The Financial Balancing Act
For women in their 40's, 50's, and 60's life can feel like a juggling act, with responsibilities pulling you in multiple directions. Balancing the needs of growing children while also caring for aging parents can be both emotionally and physically difficult.
On top of that, these are the same years when managing your finances become critically important for things like planning for retirement, financing college, supporting aging family members or simply handling daily expenses.
How can you do it all? Finding the support of a tribe who can help you to set boundaries, prioritize and maintain a healthy balance is the key. Join us on June 9, 2025 at noon Arizona time for a special session on Managing Kids, Parents
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LIFESTYLE
The Men’s Issue
Feeling inspired yet? You will be.
Meet the incredible men shaping our community in this year’s Men of Chandler 2025 feature. Every year, we wonder how we’ll top the last—and every year, we're overwhelmed by the number of outstanding nominations. What a privilege it is to live in a place full of such remarkable individuals!
This is also our annual Gentleman’s Issue, and we’ve packed it with stories that celebrate style, substance, and spirit. We sat down with NFL legend—and Chandler resident—Donovan McNabb, took a look inside Renovate Your Gate’s James Lewis’s impressive bourbon collection, fired up the grill with some crowd-pleasing recipes, and even explored a getaway where you can embrace the cowboy lifestyle.
We hope this issue leaves you inspired, entertained, and proud to call Chandler home. And to all the dads out there—Happy Father’s Day!
Yours,
MICHELLE
June 2025
PUBLISHER
Joyce Selk | joyce.selk@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Michelle Glicksman
michelle.glicksman@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANTS
Jessica Bush, Christina Larson, Skye Wagner
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Beth Del Ville, Megan Ewing
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Lindsay Borg, Brittany Jean, Stephanie Slezak
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard
QUALITY
Megan Cagle
When should I start talking to my family about needing additional help?
There is no time like the present to start a conversation with someone advancing in age. You can approach the conversation with a recent experience, “Mom, a friend had to take much time off work recently because her mom fell and was in the hospital. She had to go to rehab before she was able to return home, but still needs some help. Can we begin talking about how you would want to handle that situation if something like that happened to you? I want to respect your wishes and understand what you would expect of me before we are faced with a stressful situation.”
inside the issue
Spirit of Business Award Winner Impact Team of the Year Award
Amy Jones Real Estate Group AmyJonesGroup
AmyJonesGroup AmyJonesGroup
city scene
1: Mr. Flores, a robotics teacher from Bogle Junior High, received the 2025 Esperanza Latino Teacher Award. 2: Residents of Cadence Chandler on an outing at The Lavender Farm in Chandler. 3: Chandler City Lifestyle, Ocotillo Home Lending, and the Amy Jones Group planning for ICAN's dreamBIG 2025! 4: Amy Jones Group's Mallory, Emily, Mindy, Morgan, and Rachel at Amy Jones Group's Quarterly Business Mixer. 5: Mindy Jones, alongside one of Amy Jones Group's Business Mixer's attendees, showcases Kindness Kits. 6: Mahnaz Pourian, Caitlyn Weiss, Renae Townsend, and owner Sara Pourian at The Tox Chandler grand opening. 7: The Tox demo treatments with technician Lily at Chandler’s Small Business Expo.
8: Club members celebrate at Ocotillo Village Health Club and Spa's 10 Year Anniversary Party. 9: Club members at Ocotillo Village Health Club and Spa's 10 Year Anniversary Party. 10: Terri Rettig announces the 2025-2026 season for Chandler Center for the Arts on stage. 11: More than 900 people enjoyed the Fulton Elementary Carnival, including first responders. 12: The Voice semi-finalist Kristen Merlin performed with local favorite The Buddy Martell Band at the Fulton Elementary Carnival. 13-14: Chandler Fire visited Hull Elementary and Chandler Academy (Humphrey Campus) for their biannual FIREPALS sessions.
15: Another night of fun at Bottle & Bean with the Pizza Butcher. 16: Congrats to Lisa DeLorenzo Shore for receiving the Chandler Chamber's Administrator of the Year award. 17: Dignity Health Foundation East Valley's 4th annual Swinging For Sports Medicine hosts Alexis and Garrett Richards. 18: Dignity Health Foundation East Valley's 4th annual Swinging For Sports Medicine raised a record-breaking $100,000. 19: Men of Chandler Breakfast Mixer at the new George & Gather was a hit! 20: Men of Chandler Breakfast Mixer organizers Seth Tucker, Darwin Wall, and Brian Garcia-Larson at the new George & Gather. 21: Principal Tony Alcala, Galveston Elementary, introduced the Battle of the Books team to treats at George & Gather. Want to be seen in the magazine?
