my clients white-glove service. I know each of my lenders’ strengths, so when we sit down, I can understand your needs and find a good match. Because I understand my client’s specific needs, I can get a loan from start to closing efficiently, making it a painless experience.

THERE ARE DIFFERENT TYPES OF MORTGAGES AVAILABLE. WITH HOME PRICES INCREASING IN 2021, WHAT TYPES OF FINANCING SHOULD

Strok can be reached at

CONSUMERS CONSIDER?

Caroline@OcotilloHomeLending.com,

There are several common types of mortgages, including conventional loans, adjustable-rate mortgages, government-insured mortgages including FHA and VA, and fixed-rate mortgages from 10 to 30 years. Everyone’s situation is different, and I can sit down with you to discuss your specific needs. I ask questions about why you’re buying. Is it a starter that you plan to keep for three to five years? Is this where you plan to raise your family?

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Chandler Lifestyle | March 2021

602.320.5398, or OcotilloHomeLending.com.

Caroline Strok

Is it a forever home? Are you buying it as a rental?

assets to work in other ways, and they might find that

All of these factors play into the type of loan a cli-

a 10-year fixed loan gives them the biggest flexibility.

ent should choose, and I can help you find the right

I can work hand-in-hand with your financial advisor,

mortgage that fits your desired monthly payment.

accountant, and other experts to ensure we find the best solution for your financial future.

OCOTILLO HOME LENDING ALSO DEALS WITH REFINANCING, WHICH IS POPULAR NOW

EVERYONE WORRIES ABOUT FICO SCORES AND

BECAUSE OF LOWER INTEREST RATES. SHOULD

DEBT-TO-INCOME RATIO. HOW EXACTLY DO

CURRENT HOMEOWNERS CONSIDER

THESE FIGURE INTO A HOME LOAN?

REFINANCING? WHEN DO THEY KNOW IF THAT’S A GOOD OPTION?

Lenders review four items from every loan applicant: property value, credit score, debt-to-income ratio

As a result of COVID, I see people using this time

(your monthly debt reported on your credit report but

to review and adjust their personal financial goals.

not including utilities), and income source. The lender

People have spent the past year trying to decide what

reviews these and makes an overall assessment.

is really important. We can sit down together and dis-

When I work with my clients, I explain that all four of

cuss those financial goals and determine if refinancing

these factors are equally important. The consumer

is right for you. Again, the answer really depends on

controls everything except the property value, which

your long-term goals for your home and your motiva-

is determined by fair market value.

tion for refinancing. If you are currently in a mortgage, I would be happy to offer a complimentary mortgage

IF A CONSUMER WANTS TO BUY A HOME,

review. I recommend this given today’s interest rates.

HAS A GOOD FICO SCORE AND DEBT-TO-

During that review, I listen to your personal and

INCOME RATIO, BUT DOESN’T YET HAVE THE

financial goals, not only for your home but for your

TRADITIONAL

lifestyle and long-term financial goals. Homeowners

THERE STILL OPTIONS TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF

on a fixed income may find it beneficial to refinance

TODAY’S LOWER INTEREST RATES?

20%

DOWN

PAYMENT,

ARE

simply to lower monthly payments with no concern

Absolutely! In fact, with mortgage rates so low, I see

for paying the home off sooner. Other clients discover

a lot of clients keeping their nest egg in their savings

that refinancing is a good option so they can put their

account or putting their money to work elsewhere.

CONTINUED >

Because I understand my client’s specific needs, I can get a loan from start to closing efficiently, making it a painless experience.

CityLifestyle.com/Chandler

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FINANCIAL BUZZ (CONTINUED)

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Chandler Lifestyle | March 2021

If you have less than 20% equity in your property, mortgage insurance is usually required. At Ocotillo Home Lending, I offer some great first-time home buying programs, with as little as 3% down. These are conventional programs, so the better your score, the better your interest rate and the lower your monthly mortgage insurance payment. I have

SMILE AND AND EAT CONFIDENTLY

found these programs to be more cost-effective, have simpler underwriting, and offer more flexibility than a traditional 20% down payment. There are other programs, such as FHA, that calculate your monthly mortgage insurance based only on the loan amount.

