Chandler Lifestyle April 2014

Chandler april 2014

ChandlerLifestyle.com

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Today’s Trendiest Wedding Ideas An Easter Celebration for the Whole Family Discover Spring at Butterfly Wonderland

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Editor’s Letter

april 2014

S

pring is just the perfect season in my opinion. Flowers bloom and fill the air with their magnificent scent. Temperatures begin to warm up. And, to me, it’s a time of renewing. Some of my favorite events to attend in the spring are weddings. I love watching the two lovebirds declare their love for one another in front of their friends and family. The smiles and joy on their faces exude the hope they have for a bright future together.

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

editor

Moriah Schowengerdt | Moriah@LifestylePubs.com

contributing writers

This wedding issue includes all sorts of incredible stories. For the bride to be, our feature reveals today’s latest wedding trends. From cakes to flowers to invitations and more, you will find everything you need to make your big day both memorable and personalized to your specific taste. These unique and fun ideas are certain to “wow” your guests.

Meghann Sepulveda, Kathleen Blair, Kory Kilmer, Michelle Guerrero, Erica Forst, Brooke Peterson, Cate Ritter, Suzette Zara, Gremlyn Waddell, Melissa Hathaway

Are you trying to plan your wedding on a budget? Our Financial Fitness article offers tips for saving money while planning your dream day. Though it can be difficult to stay within a budget, it can be done and our expert will show you how. And trust me, brides, this will make your dad and your future husband very happy.

Published monthly, subscriptions are available: 1 year for $22

contributing photographers Joy Reynolds

or 2 years for $39. Details at NScottsdaleLifestyle.com

corporate team chief executive officer | Steven Schowengerdt

I’m fascinated by history and this month our History 101 article describes the history of the wedding cake. When did these massive, glamorous, bedazzled, edible pieces of art make their debut? Check out the fun facts, myths and traditions that have stood the test of time.

As always be sure you stay up to date with our monthly Calendar and Around Town sections. You and your family will not want to miss out on these awesome opportunities to enjoy the spring weather before summer hits. We all know that those scorching temperatures are just around the corner.

chief sales officer | Matthew Perry chief financial officer | DeLand Shore national editor | Lisa Cooke Harrison director of marketing | Brad Broockerd national art director | Carrie Brophy advertising director | Mike Baugher production director | Christina Sandberg regional art director | Sara Minor ad coordinator | Cyndi Vreeland

If you are getting married this month, congratulations and blessings on your journey into a life full of love. It’s not always easy; in fact there are days when it’s just plain hard. Just remember to always put each other first, be quick to listen but slow to speak, support one another, and forgive on a daily basis. Celebrate each day that you have with one another. This August, my husband and I will welcome our first child to the world and let me tell you, the years go by faster than you will ever imagine.

national copy editor | Kendra Mathewson executive assistant | Lori Cunningham application architect | Michael O’Connell it director | Randy Aufderheide

Be Blessed,

by Community ™

Moriah Schowengerdt, Editor

| ChandlerLifestyle.com |

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

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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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April 2014

Departments 8

Good Times

10

Around Town

12

Giving Back

20 Now Open

18 14 The Latest Wedding Trends

Sold Properties

24

Hot Spot

26

Field Trip

28

Family Feature

29

Locally Owned

30 Lifestyle Calendar

Ideas to make your big day unique.

18 Enjoy an Easter Celebration

22

An annual event for the whole family.

32

History 101

34

Parting Thoughts

32 Wedding Cake History

The tale of how the wedding cake came to be.

12

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Good Times

Belly Dancing Queens

Dancers in colorful costumes performed at The 2014 USA Belly Dance Queen Competition held at the Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino. Audiences delighted in watching the dancers as they celebrated the Middle Eastern art form.

Party Hearty What better way to enjoy the Valentine’s Day weekend than to enjoy it at FlipSide’s Anniversary Party?

Guests enjoyed fun activities, food, and a visit from a SWAT vehicle.

To share photos of fun events that you have attended, email moriah@lifestylepubs.com.