GALAB PHOTOGRAPHY
GALAB PHOTOGRAPHY
Rachel Froio-Creeley Joins Amy Jones Group
Rachel Froio-Creeley recently joined to the real estate group Amy Jones Group. Originally from Illinois, Froio-Creeley has called Arizona home since 1994. With a strong background in sales and management, she transitioned into real estate in 2024 to pursue her passion of helping others. She thrives on connecting with clients and guiding them through the home buying and selling process. AmyJonesGroup.com
Dr. Joshua Russek , DVM
Dr. Nathan Goodwin, DVM Andrea Stickland, DVM
Dr Adalis Montero, DVM
Photography Courtesy of Amy Jones Group
Stackin Weight Precious Metals Celebrates One Year Anniversary
Stackin Weight Precious Metals specializes in the purchase and sale of precious metals, rare coins, exquisite bullion, collectibles, and a wide range of other valuable items. Bren Blanchette made it a family business, and his expert team includes his two sons and nephew. Clients receive the utmost in quality, authenticity, and value, whether they are buying or selling. The team provides expert insights and up-to-date market analysis, ensuring clients understand all aspects of investing in these metals. StackinWeight.com
Chandler Awarded 2025 Smart Cities North America Honor
The City of Chandler was named a winner in the 2025 International Data Corporation Smart Cities North America Awards for its Real-Time Instant Language Assistant pilot. In 2024, Chandler completed a sixmonth pilot program offering instant language translation device services in more than 10 departments and 20 divisions throughout the city. Realtime language translation enabled city staff to easily have immediate conversations and on-demand engagement with residents and the public, regardless of language or ability. ChandlerAZ.gov
Dr. Mendolia Joins Ocotillo Animal Clinic & Pet Resort
Dr. Mendolia recently joined the team at Ocotillo Animal Clinic & Pet Resort. A Mesa native and University of Florida graduate, Dr. Mendolia brings a deep passion for small animal care—especially geriatrics. She’s dedicated to helping senior pets live their best lives through comfort-focused care, including acupuncture and rehabilitation therapy. Those interested can book with Dr. Mendolia directly from the company's website. OcotilloAnimalClinic.com
Kohler Bathroom Design
Photography Courtesy of Ocotillo Animal Clinic & Pet Resort
Seton Catholic Girls Basketball Assistant Coach Kayla Refner Honored
Seton Catholic Girls Basketball Assistant Coach Kayla Refner was named top high school assistant coach in 2025 by WBCA. Refner has played in, starred in, repped at the college level, and now coaches the legendary Sentinel girls basketball program. She has been part of the coaching staff at Seton since the 2018-19 season, and helped the team to state titles in 2020 an 2021.
Share Your Story With the Chandler Museum!
A key part of Chandler Museum's mission is an ongoing commitment to gathering the stories of the people and communities who make up our city through oral histories, photos, videos, and objects. Those at the museum believe that all people’s stories matter, and they want to hear yours. Current projects include: JapaneseAmerican internment stories, South Vietnamese stores, Southside Village Neighborhood stories, and more. Visit the website for more information and to submit. ChandlerAZ.gov
THE men OF CHANDLER 2025
PHOTOGRAPHY BY LINDSAY BORG AND BRITTANY JEAN
For the second month in a row, I wish our magazine could be 100 pages!
Nominations for our Men of Chandler feature were solicited through the magazine, social media, and word-of-mouth because we wanted to feature men our readers would find special. The nominating criteria remained loose because we were looking for men from a broad cross-section of our community, and our Editorial Committee once again had a difficult task making the selections. When I say this process is difficult, I mean as in sleepless nights for many!
These guys were found everywhere—donating their talents, time, and/or money to make a difference in our great community. I hope you enjoy reading and learning more about each of these men. Some will not be a surprise, but some will. Some are similarly motivated. Some are extremely unique. Some are innovative. Some have overcome great adversity. All are amazingly selfless. All are interesting. All are dedicated. All are motivated to do good.
Next time you see these men out and about, I hope you say hello and thank them for caring. They truly embody what gives Chandler our small town feel and true sense of community.
— Joyce Selk, publisher and owner
CORY WHYTE
Realtor/Broker
Born on an Army base in Germany, Cory Whyte grew up in San Diego, where he met his wife, Lisa. He followed her back to Chandler, as her family has been a prominent part of the community since 1915. They are currently raising three fourth-generation Chandlerites!
As chairman of the Dignity Health Foundation Board of Directors 2025/26, over $5M was raised to improve and save lives in our community every day.