Those programs are not impacted by your score, so can be a disadvantage to some clients. At Ocotillo, we can help you figure out which alternative is best for you.

DO YOU RECOMMEND CONSUMERS CONTACT OCOTILLO HOME LENDING EVEN BEFORE THEY HAVE A HOME TO CONSIDER? I definitely recommend getting prequalified before viewing homes. It is important to know what you are comfortable affording based on the monthly payment expenses and your down payment. When we meet, I can help you understand the process. When you have a good grasp on the process, what fees and costs to expect before and at clos-

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ing, then you are more comfortable as you go out looking at homes. I tell my clients that it is

NISH SHAH DMD, MD, F.A.C.S

essential you know your buying power before you shop. You want to make sure your home shopping fits your overall financial picture.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO GET LOAN APPROVAL AND HAS ANY OF THAT CHANGED AS A RESULT OF THE PANDEMIC? Even in these crazy times, the process of how you qualify for a loan has not changed.

With a mortgage broker, we have the ability to

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close a transaction in 11 days, but needs, expectations, and timelines vary. Because I personalize my services at Ocotillo Home Lending,

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I do my best to get my clients to the closing table as quickly and as painlessly as possible.

It is important for me to prioritize and provide a

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good experience to each of my clients.

CityLifestyle.com/Chandler

21

Closet Ma keover

ARTICLE MARY HAMPTON, FOUNDER OF HAMPTON DESIGN & CLOSETS

C LO S E T

Chandler Lifestyle | March 2021

22

IF YOUR BEDROOM CLOSET IS GIVING YOU ANXIETY AND TEETERING ON THE EDGE OF BECOMING A COMPLETE DISASTER ZONE, YOU’RE NOT ALONE. In fact, 80% of the items we keep are never used, 32% of women own more than 25 pairs of shoes, and only 15% of women don’t have any clothes older than 5 years in their wardrobe. Here, some things you should get rid of, and tips to make the most of your closet

Lastly, dresses you’ve only worn once need to go.

space without breaking the bank. Small tweaks

Gather all of these items, put them in a pile, and

can make a BIG difference. Try any of the below

mourn the loss of what could have been, then

hacks to get organized and make a crowded

donate everything to someone who will use them.

closet space feel comfortable.

ADD A VALET ROD WHEN IN DOUBT, THROW IT OUT OR DONATE

When was the last time you picked out what

Shoes that hurt should be at the top of this list.

you were going to wear the day before? Adding

Even after suffering through a never-ending eve-

a pull-out valet rod to your closet makes a world

ning of agony, it can be hard to let go of shoes that

of difference, and will keep your outfit front and

hurt. Next, free tote bags are also hard to let go

center. It’s been proven that picking your outfit

of, but how many does one person really need?

the night before gives you more confidence and less anxiety to start your day and be your best self for work or errands.

THE HANGER FLIP If you’re having a hard time letting go of the dress you only wore to that one concert, try this hack. Flip the hangers backwards in your closet.

As soon as you wear the item, flip the hanger back around. At the end of the year, you can see how many items you thought you would wear, but never did. It’s a great way to purge clothes you really don’t wear anymore. The proof is in the hangers!

HOOKS FOR HANDBAGS Need a way to hang up handbags, clutches, belts, or other accessories? Try an S-hook. These are usually inexpensive and easy to find. You can hang jeans from them, too. Just slide the belt loops over the hook.

M A K E OVE R

TIPS TO TAKE YOUR CLOSET FROM BLAND TO GLAM

CityLifestyle.com/Chandler

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RENOVATE & REFINE

01 D

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Chandler Lifestyle | March 2021

T

A I O N

L E

This area was originally an open square, so Thomas converted it to a fireplace with lights hanging on either side, pulling the warmer tone from the floor into the lights. This electric fireplace also has multicolored lights, which can be selected based on mood, ambiance, or even holiday. Below the TV is a sound bar, which rests on a pull-out shelf that serves as a perfect way to hide electronics. And, while the TV is on a wall mount that’s flush to the wall, it pulls out—revealing a hidden safe.

