The Men's Issue
There’s no single way to define what it means to be a man, but in a community like Chandler, you start to recognize the common threads: purpose, resilience, and a commitment to something bigger than yourself.
At the heart of this edition is our annual Men of Chandler feature, a tradition that continues to evolve while staying rooted in what matters most: recognizing individuals who lead with integrity, give back without hesitation, and shape our community in meaningful ways.
Our quest to find the members of our newest class began with nominations. Each person was then thoughtfully selected by a committee. It was quite the process considering how many amazing men there were! The result is a group whose stories deserve to be told and whose influence extends far beyond what you might expect.
In this issue you’ll also meet JD Walker, a man whose life reads like a study in contrast—adrenaline and stillness, risk and resilience. Known for his career as a BASE jumper, Walker now navigates a new reality after losing his vision, bringing a different kind of perspective to both his life and his newly released book.
Elsewhere on these pages, you’ll find the story behind Covenant Hot Rod Association, whose members not only share a passion for hot rods but also brought a striking visual element to our Men of Chandler photo shoot.
And if you’re looking for something to savor, our feature on Mi Corralito offers a taste of Peru right here in Chandler—proof that great stories are often found around the table.
We also step outside the desert for a coastal escape to Carlsbad, California, because sometimes the best way to appreciate home is to leave it, even briefly.
This issue isn’t about a single definition of what it means to be a man. It’s about character, contribution, and the many ways people show up for their families, their passions, and their community.
Here’s to the ones who do the work—often without asking for recognition, but deserving of it all the same.
Yours,
MICHELLE GLICKSMAN, EDITOR
June 2026
PUBLISHER
Joyce Selk | joyce.selk@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Michelle Glicksman
michelle.glicksman@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANTS
Jessica Bush | jessica.bush@citylifestyle.com
Christina Larson | christina.larson@citylifestyle.com
Skye Wagner | skye.wagner@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Mel Boban, Michelle Talsma Everson, Georgann Yara
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Mel Boban, Lindsay Borg
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
to all the amazing dads in our community.
Summer is the perfect tim e to take advantage of purchase specials.
Complimentary Mortgage review: lower rates, lower payments, tap into equity.
Caroline Strok
602.320.5398 | NMLS#107437
Caroline@OcotilloHomeLending.com
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Local charity Valley Bloom dropped off hygiene kits to San Marcos and Frye Elementary schools. 2: Community leaders from around the state attended Arizona Asian Chamber of Commerce’s annual awards and scholarship dinner. 3: It was all smiles at the Chandler Chamber’s ribbon-cutting for the newly opened The Neighborhood Clinic. 4: Lori Rasmussen, Michelle Mac Lennan, and Dominique Lassauge celebrated during the city’s Volunteer Appreciation Month. 5: Myranda Fine Jewelry supported The Great Gatsby Gala, raising money for the 100 Club of Arizona. 6: The City of Chandler had beautiful weather for its annual Boards and Commissions Appreciation Event. 7: Volunteers from St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church collected donations and delivered them to local charity Valley Bloom.
8: Women having fun at Rebel & Rogue, which glowed purple in honor of Landon’s Legacy. 9: Congrats to Kyle Skipworth for receiving the 2025 Paramedic of the Year Award from the Chandler Fire Department. 10: Covenant Hot Rod Association arrived with classic cars for the Men of Chandler photo shoot. 11: ARCO Ocotillo owners Al and Amy Zuhair present a donation check to American Legion Post 91. 12: On a Friday morning, AZCEND volunteers served 107 families.
Ted's Hot Dogs Opens in Chandler
Ted’s Hot Dogs, which opened its first store in Buffalo, N.Y. in 1927, celebrates its 100th year with a new location in Chandler at 2700 E. Germann Road. Evan Ortolani, the grandson of the man who opened the first Arizona location in 1983 in Tempe, opened the Chandler location in May. This is the first location with a drive-thru. The new store has indoor and outdoor seating, as well as lots of windows for natural light. TedsHotDogs.com
Tandoori Pizza Opens
First Arizona Location
Tejinder Singh opened the first location in Califiornia and now brings the rich, bold flavors of Indian cuisine and classic Italian pizza together at one of Chandler's newest restaurants, located at 4985 S. Arizona Ave., Suite 3. For nearly a decade, Tandoori has perfected the art of pizza-making with hand-kneaded dough and the purest ingredients. A grand opening was held in May. TandooriPizza.com
Lucca Living Room Is Now Open in Downtown Ocotillo
With its own entrance and an interior connection to Lucca Coastal Kitchen, Lucca Living Room, a sister concept to the former, offers a more casual, lounge-style take on the same Italian-inspired vibe. Designed for socializing, live music, and latenight dining, it pays homage to the former Living Room, a longtime Downtown Ocotillo favorite. The space has been reimagined with a dramatic transformation, highlighted by a newly designed U-shaped bar. LuccaChandler.com
Photography by Kailee Evans
Dr. Joshua Russek , DVM
Dr. Nathan Goodwin, DVM
Andrea Stickland, DVM
Dr Adalis Montero, DVM
Win a Free Pool Fence!
Chandler residents can enter to win a pool fence and installation for their in-ground pool through Aug. 15. Four pool fences will be given away this year, in partnership with #WaterYouDoing and Chandler Firefighter Charities. The first fence recipient was selected at the Dive-in Movie in May. The remaining fences will be chosen after Aug. 15 from entries received during the entire giveaway period. Register to win at ChandlerAZ.gov/ poolfencegiveaway.