Whyte also serves as vice president of the Ocotillo HOA Board, one of the largest communities in Chandler with over 3,300 residents. Prior to this, Whyte spent 15 years as a local youth sports coach for the YMCA, RSL Soccer Club (his favorite sport!), and i9 Sports. He also spent 10 years with the Horizon Rotary, raising money for local needs.
When he is not busy selling real estate or raising money for the needs in our community, Whyte plans to visit all 50 states (he so far has 35 and counting), take his family back to Europe, go skydiving, and race a car in an official race. That’s quite a bucket list!
SCOTT VANDERPOOL
Market President, Bank of America
A third-generation banker, Scott Vanderpool is described as an authentic leader who “walks the talk” every day.
His nominator writes, “The depth of his knowledge and care for the education sector is what truly inspires me. He makes a point to be out in the community, learning about the issues that kids are facing, talking with leaders about solutions, and bringing diverse groups together for partnership development.”
He brings together coalitions of East Valley nonprofit leaders with nearby school districts to talk about how they can partner and strengthen programs for students.
“These meetings are never about the bank, but about community-building and how he can support our efforts,” the nominator says.
Outside of the bank, Vanderpool serves on the boards of ICAN, Education Forward Arizona, and the Arizona Bankers Association.
Teaching a leadership class at Pacific Coast Banking School, his approach to leadership is focused on being authentic.
“Believing not only in ‘what’ you are doing, but also the ‘why’ behind it can not only elicit strong followership, but also lead to extraordinary outcomes.”
Fun fact?
“I originally wanted to be a Major League Baseball play-by-play announcer.”
RENE LOPEZ
Co-Founder, CeCe’s Hope Center
Rene Lopez is a third-generation Arizona native and third-generation U.S. Naval Officer veteran. He was the first in his family to graduate college.
His family’s commitment to community service has always been a priority for him. He took up an interest in politics in junior high school, when his father took him out to knock on doors for a Phoenix mayoral race. Moving back to his hometown in 2007, Lopez has served in several political capacities, including City Park and Recreation Committee member, Chandler City Council, Vice Mayor, and currently as Commissioner on the Arizona Corporation Commission.
In 2017, Lopez co-founded Cece’s Hope Center, an East Valley nonprofit that helps young women at risk who were rescued from sex trafficking from all over Arizona. Its holistic program has aided over 1,000 young women. They’ve stabilized and improved the futures of victims by bridging the gap of services and support.
His words to live by are by C.S. Lewis: "My prayer is that when I die, all of hell rejoices that I am out of the fight."
Fun fact?
“I have traveled the world and have set foot on every continent except Antarctica. It’s one of my bucket list items to experience.”
MATT MARSHALL
Executive VP, First Bank
Matt Marshall is described as an outstanding leader, dedicated volunteer, and a pillar of our community. His unwavering commitment to making Chandler a better place is evident in his professional achievements, community service, and personal integrity.
Marshall’s volunteer work has had a profound impact. He’s dedicated countless hours to serving as a life member of the Chandler Compadres and serving 12-plus years on the Chandler Education Foundation board of directors. He also serves on the board of the Dignity Health Foundation-East Valley. He formally served on the board of The Clothes Cabin, and the Boys & Girls Clubs/Chandler.
His nominator writes, “Matt is always striving to uplift those in need. His ability to bring people together and inspire positive change is truly commendable.”
Something you may not know?
“By most appearances, I’m very involved in the community and successful in my career, but most people wouldn’t know that I was raised in a low-income area by two parents who neither graduated from high school. My dad was an auto mechanic, and my mom cleaned homes. Just proof that your circumstances can always be overcome.”
DR. RAFAEL MARTINEZ
Asst. Professor, ASU
As an oral historian and educator, Dr. Martinez has found Chandler to be a community which has nourished the professional and personal growth at all levels for him and his family.
“As a professor and educator, it has been a goal for me to leverage topics that impact our students who come from this community, as well as the other communities in this region.”
His nominator explains, “It is not an exaggeration to state that lives have been changed with his approach to public history work through his Querencia oral history project,” which was about the 1997 Roundup when members of the Hispanic/Latino community were taken into police custody for simply looking different. The Chandler Museum traveling exhibit on his project proved to have a monumental impact on the community.
“His work helped fill the mosaic showing the variety of experiences which all together created the culture and history of Chandler.”
Martinez makes additional contributions to the community by serving on the City’s Board of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion; on the board of Chandler4Change; and as a member of the Chandler Chamber of Commerce.
