Chandler August 2015

Chandler AUGUST 2015

ChandlerLifestyle.com

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Home Grown CLOTHES CABIN HELPS THOSE IN NEED A LOCAL ORGANIC BEAUTY SALON BASHAS’: ARIZONA’S HOMETOWN GROCER CELEBRATE LIFE’S IMPORTANT OCCASIONS

SENSATIONS M M SUMMER THE ENCLAVE AT CANTABRIA L I N D S AY R OA D A N D O C OT I L L O R OA D

CRAFTSMANSHIP and STYLE in every DETAIL. JUST IN TIME for SUMMER. Summers are made for Standard Pacific Homes, especially with our collection of exceptional Quick Move-In homes now available. Come tour our stunning new models showcasing the latest styles and innovations in new-home design and discover the home that’s right for you.

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A spectacular new neighborhood with homes ranging from 2,919 to 4,351 square feet from the mid $400’s For Details Visit: STA N DA R D PAC I F I C H O M E S. CO M or call 8 8 8 - 6 2 7 - 5 2 0 8 Prices, plans, and terms are effective on the date of publication and subject to change without notice. Depictions of homes or other features are artist conceptions. Hardscape, landscape, and other items shown may be decorator suggestions that are not included in the purchase price and availability may vary. Standard Pacific of Arizona, Inc. Construction by: HSP Arizona, Inc., ROC144869A, ROC138431B, ROC242267B-2. A public report is available on the Arizona Department of Real Estate’s website.

Editor’s Letter

Welcome home.

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ave you ever visited your hometown after being gone for several years and felt like time never passed? The sounds, the smells, the familiar landmarks like your old high school or the local library trigger the memories. And yet, when you try to share those feelings with someone else, it’s almost indescribable. After more than 20 years away from my hometown, I can now truly appreciate what makes it so special.

This month we’re sharing all things that are homegrown. We spotlight local business owners like Cactus Flower Florists, who have been delivering beautiful flowers and gifts throughout the Valley since 1972. Cactus Flower grew from a small family business to one of the leading Arizona florists, helping customers express thoughts and feelings through the beauty of flowers.

We meet young entrepreneur Megan Maloy, co-owner of The Pampered Pinkie salon. Growing up in the East Valley, Megan and her mom, Debbi, introduced the organic-inspired shabby chic salon in 2009. Today the full-service salon offers modern nail, hair, skin and makeup services.

You’ll be inspired by the work behind Clothes Cabin and Friends Resale Boutique, a small yet impactful nonprofit that provides free clothes and household items to those who need it most. The organization is helping Chandler residents successfully prepare for a job, maintain health and hygiene, and become socially accepted.

AUGUST 2015 publisher Steven Schowengerdt sales director Eric Williams | EWilliams@LifestylePubs.com

editor Meghann Finn Sepulveda | MSepulveda@LifestylePubs.com

contributing writers Jackie Binsfeld, Kathleen Blair, Erica Forst, Corine Green , Michelle Guerrero, Rob Johnson, Alison Stanton

contributing photographer Bridgette Marie Photography

corporate team chief executive officer | Steven Schowengerdt chief sales officer | Matthew Perry chief financial officer | DeLand Shore director of marketing | Brad Broockerd art director | Sara Minor ad coordinators | Cyndi Vreeland, Chelsi Hornbaker, layout designer | Nicole Sylvester copy editor | Kendra Mathewson

Finally, the family behind this month’s Hot Spot is one that is proud of its strong Chandler roots. The Ivy Mediterranean Lounge is a new concept featuring fresh, authentic and delicious Mediterranean cuisine. Owners Christodoulos Komitis and Penelope Acosta-Komitis are committed to creating homemade recipes that feature only the highest quality ingredients.

executive assistant | Lori Cunningham application architect | Michael O’Connell web developer | Hanna Park it director | Randy Aufderheide

It’s these passionate people who make Chandler a wonderful place to call home. I can’t wait until my children are old enough to appreciate all that their hometown has to offer.

Enjoy!

by Community ™

Meghann Finn Sepulveda, Editor

ChandlerLifestyle.com

P.O. Box 12608 Overland Park, KS 66282-3214

Proverbs 3:5-6

ON THE COVER A beautiful centerpiece at an Arizona wedding.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CACTUS FLOWER

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Chandler Lifestyle | August 2015

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Chandler Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of Chandler’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Chandler Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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August 2015

Departments

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Good Times

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Around Town

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Hot Spot

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Locally Owned

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History 101

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Giving Back

28

What’s Cooking?

30 Lifestyle Calendar 34

16 Arizona’s Hometown Grocer

Parting Thoughts

Celebrate the history of Bashas’.

18 Beautiful Arrangements, Unique Designs

Family-owned Cactus Flower is proud to be a part of life's most

important occasions.

24 Hope to Those in Need

Clothes Cabin relieves financial stress and promotes self-esteem.

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Good Times

Social Box Neighborhood Eatery Event

The Social Box Neighborhood Eatery hosted a Neighborhood Bash and First Annual Chili Cook Off. The summer celebration featured burgers and hot dogs on the grill, delicious chili, cotton candy, snow cones, games and more.

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Chandler Lifestyle | August 2015

Subway Restaurants of Arizona Subjammers Contest More than 100 Subway sandwich artists invaded Chandler Fashion Square for the annual event where subjammers competed in the lettuce and tomato-filled contest that measured speed, recipe accurateness and overall presentation.

