Chandler, AZ May 2024

Voted Top Phoenix Docs 2024

To All the Amazing Women in Chandler ...

Welcome to our annual Women’s Issue! As we do each May, this issue is dedicated to celebrating the amazing women in our community. These women are giving back, making an impact, are movers and shakers, and are all around some of the best in Chandler.

This is the eighth year we have celebrated a new class of the Women of Chandler.

The women are first nominated by the community. After that, their applications go through a selection committee. And let me tell you—the committee tasked with selecting the year’s honorees is in the toughest of spots. There are so many incredible women here! We could fill hundreds of pages if we had the space.

All of us at  Chandler City Lifestyle want to thank everyone who nominated a candidate, and the nominees themselves. You are all truly fabulous, and we really do wish we could feature each and every one of you.

To see who made this year’s class, turn to the feature on page 20. Take the time to read each of their bios and what they’ve done to make an impact. Their stories are powerful.

I hope this issue inspires you to thank the women in your life who are impacting  you and to go out and impact others. After all, that’s what makes Chandler such an amazing community—the people who are here.

Have a wonderful month. I’m honored to know you all!

Yours,

MICHELLE GLICKSMAN, EDITOR @CHANDLERCITYLIFESTYLE

May 2024

PUBLISHER

Joyce Selk | joyce.selk@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Michelle Glicksman michelle.glicksman@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Christina Larson | christina.larson@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Tiffany Mortensen | tiffany.mortensen@citylifestyle.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Tanya Lewellen

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Alison Stanton, Georgann Yara

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Lindsay Borg

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

AD DESIGNER Rachel Collins

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard

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

WHO YOU WORK WITH MATTERS

If you are needing a great agent, we highly recommend Cathy Carter! She is a top notch professional and very knowledgeable about the area and all things real estate. She really took the stress out of buying a home.

MARK A

Cathy Carter

Real Estate Professional | ABR,CRS,CDPE, CLHMS 480.459.8488

cathycarter1@cox.net

www.RealEstateChandler.com

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: Children attended and performed during a Spring Youth Performing Camp at Chandler Center for Arts. 2: Enjoying the DEI’s Women’s Empowerment Luncheon, which was held at Mingle + Graze. 3: Chandler residents came out to enjoy the DEI’s Women’s Empowerment Luncheon. 4: Kim Selchan of Tutor Doctor was invited to speak to the Society of Women Engineers at ASU. 5: Children attended and performed during a Spring Youth Performing Camp at Chandler Center for Arts. 6: Local models in the Assistance League of the East Valley's Annual Fashion Show fundraiser. 7: Councilwoman Ellis modeling for the Assistance League of the East Valley's Annual Fashion Show fundraiser.

8-14: The 34th Annual Chandler Chamber Ostrich Festival featured rides, food, concerts, experiences, and more.

www.amyjonesgroup.com

LOVE LOCAL

East Valley Charities need your support. Please visit the following websites to volunteer, donate, or for upcoming event information for these great female focused organizations.

East Valley Women’s League www. evwl.org

Positive Paths www.positivepathsaz.org

Hope Women’s Center www. hopewomenscenter.org

Fresh Start www.freshstartwomen.org

Winged Hope www.wingedhope.com

Arizona Foundation For Women www.azfw.org

AmyJonesGroup AmyJonesGroup AmyJonesGroup Amy Jones Group at eXp Realty

Bryan Chapman Named as Chandler’s New Police Chief

Bryan Chapman was recently named as Chandler’s new police chief. Chief Chapman has worked in law enforcement for 28 years and served the City of Phoenix since 1999. He has been Phoenix’s assistant police chief for the past three years, with responsibility for the employment services bureau, training bureau, and organizational integrity bureau. He previously fulfilled leadership positions and assignments in multiple areas of the Phoenix Police Department. He started his new role in April. ChandlerAZ.gov

Get Ready For the BackFit Cares Golf Classic

On May 3, the BackFit Cares Golf Classic, Cinco de Mayo Golf, will be back for another year of fundraising and fun. Held at Raven Golf Club, there's a 7:30 a.m. shotgun start. Those who are not able to participate but want to help can participate in the auc tion, available online. BackFit Cares aims to improve the lives of under privileged children by offering natural options for physical and mental health and wellness.  E.givesmart.com/events/ yq7/ and BackFitCares.com

The City of Chandler Receives an Urban Forestry Grant

With the help of a federal grant, the City of Chandler will address the challenges of extreme heat with the addition of more trees in the community. The city submitted a proposal in June 2023, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service awarded a $767,000 grant. The funds will be used to fulfill the goal of increasing the tree canopy and equity in Chandler while providing education to students and the community. CUSD will be a partner in this effort.