BRAD NESS
Director, Chandler Business Alliance
The proud father of two sets of twin girls, Brad Ness is described as a “natural builder.” Despite being retired, he doesn’t seem to be able to slow down.
Through the Chandler Business Alliance, Ness creates opportunities for businesses and nonprofits to connect, collaborate, and support one another. The organization actively participates in and helps promote nonprofit fundraising events and needs. Additionally, the foundation provides funding to numerous local nonprofits.
“I am dedicated to bridging the gap between the business community and nonprofit organizations in Chandler and the surrounding areas,” he says.
As a Vietnam veteran, he also deeply values the opportunity to give back to fellow veterans and honor their service.
“As Sergeant-at-Arms for American Legion Post 91, I help support veterans and their families through various programs and initiatives.”
Fun fact?
“I’m a devoted Green Bay Packers fan!” he says. “Back in 2011, I started the Green Bay Packers Fan Club at the Stadium Club in Chandler. What began with just six fans has grown into a packed event!”
CAPTAIN WILLIAM “SCOTT” ONYETT
Chandler Fire Department
Captain Scott Onyett’s dedication to his profession and the community is evident by being named the 2023 Paramedic of the Year and 2024 Firefighter of the Year.
“His expertise and ability to remain calm under pressure has made him a trusted figure in the Chandler Fire Department,” writes his nominator.
He also serves as vice president of the local firefighter union, where he advocates for his colleagues, ensuring they have the support and resources needed to succeed.
“One of the things that made a profound impact on me when going through the hiring process was the talk about the opportunity to be involved in the community through the department. I couldn’t think of anything more fulfilling than to serve the community that my family and I were a part of,” he says.
“One thing a lot of people might not know is that within the department, we operate our own charity. Every employee can elect to donate money out of each check that goes into an account that allows us to help people with money or resources when we encounter them during difficult times. There aren’t many times of the year where you won’t find a group of us out trying to make a difference.”
STEPHEN PHAIR
Financial Advisor, Edward Jones
Stephen Phair’s parents and grandparents had a profound appreciation for this community and instilled in him the inspiration to do what he could to make Chandler a better place to live.
“One of the biggest lessons they taught me was that service is about showing up—not just when it’s easy, but when it’s needed most,” he says. “Giving back to Chandler isn’t something I do occasionally—it’s a way of life.”
Through the Rotary Club of Sun Lakes, he has contributed to several meaningful projects that directly impact the community, including Dictionaries for Third Graders, annual golf tournaments to support many local charities, youth leadership programs, and providing various services for seniors.
One of Phair’s most notable achievements is the development of a statewide project to create Rotary license plates for Arizona Rotarians, raising funds across the state to support community projects and grants. Beyond Rotary, he volunteers at Hamilton High, is a member of the Elks Lodge, and serves with a few other nonprofits in the community.
Fun fact?
“I’m a lifelong student, especially of history. My grandfather was a history professor, and he instilled in me the understanding that ‘those who don’t learn from history are doomed to repeat it.’”
CHRIS ROTHERT
Area Director, Chandler Young Life
On a Monday night, you might find up to 60 students at Chris and Jessica Rothert’s home, relaxing in a safe environment where they are able to be a kid, have fun, and hear about Jesus.
Rothert admits he made a lot of mistakes as a teen growing up on a hog farm in Illinois, but having a mentor to share life and its challenges with eventually transformed his life. Leaving his staff job at Young Life in Illinois, he moved to Arizona to flip houses. But with the collapse of the real estate market in 2009, he found himself spending the next 10 years in corporate America.
He started volunteering with the youth group at his church, which led the way for Rothert to return to fulltime staff at Young Life in Chandler. Through activities, mentorship, and friendship, this organization helps adolescents find belonging, purpose, and hope.
What’s on his bucket list?
“Do I really need a bucket list when I get the privilege of taking students to Young Life Camp and see lives transformed?”
DAN SHELLUM
Commander, Chandler Police Department
Following in the footsteps of his father and uncle, Dan Shellum believes policing is in his DNA.
“I saw the positive impact they had on the community and knew that I wanted to do the same and be a part of a team that provides an opportunity to live in a community where they can feel safe,” he says.
Shellum has received many promotions since joining the department in 2005, and is currently commander in the Criminal Investigations Bureau and has received the Chief’s Award of Excellence honor.
His nominator writes, “Commander Shellum is a true leader who is committed to making a positive impact in the department and community. As a commander, he is driven by the fact that his position gives him a voice to serve as an agent who can inspire the positive change needed to continue the CPD’s legacy as a top-tier law enforcement agency.”
He also serves on the Citizen’s Use of Force Board and the City’s Human Right Commission.