© 2015 VILLAGE HEALTH CLUBS & SPAS

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August 2015 | Chandler Lifestyle

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Around Town

DOWNTOWN CHANDLER LIBRARY ENHANCED BY A RENOVATED COPPER ROOM Mayor Jay Tibshraeny and members of the City Council recently helped rededicate the Copper Room, a vital multipurpose space on the second floor of the Downtown Chandler Library, in a public ceremony held in late June. The 5,100-square-foot Copper Room can be divided into several smaller areas that can be used for different purposes simultaneously. The new design gives library staff more flexibility for scheduling classes and programs, plus meeting and rental spaces for the public and City departments. The room now features enhanced multimedia capabilities, with upgraded audio/video equipment and variable lighting that will provide library visitors with a more cinematic experience when films are shown. Library staff has already been using the new space and they anticipate that it will function as a community gathering place for many of the people, businesses, educational and cultural organizations in the vicinity of downtown Chandler and beyond.

“With the popularity of children’s activities and family programming, this space will be utilized quite a bit by library staff,” says Library Manager and Cultural Affairs Director Brenda Brown. “We have already hosted community events, such as ‘A Conversation with Holocaust Survivor Helen Handler,’ and were able to accommodate the large audience very easily.”

From 1996 through 2010, the second floor space at the Downtown Library served as the meeting chambers for the City Council, an adjacent video production studio and control room, and storage rooms. When a larger Council Chambers and television studio were built in the new City Hall complex that opened in the fall of 2010, the vacated library space was renamed the Copper Room and used for a variety of classes and programs during the past four years. The Chandler Downtown Library is located at 22 S. Delaware St. For more information, call 480.782.2800 or visit ChandlerLibrary.org.

CHANDLER TENNIS CENTER WINS PRESTIGIOUS NATIONAL AWARD The United States Tennis Association (USTA) has awarded the Chandler Tennis Center its prestigious Featured Facility Award, the USTA's highest tennis facility honor. The annual award exemplifies 10

Chandler Lifestyle | August 2015

the highest level of excellence in facility design, court construction, court amenities, programming and initiatives that help grow the sport of tennis. In addition, the Chandler Tennis Center is one of 13 winners in its 34th annual USTA Facility Awards Program, which recognizes excellence in the construction and/or renovation of tennis facilities throughout the country. Representatives from the Chandler Tennis Center will be honored at the USTA semi-annual meeting at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in New York City on September 7.

"What we have known locally about our wonderful tennis center, the rest of the country now knows: Chandler's Tennis Center is one of the nation's premier tennis facilities and a great asset for the community," says Mayor Tibshraeny. The Chandler Tennis Center is located within Tumbleweed Park in southeast Chandler. The facility was built in 1996 and renovated in 2014 when the 15 asphalt courts were replaced with 15 post-tensioned concrete courts. In addition, tiered concrete seat walls were added to enhance spectator viewing and a large hitting wall was built. The hitting wall spans three courts and is one of the largest in the Southwest. Updated landscaping was also installed.

"Receiving such a prestigious award validates the vision and support of our City Council, the dedication and service of staff, and the embracement of the community,” says Barbara Young, Chandler's Recreation Manager. "Tennis is truly the sport of a lifetime." Award entries were judged using the following criteria: overall layout and adaptation to site; excellence of court surface and lights; ease of maintenance; accommodations for players, spectators and press/officials; aesthetics; graphics (including the use of signs and landscaping); amenities such as casual seating for spectators, food services and social areas; and the facility's participation in USTA programs. Information about the Chandler Tennis Center and youth, teen and adult group tennis lessons, recreational leagues, tournaments, special workshops and drop-in play can be found online at ChandlerAZ.Gov/Tennis.

FORMER CHANDLER-GILBERT COMMUNITY COLLEGE STUDENT DRAFTED BY LOS ANGELES ANGELS With their professional season well under way, Major League Baseball (MLB) recently ran its annual first-year player draft. In this draft, all 30 MLB teams participate and choose from more than 1,200 amateur players nationally. In all, seven current or

former Maricopa Community Colleges players were selected from 1,215 total amateurs in the 2015 first-year player draft. Jacob McDavid, who attended Chandler-Gilbert Community College, was drafted by the Los Angeles Angels.

tions in Metro Phoenix on days with excessive heat warnings.

According to the Arizona Department of Health Services, more than 1,500 weather-related deaths from exposure to heat have occurred in Arizona since 2000.

ARIZONA FORD DEALERSHIPS COLLECT WATER FOR SALVATION ARMY

Z'TEJAS SOUTHWESTERN GRILL LAUNCHES SUMMER MENU

For the third year in a row, Ford Motor Company and 13 metro Phoenix-area Ford dealerships, including Earnhardt Ford in Chandler, teamed up with Big Surf Waterpark and the Salvation Army in support of its Extreme Heat Hydration Program to collect bottled water.

As a result of the Ford EcoBoost Challenge water drive, more than 61,000 bottles of water were collected at Valley Ford dealerships.

Earnhardt Ford collected approximately 1,000 bottles of water.

“The Salvation Army is grateful to the Metro Phoenix Ford dealers for their support of our Hydrate Arizona campaign,” says Major John Brackenbury, Salvation Army, City of Phoenix coordinator. “As temperatures continue to rise, clean drinking water becomes a life and death issue. Thanks to the partnership with Ford Motor Company, we are able to provide relief to hundreds of men and women exposed to extreme conditions.”