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Around Town OLIVER! One of the most cherished musicals, Oliver!, returns to the East Valley. Dickens’ timeless characters come to life on the stage at Mesa Arts Center on April 4 and 12. The cast includes some of the Valley’s most talented children and adults singing classics such as, “You’ve Got to PIcka-Pocket or Two,” and “Oom Pah Pah.” Oliver! is a hit you do not want to miss. To learn more, visit MesaArtsCenter.com.

es are April 4 and 5, and are free of charge. While enjoying all that jazz, you can also visit the galleries, restaurants and shops in Downtown Chandler. Blankets and lawn chairs are encouraged for outdoor performance viewing. The weekend will also include an arts and crafts fair, as well as a beer garden. To see a schedule of performers, visit ChandlerAZ.gov.

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The Sleeping Beauty brings all the grace and beauty of ballet and pairs it with the timeless fairy tale of the beautiful Princess Aurora and the evil sorceress Carabosse. The evening is set to Tchaikovsky’s mesmerizing score.

Shows are on April 26 and 27 at the Chandler Center for the Arts. For more information, visit ChandlerCenter.org.

Are you in career transition? Career Connectors in Gilbert can help. Career Connectors is a nonprofit organization connecting professionals to high quality resources and hiring companies. Free events are held four times a month and include resume help, career coaches, business portraits, professional career speakers, and presentations on relevant job search topics. For more information, visit CareerConnectors.org or call 480.442.5806.

LINDA INGRAHAM-25 YEARS OF MIXED MEDIA PHOTOGRAPHY After graduating from New Mexico State, Linda Ingraham found her passion of mixed media photography work which incorporates painting into the background. Her move to Arizona led to a monumental event: she won a sum of money in the Arizona Lottery. This winning enabled her to afford studio space in downtown Phoenix. Since then she has shown her work in galleries and museums locally, as well as internationally. She has also participated in numerous projects with the Phoenix Art Museum and Ballet Arizona. Come view her collection which will be exhibited through the month of April.

The Vision Gallery is located at 10 E Chicago in Chandler. For more information, visit VisionGallery.org.

GISELLE Giselle, a tale of love, betrayal, death and forgiveness comes to Chandler on April 12 and 13. Youth American Ballet Company will perform the classical storybook ballet that tells the story of a count in disguise who falls in love with a beautiful peasant girl. To learn more about the ballet, visit ChandlerCenter.org.

HERSHEY TRACK AND FIELD The Hershey National Track and Field Games are here and you are encouraged to cheer on our youth, as they come to Chandler High School on April 5. Sprints, relays, long jump, and the shot put (in the form of a softball throw) will all be a part of this day. Boys and girls ages 7-14 are invited to compete. For more information, visit ChandlerAZ.gov or call 480.782.2704.

15TH ANNUAL CHANDLER JAZZ FEST Enjoy a wonderful weekend of great Jazz at the 15th Annual Chandler Jazz Fest in outdoor and indoor venues. Performanc10 Chandler Lifestyle | April 2014

KIDS CLUB, POWERED BY NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC KIDS The Chandler Fashion Center Kids Club is a great chance for children to learn in a fun, interactive setting. The Chandler Fashion Center has teamed up with National Geographic Kids to create activities and games. The focus is: discovery through play. Meet-ups are every Wednesday from 10-11 a.m. near the Food Court. For more information, visit ShopChandlerFashionCenter.com.

DUKE’S TAVERN Duke’s Tavern is now open! This bar and grill is located at 4910 W. Ray Road in Chandler. To fill your stomach they have treats, like corned beef Ruben. To quench your thirst Duke’s has many draft beers on tap, including craft beer. Popular drinks include house made Apple Pie Moonshine, Moscow Mules, and Taste the Rainbow (Skittles infused vodka). Duke’s offers happy hour deals on drinks and food every weekday from 2-7 p.m. For more information, visit DukesTavernAZ.com or call 480.993.3359.