Chandler Education Foundation Raises a Record Amount for Scholarships and Schools

The Chandler Education Foundation's 21st Annual Winner's Choice Car or Cash Raffle Fundraiser shifted to an online platform, resulting in record-breaking participation and donations. There were more than 7,000 tickets sold, and the event raised $151,880. The funds support the IMPACT Chandler scholarships, as well as provide valuable school resources, fostering educational initiatives and enhancing student development programs. The event's grand prize drawing was livestreamed on the raffle website, with Sue H. drawn as the winner. ChandlerFoundation.org

Chandler Adoption Center following the completion of a $105,000 renovation. The newly updated facility is located inside Chandler Fashion Center and now features brand-new kennels and a refreshed look that incorporates AAWL’s new logo and brand colors. Since replacing a puppy mill store in 2012, the Chandler Adoption Center has helped find homes for over 13,000 animals in the Valley. AAWL.org

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Toyota

Provides Grants to Chandler Schools

Toyota USA Foundation announced grants of up to $9.3 million to prepare Chandler and Tempe students for future careers in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). The collaboration is part of the Driving Possibilities initiative and is a five-year phased rollout of programing in select schools. “Ever since we opened our first office in Chandler in 2001, Toyota team members have been actively involved in giving back to this community,” says Scott Cooke, Toyota Financial Services president and CEO. ToyotaFinancial.com

Water activities are a great way to escape the heat!

Animal Medical Center of Chandler

Adalis Montero

WOMEN OF CHANDLER

PHOTOGRAPHY BY LINDSAY BORG

NICOLE EARL, CHRISTINA ATWOOD

Co-Founders, Gathering Humanity

In 2016, Christina Atwood went on a local Facebook group to invite the community to help provide goods for an arriving refugee family she had learned about, and the response was so overwhelming it led to joining with Nicole Earl to start and run a nonprofit, Gathering Humanity. This grassroots organization provides essential goods to those experiencing resettlement. They organize community donations and volunteers in order to furnish apartments for refugees and others, helping make their house truly a home, offering not only a significant financial benefit but a warm welcome to new neighbors.

The organization is 100% run by volunteers and supported through donations. It provides ways to engage people of all ages to make a difference and serve the vulnerable arriving in our area.

“The vast majority of work is done in concert with four local resettlement agencies who notify us of refugee arrivals.

“We leave behind a sign in every apartment we set up that states that the items are gifts from people in the community that hope they find safety and peace in our country.”

KELLY SCHWAB

Attorney

A native Arizonan, Kelly Schwab was the first in her family to graduate college. As an award-winning attorney, she was hired for her “dream job” in 2016 as the Chandler city attorney and risk manager, where she provides legal advice in all matters of municipal law.

“I have a role of keeping Chandler a wonderful place to live and work.”

At an early age, Schwab’s parents promoted the idea of being active in the community to make it a place you want to live and thrive.

“My parents were great role models, and my childhood home was always open to those in need. My family continues this commitment, and we volunteer together in the community through school and work.”

Schwab also volunteers her time providing pro bono legal services to a local animal rescue organization, Halo Animal Rescue, and training municipal lawyers through the State Bar of Arizona.

Her bucket list includes arguing a case before the United States Supreme Court.

MADHAVI REDDY

Entrepreneur

Madhavi Reddy is dedicated to connecting the community through an understanding of her Indian culture and making it approachable. She owns multiple local businesses, including ethnic grocery stores, a catering company, and Feringhee Modern Indian (named best new restaurant in 2022 and the first from the East Valley to top the list), bringing the people of Chandler and the southeast Valley together through food.

“I’ve always had a deep desire to bring people together through food, celebrate diversity, and introduce the vibrant parts of Indian culture and cuisine to Chandler.”

With the belief that no one should go to sleep hungry, her businesses support several local nonprofit organizations with food and meal donations.

Reddy also gives her time and enthusiasm to running an Indian language school, Manabadi Telugu, where she has been a volunteer teacher for the past seven years.

“I love being able to help parents and children connect with each other through their culture.”