Anyone who donated a case of water received a half-off voucher to Big Surf Waterpark in Tempe, redeemable this summer. The Salvation Army’s Extreme Heat Hydration Program was launched in 2006 to distribute water and provide respite and safety information to those in need at mobile hydration sta-

Z'tejas Southwestern Grill will once again be offering their highly anticipated and custom summer menu, featuring SlowCooked Pork Ribs, craft cocktails and a Banana Foster Beignet dessert that will tempt your taste buds. Be sure to stop in to try these delicious items at one of their five Valley locations, including Chandler, from now until August 23.

August 2015 | Chandler Lifestyle

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Hot Spot

UPSCALE CASUAL NEVER TASTED SO GOOD

ARTICLE KATHLEEN BLAIR | PHOTOGRAPHY JEFFREY WILSON

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ake one dynamic duo -- Christodoulos Komitis and Penelope Acosta-Komitis -- add a keen business mind, the ability to create delicious food and a staff that provides wonderful service and you have their recipe for operating a successful restaurant.

It has worked so well with their first two restaurants, they decided to do it again and opened The Ivy, this past May.

INVITING ATMOSPHERE

Once you enter the restaurant you’ll immediately feel a warm, inviting environment. The clean lines, simple and attractive tables, chairs, couches and accents create a wonderful ambiance. A spacious lounge is on your left with a large bar that opens up to an incredible, wrap-around patio. Both the lounge and the patio are perfect spots for Happy Hour, Reverse Happy Hour, a light meal or snack. There is also a private dining room available to celebrate any special occasion or to hold a corporate event.

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Chandler Lifestyle | August 2015

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

With a menu that offers a wide variety of choices, it won’t be difficult to find a few that will tempt you. Since I love cheese, I started my evening with the Saganaki. This delicious appetizer is a large portion of flamed cheese cooked with brandy and ouzo and followed by a splash of lemon. It’s served with warm pita bread and is absolutely delicious!

Next, I sampled the Shrimp and Eggplant appetizer that is served with a spicy marinara sauce. The sautéed shrimp and breaded eggplant are very good and I can easily see why it’s one of the more popular appetizers. Other appetizers include Calamari, Hummus, Mussels, Shrimp Mediterraneo, Bruschetta and Ivy Fries.

For an entrée, I tasted the tender Lamb Chops which are imported from New Zealand. They are first grilled then flavored with red wine and rosemary. It’s a simple yet tasty entrée that is served with potatoes and a crisp Greek salad.

My favorite seafood is sea bass and I thoroughly enjoyed a beautiful fillet of Chilean Sea Bass that was seared and then placed in the oven with a garnish topping of orange and cilantro salsa and a touch of balsamic reduction sauce. It’s an elegant entrée with wonderful fresh flavors.

Also on the menu is the “Mezedes for 4,” which comes with chicken, lamb and shrimp skewers with lamb chops on the side. Rice and a salad finish off this family style entrée. Pasta dishes include Pesto Chicken Penne, Shrimp Santorini and Spaghetti Carbonara with Mushrooms.

A $5 Kids Menu is available with three choices of Chicken Tenders and Fries; Pasta with Alfredo or Marinara sauce and Kids Quesadilla.

There is also a wonderful selection of items available for lunch which includes delicious salads, pita wraps, an Ivy Club Sandwich, Fish Tacos, Buffalo Chicken Sandwich and a Mozzarella Burger.

BEHIND THE SCENES

Komitis was born and raised on the Greek island of Cyprus and moved to the states in 2001. In 2004 he graduated with honors from Arizona State University with a degree in finance. He opened his first restaurant, Cyprus Grill, in Phoenix, in 2004 and moved it to Chandler in 2009.

He and Penelope have been married for eight years and have two children, a fiveyear-old son and one-year-old daughter.

“Chandler’s economic growth and development inspired me to open The Ivy. My vision was to create a beautiful place where you can hangout, eat great Mediterranean food and enjoy a drink without having to drive to Phoenix or Scottsdale. We want to be part of this city’s growing dining scene,” shares Komitis.

Acosta-Komitis is active in the community, and The Ivy recently hosted a fund-raiser for Children of Chandler.

Komitis is a passionate chef who enjoys the challenge of creating new flavors. He doesn’t believe in skimping or cutting corners and uses only the highest quality products. He enjoys what he does and treats his customers like family. It’s obvious they feel the same, as the couple is invited to many of their customer’s family celebrations.

I was very impressed with The Ivy as the portions are generous, the food delicious and at reasonable prices, and the service friendly. It’s a perfect location for any occasion - casual to formal - and you’ll find it has all the right ingredients to create a memorable time.

THE IVY MEDITERRANEAN

1890 W. Germann Road Chandler, AZ 85286 480.699.6189 IvyAZ.com Hours: Mon – Thurs 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.

Fri – Sat 11 a.m. – 12 a.m.

Sunday 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.

Happy Hour: Daily: 3 – 6 p.m.

Reverse Happy Hour: Fri - Sat: 9 – 12 a.m.

August 2015 | Chandler Lifestyle

13

Locally Owned

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Pampered Wellness Salon and Boutique ORGANIC, SHABBY-CHIC BEAUTY ARTICLE JACKIE BINSFELD | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

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ake a break from the summer heat by indulging yourself at The Pampered Pinkie. Megan Maloy, the owner of this local salon, explains how.