Fun fact?
“I love Starburst jelly beans, but I have to group them together by quantity and eat them in ascending or descending order!”
HESTER “SHAWN” CHARLES
Co-Owner, Oasis Senior Advisors
Shawn Charles has proven to be one of the best wrestlers in the world, winning championships at high school, college, and international competitions. Charles earned a scholarship to Arizona State University (ASU) and became a four-time All-American, the first in the school’s history. He was crowned the PAC 10 Champion twice and was inducted into the ASU Hall of Fame.
After graduation, Charles went on to win international championships and became a D1 coach, earning Coach of the Year-PAC 10 Conference as head wrestling coach at ASU, coached the Outstanding Wrestler-NCAA Champions, three academic Male Student Athletes of the Year for three colleges, 42 All-Americans, and 5 NCAA Champions.
His international coaching career was just as successful, coaching at three Olympic games, many World Championships, the Pan Am Championship, two-time World Cup Coach, and Ukraine International Tournament Coach twice.
Charles and his wife, Jill, co-own a business in Chandler and have raised two sons here. He volunteers by serving on the board for the YMCA, Robles Unstoppable Foundation, Chandler Men of Action, and Chandler4Change.
Fun fact?
“Don Cheadle portrayed me in the movie, Unstoppable.”
MARK WHITAKER Volunteer
Mark Whitaker is retired and that has given him time to volunteer doing community service projects in Chandler and the East Valley as a member of the Chandler Elks Lodge, #2429 and the Chandler Exchange Club. With the Exchange Club he leads two projects: Field of Hope, a memorial to help raise awareness and prevent child abuse in Arizona, and fulfilling his brother’s legacy, Wreaths Across America, where live wreaths are placed on the graves of veterans to remember their lives, service, and sacrifice.
With the Exchange Club he also reads to children in their classroom and provides lunch for the teachers and staff. He is also very involved in the 9/11 Memorial Healing Field every September at Tempe Beach Park.
“For the past couple of years, I have biked over 200 miles each October to raise funds for Lily’s Pad, an East Valley indoor playground that is a safe haven for children with weakened immune systems due to the medical challenges they face.”
His passion for photography has raised funds for veterans’ causes through the Elks Lodge.
Fun fact?
“Dad was military, and I went to kindergarten in an old chateaux in France and graduated from a U.S. DOD High School in Spain.”
pour THE MASTER CRAFTSMAN’S
JAMES LEWIS’ PASSION FOR COMMUNITY AND ARTISANRY SHAPES BOTH BUSINESS AND PLEASURE
ARTICLE BY BETH DEL VILLE PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEPHANIE SLEZAK
Gates and bourbon. It might seem like an unlikely pairing, but for James Lewis, owner of Renovate Your Gate, they're both expressions of his passion for craftsmanship and excellence. He creates custom gates by day, and by night, explores the rich world of fine bourbon. His collection, largely amassed mostly in the first of his four years collecting, boasts an impressive 130 bottles—a testament to his dedication.
“I enjoyed bourbon and realized that there is a social aspect to it that I like,” Lewis explains. “In fact, when my neighbor sees my garage open, he’ll come for a few drinks.”
Like the careful selection of materials for his gates, Lewis curates his bourbon collection with an eye for the exceptional. He favors the robust flavors of The Boss Hog and the unique notes of A Midwinter Night’s Dram and Casey Jones. One bottle, however, holds a special place: BourbonRabbi.
“During a trip to Kentucky for a friend’s wedding, my wife and I visited the distillery,” he recounts. “Rabbis don’t eat anything unless it’s kosher, and at BourbonRabbi, they use all-natural, kosher ingredients. They distill the bourbon and bless every bottle. It’s so cool. I don’t think I’ll ever open it.”
His collection averages $100 per bottle, with his most prized possession reaching $1,100. But for Lewis, it's not about the price tag; it's about the experience, the stories, and the connections. This social nature, he notes, extends beyond his own circle.
“My wife, Heather, runs a hair salon from home, and some of her clients love bourbon. When they see my collection, it starts a conversation, and the next thing you know, we have sippers out. It’s very social.”
When asked who he would have a bourbon with, living, dead, or famous, his answer is immediate: “My grandpa. He helped raise me, and I was his favorite. He shaped me to be a good provider, work hard, and always do what’s right.”
And in Lewis’s dedication to his craft, his family, and his passion, that lesson clearly shines through.
RenovateYourGate.com
STILL CALLING PLAYS
Donovan McNabb’s Legacy, Leadership, and Life After Football
There’s a calm confidence in the way Donovan McNabb carries himself — the kind that doesn’t ask for attention but earns respect. A former NFL quarterback with a storied career, McNabb is someone who lets his day-to-day actions speak louder than his achievements.