KAREN JOSEPH

Community Organizer

Karen Joseph describes herself as a “community builder” and has been instrumental in giving back through various initiatives and organizations she has founded over the years, demonstrating her belief in the power of kindness, connection, and community.

It began 14 years ago when she established SEVEN Networking in Chandler, with the vision of bringing local entrepreneurs together to learn, grow, and prosper.

Joseph continued her efforts by founding Kindness Konnectors in 2017, a group focused on spreading love and kindness through community projects such as feeding the homeless, creating Mother's Day gifts for women in shelters, hosting spa days for seniors, and organizing flower arranging sessions for residents in memory care.

Joseph recently authored a book titled Manners Are Magical!, which offers fun and engaging activities to teach good manners to both children and adults. Inspired by her book, Joseph founded the nonprofit organization KIDS Kindness Org, which focuses on nurturing kindness in children and undertaking kindness projects such as making valentines for veterans and assembling birthday boxes for seniors in low-income housing.

CC CANTABRANA

City of Chandler

Raised by a family with deep Chandler roots, CC Cantabrana is a proud product of CUSD and began volunteering in her early teens.

She credits her passion for community to two people: “My mother’s example taught me the true measure of wealth is not in what we have, but in what we can give. Secondly, at the age of 7, Alberto Esparza played a pivotal role in broadening my horizons. Coming from a marginalized, low-income community, Alberto mentored me and embodied the idea of being the change I wanted to see, empowering me to dream big.”

Soon after graduation, her love for the Chandler community began in earnest with an unwavering commitment to public service. In her current role with the city’s DEI Division, she is dedicated to creating equity and inclusivity.

“I think it's so important to make people feel included and valued. Witnessing someone realize they are seen and appreciated is profoundly fulfilling to me. It's about creating a space where every voice is heard and respected and creating a sense of community and belonging.”

LENORE DEMBS

Chandler Fire Department

Firefighter Lenore Dembs has spent over 25 years of dedicated service with the Chandler Fire Department.

Her nominator writes, “She is humbly dedicated to serving the community and defines what it means to give maximum effort in all things she does. Her fellow firefighters would attest to the fact that if you think you are going to outwork Lenore, you will be disappointed.”

Her service to the community of Chandler represents the highest level of professionalism. Dembs was honored by her peers and the department as the 2023 EMT of the Year. This is an award given to an EMT that exceeds expectations in all capacities of their job performance.

“I feel we are on this earth to help each other. Through my job, I can help people on possibly their worst day.”

Something you may not know?

“I was inducted into my high school Hall of Fame for volleyball, basketball, and softball, earning the most letters in the history of my school.”

LOAN DAO

Dentist

Loan Dao, self-described as one of the “boat people” in the 1980s, faced ferocious pirates and an unforgiving ocean to come to the U.S., only to spend two years in a refugee camp.

“I live the definition of resiliency and determination.”

Now this 18-year resident has a thriving dental practice in Chandler, as well as owns several assisted living homes, but she hasn’t forgotten those in need. Dao gives her time to many community events and causes and donates free dental care to Mission of Mercy. She is an ASU founder of Project Humanities. Early on she set goals for her three children to be good citizens and pillars of the community and leads by example.

“Discipline and obsession will take you further than passion ever will. You just need to love yourself enough to know you deserve more, brave enough to demand more, and disciplined enough to work for more.”

Something that might surprise you?

“I’m a podcast junkie, listening to at least 10 a day at 1.5x speed!”

DR. JANET DREZ

Volunteer

Eleven years ago, inspired by God, Janet Drez and her husband intentionally left their beautiful Ocotillo home and moved into an abandoned house in the Galveston neighborhood with the purpose of opening their home to those in need and following Matthew 22:37-39, “loving your neighbors as yourself.”

There is not enough time or space to list all the ways Drez gives back to her community but volunteering at schools, leading Bible studies, and hosting teen nights in her home a couple of times a month are just a few. She also creates and organizes free weeklong day camps for 80-90 elementary kids during spring and fall breaks.

Being positive and enthusiastic in the face of hardship, sadness, or weakness has the power to change the situation, offer solutions, and breed joy in the journey.

Something that might surprise you?

“I taught entrepreneurship and marketing at Mesa Community College.”