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SALON HISTORY

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Maloy and her mother, Debbi, became co-owners of The Pampered Pinkie in 2009. Since then, Maloy has made it her mission to create an environment where people feel pampered because she firmly believes that when you look good, you feel good. The salon offers natural and organic treatments and products to protect the health of their clients, workers and the environment.

The Pampered Pinkie has also developed their own skincare line made of only natural ingredients and eliminates any need for fillers that are found in typical skincare products.

Using these fresh ingredients, their line provides customizable options for any skincare need. To complement their eco-conscious efforts, the products are sold in recyclable glass bottles.

SERVICES

The Pampered Pinkie offers a multitude of services in their charming shabby-chic style environment. For a classic manicure, go for the Le Pe-

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1. Maloy pampering a customer with a manicure. 2. The charming manicurist table. 3. While you wait for your pampering, take a break with a refreshment or browse the boutique. 4. The stylists (from left to right): Jenn O'Neill, Valerie Tomko, Megan Maloy, Cassandra Akin and Acacia Barnett 5. The Pampered Pinkie offers several different hair styling services. 6. The shabby chic salon Chandler Lifestyle | August 2015

tit treatment. If you wish to indulge, try La Creme, which includes aromatherapy, a scrub, a mask and much more. The Pampered Pinkie also provides several hair services. Go in for a cut and style or have fun with extensions, tinsel or cruelty-free feathers. The summer heat calls for lighter clothing layers, so now is the time to freshen your skin with a facial and waxing. Want to have a truly healthy glow? The Pampered Pinkie offers organic spray tans.

Not only does The Pampered Pinkie provide care for your hair, nails and skin, but they also have expended into the wellness industry. This includes meal planning, health coaching and herbal supplements so that clients can feel pampered both inside and out.

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SUMMER BEAUTY TIPS

Each season calls for adjustments to your beauty routine.

Maloy suggests paying attention to the effects of the heat. To salvage dry hair, try using a deep conditioning mask. If you want a simple treatment, apply coconut oil from mid-shaft to the end of your hair. Put your hair in a shower cap for 20 minutes and then rinse. When styling your hair, think laid-back. Maloy suggests wearing loose waves, braids, a messy bun or a low ponytail. Stay away from styles that look stiff or too “done-up.”

Your skin and nails are also susceptible to heat damage. To nourish them, simply make a scrub out of oil (try olive or coconut) and sugar or salt. The sugar and salt will exfoliate off dead skin while the oil will provide much needed moisture without clogging your pores. Once your nails are cared for, you can paint them with some fun summer colors. Maloy suggests trying neon pastels in colors such as green or pink. For your toes, add sparkle with glitter polish or visit the salon and choose from their variety of glitter colors.

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THE BOUTIQUE

After being pampered in the salon, take a moment to browse the boutique. Maloy herself has collected all the jewelry, makeup, and other lovely items that are available to purchase. Also available are beautiful signs hand-painted by her mother that can be hung in your own home or given as a gift.

LOCALLY-OWNED

Located in the Chandler Historic District, this salon is truly a part of the community.

"This city is a wonderful place to enjoy your younger years, raise a family, or retire," Maloy explains. "As such, the salon attracts a vast array of customers – from high school girls getting their makeup done for prom to snow birds coming in for manicures. The Pampered Pinkie is thus both an environment where people feel pampered and welcomed."

The Pampered Pinkie will be expanding into Primrose Wellness and Beauty this summer and early fall. The salon is located at 498 W. Chandler Blvd. Chandler, AZ 85225. For a full list of services please visit ThePamperedPinkie.com or call 480.821.0450.

August 2015 | Chandler Lifestyle

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History 101

Deep Roots A QUICK LOOK AT BASHAS' HISTORY IN ARIZONA ARTICLE ROB JOHNSON, BASHAS' | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

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lthough Bashas’ has been around 83 years now, the company’s roots in Arizona and Chandler go back much further than that.

It was in 1884 that Tanuis Basha moved from Lebanon to New York City to start a new life in the New World. He brought over his son, Najeeb, a bit later.

New York hosted a thriving Lebanese community at the turn of the 20th Century, and Najeeb picked a bride from it in 1901. Her name was nearly the same as his—Najeeby. Najeeby had family in Arizona who wrote of the success they were enjoying in the territory’s mining towns. Najeeb went to check it out, and in 1910 his growing family joined him.

They started in Congress Junction, then moved to Ray-Sonora. But the future looked to be in the Valley of the Sun, so in 1920 Najeeb constructed two buildings in Chandler: one a home for his family of 10 on North Washington Street, the other a mercantile on East Boston Street.

The 1920s were happy times for the Basha family and their mercantile, but the period came to a sad and near-disastrous end in 1932 when patriarch Najeeb died of complications from diabetes.

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Chandler Lifestyle | August 2015

Not everyone realizes that Najeeb’s boys, Ike and Eddie, started the first Bashas’ store mainly as a means of helping support their widowed mother and six sisters. Bills from their father’s medical care and funeral left the family’s general store near financial ruin. But the boys heard of a business opportunity in the cotton farming community of Goodyear (now Ocotillo), south of Chandler, and that changed everything. This little company town needed a mercantile, so the boys opened one, named it for the whole family (hence the plural possessive), and enjoyed success.