10th ANNUAL GILBERT GLOBAL VILLAGE FESTIVAL Come learn about other cultures in your community as Gilbert puts on its ninth annual Global Village Festival on April 12. The event has dancing, music, and activities for the entire family. Taste ethnic foods from lands far away at the Gilbert Civic Center North Campus at 50 E Civic Center Drive. For more information, visit GilbertAZ.gov.

BIG RIVER Adapted from the novel, The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain, Big River won eight Tony Awards, including Best Musical and Best Score. Get swept down the mighty Mississippi on the tale of Huck Finn, as he helps his friend, Jim, who is a slave, get to freedom. Suspense, comedy, and tenderness are all part of the adventures, as Tom meets with other characters, including his partner in crime, Tom Sawyer, and Huck’s drunken father.

Driven by the award-winning score from Roger Miller, this jolly journey provides a theatrical celebration of pure Americana. The show runs from April 4-20, and takes place in the Farnsworth Studio Theater in the Mesa Arts Center, located at 1 E Main St. in Mesa. For schedules and more information, visit MesaArtsCenter.com.

10th ANNUAL PAT’S RUN Pat Tillman played collegiate football at ASU and then went on to play professionally with the Arizona Cardinals. After 9/11, he decided to enlist in the army, foregoing his multi-million dollar NFL contract to serve his country. In 2004, while serving in Afghanistan, he was killed in the line of duty at 27 years old. To remember and honor Pat’s service to our nation, 10,000 people gather each year to participate in Pat’s Run, a 4.2-mile race in Tempe. The sponsor of the run, The Pat Tillman Foundation, raises money to assist veterans, active military, and their families with educational opportunities. This year’s Pat’s Run takes place on April 26 at Sun Devil Stadium. So, come support a good cause and run with the masses on this day of fun and commemoration.

For more information, visit PatsRun.com.

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Giving Back

Brides Against Breast Cancer Making a Difference in the World, One Dress at a Time Article Gremlyn Waddell | Photography Provided

C

an a sleek and sumptuous silk wedding gown help someone dealing with cancer?

Certainly! And so can a lace-trimmed confection that’s all dolled up with crystals, because a wedding dress that’s donated by a bride who has already said her vows, or by a bridal salon, boutique or designer, gives Brides Against Breast Cancer (BABC) a chance to sell that finery and raise funds for the free programs and services it supports all around the nation. BABC supports individuals affected by cancer, their families and caregivers, and takes part in other outreach activities, like the10,000 breast self-exam cards it plans to distribute this year.

“There are many cancer support organizations that raise funds for medical research, but what we do is deal with the pyscho-social aspects, providing programs for adults and children that focus on education, nutrition, exercise and therapy,” says Amy Paulishak, senior vice president for the Florida-based, non-profit, which is an affiliate of its sister organization, the Center for Building Hope.

12 Chandler Lifestyle | April 2014

“Even if you’re not in the market for a gown,” she says,” you can volunteer at one of our events or, if you’ve already said ‘I do,’ you can donate your gown and receive a tax deduction.”

With more than 5,000 gowns in BABC’s inventory, and sometimes as many events as six per weekend, the group is on target to raise $2 million this year with the 100 bridal shows already scheduled on its “Nationwide Tour of Gowns.” Each show arrives in town on BABC’s “Big Pink Truck” and usually attracts about 150 guests, although the number can reach as high as 800. An average of 20 gowns walks out the door of each show with a beaming bride-to-be, and even though that doesn’t always happen, Paulishak says BABC’s approach makes real economic sense for those watching their pocketbooks.

“If a customer personally hasn’t been impacted by the downturn in the economy, she knows someone who has,” Paulishak says, Donating a gown also resonates emotionally for those brides who wish to “pay it forward.”

And, speaking of paying it forward, volunteers -- those who work at the bridal shows or in other capacities -- are truly the

backbone of the operation. According to BABC’s website, more than 4,000 volunteers accrued over 32,000 hours of in-kind service in 2013.