CINDY GRIGORY Teacher, Skyline Gila River

Cindy Grigory recognizes that a true education includes more than teaching the basics and requires hands-on practices, teamwork, and creative problem-solving. Her tenure includes teaching at Title 1 schools, Skyline Gila River Reservation, and to students with learning challenges.

“My students push me to continuously seek out solutions to help them overcome obstacles.”

They will confirm her favorite mantra comes from a Disney movie, “From failing we learn, from success, not so much.”

Her nominator wrote, “She is a compassionate educator with a singular focus: closing the literacy gap that exists based on socio-economic status. Her love for her students and her passion for literacy is infectious.”

Believing literacy is a basic need, her bucket list includes starting a free dyslexia clinic for low-income children.

Something you may not know? She twirled fire batons in high school!

KRISTINE CARPENTER Teacher

Kristine Carpenter has served Chandler School District for 28 years as a teacher and administrator. Just starting out, she was particularly impressed by another teacher, “She taught me the importance of nurturing and caring about every student and showed me the impact that teachers have on a student’s life. It shaped me into who I am as a teacher today.”

Carpenter is also all about kindness and the role it plays in our society. To impress that upon students, she partnered with another teacher to start a Kindness Kids Club, designed to promote kindness in numerous ways to help others during challenging times. With over 50 members, their good work has even been featured on local news programs.

Volunteering is also an important part of her life. From leading a traveling student musical group to fundraising for students needing special tutoring to helping young children with special needs have a fun day of sporting events, Carpenter leads a life of servant leadership.

Something you may not know about her? When she was 20, she was a contestant on The Dating Game in Hollywood.

MEGAN JHAVER, M.D.

Physician

Having a life that was defined by service since she was a child, becoming a doctor seemed a natural path for Megan Jhaver. Describing herself as a true empath, she has a very hard time seeing others in pain or sadness, which seems ironic for a doctor.

In her internal medicine practice, mentorship is an important part of her life.

“I believe that each of us has an integral responsibility to help educate our youth and to provide equal access to education. Our communities thrive when our children are educated and equipped with the most powerful tools.”

She is also very passionate about serving globally. Having been the lead and only physician on three medical mission trips to Haiti or serving on two construction mission trips to Nicaragua building homes and latrines for poor families living in awful conditions in the barrio, Jhaver knows, “There really is no feeling in the world quite like serving and helping someone you have never met before and expecting nothing in return. It is simply the best feeling in the world!”

LT. DONNA RENO

Chandler Police Dept

To describe Donna Reno as “curious” might be an understatement! As a child, she always wanted to be a detective and was interested in homicide cases, especially serial killer cases.

“I have always been intrigued with the psychology of why people commit serial crimes.”

After an initial interest in the FBI, Lieutenant Reno started her career with Chandler PD in 2007, and over the years, she has served with numerous duties from patrol operations to community services to wellness training, including the Special Victim’s Unit, School Resource Officer Unit, Professional Standards Section, Watch Commander, and the Training Section. Throughout her career, she has been active in teaching many topics both within the department and many community groups.

Something you may not know?

“If my vision had been 20/20 as a child, I would have gone into the Air Force to fly fighter planes and then become an astronaut. I am fascinated about how vast space is with such a variety of things going on that sometimes are incomprehensible.”

JACKI RYAN

Intel

An Arizona native, Jacki Ryan went to the same junior high and high school that her father did. She and both her boys graduated from the University of Arizona.

“Go Cats!”

She has always been a “helper” and follows in her family’s footsteps with their deep roots and history of public service in Chandler. Her past and present community service speaks volumes on her commitment to Chandler, including with the Chandler Museum Foundation, Chandler Service Club, Chandler National Little League, CUSD, and Intel volunteer opportunities.

Her nominator writes, “Her tireless efforts have left an indelible mark on our community, from organizing local events to volunteering for charitable causes to mentoring youth and supporting the elderly. Jacki’s genuine compassion and kindness shines through in every interaction, creating a positive and inclusive environment for those around her.”

Something you may not know?

“I practice Spanish every day on Duolingo.”

SHERYL KEEME

Neighbors Who Care

Sheryl Keeme describes herself as a “nonprofit groupie. I am a community mobilizer from way back.” She has recruited and trained volunteers across the country for the American Cancer Society, raised money riding hundreds of miles on a bike for the National MS Society, and has worked with many nonprofits with missions as varied as the people they serve.