The Arizona Association for Economic Development honored City of Chandler employee Chandler Escalante with the prestigious Workforce Practitioner of the Year award, an award established nearly 50 years ago. This award recognizes an individual’s overall impact on the
community workforce, the development of strong relationships and community support, innovation and creativity, and contributions to the workforce development profession. Escalante serves as the workforce development project manager for the City of Chandler's Economic Development Division and is the architect of the Chandler Career Center.
Chandler Ranked a Top Housing Market for Buyers
Chandler is the 4th best midsize housing market for buyers, according to a new ConsumerAffairs study. Their research team analyzed cities across four primary categories, including housing market competitiveness, affordability, home size, and livability. Midsize markets were defined as cities with populations between 250,000 to 499,999 people. Compared to other midsize and larger cities, Chandler continues to be a place of opportunity for young professionals and families looking to buy a home. ChandlerAZ.gov
Photography courtesy City of Chandler
Photography courtesy City of Chandler
Meet the Men of Chandler 2026!
INTRODUCING THIS YEAR’S HONOREES
PHOTOGRAPHY BY LINDSAY BORG
Mark “Zzeek” Pectol Adam Benedetti
Co-Owner, Zzeeks Pizza
Zzeek, along with his wife, Jody, own five retail pizza stores in the East Valley. It has also become truly a family affair now that both of their sons have joined them in the business.
It is often said that no one gives back to the community more than they do. It can be a local charity, animal rescue and shelters, local school, or an individual in need of a hand up.
“Wherever there is a need, we try to help. We do fundraising for the elementary schools and sponsor almost all of the high school programs.”
The Kids Pizza Camps are one of their favorite things to do to engage local kids in what they do every day.
“We teach them our recipes, we let them take orders on the computers, make some dough, and share with them about our special ovens and how we bake pizzas. They make their own pizza with their own hands. It’s rewarding to see them come back several years later, asking for a job.”
His wife adds, “He works harder than anyone I know. Daily, he tries to make this world a better place.”
President, Chandler Youth Baseball
An Arizona native and proud product of Chandler Unified School District, Chandler isn’t just where Adam Benedetti grew up, it is where he has chosen to build a life for himself and his family. As an extremely shy kid, sports played a major role in helping him find his voice and confidence. He understands the profound impact sports can have on a young person’s life, and he leverages his experiences to create positive change within our community.
“It’s meaningful to now stand on the same fields where I once quietly followed coaches and now lead as a coach, mentor, and president. It’s been a full-circle journey that reminds me how powerful community and mentorship can be. Leadership, to me, isn’t about titles, it’s about showing up, following through, and doing what’s best, even when it’s not the easiest path.”
His impact extends far beyond the baseball diamond.
“If there’s a field, court, or sideline in Chandler, there’s a good chance I’m there. Giving back isn’t something I schedule; it’s part of our family’s everyday life.”
Jovanni Cedeño
COO, Liv Well Behavioral Health
Jovanni Cedeño is passionate about supporting families experiencing poverty, providing tangible resources and hope through initiatives in partnership with local Title 1 schools. He is an inspiring example of what it means to serve a community with humility, compassion, heart, and unwavering dedication by creating opportunities for those experiencing low-income hardships so they can thrive.
His background is what inspired him to give back.
“I was raised by a single mother, and we experienced poverty in the inner city of Chicago, housing instability, and time in shelters. Growing up, I saw how easy it was for people in my community to lose hope and feel trapped by their environment. I wanted to be an example that circumstances do not define your future and to inspire others like me to believe that change is possible.”
A nominator writes, “Cedeño has been especially instrumental in mentoring young students, building strong relationships, and guiding them toward positive choices and future success. He has a unique ability to connect with them and help them see their potential, develop confidence, and stay focused on their goals, providing not only support, but also accountability and inspiration.”
Neil Cutler
Co-Founder, Chandler Business Alliance
Neil Cutler has never stopped staying involved in Chandler’s nonprofit community. He prefers to work with organizations that facilitate working with numerous charities that are Chandler-based. He’s co-founder and current board member of the Chandler Business Alliance, pending vice chair of Sun Lakes Rotary, ACP Boys Basketball Booster president, and past board member of Fans Across America, to name a few.
As a small business owner himself, Cutler was inspired to make a difference in the community after seeing a need for small business owners to have an easily accessible avenue toward local nonprofits in a way that would also be beneficial to their business.
“It’s an honor to put service before self.”
Cutler has proved to be a visionary leader committed to service and bringing people together for the greater good, making him highly deserving of recognition.
Something you may not know?
“I ran Dragway race cars with my father when I was young and have the ability to complete most auto repairs myself!”
Randy Gonzalez Justin Hamilton
Sr. Account Executive, Cisco Lead Pastor, Legacy Church
A third-generation Arizona native, Chandler is truly home for Randy Gonzalez. Shaped by his grandfather and family, helping those in need became a part of his fabric early on.
Serving on the Phoenix Children’s Hospital Mercy Gilbert Corporate Development Board, Gonzalez is responsible for securing corporate partnerships that generate donations to fund the hospital, clinics, and general services for our Chandler and East Valley communities. He is also team captain at St. Mary’s Food Bank, pre-packing food boxes for those in need in our community.
“This work highlights how the necessity of food can be overlooked by us all who are blessed not to encounter these worries.
“My strongest character trait is the ability to manage diversity. As a special needs autism dad, I must be able to juggle all that life presents as people are counting on me.”
He’s especially proud that he and his wife, Michele, continue to successfully be a team in managing all the challenges a special needs child can bring to a family.