JoAnn Grant, an event planner and owner of Apropos Creations, serves as a BABC’s volunteer city coordinator in Arizona. She says the future brides she meets at the bridal shows are always pleasantly surprised not only by the available merchandise and on-trend gowns in all styles and sizes (ranging from 4 to 18 with an average price tag of about $600), but also the opportunity to raise money for such a good cause. Approximately 75 percent of the gowns are new and have been donated by salons and boutiques because they didn’t sell, for whatever reason; the others are gently worn dresses that have been previously owned.

“Everything is reduced, and you can find some great prices,” says Grant. An interest-free layaway program is even available.

For those who can’t make a bridal show or don’t need a dress, there are still ways to help, Paulishak says. Perhaps the easiest way to text the word BRIDES to 85944 to donate $10 to Brides Against Breast Cancer and help people impacted by cancer. A one-time donation of $10 will be added to your mobile phone bill.

For more information about Brides Against Breast Cancer, visit BridesABC. org, call 1.877.721.HOPE (4673) or email MoreInfoPlease@BridesABC.org.

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the latest in

trends Article Kathleen Blair

I

t’s spring and a time many brides’ dreams come true…marrying a wonderful man and having a beautiful wedding. They’ve spent countless hours looking at bridal magazines, visiting bridal websites and making countless trips to get the right wedding gown, cake, flowers, caterer, music, invitations. Unique ideas can put a personal spin on the traditional things on a bride’s list. We’ve collected some concepts for brides-to-be to consider and help make her day extra special.

Invitations

The formal invitations with tissue and multiple envelopes are no longer the norm. With the scrapbooking craze still big, invitations have taken on a new, more personalized look that is custom-made to the couple’s theme and interests. It’s a great time to be creative from the “Save the Date” cards to the actual invitation and R.S.V.P cards. Have fun with color, ribbon, lace, rhinestones and print images to create that special, personal invitation.

Photography

Carla and Michael Beedy of Carmichael Studios are a husband and wife team who blend video clips with still photos to bring their photos to life. A beautiful photo of a couple’s first kiss is then put with a video of them dancing. Also something to consider is the first look session where the groom sees his bride for the first time before the ceremony. During this private time that the couple is together, the photographer is quietly behind the scene taking photos and the priceless expressions and moments are captured on film. This is also a perfect time before the ceremony to take many photos including the family before the guests arrive.

“We also recommend the bride has a hair and makeup rehearsal to make sure she loves the look and that it will last the entire day,” states Carla. “We give each couple a Wedding Photography Checklist with timeframes so nothing is overlooked and everyone knows what times to show up”.

Another idea is to have a surprise video of the bride or groom sharing why they fell in love with the other and to share some things their guests may not know about them.

14 Chandler Lifestyle | April 2014

Wedding Cake

Shimmer and glitz on a simple cake has made its debut. Burlap and lace are also making a comeback on the cake scene as well as the frosting look of crepe paper gathered into a flower.

“I’m finding that brides come into my bakery with photos in hand of cakes they’ve seen and love that were on Pinterest,” explains Eva Zasimovich, owner of Sweet’s Unlimited. “The majority of the brides like simple cakes with a little bling.”

An initial monogram on the cake is another personalized touch to consider that is the same color as the frosting. Also, many brides still like a small tiered cake and have stacked cupcakes or a petite cake topped with a real flower as centerpieces at each table.

Flowers

The table centerpieces this year are unstructured, as are bridal bouquets. Jeweltone- colored flowers are being featured. And, terrarium centerpieces are being shown with only a few blooms and lots of greenery under glass in all shapes and sizes. Clustering these as a centerpiece makes a beautiful tablescape.

A touch of citrus garland is popular for decorating the bridal table or the cake table. The large bridal boutique has been replaced with a smaller version of different complimentary colors which separate it from those of the bridesmaids.

Even petite nosegays are being shown in bridal magazines.

Music

Romance is back and Big Bands are making the scene along with crystal chandeliers and beautiful china to decorate the table. You can Google to find ideas for a playlist to listen to before handing your personalized selections to a DJ or band.

Dancing has grown more and more popular and couples, parents and bridal parties are making surprise

debuts on the dance floor. For ideas, you can go to YouTube.com and search wedding dances.