T

H

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SIMPLE, STUNNING, STYLISH: TODAY'S UNIQUE FIREPLACES

H

E

A

T

ARTICLE MICHELLE GLICKSMAN PHOTOGRAPHY DAVID APEJI

I

S

O

N

WHILE THERE’S NOT AS MUCH AS A NEED FOR A FIREPLACE IN THE VALLEY AS SOME STATES THAT SEE SEVERAL FEET OF SNOW EACH YEAR, THE LURE OF THE AMBIANCE IT ADDS TO A SPACE IS STILL A DRAW FOR MANY HOMEOWNERS. Today’s trends include replacing gas fireplaces with electric ones, as well as updating the spaces to include sleek lines.

“Customers like the linear look because it’s a lot more modern-looking,” says Dena Thomas of Dena Thomas Designs (DenaThomasDesigns.com). “It’s a sleeker, cleaner look.”

Thomas recently completed these two Chandler remodels. Sleek and stunning, indeed.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Chandler

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RENOVATE & REFINE (CONTINUED)

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Chandler Lifestyle | March 2021

02 D T

E W

T A O

I

This stunning, ultra-modern fireplace is a remodel. The original builder’s box gas fireplace was removed, as well as built-in niches. The fireplace and made-with-limestone-tile wall behind the TV is three-dimensional. The new, electric, linear fireplace has a color-changing feature, and the “wood”—which is made of fiberglass— flanking the fireplace, adds texture to the space.

L

CityLifestyle.com/Chandler

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AT THE FOLLOWING CHANDLER LOCATIONS:

ALMA SCHOOL RD. & GERMANN RD.

(480) 917-0077

MCQUEEN RD. & RIGGS RD.

(480) 895-2555

ALMA SCHOOL RD. & WARNER RD.

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Chandler Lifestyle | March 2021

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29

OPEN HOUSE

LOCAL BUSINESSES RALLY TO RENOVATE ICAN

TEENCENTER CREATING A MORE COMFORTABLE HOME AWAY FROM HOME FOR LOCAL TEENS THE NATIONALLY-ACCREDITED ICAN YOUTH AND TEEN CENTER HAS BEEN PROVIDING A SAFE HAVEN FOR THE CHILDREN OF CHANDLER FOR ALMOST 30 YEARS. Founded in 1991, ICAN offers prevention programs specifically designed to reduce the risks that greatly influence the daily lives of area kids, such as substance abuse, gang involvement, and delinquency.

ARTICLE ANGEL FUCHS

The programs are facilitated by qualified staff, and provide value

PHOTOGRAPHY DAVID APEJI

to the youth who participate.

According to the ICAN website, seven out of 10 teens who visit the center live in extreme poverty, four go to bed hungry every night, and two will be gang affiliated by age 12, making ICAN’s free, high-quality programs so very important not only to the youth and their families, but to the entire community.

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Chandler Lifestyle | March 2021

The ICAN Teen Center was recently highlighted in a social media video produced by area business the Amy Jones Group. It was then that the owner, Mindy Jones, recognized that the teen area of the center needed some updating and saw that as a chance to give back.

“The Amy Jones Group was at ICAN to film Live.Love.Local, a series on local businesses and nonprofits aimed to help provide a behind-the-scenes look at our own community,” says Jones. “I believe our home is our safe place and for these kids, ICAN is their home away from home.”

During her visit, Jones learned that ICAN had intended to update the teen center, but another corporation that was scheduled to help do it was unable to move forward with the renovations after the pandemic struck.

“I left ICAN with the feeling that we needed to give it some love,” Jones says.

Jones and her real estate firm partnered with other local businesses, including Fidelity National Title, to update the center in an effort to better serve the teens in the community who take advantage of the programs it provides.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Chandler

31

OPEN HOUSE (CONTINUED)

Renovation plans were set in motion at the end of 2020, and two weeks into the new year, the remodel started. On Jan. 11, 2021, some of the center’s own teens—many of whom consider ICAN a second home—took on the demolition side of the project, clearing out the room, ripping up floors, and preparing the area for a complete overhaul.