The chain grew slowly at first, but gathered momentum. It branched out to Mesa in 1936. By the end of the 1930s there were four Bashas’ stores; 20 years later, after founding brother Ike Basha passed in 1958, there were nine—including the first store in the then-new “supermarket” format, Bashas’ #3 at 7th Avenue and Osborn in Phoenix, opened in 1956.

Growth over the next decade was steady, but 1968 witnessed the passing of Eddie and the rise to prominence of his son, Eddie Jr. The “Eddie Era” was the most dynamic in

company history. By the end of the 1960s, Bashas’ had grown to 17 stores; by the end of the 1970s there were 27. After that, growth was meteoric: Bashas’ had 52 stores by the end of the 1980s and 92 stores by the end of the 1990s. By the early 2000s the count was as high as 160, and Bashas’ had become Bashas’ Family of Stores, embracing not only Bashas’ but also Food City, AJ’s Fine Foods, Bashas’ Diné and Eddie’s Country Store. Progressive Grocer magazine named Bashas’ its Retailer of the Year for 2005.

Today, Bashas’ Family of Stores is in the midst of an aggressive store remodeling program. Eight Bashas’ locations and four Food City stores got overhauls in 2014, and 19 more remodels will be complete by the end of 2015.

Founded to support a family of nine, Bashas’ today is a family of 8,500 at 119 locations across Arizona. But the heart of the company remains Eddie Ba sha, Jr. where it’s always been: in Chandler, where the corporate offices sit on the very spot where Ike and Eddie opened that first store in 1932.

Learn more at Bashas.com

August 2015 | Chandler Lifestyle

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Coming Into Bloom Locally-owned business has been creating beautiful memories for generations.

ARTICLE ERICA FORST | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

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n 1972, Cactus Flower opened its doors to provide the Phoenix Metropolitan Area superb floral design. Thirty-eight years later, the dependable florist opened its Chandler location making drop-ins from southeast valley customers easier than ever. The family-owned company has built trust in its customers by focusing on product quality and excellent customer service, which it guarantees. And this top-notch florist works with the best suppliers to obtain the freshest blossoms from around the world, including exotic flowers. Such excellence has led to numerous accolades, including Best of Phoenix's “Best Florist,” Best of Citysearch's “Best Florist" award, and a top 10 ranking amongst FTD and Teleflora members.

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Chandler Lifestyle | August 2015

Dreaming Up Designs Hilary Torfin, Lisa Martinesi and the other talented designers at Chandler's store create clever designs that exceed customers' expectations. The process starts by connecting the client's requested colors and themes to appropriate floral arrangements. Every event is different, so the designer makes sure that any ideas fit within the client's budget. Adding accoutrements is also an important aspect of floral design and can add to the creativity of the display.

“A few years ago Cactus Flower Florists created Rock-N-Roll centerpieces for the annual PF Chang's marathon," says designer Lindsay Robertson. "We used old 45 rpm records tucked into the arrangement, which involved a lot of thrift store excursions leading up to the event. Last year, we did a wedding for a couple where the groom owned a micro-brewery, and he brought us empty beer bottles from all over the world to create the table centerpieces in. We've had brides bring in old brooches to incorporate into a bouquet, and just recently we had a woman bring in a 1950s party dress that her grandmother once wore. Instead of using ribbon wrap on the bouquet stems, we used strips of taffeta and lace from the dress for a one-of-a-kind look.”

With so many variables in the flower world, giving ample time before an event is also an important part of the planning.

“For instance, recently we were unable to get certain types of flowers for more than a week due to torrential rains in Ecuador where crops could not be harvested," Robertson explains. The store was able to rethink the initial plan and come up with a new strategy that met the client's needs.

CONTINUED >

August 2015 | Chandler Lifestyle

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COMING INTO BLOOM

(CONTINUED)

More Than A Garden Variety Thinking lilies for your wedding? Need radiant centerpieces for a bar mitzvah? Or maybe it's time to celebrate a baby on the way.

Whatever the occasion may be, Cactus Flower will make your day stand out. Special events like prom can call for unique designs.

“Most proms have specific themes, and we've had fun creating corsages for Great Gatsby inspired, Under the Sea themed, Mardi Gras styles and more," Robertson says.

For weddings, deciding on accessories, décor, bouquets and centerpieces are all a part of the planning process. To give big events the attention they need, Cactus Flower's designers meet clients for a consultation to discuss visions and plans. For five years in a row, Cactus Flower has been the Bride's Choice and Couples Choice winner on Wedding Wire.

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Chandler Lifestyle | August 2015

Stop On By The Chandler location prides itself on creativity and presentation, which is evidenced by its imaginative store window displays. Customers can always drop in to pick up a bouquet or loose flowers. Currently the store is offering 50 percent off loose flowers during its happy hour every Friday from noon until close. Also, every month the store offers a $10 Fresh Ten wrap featuring a flower of the month. Customers enjoyed Fresh Ten wraps of roses during the month of July.

No matter what the occasion, Cactus Flower provides exceptionally beautiful flowers at reasonable prices. And the company stands by its satisfaction guarantee. The next time you need a big event planned or simply want to show a loved one that they are appreciated, give Cactus Flower a call or stop by the store.

Cactus Flower is located at 2040 South Alma School Road, Suite #20 in Chandler. Floral arrangements and selections can be seen at CactusFlower.com and orders can be made online or by calling 480.820.8553.