Attire

Brides are adding a bit of color to their wedding gown. Many incorporate a touch of blue to complete the tradition from the poem “Something old, something new, something borrowed something blue and a silver sixpence in her shoe.” Before the late 19th century, blue was a popular color for wedding gowns, as evidenced in proverbs like, “Marry in blue, lover be true.” Also popular this year is hints of pink and peach in pale blushes and nudes.

“A more formal look is making the scene in men’s attire”, states Danielle Goettl, wedding planner for Outstanding Occasions. “The casual dress attire of suspenders and cotton bowties are being replaced with a more sophisticated look.”

Vows

Many couples still choose to stay with the traditional wedding vows where others want to be more creative and recite vows they have written or a poem they both like that reflects their love for each other.

Food

Family style servings brought to the table have become an option to the buffet and formal meals. A table then shares a variety of entrees and vegetables. Another idea growing in popularity is serving a late night snack of chocolate covered pretzels, popcorn in multiple flavors, ice cream cups or pizza. Even the latest craze of food trucks has entered the wedding scene.

“Consider having a food truck cater your rehearsal dinner or a bachelorette party. The chef can prepare a special meal for the evening and having a food truck adds to the festivities,” states Lori Baker, owner of Food Truck Caravan. continued >

April 2014 | Chandler Lifestyle 15

wedding trends

(continued)

Reception

Organization

This year, romance has made a larger presence in weddings with the lace, ribbon, sequins and chandeliers. If your budget won’t allow it on a grand scale, then add touches of it to your venue. And, to change things up, have a combination of different seating arrangements for a softer look.

Combine round tables in the center with rectangle tables around the perimeter or make another shape with smaller tables staggered. A bridal table can be a small table for two with your bridal party sitting with their family and friends at the other tables. And soft floral patterns are making an appearance in linens.

To stay organized, you can order a wedding tote with pockets and compartments for all the samples and notes you have for your big day. Monogramming with the bride and groom’s first name and wedding date is a fun addition. For more information visit Exclusively Weddings on line.

After all the preparation, the day does finally come. Remember, the most important thing is it’s the bride and groom’s special day. Whatever they choose is perfect because it makes them happy. And, the fairy tale wedding the bride has always dreamed of has come true.

16 Chandler Lifestyle | April 2014

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Celebrate Easter

with the Whole Family Chandler’s Annual Event Article Brooke Peterson | Photography Provided

T

he Easter Bunny is hopping into Chandler a little early this year and bringing 8,000 eggs filled with candy and toys with him. The City of Chandler Recreation Division is hosting the annual Family Easter Celebration on Saturday, April 19 from 9 a.m. to noon at Snedigar Sportsplex.

“The Family Easter Celebration is a fun way to start the holiday weekend with your family and loved ones,” says Stephanie Feldaverd, recreation coordinator with the City of Chandler. “There will be several great activities for families and individuals of all ages to enjoy.”

Now in its 34th year, the Family Easter Celebration has become

18 Chandler Lifestyle | April 2014

the premier community Easter celebration in the East Valley. The City ensures that every detail is cared for and the event offers community members a safe place to celebrate and enjoy the season.

Under the direction of Chris Frazer, Chandler students from the Kyrene Del Pueblo Middle School Show choir will kick off the event at 9 a.m. performing a new choreographed set of fast-paced fun entertainment.

“The Pueblo Show Choir is proud to represent their school by performing at community events,” says Frazer. “We’ve enjoyed performing at the Celebration for a number of years now.”

Also beginning at 9 a.m. are several children’s activities, informational booths, and arts and take home crafts, as well as photos with the Easter Bunny.

Although the Celebration itself is free there are minimal charges for some children’s activities, including inflatables from Extreme Eventz, carnival games, human hamster rides from Zorbing and face painting. Food and beverages will also be available for purchase.