“I’ve always just kept my head down and worked,” he says. “I didn’t get caught up in the noise. I knew what I wanted to achieve.”
For 24 years, McNabb has called Chandler home. Here, McNabb embraces a life centered around family, mentorship, and personal growth. The roar of the stadium has faded, replaced by the rhythm of daily life — coaching youth sports, speaking to students, supporting his children alongside his wife, Roxi— and he couldn’t be more content.
“Arizona has given me peace,” he says. “I can train, be with my family, and be involved in the community.”
That peace is well earned. From his start in Chicago to Syracuse University to the national stage, McNabb’s journey has always been about more than football. It’s been about focusing on his values — discipline, commitment, humility — and the consistent pursuit of excellence, on and off the field.
Growing up, McNabb’s parents instilled in him the importance of goal setting, commitment to academics, and resilience in the face of adversity. “Sports didn't play a major part early on because it was all about the academics, it was all about the discipline, it was all about developing a sense of self and being strong within.” Faith, education, and
accountability shaped his early years, and those principles never left him. “They didn’t care how many touchdowns I scored if I wasn’t handling my business in school,” he says.
Those priorities carried him to Syracuse University, where he not only starred as quarterback but also earned a degree in communications. “Football was important, but so were my academics,” McNabb says. “That degree set me up for everything I’ve done since. You can’t just rely on talent. You’ve got to be well-rounded.”
He brought that same approach into the NFL when the Philadelphia Eagles selected him second overall in the 1999 draft. His selection drew a mixed reaction from fans — a moment that tested his composure before he ever took a snap.
“I was booed at the time, but if you watched me, I'm laughing the whole way. That wasn’t about me,” McNabb says now, looking back without any bitterness. “That was about their expectations. I stayed focused on mine.”
That focus paid off. Over 11 seasons in Philadelphia, McNabb led the Eagles to five NFC Championship appearances and one Super Bowl, rewriting franchise records and establishing himself as one of the most consistent quarterbacks of his era. He became known not just for his powerful arm and playmaking ability, but for his resilience, his leadership, and the steadiness he brought to the huddle.
“People see Sundays,” he says. “But what matters is what you do Monday through Saturday. That’s where the real work happens.”
ARTICLE BY MEGAN EWING | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
“People see Sundays. But what matters is what you do Monday through Saturday. That’s where the real work happens.”
Despite a career that many would define by accolades, McNabb views his success in broader terms. He talks about his teammates, his coaches, his growth, and always, his family. “The trophies are great,” he says. “But the relationships, the moments — that’s what stays with you.”
Now retired from professional football, McNabb has turned his attention to guiding others. Whether he’s mentoring a young quarterback or speaking at a local event, he shows up with the same intention: to help people reach their full potential.
“You’ve got to be coachable in life, not just in sports,” he says. “That’s something I try to pass on.”
At home, he’s a devoted husband and father of four, deeply involved in his children’s lives and activities. “My kids don’t care
how many touchdowns I threw,” he says, smiling. “They care that I show up, that I listen, that I’m there.”
In Chandler, he’s found a rhythm that suits him — part coach, part dad, part athlete, to name a few — and is still chasing new personal goals. He still trains. He still studies. He still sets the bar high.
“Whether it’s football or life, I always ask myself: What’s next? How can I improve?” he says.
Ask McNabb what legacy means to him, and he won’t rattle off statistics or career milestones. He’ll talk about integrity. About commitment. About staying true to the things that matter, even when no one’s watching.
SUMMER GRILL RECIPES
ARTICLE BY KATIE BOBROW
THESE DELICIOUS RECIPES ARE LIGHT, BRIGHT AND FEEL LIKE SUMMER
The sun has returned, and grilling season is upon us. With the nice weather comes vegetable gardens and fresh produce, along with the overwhelming desire to be outside as much as possible. We’ve compiled some fresh and light dishes that you can shop for at your local farmers market and whether you’re looking for a quick mid-week meal or something to grill for a crowd on the weekend these dishes won’t disappoint. These pair well together or can stand on their own!
INGREDIENTS:
• 2lbs. Outside skirt steak*
• 2 Tablespoons lime*
• 2 Tablespoons finely, chopped cilantro
• ¼ Cup olive oil or avocado oil
• ¼ White onion, finely chopped
• 1 Tablespoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
DIRECTIONS:
1. Place skirt steak into gallon freezer bag
2. Combine all other ingredients in bowl and mix. Pour over steak and marinate for 3-4 hours or overnight in the fridge.
3. Bring skirt steak to room temperature by letting it sit out for one hour.
4. Get your grill hot on one side and medium on the other.
SIMPLE SKIRT STEAK
5. Once the grill is ready, wipe excess marinade off steak. Starting on the hot side, place skirt steak on grill for 2 minutes per side, attaining a nice sear.