As a founding board member of Sun Lakes Memory Café, current board member of For Our City Chandler, and executive director of Neighbors Who Care (NWC), Keeme is committed to bringing the community and its resources together to help aging Chandler adults and those suffering from dementia. She had volunteered with NWC for many years before being named executive director and brings her experience in nonprofit management, fundraising, and marketing to the organization.

Keeme is also a writer and book coach, helping people tell their stories and self-publish on Amazon.

SHELBY ARIANS

Arians Family Foundation

With a successful banking career, Shelby Arians still makes giving back a priority, serving on multiple boards and volunteering with organizations including ICAN, Boys & Girls Clubs, Chandler Dream Center, CUSD, and City of Chandler.

She also helps run her family’s foundation, the Arians Family Foundation (AFF), founded by her in-laws, Bruce and Christine Arians. AFF supports Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) to make sure that children who are involved in the court system as a result of abuse or neglect by their families receive the love and help they need.

Locally, Arians started a chapter called S.P.E.A.K –Serving With Purpose To Empower And Advocate For Kids, creating a voice for those in the foster care system.

Something you may not know?

“I played soccer for 15 years and used to race Hobby stock race cars with my dad and brother on a dirt track.”

ERICA MAXWELL Educator

Erica Maxwell has served more than 25 years in local educational institutions, both as a teacher and administrator including CUSD, Gila River Indian charter school, Chandler-Gilbert Community College, and ASU. She was also appointed as Arizona’s first associate superintendent of Equity, Diversity & Inclusion for the Department of Education.

As chairwoman of the city’s Human Relations Commission, “I am fueled to pursue equity and create more inclusive and compassionate communities for all. I remain steadfast in my commitment to effecting positive change.”

Maxwell co-authored a book with her daughter, Jessica, called Beauty With A Birthmark , which teaches children empathy, understanding, and acceptance as they learn to embrace themselves and what makes each child unique.

KRISTY BLACKWELL Attorney

Co-founder of the law firm Stuart & Blackwell, Kristy Blackwell is focused on adoptions, guardianships, and juvenile law. She is a fellow of the Academy of Adoption & Assisted Reproduction Attorneys and president of the Arizona Adoption Coalition, a statewide nonprofit dedicated to promoting adoption and improving those services.

Blackwell’s mission is to bring children who need loving homes to families who want to grow. She also focuses on educating the community about adoption and resources to prevent children from falling into the foster care system.

Her firm often takes on pro bono cases and volunteers regularly in the juvenile law clinic through the Arizona Volunteer Lawyers Project.

“Many we help are grandparents or relatives who want guardianship but need help because the system is expensive and overwhelming.”

Something you may not know?

“I absolutely LOVE bears!”

KAREN SELF Teacher, Coach

Seton Catholic girls basketball coach Karen Self is on her way to becoming the winningest coach in state history. Her many coaching awards and accolades are well deserved. After 32 years, her Sentinels have won 83% of their games, won 15 of 17 appearances in the Arizona State Girls' Basketball Titles, were the state’s runners-up four times, and have been the region champs 30 consecutive years.

Self doesn’t just teach her players basketball skills. Each season her team works with local charities to help raise awareness for their cause. She also runs charity event games and volunteers her time to provide summer basketball camps each year.

“I tell my players that winning is a by-product of doing things correctly. I try to embrace the idea of growth through failure. Fail, fail again, fail forward. The only way we can grow is to learn through experience. Sometimes we have to get something wrong to figure out how to get it right.”

Photographed on-site at Chateau de Vie/ The Lavender Farm

THE SCENT OF SUCCESS

ARTICLE BY GEORGANN YARA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LINDSAY

Teaming

With Lush life, The Lavender Farm Offers a Picturesque Oasis in the Desert

When Shelly Goodman and her husband Nick purchased and began restoring a 1984 mansion, the plan was to transform the property into the perfect venue to host events and milestone celebrations. But when that didn’t pan out as they envisioned, Shelly did what any optimistic and savvy businesswoman would do when life hands her lemons. Except in this case, instead of lemonade, she set her sights on lavender.

Last spring, the Goodmans put 500 lavender plants into the soil at Chateau de Vie, their luxury estate featuring a majestic 15,000-square-foot home surrounded by a glittering lake, two ponds, soothing streams, and endless greenery.