Three years ago, Justin Hamilton, along with his wife Delicia, started Legacy Church in the Chandler YMCA. Upon entering the new 22,000-square-foot facility, you will see, “In Chandler As It Is In Heaven.”
“That’s not a slogan, it’s a daily conviction that drives how we serve, lead, and show up for people in this city.”
The church has invested tens of thousands of dollars into local nonprofits and organizations, supporting family-focused initiatives in the community.
“Giving back isn’t just about one-time efforts; it’s about consistently building people and creating environments that have a lasting effect.”
As the founder of Amplify Communication Coaching, Hamilton works with community leaders to enhance their impact. He has also authored Get Your Ship Together, an e-course designed to help readers navigate life and relationships.
Something you may not know?
“Growing up, I was a part of a classical boys choir in California and played violin. It allowed me to travel the world and experience a variety of cultures and settings. I truly believe that faith, music, and art are the most powerful tools for connecting people together.”
Bo Jenkins Angel Luis Acosta Carrasquillo
Battalion Chief, Chandler Fire Department
Bo Jenkins is extremely grateful to have served a city he loves for 15 years and has held many roles in the Chandler Fire Department as a firefighter, engineer, captain, and recently promoted battalion chief. He was also recognized as the department’s 2025 Firefighter of the Year.
He also serves as president of the department’s nonprofit, Chandler Firefighter Charities, raising money and assets throughout the year to help provide support for Chandler citizens in need, often on their worst days.
“Historically, our support has been reactionary after a crisis. Through our members donating funds directly from their paychecks to fundraising events, we’ve been able to be more proactive. To be able to provide support beyond our call to service is extremely gratifying. I’m surrounded by people who truly care about others and go above and beyond to make a difference in our community, both on and off duty.”
Something you may not know? He and his wife, Sarah, were high school sweethearts.
STEM Teacher, Skyline Gila River
Growing up in Puerto Rico, Angel Luis Acosta Carrasquillo experienced the strength of community as well as the limitations that can sometimes be placed on access to opportunity. He came to realize the kind of impact one person can have by showing up consistently and intentionally.
As an educator and STEM leader at Skyline Gila River, Carrasquillo works with students and their families from the Gila River Indian Community. He implements a multitiered, differentiated instructional model that challenges and supports all students in mathematics. His work has contributed to a significant increase in college application participation from 11% to 54% within one year, with all students he directly supported successfully securing a post-secondary pathway.
“My work extends beyond the classroom through STEM education, college readiness, leadership development, and supporting families. One of the most powerful moments is seeing a student get accepted into college, especially when they didn’t believe it was possible for them.”
He holds advanced degrees in STEM education and is currently pursuing a doctorate in computer science education, and speaks English, Spanish, and French.
Preston Pierce
Commander C-26, Chandler Police Department
As a commander in operational support, Preston Pierce helps develop, train, and produce quality police officers who impact our community daily.
His inspiration came early in life through his mother, pastor, mentors, and community leaders who invested their time and energy to ensure he was focused on making a positive difference.
Throughout his career, Pierce has received recognition for his performance and leadership, including SWAT Operator of the Year and multiple Meritorious Service and Unit Citation awards. Outside of work, he is actively involved in Chandler, serving on the advisory board for the Chandler/Gilbert YMCA, where he co-chairs the Community Engagement Committee, and volunteers on his church’s safety and security team for the past 18 years.
His nominator writes, “His career progression, leadership responsibilities, and sustained community involvement make him an obvious choice for the Men of Chandler.”
Something you may not know?
“I traveled to Fiji for two weeks and worked with an organization called Homes of Hope, who rescue women and children from sex trafficking.”
Brad Taylor
Co-Founder, Lily’s Pad
Lily’s Pad came to life in the mind of Brad Taylor, whose 3-year-old daughter, Lily, was diagnosed with high-risk Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) in December of 2017.
For months after a long hospital stay, Taylor and his wife, Peggy, struggled to keep their daughter happy and busy as she was confined to their home and couldn’t return to preschool for almost a year. The once social butterfly had become shy, scared, and terrified of noise and crowds.
Lily’s Pad was created as the missing piece in the treatment plan for young, immunocompromised patients. The 5,200-square-foot facility was designed as a “hyperclean” space that minimizes the risk of infection while maximizing the many rewards of play for these children and their families.
“We partner with Banner and Phoenix Children’s Hospital to help bring kids undergoing medical treatment the gift of play. It’s the first of its kind in the country as far as we can tell, and I’d like to open a second one.”
Darius Turner Steven Turner
Student Success Coordinator, Skyline Gila River School
While winning is rewarding, Darius Turner’s true passion is mentoring young people and helping them grow into confident, disciplined individuals, impacting students both academically and personally.
As a coach, he has guided Skyline to a total of four state championship titles in football and basketball. As an educator, he is committed to meeting the immediate needs of his students. Whether it is providing food, clothing, transportation, or tutoring, he assists those who may not have the resources or support systems they need to succeed.
Turner also loves volunteering for the I Rise Foundation, which helps our youth study and compete in robotics and STEM research in community schools throughout the Chandler area.
In May of 2026, he transitioned from a career in education to pursue his lifelong goal of working in law enforcement by joining the Chandler Police Department as a recruit police officer. This decision reflects his continued commitment to serving others and making a positive impact on the community. While he is leaving the field of education, his purpose remains the same—to serve, protect, and uplift those around him.