Photos with the Easter Bunny will be provided by The Mayor’s Youth Commission for $3. All proceeds will benefit the Commission directly. The photos will be taken and printed shortly thereafter and will be ready to take home within minutes.

hunts. Thanks to attendee suggestions, this year all four egg hunts will start simultaneously on four different fields at 10:30 a.m.

“Last year my husband and I took our son to the Family Easter Celebration for his first egg hunt and we had such a great time,” says Erin Kuriowam, a Chandler resident. “I can’t wait to go again this year now that he’s a little older and has a better understanding of what an egg hunt is.”

The City has asked that families with children in more than one age category go with the oldest child’s age group. Feldaverd commented that the City felt like this would be easiest on their participants and their families to hunt on one field. Each child is asked to take no more than four eggs to ensure that all children have an opportunity to collect eggs.

One ‘golden ticket’ will be waiting for a lucky boy or girl in an egg for each age group. The ‘golden ticket’ is their gateway to a prize package full of toys, outdoor activities, and holiday goodies.

If you don’t find a golden ticket all hope is not lost for winning a prize pack! Guests can stop by the information booth to enter for a chance to win a Family Easter Basket, learn more about the City of Chandler and upcoming events. Families won’t want to leave the event early. The winner will be announced from the entertainment stage at 11:30 a.m. and families must be present to win.

In addition to all that the Celebration offers, both the Snedigar Dog Park and Chandler Skate Park will be open to the public for use.

The Dog Park is open daily from 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. and has several unique amenities designed just for dogs, including: training obstacles, see-saw, balance beam, tunnel, hurdles, a large A-frame and doggy drinking fountains.

“Last year my husband and I took our son to the

Family Easter Celebration for his first egg hunt

and we had such a great time. I can’t wait to go again this year now that he’s a little older and has a better understanding of what an egg hunt is.”

“The Mayor’s Youth Commission has been taking family photos and painting faces at the Family Easter Celebration for more than 10 years,” says Anthony Bauman, recreation coordinator and Mayor’s Youth Commission liaison with the City of Chandler.

“It’s a great opportunity for our youth to provide service and get to know the community they live and go to school in.”

For those youngsters who love to color, the Celebration is accepting submissions for a coloring contest until Friday, April 11. Those interested in participating can pick up a copy of the coloring page from city recreation facilities or print it from the Special Events webpage: ChandlerAZ.gov/Special-Events. Winners will be announced at 9:30 a.m. from the entertainment stage. Prizes for the best drawing will be awarded in four age categories; children age 2 and under, 3 to 4, 5 to 6, and 7 to 9. Children do not have to be present to win.

Shortly following the winners’ announcement, Chandler based dance studio, Desert Star Dance, will perform on the entertainment stage for 30 minutes. Their dancers will perform musical theatre, lyrical, and hip hop numbers as soloists, duos, trios, small groups and even one number that will feature their entire company.

“Our company is extremely family and community oriented, and we’re focused on giving our dancers an opportunity to showcase their talents,” says Ann Bode, director of Desert Star Dance.

“The performance will feature family friendly, and most importantly age appropriate dance moves with modest costuming.”

If you attended the Chandler Mayor’s Day of Play, or the Tumbleweed Tree Lighting ceremony you may have already seen this group, but they’ll be presenting new material.

Families will not want to miss the Easter Bunny’s 8,000 egg hunt. All the eggs will be divided among four fields for each age group; 2 years and under, 3 to 4 years, 5 to 6 years, and 7 to 9 years.

In the past the egg hunt took place on two fields with back-to-back

The Chandler Skate Park is free to the public and has earned a reputation that attracts some of the best skateboarders around to south Chandler. This spacious, 35,000-square-foot facility features concrete bowls, decks, blocks, and metal rails. The park was designed with pro, amateur and casual skateboarders and in-line skaters in mind. Summer hours are from 7 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.

The Snedigar Sportsplex is at 4500 S. Basha Road. Parking is also accessible from Alma School Road, between Ocotillo and Chandler Heights roads.

For more information call the City Special Event Line at 480.782.2735 or go to ChandlerAZ.gov/Special-Events.