When these plants came to fruition, The Lavender Farm was officially born. With more than 10 acres of sprawling picturesque environs and thriving acres of crops, it is a welcome multi-sensory respite for visitors who take in the sights while inhaling the soothing bouquet created not only by lavender but hundreds of citrus trees, rose bushes, honeysuckle, and hibiscus.

“It’s an oasis in the desert,” Shelly says. “It doesn’t feel like you’re in Arizona anymore.”

Today, The Farm hosts soap- and candle-making classes using the essential oils from its crops. A roadside stand serves as a shop where guests can purchase lotions, soaps, candles, hand wash, and other products made with its products.

Reclaimed wood from orange trees that have died has been repurposed into wood chips that can be used for grilling or smoking. And later this year, the Goodmans will plant flowers and add bouquets and a floral-arranging class to their offerings.

The Farm also hosts tours of the Chateau, which helps to fund its restoration and preservation.

When the Goodmans purchased Chateau de Vie in 2010, they rescued it from foreclosure. It had fallen into disrepair and was barely a shadow of its original self. Still, they saw its innate beauty, restored it to exquisiteness, and envisioned the second life it was meant to live.

When the work was done, they wanted to introduce their gem to the world.

“The chateau itself is a work of art, and we wanted to share the beauty of the property with people,” Shelly says. "We felt this was the right direction.”

The Goodmans hosted events at the Chateau but stopped doing so in 2019. They were pondering what to do next when, inspired by successful agritourism spots like Queen Creek Olive Mill and Agritopia, they discovered lavender and made that the centerpiece of their new plan.

When it opened last fall, the bit of trepidation Shelly felt quickly evaporated.

“I hope this is going to work,” she recalls of her thoughts at the time. “But when people started coming …”

Once, Shelly was walking by a visitor strolling the grounds and telling her companion, “This place is just magical.”

At the time, she was experiencing the garden variety issues that crop up with getting a new venture off the ground. Hearing this gave her a much-needed boost.

“It brought tears to my eyes,” she says. “It made everything worth it knowing that so many people are coming here, loving it and appreciating the beauty like we do.”

CDVAZ.com/TheLavenderFarms.com

Lola’s Liquors Opens in Downtown Chandler

ARTICLE BY ALISON STANTON | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED THE

When Lola’s guests walk through the velvet curtains, they are transported to another world full of neon lights, disco balls, and bold flavors, inspired by the sexiness and carefree attitude of the 1980s and 1990s.

Looking for a vibrant lounge where you can enjoy a handcrafted, fresh-pressed martini alongside some delicious food? Check out Lola’s Liquors in Downtown Chandler, one of the area’s newest hot spots.

Lola’s Liquors, which opened in late February at 64 S. San Marcos Place, is a cocktail lounge with “outlandish martinis, a resident DJ spinning the best of every decade, and psychedelic vibes all around," notes Sarah Roberson, the marketing director for Thrive Social Company, the location's parent company.

“When Lola’s guests walk through the velvet curtains, they are transported to another world full of neon lights, disco balls, and bold flavors, inspired by the sexiness and carefree attitude of the 1980s and 1990s,” she says.

Lola’s Liquors is the fourth concept location that Brad Ingarfield from Thrive Social Company has opened in Downtown Chandler. It joins Murphy’s Law Irish Pub, Bourbon Jack’s American Tavern, and BlackSheep WineBar & Merchant.

“Thrive Social Company’s goal is to cultivate neighborhoods and help create destination areas. Lola’s continues our mission—and who doesn't love a good disco?” Roberson notes.

Even though Lola’s Liquors has not been open long, Roberson says it is already attracting a steady crowd of appreciative guests who love both the atmosphere, the memorable beverages, and selection of food.

For example, Lola’s Liquors’ signature drink, The Apple-tini by Lola, has been especially popular with patrons.

“It’s crisp and refreshing with all of the boldness and sass Lola can fit into a glass,” Roberson says, adding that the Back to Black Martini, which features notes of blackberry, lavender, and sage harmonizing

in a glamorous and memorable fashion, is also a favorite of many of Lola’s guests.

For those who are looking for a scrumptious bite, Roberson says Lola’s Liquors offers a fantastically fresh fusion of East-meets-Southwest.

“People are loving our Glazed and Confused Chicken Skewers,” she says. “Then there are the Boom Bites, which are fried rice bites loaded with spicy tuna, jalapeno, avocado, cilantro, and sriracha dressing. Guests are also raving about Lola's Poke-Licious Nachos, which feature sushi-grade tuna, crispy wontons, scallions, jalapenos, cilantro, and avocado, all drizzled with our signature sriracha dressing and unagi.”