Asst. Director Development Services, City of Chandler
Steven Turner was born and raised in Chandler and feels serving the community that shaped him, both personally and professionally, has been one of the most fulfilling decisions he has made in his life.
“It feels like a full-circle moment—giving back to the place and the people who helped raise me and taught me what community really means.”
His grandfather, Elmo Turner, was his biggest inspiration.
“He lived his life with the simple but powerful belief that if you want to make the world a better place, you start by strengthening your own family and your own community.”
Personally, whether it is to oversee the teenage youth program at his church, or ministering to widows, or helping coordinate efforts to feed the homeless through Chandler’s iHELP program, or volunteering at For Our City Day events, Turner feels it’s an incredible privilege to serve to make Chandler an even better place to live.
Professionally, whether working on high-level city initiatives or managing the complexities of developmental services, he brings a collaborative, solutions-oriented approach that builds trust and moves projects forward.
Cars for this photo shoot courtesy Covenant Hot Rod Association, CovenantHotRod.com
Falling and Rising
JD Walker’s BASE 37: Memoir of a BASE Jumping
Pioneer Thrills and Inspires With Stories of Exhilaration, Determination, and Hope
ARTICLE BY GEORGANN YARA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LINDSAY BORG
Skydiving. Rock climbing. Leaping from cliffs, bridges, and some of the world’s tallest manmade structures.
Throughout his life, BASE jumper JD Walker’s hobbies read like most people’s list of activities on their not-ever-to-do list. He even survived a jump that left him with serious injuries.
But decades of accomplishing the most physically and mentally demanding of tasks did not prepare Walker, among the pioneers of the high-risk sport, for the morning after Thanksgiving in 2018.
“I woke up and I couldn’t see anything,” Walker recalls. “I was stumbling around trying to find a light switch, thinking it was still dark …”
He spent the next five days in a hospital while doctors ran every test and examined every possible cause. They found nothing that would have caused the sudden loss of vision that struck with zero warning.
“I was a pilot. I was a scuba diver. I survived horrific situations,” Walker says. “I thought, it’ll get better, it will just take time.”
Eight years later, Walker remains legally blind. While the Chandler resident has a full field of view and can make out large, general shapes, he is unable to identify food on his plate, walk on uneven terrain, or make out facial expressions.
Walker remains active with several projects and endeavors, namely BASE 37: Memoir of a BASE Jumping Pioneer, a memoir packed with true stories of Walker’s life growing up as a fourth-generation Arizona native, helping to establish BASE—an acronym for Building, Antenna, Span (bridge or dome), Earth (or in his case, the antenna was the world's first smokestack jump)— jumping, thrilling experiences beyond the sport, and reconciling with the life-changing loss of sight.
“It was very personal,” says Walker, who did his first jump more than 40 years ago. “The book is full of great stuff.”
Born in Scottsdale, Walker spent his youth in Coolidge and Tempe, where he graduated from Marcos de Niza High School. In 1980, skydiving cinematographer Carl Boenish—also the founding father of BASE jumping—came to the Valley and showed a 16mm film he made.
Walker saw it and was immediately hooked. He kept in touch with Boenish and joined him for what was Walker’s first BASE jump off Crocker Bank in Los Angeles in 1982.
Jumping at the Grand Canyon.
Courtesy JD Walker
Walker would spend the next four decades jumping off nearly anything and everything that posed a heart-stopping descent that allowed him to challenge gravity. In 1987, Walker did the first BASE jump into the Grand Canyon.
Family and friends kept suggesting he write a book. While attending the famous Bridge Day, where thousands watch BASE jumpers dive off New River Gorge Bridge in West Virginia, Walker met the current generation of jumpers. They viewed him as a legend, a grandfather of the sport, but didn’t know the history of the art, which had somewhat changed over the years.
“I came home and thought, ‘these guys need to know this,’” Walker says. “One month later, I lost most of my vision.”
It took seven years, but his memoir was published in February. Blindness was not nearly enough to deter him from writing or BASE jumping.
His most recent jump was two years ago in Twin Falls, Idaho. Atop the bridge, Walker was able to make out the outline of the river and the bank and figured out a way to make it happen. He used a parachute that belonged to Boenish, who was killed in a solo jump in Norway in 1984, which he repaired to make the jump.
“For me, it was an emotional thing, big time,” Walker says.
Walker admits that the journey hasn’t been easy. He gets choked up talking about going through a dark time. An unexpected call from his oldest granddaughter wanting to tell him why she didn’t go to school that day changed his outlook. He calls it a divine act that saved his life.
“It reminded me that there are other people in your world who love you,” Walker says.
That’s when what started as a mission to tell the story of BASE jumping to a new generation took on a new meaning.
Walker plans to donate a portion of his memoir’s profits to the Arizona Foundation for Blind Children and nonprofits that support veterans struggling with mental health.
“I’ve survived plane crashes and comas. I’m so blessed and live a charmed life,” Walker says. “I hope to not only tell the story, but hope to inspire others to overcome obstacles in their lives.”
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When should I consider in-home care for myself or a loved one?
This quick checklist will help determine whether it’s time to have a conversation to see if in-home care or other care solutions are needed. you are Aging. miss taking Medications.
Assistance needed by others to stay at home – help with transportation, errands, grocery, housecleaning, personal hygiene. Desire to stay at home.
A spouse of someone you are caring for – in-home care as a respite for a loved one.