August 2015 | Chandler Lifestyle

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*Upon an orthodontic down payment of $250, the office will credit an additional $250 to the account resulting in a $500 down payment. Limited to full-standard 24-month orthodontic cases; not all patients will clinically qualify for the service. Valid only if patient starts or schedules to start treatment on the same day of initial exam. Subject to insurance restrictions; cannot be applied to insurance co-payments or deductible. Cannot be combined with any other offers. Offer must be mentioned at appointment to be valid. Limit 1 per patient. †Regular value of at least $145. New cases only. Cannot be combined with any other offers. Coupon must be presented at appointment. Subject to insurance restrictions; cannot be applied to insurance co-payments or deductible. Limit 1 per patient.

Carrie 602-618-8244 | Greta 480-215-9677 Located inside Signature Salon Studios 1714 W Guadalupe Road - Suite 127, Gilbert, Arizona 85233 August 2015 | Chandler Lifestyle

23

Giving Back

CLOTHES CABIN GIVING A HAND UP, ONE GARMENT AT A TIME ARTICLE MICHELLE GUERRERO | PHOTOGRAPHY BRIDGETTE MARIE PHOTOGRAPHY

W

hat does someone do when they are out of work and the one thing that stands between them and a construction job is a pair of work boots that they can't afford? What if someone finally gets hired for a great job, but realizes they only have one appropriate outfit for the workplace? Who does a mother turn to when her child has outgrown their school clothes and she can't afford to replace them?

Many Chandler residents turn to Clothes Cabin. Clothes Cabin and Friends Resale Boutique are operated by One Small Step, Inc., a small nonprofit organization that provides free clothing and household linens to people in need. Clothes Cabin also offers their homeless clients free weekly laundry service, mailboxes and small storage lockers for their important items.

“Our vision is that no person or family within our service area lacks the clothing they need to secure employment, maintain a healthy and hygienic life and be socially accepted,” says Kris Walters, the community relations coordinator for One Small Step.

FRIENDS RESALE BOUTIQUE

Clothes Cabin currently serves 2,000 families and depends heavily on clothing donations, as well as monetary ones. Next to Clothes Cabin is the Friends Resale Boutique, a shop set up to help raise funds for the program.

24

Chandler Lifestyle | August 2015

“Shop at the boutique and 100 percent of the earnings go directly back to Clothes Cabin,” says Shannon Skarphol, executive director.

The boutique sells both resale and new items, everything from household goods to jewelry. They even sell items made by local artists. The funding helps purchase items such as new socks, undergarments and kids clothes. They also purchase new boots for their Back to Work program.

“One of our biggest challenges is getting enough donations of kid’s clothing,” says Walters. “About 60 percent of our clients are kids and we are in perpetual need of clothing for them.”

Walters has observed that women tend to donate their closet's overflow the most, so typically they have more than enough women's clothing. Men tend to hang on to theirs the longest, so men's clothing is appreciated.

RUNNING THE CABIN

“One of my favorite quotes is, 'Many hands make light work,' and it is so true," says Walters. "We rely so much on our community, starting with all the volunteers that staff both Clothes Cabin and Friends Resale Boutique, and get donations to stock both sides as well. I love volunteering and working for such a worthy cause."

Skarphol is employed part-time as the executive director and the agency contracts with Walters and Maxine Becker for community relations and grant writing. Walters also volunteers at Friends Resale Boutique. There are about 50 volunteers that make it possible for them to serve the community at the level they do.

MAKE A DIFFERENCE

There are many ways to support Clothes Cabin without making a weekly commitment.

“One way to help is to become an ambassador for our organization," says Walters. "That could be as simple as talking about us at a local club, meeting or on Facebook."

Volunteers pick up donations for donors who can't make the drop-off personally. Others serve as spotters who look for, then notify them, of local sales and bargains on items they need to purchase.

Younger children who want to get involved can conduct clothing, shoe or hygiene kit items drives. One clever women's club hosted a linen shower and collected a room full of sheets, towels, blankets, comforter sets and pillows for the program.

A SIMPLE THING

During registration, clients are asked for their photo ID and given a clothing allowance sheet. They may request clothing once every three months and the amount they are allowed depends both on the number of people in their immediate family and clothing availability. They may also ask for household linens at this time.

Skarphol was working up front with clients one day and she was going over the allowance sheet with a mom who had her daughter with her.

The mom turned to her daughter and asked her if she needed anything and the daughter asked for a blanket. Skarphol went to the back to search for one, but was worried because she knew they were low on reserves.

Thankfully, she found one fluffy pink blanket on the shelf.

“I was really touched by that mom who put her daughter first. And her daughter was so happy to have such a simple thing,” says Skarphol.

A new blanket, a gently used suit, a pair of strong work boots; these things may seem like simple things, but they can truly be life changing for those in need.

Learn more about volunteering, donating or shopping at Clothes Cabin or Friends Resale Boutique at ClothesCabin.org.

August 2015 | Chandler Lifestyle

25

Ocotillo Foot & Ankle Serving all foot and ankle conditions

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Frank Maben, DPM Robert Evans, DPM

-Same Day Appointments -Board Certified Surgeons -Over 20 years experience -Accepting most insurance -In-office X-ray, Ultrasound and procedures www.ocotillofootankle.com August 2015 | Chandler Lifestyle

27

What’s Cooking?

Summer Salad Stuffed Zucchini ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY CORINE GREEN

Editor's Note: Corine Green is a runner, designer, holistic nutrition specialist and food blogger who lives in the East Valley. This month Corine submitted a recipe for a healthy, summer salad stuffed zucchini. She loves creating recipes incorporating herbs and vegetables from her home garden.