Guests can also satisfy their sweet tooth while at Lola’s Liquors with the La Bomba dessert, featuring a triple chocolate brownie, chocolate chip cookie, vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, chocolate sauce, and caramel.

Lola’s Liquors is currently only open on Friday and Saturday nights from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m., Roberson says, but it makes the most of the time it has available to guests.

“Lola’s comes alive with a bit of glamour and a lively and energetic atmosphere, making it the perfect spot for a night out with friends or a nostalgic date night,” she shares.

The destination is also available to rent for parties and private events.

Roberson says she—and everyone at Thrive Social Company—is thrilled by the warm reception Lola’s Liquors has received from the Chandler community.

“The response has been overwhelmingly positive, and we feel so welcomed by our neighbors and guests,” she says.

LolasLiquors.com

Wes McLaughlin

ARTICLE

HANDMADE

BREAKING BREAD

BY ANGELA BROOCKERD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

BEVERAGE

Making homemade bread is coming back, and while the convenience of buying a pre-made loaf is readily available, there is nothing like the taste of a warm, homemade loaf right out of the oven. These easy-to-follow recipes are exploding with flavor and are simple to make.

LEMON ALMOND LOAF

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 ½ cups flour

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• 1 cup sugar

• 1 tablespoon lemon zest

• ¾ cup milk

• ½ cup vegetable oil

• 2 eggs

• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 teaspoon almond extract

LEMON GLAZE ICING:

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 2 teaspoons lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon almond extract

• 2 tablespoons sliced almonds

INSTRUCTIONS:

Preheat the oven to 350° F. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt and baking powder. In a separate bowl, combine sugar and lemon zest and lightly mix. Stir in flour mixture and set aside. In a separate bowl, mix oil, eggs, lemon juice, vanilla and almond extract. Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and stir. Pour batter into a greased loaf pan and bake for 1 hour. Cool for 15 minutes and then carefully remove from the pan. Next, make the lemon glaze by combining all of the icing ingredients and whisk until smooth. Drizzle glaze all over the loaf and sprinkle with almond slices. Enjoy!

SOURDOUGH BREAD

For an added health benefit, try this probiotic-rich sourdough bread known for being easy to digest and a healthier gut-friendly option. To make sourdough bread, you will need a starter which can take anywhere from 7-14 days. To make your own, mix flour and water together in a jar and feed the starter each day until ready. There are many sourdough starter recipes online.

SOURDOUGH STARTER INGREDIENTS:

• 2 teaspoons sourdough starter

• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 5 teaspoons water

DOUGH INGREDIENTS:

• ¼ cup active sourdough starter

• 2 teaspoons salt

• 4 cups flour

INSTRUCTIONS:

Twelve hours before you plan to mix the dough, add the ingredients to make ¼ cup of active sourdough starter. Stir and cover and let the starter rise. The starter is ready when it has doubled in size and there are bubbles on the surface and sides.

To make the dough, add ¼ cup sourdough starter and 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons of water and stir. Next, add 4 cups plus 2 tablespoons of flour and 2 teaspoons of salt. Use a spatula to work the ingredients together until there are no more dry ingredients in the bowl. Wet your hand with a little water to prevent sticking, and pick up the dough on one side of the bowl and stretch it up and over itself. Turn the bowl a quarter turn and repeat this step until you have turned the bowl a full circle. Cover the bowl and let the dough sit for 30 minutes. Repeat the folding process one more time. Cover the bowl and let the dough rise on your counter for 8-10 hours.

Next, on a lightly floured surface, shape the dough into a ball by pulling the dough into the middle of itself. Turn the ball over so the seam is down. Use your hands to gently pull and cup the dough until it forms a tight skin. Place the dough on parchment paper and transfer the paper and dough to a medium sized bowl. Cover the bowl and let it rise for 2 hours.

Preheat the oven to 450°F. Score the top of dough with a sharp knife. Use the parchment paper to lift the dough up and transfer to a dutch oven. Place the lid on and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the lid and bake for an additional 30 minutes or until golden brown.