ARTICLE BY GEORGANN YARA PHOTOGRAPHY BY LINDSAY BORG
BIRD Cage
Mi Corralito Impresses With Authentic Peruvian Chicken and Dishes
One weekend, chef Dante Balarezo decided to grill a whole chicken, seasoning it with a combination of spices and chiles inspired by his homeland of Peru, using his trusty Weber grill and rotisserie system.
It was a hit with Balarezo’s wife, who thought others would think so, too. She took a photo and suggested they sell them. Balarezo had his doubts but gave it a whirl.
“If we don’t sell them, I guess we can eat them,” Balarezo said to his wife, Miryan.
Miryan posted the photo of a perfectly golden brown chicken flaunting patches of succulence and a hint of char in all the right places to Facebook. That weekend, they sold 62 chickens to friends, family, and strangers who saw the post.
Balarezo added two more grills to accommodate orders. He was manning the grills from 2 a.m. to 7 p.m. and selling his signature birds from their Chandler home.
Demand skyrocketed. Cars lined up down the street for Balarezo’s chickens that defied all the usual pitfalls with juicy breast meat, crispy non-greasy skin, and just the right amount of savory warmth.
Months later, the restaurant industry veteran’s side gig became a full-time one in the form of Mi Corralito, the cozy Peruvian eatery he and Miryan opened in 2025.
The Balarezos’ four rescue dogs inspired the name of the restaurant. When Balarezo cooked in his backyard, he wanted to keep them safe from the hot grills. He set up a large collapsible
fence around him and his grills, creating a cage—corralito —for himself so his fur kids could run free, rather than be restricted to crates.
Balarezo heads to California every few months to procure unique Peruvian spices and chiles. He still cooks over charcoal and marinates the chicken for at least 24 hours.
“We try to be as original and authentic as possible. We take our time and do it the right way,” Balarezo says. “The response has been really, really good and everyone is so happy with what we are doing.”
The plan was to sell only chickens to go. But customers craved more Peruvian dishes. They also wished for tables so they could enjoy their meal hot as soon as possible.
Balarezo listened. Today, there’s seating to accommodate about a dozen dine-in patrons, and in addition to chicken, there are 15 dishes on the menu. This includes fried yucca, ceviche with mahi-mahi, Peruvian chiles, corn and corn nuts, and lomo saltado —a classic Peruvian dish made with tender strips of beef sauteed in a wok with red onions and tomatoes. It’s served with rice and fresh-cut fries that are handcrafted and double-fried, yielding a crispy exterior and fluffy interior.
Balarezo acknowledges the extra effort is a labor of love.
“I’m trying to distinguish myself from other chicken restaurants,” Balarezo says. “It’s not right or wrong, just different.”
Born in Lima, Balarezo’s grandfather was a Chinese immigrant who arrived in Peru to work in the fields. He later opened a restaurant in the 1980s. At the time, cultural norms dictated that the
“We try to be as original and authentic as possible. We take our time and do it the right way,” Balarezo says.
kitchen was for women only. So while his grandfather ran his restaurant, Balarezo remained home and curious about what his aunts were doing in the room from where all the tantalizing aromas emerged.
When he immigrated to the U.S. in 1990, Balarezo was exposed to different flavors and dishes and yearned for his homeland’s cuisine. He asked his mother how to cook those dishes and wrote down recipes he found in cookbooks. This gave Balarezo the opportunity to finally experience what his aunts did in the part of the house he was kept out of.
“I tried recipes, messed them up, and I would eat and learn from my mistakes,” Balarezo recalls.
He began working in restaurants in California and opened his first Peruvian restaurant in 2000. Although he was a chef, he wanted to continue his education and enrolled in the former Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in Hollywood.
Balarezo has now spent 35 years working in and running restaurants, helming kitchens, and even working as a private chef. When he and Miryan moved to Arizona in 2021, Balarezo was working as a chef in California, splitting his time between the states. Eventually, they decided to make Chandler their full-time home.
Balarezo believes that people eat with their eyes before they eat with their mouths. This is why how his creations look is just as important as how they taste. If a guest debates whether to take a photo first or a bite first, the mood is set.
“Cooking is a form of art. Unfortunately, our art lasts seconds,” Balarezo says. “If I can get a smile from you or you say, ‘Oh my god, this moves me to my childhood,’ or ‘I didn’t know this existed’ ... that, to me, is the payoff.” MiCorralitoChicken.com
When he immigrated to the U.S. in 1990, Balarezo was exposed to different flavors and dishes and yearned for his homeland’s cuisine.
MI CORRALITO PERUVIAN CEVICHE
Serves 2–4
Ingredients
• 1 lb. fresh mahi-mahi or other firm whitefish, cut into bite-sized cubes
• Juice of 8-10 fresh limes
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1–2 ají limo peppers, thinly sliced (or substitute serrano or habanero peppers)
• Kosher salt, to taste
• Fresh cracked black pepper, to taste
For Serving
• Butter lettuce leaves
• Boiled sweet potato, sliced
• Peruvian choclo or large-kernel corn
• Cancha (toasted Peruvian corn nuts)
Directions
1. Place fish in a chilled mixing bowl and season with salt and black pepper.
2. Add sliced ají limo and half of the red onion.
3. Pour fresh lime juice over the fish until lightly submerged.
4. Toss gently and allow to marinate for 3 to 5 minutes, just until the fish begins to turn opaque.
5. Adjust seasoning to taste.
6. Plate immediately, topping with remaining red onion.
7. Serve alongside lettuce, sweet potato, choclo, and cancha.
Chef Dante’s Tip
“The secret to great ceviche is balance—fresh fish, enough lime to brighten but not overpower, and serving it immediately while the texture is still perfect.”