INGREDIENTS

1 large zucchini 1 cup cooked quinoa 3/4 cup diced, fresh tomatoes 1/3 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained 1/4 cup diced, fresh spinach 1 teaspoon diced, fresh lemon thyme 1 teaspoon finely diced, fresh garlic 1/8 teaspoon salt 2 dashes of freshly ground black pepper 2-3 tablespoons diced avocado 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil COOKING DIRECTIONS

Preheat oven to 350°F 1. Cook the quinoa following package instructions. You can cook it the night before if you want to save time, and refrigerate.

2. Cut the zucchini in half lengthwise and remove the seeds using a large spoon.

3. Place the hollowed-out side of the zucchini down on a small baking tray in 1/2" of water.

4. Cook at 350°F for 15-30 minutes, depending on size and thickness.

It's done when you can poke through the green skin with a fork.

5. Combine all remaining ingredients, except the avocado and olive oil in a bowl, and mix well.

6.

When zucchini is ready, place on serving dish with hollowed-out side up.

7. Scoop quinoa filling into each zucchini.

8. Top with diced avocado and a drizzle of olive oil.* Serves two as a light lunch, or four as a side dish *Note: This dish can be served hot or room temperature. In the Arizona heat, the less we use the oven the better. I used a toaster oven to cook my zucchini. If you want the filling heated, place it back in the oven for 10-15 minutes after stuffing, and be sure to cook the zucchini for a max of 15 minutes on the first cook time. Top with avocado and olive oil after removing from the oven.

Find more plant-based recipes on Corine's blog at ZucchiniRunner.com.

28

Chandler Lifestyle | August 2015

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August Lifestyle Calendar

AUGUST 1 - 31 $3 KIDS MEALS STONE & VINE

At Stone & Vine, a neighborhood Italian restaurant, kids eat for only $3 until Labor Day. The restaurant is located at 1035 W. Queen Creek Rd. For more information call 480.659.7438 or visit StoneAndVine.com.

AUGUST 3 FAMILY STORY TIME BASHA LIBRARY

Basha Library is hosting a 30-minute High Five Program with stories and activities that are developmentally appropriate for toddlers, preschoolers and school aged kids up to 8. The event is from 6:30 to 7 p.m. inside the Programming Room. For more information, call 480.782.2800.

10 A.M. CRAFTHACK CRAFTCAMP TECHSHOP

Take your crafting to the next level at CraftHack CraftCamp at TechShop, Chandler. The event, which starts at 10 a.m., allows participants to network with other craft artists and craft designers. Learn from each other how we have transformed our crafts into our life passions and/or small businesses.

vision that drives this band is their plight to reintroduce blues music, to younger generations and those that have simply forgotten. At 7:30 p.m., the thieves will put on a free and unique, show stopping performance at Chandler Center for the Arts that is worth writing home about. Chandler Center for the Arts is located at 250 N. Arizona Ave. For more information, call 480.782.2680.

AUGUST 15 CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP IRONWOOD CANCER & RESEARCH CENTERS

Caring for your loved one who is sick can be difficult. This group, which meets at Ironwood Cancer & Research Centers in Chandler from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., is a place to share your experiences and vent your stresses with other caregivers who are experiencing similar situations. The event is for caregivers only, and is held at 685 S. Dobson Rd. For more information, call 480.821.2838.

AUGUST 19 BUILD N’ PLAY BASHA LIBRARY

Preschoolers ages 3 to 5 years old will enjoy building their own creations with a variety of DUPLO and LEGO kits at the Programming Room at the Basha Library. The event is from 10:45 to 11:30 a.m. For more information, call 480.782.2800.

AUGUST 10 LEGO KIT CLUB BASHA LIBRARY

Kids ages 5 to 12 are welcome to take part in the LEGO Kit Club at the Basha Library; the library supplies a variety of skill level kits for kids to put together between 3:30 and 4:30 p.m. No registration is needed. For more information, call 480.782.2828.

AUGUST 14 SUGAR THIEVES CHANDLER CENTER FOR THE ARTS

The Sugar Thieves have a sultry blues roots foundation, and powerhouse delta sound that will take you back in time. The singular

AUGUST 21 TRES GUITARRAS CHANDLER CENTER FOR THE ARTS

Tres Guitarras combines the intimacy of a solo concert, the excitement of an improvised fusion and the comfort of a warm drink by a campfire. Bring the entire family and share a magical evening enjoying three vastly different genres joining forces in one thrilling event. The free concert begins at 7:30 p.m. at Chandler Center for the Arts, which is located at 250 N. Arizona Ave. For more information, call 480.782.2680.

30

Chandler Lifestyle | August 2015

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CHANDLER ART WALK LOCATION VARIES

The Chandler Art Walk is a monthly event featuring local artists and musicians for the whole family to enjoy. The event will be held from 6 to 10 p.m. For more information and the location, visit ChandlerArtWalk.com.

AUGUST 25 CAREER CONNECTORS CENTRAL CHRISTIAN CHURCH

Are you in career transition? Come and discover Career Connectors, a nonprofit organization connecting professionals to high quality resources and hiring companies. Events are held three times a month; all available at no cost. Each event includes professional career speakers with presentations on relevant job search topics, three to four featured hiring companies, networking, resume help, career coaches, LinkedIn coaches and business portraits. The August 25 event is from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Central Christian Church’s Student Center, 965 E. Germann Rd. For more information, call 480.442.5806 or visit CareerConnectors.org.