FOCACCIA

This recipe is quick and easy to make with just a few simple steps. It tastes great on its own, but dipping it in olive oil infused with fresh herbs adds an extra level of flavor.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 ¾ cups warm water

• 2 ½ teaspoons sugar

• 1 package active dry yeast

• 4 cups flour

• 2 teaspoons salt

• 4 tablespoons olive oil

• Optional:

• Fresh rosemary

• Coarse sea salt

• Fresh pressed garlic

INSTRUCTIONS:

Use a stand mixer with a fitted dough hook, and stir together the water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top and stir again. Set mixture aside for 5 minutes. Mixture should be foamy. Next, add the flour and salt and mix on low until a shaggy dough forms. Increase speed and mix for an additional 4-5 minutes. Brush a large bowl with olive oil. Transfer the dough to the bowl and cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp towel. Set aside for about 1 to 1 ½ hours until the dough has doubled in size.

Brush a 9x13-inch baking dish with 2 tablespoons of oil. Uncover the dough and rub hands with olive oil. Slide your hands under the dough and fold it onto itself. Continue to work your way around the edge of the bowl, folding the dough onto itself until there is a ball that you can lift from the bowl. Place the dough in the prepared pan and press the dough to the edges. Cover the pan with plastic wrap or a damp towel and set aside to rise for about 45 minutes until the dough has doubled in size.

Preheat the oven to 425°F. Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the dough. Rub your hands with olive oil and use your fingers to make indentions on the surface of the dough. Sprinkle it with salt and rosemary and any desired toppings. Bake for 20-30 minutes or until golden brown.

SMILE AND EAT

A SELECTION

MAY 1ST - MAY 26TH

Shutter and Sound

Chandler Museum

Bob Willoughby (1927–2009) is perhaps best known for his candid photographs of famous Hollywood actors, but he also captured many images of jazz musicians. The 50 images in this exhibition reflect the jazz scene of the 1950s and showcase wistful singers, jamming musicians, and enthusiastic audiences. Willoughby photographed jazz greats such as Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong, Miles Davis, Dave Brubeck, and Frank Sinatra.

ChandlerMuseum.org

MAY 1ST - JUNE 8TH

Cruising: The Lowrider Art Exhibit

Vision Gallery

Beginning in the 1950s, lowrider car clubs began popping up throughout the Southwest. In the ensuing decades, the popularity of this hobby flourished, with members each bringing their own flare and artistry. Nearly 70 years later, the community includes multiple generations of creative and artistic lowrider enthusiasts. This exhibit celebrates the culture and the artistic merits of the people who design and build these cars.

VisionGallery.org

MAY 3RD, 10TH, AND 17TH

CinePark May Movie Series

Tumbleweek Park

This evening of outdoor movie entertainment on a giant screen is suitable for the whole family. You can bring a blanket or lawn chairs to sit on. Crafts and activities begin at 6:30 p.m.; the movie begins promptly at 8 p.m. May 3: Super Mario Brothers. May 10: Trolls Band Together. May 17: TMNT l Mutant Mayhem. ChandlerAZ.gov MAY 5TH

Chandler Symphony Orchestra Presents

Celebrate!

Chandler Center for the Arts

Join Music Director and Conductor

Vanja Gjumar Nikolovski and Chandler Symphony Orchestra for its 31st Season at Chandler Center for the Arts. This orchestra of professionally trained musicians volunteer their time and talent to bring classical music to the community. They will perform Tchaikovsky’s  Symphony No. 5, Codina’s  Zacatecas, Marquez’s  Danzon No. 2 and Copland’s  El Salon Mexico. Admission is by donation. ChandlerCenter.org

CONTINUED >

Happy Mother’s Day

events

CONTINUED

MAY 16TH

Joss Stone

Chandler Center for the Arts | 7:30 PM

Grammy-winning British soul sensation Joss Stone captivates with her powerhouse vocals and interpretations of timeless classics. She takes the stage to deliver an unforgettable performance, blending soul, R&B, and blues in a way that will leave you in awe. ChandlerCenter.org

MAY 19TH

Classic Albums Live: Billy Joel's The Stranger

Chandler Center for the Arts | 7:00 PM

Relive the nostalgia of  The Stranger, Billy Joel’s fifth studio album, released in Sept. 1977. The album helped define the '70s and two Grammy Awards in 1978 for Record of the Year and Song of the Year. Four songs from the album were on the  Billboard 100: “She’s Always a Woman,” “Movin’ Out,” “Just the Way You Are,” and “Only the Good Die Young.” ChandlerCenter.org