BUILT ON CHROME and Community
COVENANT HOT ROD ASSOCIATION KEEPS CLASSIC CAR CULTURE ROLLING IN CHANDLER
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE TALSMA EVERSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY LINDSAY BORG
Long before the first hood is lifted or trophy handed out, a good car show announces itself in smaller ways: polished chrome, the rumble of an engine easing into place, folding chairs beside a favorite ride, and stories that begin before anyone asks.
For the Covenant Hot Rod Association, those stories have always been the point.
Founded by Don Webb in 1998, with its first show in 1999, the local organization has grown from a gathering of car lovers into a community built around classic vehicles, hospitality, and shared enthusiasm. The group began in connection with Rodders for Christ before becoming Covenant Hot Rod Association in 2007, carrying forward a faith-based foundation while expanding its reach through shows, outreach, and relationships built around a shared love of hot rods.
“We try to improve our shows every year to make them the best,” Webb says.
That pursuit shows up in the details. At Covenant events, trophies are not afterthoughts. T-shirts and goody bags are handled carefully. Volunteers are encouraged to be present, helpful, and ready to solve problems before they become part of someone’s day. The result is a car show that feels polished without feeling stiff.
“We do our best to put integrity and quality first,” Webb says.
The cars are what first pull people in. Classics have a language of their own. A vintage paint color can unlock a memory. A fender can send someone back to high school. A hot rod can become a family story on wheels.
“It is amazing how many people honk or wave or yell out, ‘Nice car,’” Webb says. “They want to take pictures or tell us what kind of car they had when they were in high school.”
That nostalgia is part of what makes the association’s events work in Chandler. The city’s friendliness, Webb says, gives the shows a natural home. After two years at Bottle & Bean, the organization outgrew the space and moved to Covenant Life Church, with more room for cars, spectators, and people who return.
The church setting reflects the association’s roots, and faith remains a meaningful part of its identity. For the team, that faith is expressed through the way guests are treated: with warmth, patience, integrity, and care. The goal is to create an environment where people feel welcomed first, whether they come for the cars, the camaraderie, or both.
“We build relationships with the people,” Webb says.
To capture that spirit, the team records short videos with participants, asking them to share their experience at Covenant shows. The clips preserve what the cars spark: pride, memory, gratitude, and often, a story someone has been waiting to tell.
The association’s work also reaches beyond event day. Covenant Hot Rod Association supports Soldier’s Best Friend, an Arizona nonprofit that pairs rescued dogs with veterans living with post-traumatic stress disorder or a traumatic brain injury related to combat.
“Helping our soldiers and seeing the impact, it means a lot,” Webb adds.
In recent years, members have taken their cars to assisted living communities, giving older residents a chance to see the vehicles up close and revisit memories. For some, a familiar model or engine note is enough to bring back a first date, a first job, or a Saturday night cruise.
For Webb, the common thread is people. Cars may create the opening, but the deeper purpose is connection, service, and, when possible, offering something that reflects the organization’s Christian foundation.
He also notes that the experience has been one that has brought his family closer. "This is a family affair. Me, Barbie, my wife, and our daughter, Cami."
Looking ahead, Webb says the goal is simple: Keep growing, build relationships, and give people a reason to gather.
The next Covenant Hot Rod Association event is Nov. 7 at Covenant Life Church in Chandler.
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE GLICKSMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY VISIT CARLSBAD
CARLSBAD MAGICAL
There’s something magical about Carlsbad. Located along a pristine stretch of Southern California coastline, about 35 miles north of San Diego, this seaside locale beckons with its small-town charm and world-class attractions. Getting here is easy. American Airlines offers nonstop flights from Phoenix directly into Carlsbad, so in less than an hour and a half, you can be touching down and ready to head to the beach, town, spa, or start your adventure. There’s so much to see and do.
The Flower Fields of Carlsbad Ranch
STAY
Start by checking in to the Omni La Costa Resort & Spa, a lush, Spanish-inspired retreat that feels worlds away from everyday life. The 400-acre property completed a multimillion-dollar renovation in 2024 and features eight pools, a spa, multiple dining venues, and a championship golf course. Spend time poolside beneath swaying palms or wander the manicured grounds before indulging in the property’s crown jewel: The Spa at Omni La Costa. The spa has been a destination in its own right since 1965, when the resort was known as the “original destination for mind, body, and sport.”
When hunger calls, head to VUE, one of the resort’s main restaurants, where locally sourced ingredients meet coastal creativity under the direction of Executive Chef Emily Brubaker. The menu showcases fresh seafood, hearty proteins, house-made sauces, and locally sourced fruits and vegetables, offering a modern, creative approach to Baja cuisine.
DO
If you’re visiting in spring, a trip to The Flower Fields of Carlsbad Ranch is a must. Open from March 1 through Mother’s Day each year, the rolling hills burst into a kaleidoscope of color as rows of flowers blanket the landscape. It’s one of those rare experiences that feels almost surreal, a living rainbow that is joyful, breathtaking, and definitely Instagram-worthy.
Carlsbad’s dining scene extends well beyond the resort. In nearby Carlsbad Village, you’ll find an eclectic mix of restaurants that reflect the city’s laid-back yet sophisticated vibe. Wildland delivers seasonal, produce-forward fare in a bright, airy setting that invites you to settle in and savor. At Campfire, wood-fired dishes and craft cocktails evoke a modern coastal camp experience. For a cozy nightcap, head to Little Victory Wine Bar, where thoughtfully curated pours of natural wines pair with small bites in a space that offers an intimate neighborhood feel.