Andrea Stickland, DVM

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At Animal Medical Center of Chandler our mission is to provide the best hospital experience to our clients and patients via a clean, relaxed environment with knowledgeable and courteous staff. We will continue to evolve to provide the best veterinary medicine, the latest in advanced technology and customer education.

AUGUST 26 HIGH FIVE READ AND PLAY GROUP BASHA LIBRARY

Playing with your child is not only fun, it's one of the most important ways you can encourage development of key literacy, cognitive, and social skills. The Read & Play Group, which is from 10:45 to 11:30 a.m. at the Basha Library, gives you the time, toys, books, and space to explore and play with your children and network with other parents. Library staff will be available to offer guidance and information on the five early literacy practices.

For more information, call 480.782.2800.

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business directory

ANIMALS & ANIMAL CARE

Animal Medical Center of Chandler (480) 339-0406 amcofc.com

ART & PHOTOGRAPHY Uptown Art (480) 813-8059 Uptownart.com

AUTOMOTIVE

Huffs Automotive (480) 726-8900 huffsautomotive.com

DENTISTS & ORTHODONTICS

Chamberlain Orthodontics (480) 448-2480 smilestraight.com Crossroads Dental Group And Orthodontics (480) 821-5444 chandlercrossroadsdental.com Novelly Dentistry (480) 892-6868 drnovelly.com

EDUCATION

Great Hearts Academies (623) 866-4718 lincolnprep.org

FAITH

New Heights Church (480) 747-7826 newheightsaz.com

FASHION & ACCESSORIES

Heaven’s Glory Boutique LLC (480) 802-2277 Shopheavensglory.com London Gold Jeweler (480) 367-1717 londongold.com

HEALTH & WELLNESS Ocotillo Village Health Club & Spa (480) 656-0045 villageclubs.com Sozo Physical Therapy (480) 895-0965 sozopt.net

HOME BUILDERS & REMODELERS

Granite Transformations Phoenix (480) 222-2022 granitetransformations.com/ phoenix

Standard Pacific Homes (888) 627-5208 Standardpacifichomes.com

Eyes On Site (480) 626-8925 eyesonsite.com

Tanner Materials (480) 814-9838 tannertileandstone.com

Ocotillo Foot and Ankle (480) 895-0276 ocotillofootankle.com

HOME DESIGN & FURNISHINGS

RESTAURANTS, FOOD & BEVERAGE

The Dump thedump.com

Otaku (480) 821-3908 otakusushi.com

HOME SERVICES

Shamrock Roofing (480) 888-6648 shamrockroofingservices.com Steel Shield Security Doors (602) 357-4812 steelshieldsecurity.com

LEGAL SERVICES Nielsen Law Group (480) 888-7111 nielsenlawgroup.net

MEDICAL CLINICS & FACILITIES

SALONS & SPAS

Salon De Bellagio (602) 618-6244 facebook.com/SalonDeBellagio

SPECIALTY SHOPS Cactus Flower (480) 820-8553 cactusflower.com

FastFrame of Chandler (480) 345-0133 fastframe109.com

East Valley Dermatology Center (480) 821-8888 evderm.com

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Chandler Lifestyle | August 2015

Dr. Jeffrey Wine

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Parting Thoughts

The True Meaning of Home Grown WORDS NEKE FELIX-ZAMBONI

O

ur story is one with deep roots that began right here in the heart of Ocotillo.

Mona’s Country Day School opened in the late 70s when my aunt Ramona Felix began watching children, mainly for parents who worked across the street at Bashas’ corporate office.

Over the years, the city of Chandler and the daycare grew, which increased the need to expand and add more classrooms to accommodate the children.

I would be remiss not to mention that this school was originally my grandparent’s home, where my father, his brothers and sisters all grew up. Three generations of the Felix family and extended family have attended Mona’s Country Day School. My grandmother, Mary Basha-Felix, won a contest to rename the area Ocotillo, which was formerly known as Goodyear, when the Goodyear Tire Company was located out here.

In 1999, my husband and I purchased the daycare and home from my aunt who was ill and could not continue operating the business. We chose to keep the name, Mona’s Country Day School, in honor of my aunt who still resides in Arizona.

We are currently in our 16th year of running the family-owned business. We are a small, family-oriented child care center, licensed for 59 children. We have a unique set up in that our home 34

Chandler Lifestyle | August 2015

is actually located on the same property. The daycare and home however, are separated. While we are a state-licensed daycare facility, I have been told by many families that they like the sense of family at our center. I often hear that it feels like a home.

Families really enjoy our spacious outdoor playground with plenty of green grass and large shade trees that allow the children to run, play and explore. Our wonderful staff takes the time to really get to know all of the children and parents, not just the children who are in their classrooms. Children have the opportunity to visit and interact with their siblings during the day. You will almost always find me here because I truly enjoy interacting with the children and teachers and being part of the environment.

I am also a native of Chandler. I grew up in the area and have many fond childhood memories of Ocotillo. We have families who still come back to see us with their grown children because of the great memories they, too, have. We even have former students (now parents!) who bring their children to Mona’s Country Day School.

It’s been an honor to continue the family business and we look forward to many more years.

Neke Felix- Zamboni is the owner and director of Mona’s Country Day School.

Learn more at MonasCountryDaySchool.com.

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