6. Transfer steak to the cooler side of grill and cook until the internal temp is 130°. Let rest for 10 minutes (temp will rise while resting).
7. Carve and serve. This dish pairs well with beans and rice or served as tacos. Following is a chimichurri sauce that compliments it nicely.
*Outside skirt steak is a more tender cut than inside skirt steak, for this recipe outside skirt is recommended. Do not use too much lime as the citrus can cook the meat before putting it on the grill, resulting in a tougher texture.
SUM MER
CHIMICHURRI
INGREDIENTS:
• ½ Cup parsley, finely chopped
• ½ Cup cilantro, finely chopped
• 2 Tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 3 Cloves garlic, minced
• 1 Red chili (whole or deseeded depending on desired level of heat)
• ½ Teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 Teaspoon salt
• 1 Tablespoon lime juice (optional)
DIRECTIONS:
Combine all ingredients in a bowl. You can make this in the late morning and let it sit for around 4-6 hours, or you can make it the day before and let the flavors meld overnight in the fridge. Just be sure to take it out and get it to room temp before you serve it, as olive oil hardens in the fridge. Serve over skirt steak or tacos.
ROASTED CORN SALSA
INGREDIENTS:
• 2 Ears sweet corn
• 10oz. Cherry tomatoes
• ¼ Cup lime juice
• 1 Finely chopped jalapeno or serrano (whole or deseeded depending on desired level of heat)
• ¼ Cup cilantro, finely chopped
• ½ Cup white onion, chopped
• 2 Cloves garlic, minced
• Salt to taste
DIRECTIONS:
1. Grill corn, you do not need to soak the corn beforehand.
2. Place corn on the grill (inside their husks) over medium heat turning every few minutes.
3. After 10 to 12 minutes shuck the corn and put the cobs back on the grill for 2-4 minutes rotating frequently to achieve that charred look and flavor.
4. Cut the corn from the cob, place in bowl and add all other ingredients. Let the mixture meld for about an hour and serve with tortilla chips or as a taco garnish.
SO YOU WANT TO BE A COWBOY
DISCOVER THE WHIMSY OF THE WEST AT PAWS UP MONTANA
Favorably referred to as the “Last Best Place” and the “Treasure State,” Montana has captured the hearts of cinematic cowboys like Taylor Sheridan and Harrison Ford and inspired the television series, “Yellowstone” and its prequels, “1883” and “1923.”
Though fictional, they’ve reminded America of its deeply-rooted spirit for adventure and the simple yet rugged way of life that we all crave. Whether its the backdrop of jagged, snowcapped peaks or the endless golden pastures that are peppered with livestock, this Rocky Mountain soil is a breeding ground for dreamers and doers, and the people who call it home are no strangers to the ritual of ranch life. So, you want to be a cowboy? Slipping on some leather and having a little hide in your hat are good ways to start, but visiting a resort that brings the best of this life to the forefront, while also embracing modern luxury, is the experience of a lifetime. Paws Up Montana sprawls the distance of 37,000 private acres of historic estate-land, which houses a working ranch and 10 miles of Blackfoot river. Personalization is key—a divine selection of cuisine for the foodies, awe-inspiring activities for the adrenaline seekers, and world-class lodging that tickles every fancy from stargazing glamping, to timber-style family dwellings, to the uniquely designed green “o hauses” that invite the outside world in.
CHELSEA LYN AGRO
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
WHAT TO DO
To change your attitude, you need a change in altitude. Gain some speed or turn up the adrenaline level with ATV tours, electric biking, mountain biking, go-karts, paintball, rappelling down Lookout Rock or whitewater rafting down the Blackfoot River. Indulge in the western art of living with archery, fly-fishing, hiking or sporting clays. For those who want to immerse themselves in the language of horses, there are horse-related adventures such as lessons, grooming or feeding, horse-whispering workshops or organized trails rides. Riders can also enjoy cattle drives that bring you back to yesteryear—driving a herd of cattle across the famed landscape— and bear witness to mustang gentling, where the Equestrian Manager communicates with a wild horse through body language and tone of voice. Skyline Aerial Adventure Park is another notable warm-weather activity, taking guests on two high-ropes courses.