Jones then gathered up community partners, and together they gave the teen center the makeover it desperately needed, including fresh paint, and new floors and furniture, plus updated technology such as new Chromebooks and televisions.

“We feel so lucky to partner with local businesses who love giving back, and who understand that what we do 32

Chandler Lifestyle | March 2021

SALE! SALE! SALE! SALE! to foster our community, our home, will come back tenfold,” says Jones.

The remodel was revealed on Jan. 19, with about 15 of the program’s teens in attendance. The efforts of the team were acknowledged with enthusiastic reactions by the teens.

“The final product exceeded my expectations and I’m so grateful to work with businesses and people who believe in me and my crazy ideas,” says Jones. “The space is beautiful and will complement the tools the center is providing to the teens to help them grow and continue to be more than productive members of society.”

For more information about ICAN Youth Center, visit ICANAZ.org.

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33

HOPS & VINE

Photo by Lindsay Borg

MARK COAKLEY FROM BKD'S BACKYARD JOINT CREDITS A CHEF AT THE MESA COUNTRY CLUB FOR TAKING HIM UNDER HIS WING

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Chandler Lifestyle | March 2021

CHEF ‘FELL I N L OV E WITH F O OD ’ A S A TEEN

ARTICLE ALISON STANTON PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

WHEN MARK COAKLEY WAS 17, HE GOT HIS FIRST

“I really enjoy bringing cooks up and teaching them

JOB IN THE FOOD INDUSTRY WORKING AS A DISH

like how I was taught and seeing them being successful,”

WASHER AT MESA COUNTRY CLUB.

he says, adding that one of these budding chefs has a

Over time, Coakley was promoted to line cook. His hard work caught the eye of the executive chef at the country club, who took Coakley under his wing.

The encouragement, instruction, and mentoring that he received from the chef inspired Coakley to want to continue working in the industry.

Coakley has now worked as a chef for the last two decades, and is currently the executive chef of BKD’s Backyard Joint.

“I fell in love with food when I was in high school, starting out as a dish washer and working for an amaz-

very special place in his heart.

Coakley’s daughter Aliya grew up watching him in the kitchen, and has clearly inherited his love for the culinary arts.

Coakley was delighted when Aliya announced her plans to follow in his footsteps, and was even happier when she was also hired at BKD’s Backyard Joint—she’s now the pastry chef.

“It’s amazing watching Aliya grow as a chef and person in this demanding business. I am so proud of her and her accomplishments,” he says.

ing chef who I am forever grateful to. He’s been an inspi-

Watching people savor and appreciate the meals he

ration to me, and it is because of him that I am where I

prepares is also something that Coakley especially loves

am at today,” Coakley says.

about his career.

“Cooking became my passion, my identity, and I absolutely love what I do.”

Now, through his own career as a chef, Coakley says he enjoys supporting people who are new to the industry, just as he was supported when he was a teenager.

“I enjoy making delicious food and getting reactions from people when they eat from the menu I created,” he says, adding that he has been with BKD’s Backyard Joint for just under two years.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Chandler

35

HOPS & VINE (CONTINUED)

Photo by Lindsay Borg

36

Chandler Lifestyle | March 2021

2019

Dr. Michelle Jeffries

Throughout his career as a chef, Coakley has seen his share of food trends come and go.

Currently, he says, breakfast foods are especially popular with diners; for instance, people are often more likely to order chicken and waffles for dinner instead of a cheeseburger.

Coakley feels this desire to enjoy breakfast foods stems from a need for comforting dishes that may remind them of what they ate when they grew up—but with a modern flair.

“I see traditional dishes being reinvented, reminding us of childhood and the food we grew up with, and updated to fulfill our inner foodie. More dishes are embracing traditional homestyle concepts, yet with a twist by introducing new flavors and visionary concepts to be experienced,” he says.

While

BKD’s

Backyard

Joint

is

OF COURSE! WE ALL DO.