CONTINUED >
Omni La Costa Resort & Spa
Wildland. Photo by Gage Forster
Campfire. Photo by Gage Forster
To truly taste the town, book an afternoon with Carlsbad Food Tours. Beyond sampling standout bites from local eateries, the guided experience weaves through the colorful streets of Carlsbad Village, showcasing vibrant murals and public art along the way. It’s a delicious introduction to the city’s creative spirit and close-knit community.
Of course, no visit to Carlsbad is complete without embracing the outdoors. Begin your morning with beach yoga or Pilates with Yoga Your Way, where the rhythmic sound of waves replaces a studio playlist and the salty air sharpens your focus. Later, trade your mat for a paddle and explore Agua Hedionda Lagoon by kayak with California Watersports. The company offers a variety of rental options, including paddleboards, swan pedal boats, and pontoons, if those are more your speed.
And then there are the beaches of Carlsbad themselves—wide, sandy stretches perfect for sunbathing, surfing, or simply strolling hand in hand as the tide rolls in. The coastal city meets the Pacific Ocean with 7 miles of stunning coastline. As day turns to dusk, make your way back to the sand for sunset. Carlsbad sunsets have a way of slowing time, painting the sky in soft pastels and fiery oranges.
Evenings in Carlsbad Village hum with an easy energy. Wander the boutique shops or settle into a patio for a bite to eat, a drink, or to listen to live music. It’s relaxed but lively, polished yet unpretentious.
That’s the magic of Carlsbad. It’s a destination where luxury and leisure intertwine, where mornings begin with ocean breezes and evenings end beneath technicolor skies. Whether you’re seeking spa serenity, culinary exploration, outdoor adventure, or simply a beautiful place to unwind, this coastal gem delivers, just a short flight away.
VisitCarlsbad.com
Carlsbad Village's State Street
Carlsbad Beach
INVESTING In Stronger BONDS
Advice Editorial: Thoughtful Ways To Strengthen Friendships, Partnerships And Family Ties
ARTICLE AND
PHOTOGRAPHY
BY MEL BOBAN
The relationships in our lives are some of the most valuable assets we have. Whether it's between us and our partners, family members or close friends, relationships certainly don't just happen. They require intentional investment in time, effort and thoughtfulness. Fortunately, nurturing these connections doesn't demand grand gestures or deep pockets. Simple, thoughtful actions can deepen the bonds that matter most. The relationships that sustain us deserve nothing less than our deliberate, consistent care.
Undivided Attention: One of the most powerful ways to connect and deepen a relationship is with distraction-free attention. Putting cellphones away or turning the TV off during conversations to truly listen is a gift. In this hyperconnected world, genuine presence has become rare and valuable. Even just a few minutes of uninterrupted conversation can reveal more than weeks of distracted exchanges.
Shared Experiences: Creating lasting memories and inside jokes become relationship touchstones. Whether it's a trip together, a weekend getaway or exploring a new neighborhood in your own city, adventure reveals how people problem-solve, adapt and find joy. These insights that strengthen understanding and appreciation.
Learn By Doing: Stepping into each other's worlds by trying favorite foods you've never tasted or hobbies you've avoided makes for a stronger bond. When showing interest in a partner's interests, you're saying, "What matters to you matters to me." This curiosity builds bridges between different personalities.
Take On Challenges Together: Trying something new to both of you, like building a piece of furniture, tackling a fitness goal or learning a skill neither person has mastered opens the door to struggle together. Through learning curves, you'll create camaraderie and growth with shared support.
Give Back: Volunteering together for a cause you both care about can reveal character and values you may have otherwise never seen in each other. Serving others shifts perspective from daily concerns to shared purpose, all while making a tangible difference in your community.
RAISING OF the Flag
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOYCE SELK
When a group of veterans approached Zuhair Alhaig about flying the American flag at the new ARCO station he built in Apache Junction, he was on board immediately. In these rather unsettling times for our country, Alhaig thought there was no better way to show his love for his country and respect for the veterans who have served.
“I felt it was a good way to show my appreciation for all the opportunities this country has given my family and me,” he says.
A large flagpole was ordered and installed for the ceremonial raising of the flag that proudly waves above the new station. It instilled so much pride in the community that the decision was made to bring that same symbol of pride to his Chandler Ocotillo location. The ceremonial flag-raising dedicated to our country’s veterans was done in April, attended by family, friends, and representatives from local American Legion Post 91.
A Chandler resident for the past 30 years, Alhaig and his wife, Amy, are a local success story. They own multiple businesses throughout Phoenix, including gas stations, truck stops, car washes, a grocery story, and retail centers, and they have 194 employees. The new ARCO in Apache Junction is their sixth location of their Marathon Regional Franchise, where they have been honored consistently for the past 14 years. This year they were awarded the coveted Top Gun Award for selling the most gas in Arizona—over 19 million gallons!
The key to their success?
“Opportunity, great customer service, low gas prices, and lots of hard work!” he says.
AN EXCERPT FROM EPISODE 6 OF SHARE THE LIFESTYLE, A CITY LIFESTYLE PODCAST
Photographer: Brittany Dawn Short
Creative Director: Jen Birn
Stylist: Stephanie Coultress O’Neill
Location: Hotel Saint Cecilia, Austin, TX
MIKE JOHNSON HAS BUILT HIS LIFE AROUND ONE QUIETLY RADICAL IDEA: THE STANDARD YOU SET PRIVATELY IS THE ONLY ONE THAT MATTERS.