WHERE TO STAY
Luxury Homes are categorized into preference-based properties that boast the thrill of wilderness living. For larger families and multigenerational groups, consider the Wilderness Estates. At 3,250-square-feet, these estates sleep up to eight guests and feature three large suites with private baths. The Big Timber Homes are available in one-to-three bedroom options and come ornamented with fire places and private decks. The Meadow Homes are 1,100-square-foot single-story homes that sleep up to four guests, situated amid a pastoral and treed setting. For an extra nod of perfection, choose one of the luxury homes that comes equipped with a private tent— ideal for anyone traveling with children (or adults who beckon back their childhood!).
For a more primitive experience, Glamping Homes offer the right amount of canvas to create a close-to-nature experience. Available mid-May through mid-October, choose from river settings to creeksides, bluffs or cliffs. Each tent is adorned with something unique—a copper tub, a picturesque view of Lewis and Clark’s famous Lookout Rock and Western-chic furniture throughout. Zip down the windows to allow for the cool nightly breeze, yet enjoy the modern convenience of electricity. Each campsite has a dining pavilion. And don’t miss the s’mores boards around the communal fire pit, offered by your own s’moresologist—yes, you read that right, and yea, it’s a thing.
Lastly, but certainly not least, are the state-ofthe-art accommodations of the Green O hauses. This portion of the property is completely curated for those 21 years of age and older. It’s a resort within a resort, a hidden pearl in an oyster of experience. The Tree Haus is elevated 23 feet in the air and offers unparalleled forest views. The Green Haus includes a skylight above the bed for an unmatched view of pluck-em-from-the-sky stars. The Round Haus has curved, floor-to-ceiling windows that offer 180-degree panoramic views. Both the Green and Round Hauses are dog friendly, too, so Fido can rest in the lap of luxury. The Light Haus is illuminated by skylights and unique glass design.
HOW
TO GET HERE
Airport: Missoula Montana Airport (MSO) Airport transfers from Missoula are complimentary for guests and all luxury home and Green O accommodations come with a Lexus luxury SUV for transportation use on property.
JUNE 7TH, 14TH, 21ST, 28TH
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
Downtown Chandler Farmers Market
Downtown Chandler | 7:00 AM
The Chandler Farmers market as more than just a weekend stop—it’s a space for the community to gather, support local businesses, and access fresh, seasonal produce. In addition to produce, find artisan goods, brunch food trucks, and more. Live music, too. Summer hours—7 to 10 a.m.—begin this month and run through September. DowntownChandler.org
JUNE 13TH
Miss Juneteenth Arizona
Chandler Center for the Arts | 7:00 PM
This pageant celebrates Juneteenth and focuses on empowering young women by promoting education, community service, and cultural awareness. Contestants in the pageant are judged on their poise, talent, understanding of current events, and knowledge of Juneteenth and its significance. ChandlerAZ.gov
JUNE 14TH - AUGUST 16TH
Creatures and Cosmos
Vision Gallery
Cosmos, creatures, and creative features! For Creatures and Cosmos, artists were invited to submit their most innovative and futuristic works of art. From cosmic creations and abstract interpretations of the unknown, to vibrant depictions of space, these pieces capture the essence of futurism and sci-fi that will transport viewers into new dimensions. Let your imagination run wild! VisionGallery.org
JUNE 14TH
Culture Music in the Park
Dr. A.J. Chandler Park | 7:00 PM
Celebrate Juneteenth and Freedom Week with Culture Music in the Park. This free event will be filled with unity, joy, and vibrant cultural expression. Groove to live performances by Vaughn Willis and Eye Candy. Adding a touch of elegance and inspiration, the evening will be emceed by the newly crowned Ms. Juneteenth 2025–26. Food, too. Bring a lawn chair. ChandlerAZ.gov
JUNE 15TH
7th Annual Juneteenth Father's Day Mixer
Singing Pandas Asian Restaurant & Bar | 2:00 PM
Celebrate fatherhood, community, and culture at the 7th Annual Juneteenth Father's Day Mixer, hosted by Chandler Men of Action. The afternoon will be filled with live entertainment from Dee Dee Carson and the Unlimited Band. Buffet-style appetizers will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Drinks and entrees will be available for purchase. ChandlerAZ.gov
JUNE 28TH
The Rat Pack in Concert
Chandler Center for the Arts | 7:00 PM
Revel in the days when Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Sammy Davis Jr. were the kings of Las Vegas in 1960. Starring Brian Duprey as Frank Sinatra, backed by a live big band and featuring a stellar cast of some of the finest performers in the business—including a surprise appearance by "Marilyn Monroe." ChandlerCenter.org
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