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technically a sports bar, Coakley says

East Valley Dermatology Center

he enjoys preparing foods that many people ate when they were younger,

Adult and Pediatric Dermatology

but with some unexpected spices, seasonings, and ingredients.

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For instance, the Hatch Grilled Cheese is a tasty and modern take on

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classic comfort food, combining three kinds of cheeses with Hatch chiles and applewood bacon, which is then grilled on sliced brioche.

The Smoked Backyard Meatloaf is another popular dish, and is served with flavorful garlic mashed potatoes, charred broccolini, mushroom demi, and crispy fried onions.

“We like to focus on our menu being

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Katherine Lim Quan, MD

Jill McKenzie, MD

from scratch, and doing foods that your normal sports bar would not do,” Coakley says. BKDsBackyardJoint.com

Rosemary Geary, MD & Ryan Falsey, MD, PhD have been appointed to the University of Arizona faculty. They provide residents and medical students with a state of the art teaching environment allowing them to excel in the field of Dermatology.

CityLifestyle.com/Chandler

37

1-MAY 31 ASTRONAUT

Arizona Science Center

MARCH

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

This limited-time exhibition at the Arizona Science

Center focuses on teamwork to solve problems, accu-

rately perform tasks, and overcome challenges that an astronaut would face on a real mission. Experience

a rocket launch, investigate life on the Space Lab, and discover why it’s so hard to eat, sleep and use the toilet in space. AzScience.org

1-10 YOUNG AT ART: A SELECTION OF CALDECOTT BOOK ILLUSTRATIONS Chandler Museum

This exhibit celebrates artistic classics in children’s literature that received the Caldecott Medal, awarded annually for excellence in illustration in an American picture book for children. Through picture books, readers embark on visual journeys that encourage curious, imaginative, and thoughtful interactions with the world around them. The exhibit features original illustrations from 28 award-winning artists, including works from Maurice Sendak, Barbara Cooney, and Chris Van Allsburg. ChandlerAZ.gov/museum

1-10 DEATH AND DIAMONDS: A HOLOCAUST SURVIVOR’S JOURNEY FROM KRAKÓW TO CHANDLER Chandler Museum

Born into a Jewish family in Poland in 1924, Samuel Soldinger found himself and his family confined to the Kraków Ghetto. He survived the Holocaust working in Oskar Schindler’s factory. After the war he learned to cut diamonds and moved to NYC. In 1962, Soldinger arrived in Chandler to manage the new Harry Winston diamond processing plant. This exhibit traces his historic journey. ChandlerMuseum.org

1-27 SEDIMENTS: LAYERS OF THE PHOENIX VALLEY Vision Gallery

During this exhibition, Vision Gallery peels back the various layers of the Phoenix Valley’s history to 38

Chandler Lifestyle | March 2021

examine topics relating to preservation, land ownership, and coexistence. Sediments: Layers of the Phoenix Valley features the work of Ashley Czajkowski, Matthew Garcia, Ann Morton, and Steven Yazzie. VisionGallery.org

5, 12, 19, 26 MUSIC IN THE GARDEN Desert Botanical Garden

Music in the Garden Spring Concert Series is back with a new way to enjoy lively musical acts with your small group. Listen to toe-tapping tunes while taking in breathtaking desert sunset views. For comfort and safety, tables will be socially-distanced and capacity is limited at this intimate event. For ages 21-and-up.

DBG.org

6-APR 10 APPROACHING THE NATURAL: ARTWORK BY MARY MEYER AND AIMEE OLLINGER The Gallery at the CCA

For millennia, humans have tried to replicate nature through scientific and artistic means. However, the fallible nature of human hands never allows us to fully capture the intrinsic beauty of nature. Artworks by Mary Meyer and Aimee Ollinger continually approach the natural, with their splendor lying in the artists’ reinterpretation of the organic forms. Meyer creates reliefs and wall sculptures; Ollinger embroidery and mixed media work.