After eight years in the Air Force, a celebrated run on national television, and a health crisis abroad that sent him deep into supply chains and ingredient certifications most founders never touch, the result is Oshun — a luxury ritual brand built on provenance you can trace and integrity you can verify. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Mike shares what it actually takes to build something worth putting your name on. Read the highlights below, then scan the QR code for the full episode.
Q: YOU BECAME A FAN FAVORITE ON THE BACHELORETTE AND THEN LEFT THE SPOTLIGHT. YOU MOVED TO MEXICO, LEARNED SPANISH, THEN COSTA RICA, AND BUILT A COMPANY. WHAT DID THAT EXPERIENCE TEACH YOU ABOUT HUMAN BEHAVIOR?
A: “If you’re a good person going in, that shows. If you’re not, that shows too. I also learned that people form this parasocial relationship with you — they assume things about you. When all actuality, different circumstances bring out different parts of who you are. I was on TV trying to find love. The kindness people were showing after felt a bit fake, because they wanted to be a part of something that isn’t who I am individually, but a part of what they saw on TV. And so I had to get away from everybody and everything and the noise.”
THE QUIET STANDARD:
MIKE JOHNSON
“Too many people have prayed for me. So I’ve got to get up and do the walking.”
— Mike Johnson
Q: YOU JOINED THE AIR FORCE RIGHT OUT OF COMMUNITY COLLEGE. WHAT WERE YOU ACTUALLY RUNNING TOWARD?
A: “There was something in me that was saying: I’m not living up to my full potential. I was being a follower. My uncle said, ‘What’s going to make you become an adult the fastest?’ I said, obviously, the military. The Air Force broadened my thought process more than anything. We’re so caught up in our own perception — when you learn to understand different people’s perspectives, it adds to you in so many ways.”
Q: WITH OSHUN, YOU OWN YOUR MANUFACTURING, YOU EMPLOY A CHEMIST, EVERY PRODUCT HAS A BATCH NUMBER TRACEABLE TO ITS ORIGIN DATE. WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO GO THAT DEEP WITH THE BRAND?
A: “The EU bans 1,100 ingredients in personal care products. The U.S. bans nine. That’s my starting point. Oftentimes, it might be the same ingredient, but it comes from a place where it doesn’t have the highest purity. And 60% of what we put on our skin is absorbed. Every product Oshun makes carries a batch number that goes back to the exact day it was created — I can show you every single supplier, the date, the origin. I own more than one part of the supply chain because that’s the only way I can stand behind what’s in the bottle.”
This conversation is just the beginning. Mike goes deeper into why he’s buying land up north, the family in the Philippines who prayed over his factory floor, and what he’d tell every person ready to stop performing and start building. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on the Share the Lifestyle podcast.
MIKE JOHNSON
JUNE 2026
A SELECTION OF
JUNE 1ST THROUGH JULY 25TH
Off the Clock: Artwork by City of Chandler Employees
The Gallery at CCA
Those at the City of Chandler know that creativity is a key quality in getting their jobs done well. For many, creativity also spills into what they do when they clock out, whether that be nurturing a relaxing hobby, developing skills in a craft, or finding solace through artistic expression. Off the Clock celebrates the creative talents of these city employees. VisionGallery.org
JUNE 6TH
Arizona 250: History, Culture and Community
Sunset Library | 2:00 PM
Journey through Arizona's past 250 years and learn about the Indigenous people who shaped the land, and the settlers who came and transformed that land. Discover the state's visionary leaders, as well as Arizona's influence on arts, architecture, film, and popular culture. ChandlerAZ.gov
JUNE 6TH, 13TH, 20TH, 27TH
Downtown Chandler Summer Market
Dr. A.J. Chandler Park West
Starting Sat., June 6, the Downtown Chandler Summer Market returns to keep your weekends fresh all summer long, from 7 to 10 a.m. through September. Spend the morning browsing local farmers, gourmet food vendors, and talented artisans while stocking up on fresh goods and discovering new favorites. DowntownChandler.org
CONTINUED
JUNE 7TH
Elvis: A Tribute to the Concert Years Presented by Moments to Remember
Chandler Center for the Arts | 7:00 PM
This unforgettable evening celebrates the King of Rock 'n' Roll with two of the world’s most acclaimed Elvis tribute artists: Bill Cherry and Dwight Icenhower. Relive the excitement, the music, and the magic of Elvis Presley’s iconic live performances. From the jumpsuits to the unforgettable hits, this show will transport you back to the golden era of rock 'n' roll. ChandlerCenter.org
JUNE 13TH
Our Stories: The Many Faces of Pat McMahon
Chandler Museum | 10:30 AM
Many Valley natives will recognize Pat McMahon from one of the characters he played during his 30-year run on the hit children's variety show Wallace and Ladmo. McMahon's award-winning career in radio and television has spanned the better part of a century. Catch a glimpse of his wild ride from family vaudeville roots, to Boffo the Clown, to radio program director, to Phoenix icon. ChandlerAZ.gov
JUNE 13TH
Culture Music in the Park
Dr. A.J. Chandler Park: Stage Plaza | 7:00 PM
Celebrate Juneteenth and Freedom Week at the free Culture Music in the Park. This year is bigger and better with more vendors, more food, and live music by Vaughn Willis and Ear Candy. Explore local booths, connect with community organizations and city departments, and take part in interactive art and storytelling experiences. The evening is hosted by Ms. Juneteenth 2026–27. Bring lawn chairs and blankets. ChandlerAZ.gov