VisionGallery.org

6, 13, 20, 27 DOWNTOWN CHANDLER FARMERS MARKET Dr. A.J. Chandler Park West

Head Downtown and support dozens of local vendors offering fresh produce, prepared food, beverages, and unique goods at the Downtown Chandler Farmers Market. This year-round market takes place every Saturday from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. October through May, at Dr. A.J. Chandler Park West. There are extra safety precautions to ensure both market vendors and customers are following strict COVID-19 guidelines. ChandlerAZ.gov CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Chandler

39

6, 13, 20, 27 YOGA IN THE PARK

Dr. A.J. Chandler Park

MARCH

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

Yoga in the Park will start at 10 a.m. in the parklet of Dr. A.J.

Chandler Park by Crust Restaurant. This free, 45-minute class is perfect for beginners and experienced yogis alike.

Just bring a mat, sunscreen and water. COVID safety precautions will be observed. ChandlerAZ.gov

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M-Sat 8:00 am - 8:30 pm Sun 8:00 am - 8:00 pm

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DOWNTOWN CHANDLER MURAL MILE TOUR 22 S. Delaware Street, Downtown Chandler

Take a break from your computer screen and enjoy the cooler temps with a lunch break field trip to Downtown Chandler. Walk with staff from Chandler’s Visual Arts Team while they share the stories behind the area's vibrant mural scene. Participants will receive a commemorative set of buttons featuring artwork from a few stops along the way. Registration required. Limit 15. Register at ChandlerLibrary.libcal.com/event/7371117.

17 GRAPHIC NOVEL BOOK CLUB

GET INSPIRED

Virtual

Chandler Library Chandler recently debuted a new Graphic Novel Book Club for those who love comics, graphic novels, and sequential art. The club is held virtually on the third Thursday of every month. This month's book is Animal Farm: The Graphic Novel Adaption by

EAT + DRINK

George Orwell and adapted by Odyr. Find copies at the Downtown Library. ChandlerLibrary.org

SHOP LOCAL City Lifestyle YOUR DIGITAL DESTINATION FOR LOCAL LIVING

40

Chandler Lifestyle | March 2021

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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INSPIRED BY

CHANGE UP THE LOOK SWAPPING OUT BALUSTERS IS AN EASY, IMPRESSIVE PROJECT

A LITTLE CHANGE CAN MAKE A BIG DIFFERENCE, WHICH IS WHAT LIZ ROTH DISCOVERED WHEN SHE CHANGED OUT HER STAIRWAY’S BALUSTRADES. After 12 years in their home, the family’s style had evolved to a cleaner, more contemporary aesthetic. They decided it was time to replace their ornate balusters in favor of a simpler design with straight balusters.

“That idea blew out the window when we saw the vast and unique selection of balusters offered by L.J. Smith Stair Systems,” says Roth. “The fresh styles opened our eyes to unique possibilities we hadn’t previously considered. In the end, we went from ornate swirls on our balusters to these wonderful large stand-out ovals.”

To further update the look of their stairway, the Roths had their newel posts and handrail painted black, to match the low sheen black of the new balusters.

During this project, Roth discovered what many homeowners across America have found out—that swapping out balusters can give new life to a stair system.

“We didn’t have to tear down the stairway and start from scratch to get the look we wanted,” says Roth.

“The baluster replacement and stair system painting went quickly and was affordable. This project is a great example of how people have choices when it comes to upgrading an existing home. Their styles change. It’s good to know that our stairways can change with those styles!”

L.J. Smith products—including wooden and ornamental iron balusters, stainless steel cable and tube infills, metal panels, newel posts, hand rails, and accessories— are all defined by their unique designs, uncompromised durability, and good looks. LJSmith.com PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED 42

Chandler Lifestyle | March 2021

cathy carter Real Estate Professional | ABR,CRS,CDPE, CLHMS

480.459.8488 cathycarter1@cox.net www.RealEstateChandler.com

WHO YOU WORK WITH MATTERS Know Your Options Before You List!

Working with a Licensed Realtor vs. an Instant Buyer (IBuyer)/ Cash Buyer can actually cost you thousands of dollars. When you’re looking to sell luxury real estate in Chandler, Gilbert, or any of the surrounding communities, you have more options today than ever before. Please call today for more information.