April 2014 | Chandler Lifestyle 19

Now Open

New Wedding Venue Sure to Impress Brides SoHo63 brings hip and historic vibe to downtown Chandler Article Meghann Finn Sepulveda | Photography Provided

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oHo63 opened its doors last August to greet brides and grooms looking for a truly unique experience to say, “I do.� Located in Downtown Chandler, SoHo63 purchased the building formerly occupied by Inspirador, and turned it into an urban New York City rooftop terrace that offers a chic and modern feel.

A family affair

SoHo63 is a family owned and operated event industry business. With more than 20 years of experience in the event industry, Megan Schmidt serves as chief events curator. Growing up in the business, Schmidt follows in the footsteps of her mother, Kate Christenson, who owns three additional event and hospitality companies.

20 Chandler Lifestyle | April 2014

“We work with a fantastic team of event curators,” says Schmidt.

“It’s so much fun to be a small part of such a huge and memorable event, and we enjoy what we do.”

SoHo63 hosts weddings, corporate and social events.

Progressive space The venue features a grand ballroom, outdoor terrace, and plaza, intended for indoor wedding ceremonies.

“We have the capacity to fit up to 225 people,” Schmidt says.

“Our space allows guests to progress through an event and take advantage of all our amenities, including small touches such as a beautiful bookshelf in our front room, which can be personalized with wedding photos of parents and grandparents.”

No restrictions on vendors

If you plan a wedding at SoHo63, you won’t be required to use vendors from a preferred list, but you can view the names of entrusted vendors who have successfully worked with SoHo63 clients.

“We don’t want to limit the creativity of our brides,” Schmidt says. “We have hosted urban, modern, vintage and country chicthemed weddings. It all works in this space and it’s easy to truly make your wedding your own.”

All season brides

One of the benefits to booking an event at SoHo63 is the indoor space. Weddings can be held all year long.

“Our indoor space makes us unique because we can host continued >

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April 2014 | Chandler Lifestyle 21

Sold Properties

Recently SOLD Chandler Properties subdivision

original list

sold price

Circle G Riggs Homestead

$1,950,000

$1,570,000

Ryan Estates

$1,200,000

Tierra Linda

$895,000

Bela Flor Sunrise Meadows Estates

% sold/orig

bdrms

bath

squ.ft.

dom*

81%

6

7

7,800

308

$1,015,000

85%

6

4.5

5,214

45

$875,000

98%

4

3.5

5,110

59

$799,950

$749,990

94%

4

4.5

4,233

105

$717,000

$679,900

95%

5

3

3,863

144

Estates at McQueen

$675,000

$650,000

96%

5

3.75

3,627

81

Waters at Ocotillo

$661,684

$644,965

97%

3

2.5

3,241

107

Arden Park

$679,000

$640,000

94%

5

3.5

4,765

20

Catalina Shores at Ocotillo

$595,000

$555,000

93%

4

2.5

3,001

251

Old Stone Ranch

$565,000

$535,000

95%

6

4.5

4,177

125

Old Stone Ranch

$559,900

$534,500

95%

5

4

4,554

89

Mesquite Grove Estates

$525,000

$530,000

101%

5

3.5

3,606

5

Catalina Shores at Ocotillo

$555,000

$525,000

95%

5

3.5

3,095

13

Balboa Point at Ocotillo

$535,000

$525,000

98%

4

3

3,026

124

North Barrington

$520,000

$515,000

99%

4

3.5

4,770

32

Pinelake Estates

$540,000

$512,000

95%

4

2.5

2,796

104

Mesquite Grove Estates

$525,000

$502,500

96%

3

2.5

3,200

120

Cooper Country Estates

$495,000

$500,000

101%

4

3

3,132

36

Geneva Estates

$509,900

$496,000

97%

4

3.5

4,064

106

Symphony 3

$550,000

$491,000

89%

4

3

3,243

83

Ocotillo East Parcel 3 - Camelot Cove

$499,000

$490,000

98%

5

3.5

3,162

10

Mesquite Grove Estates

$499,000

$485,000

97%

5

2.5

3,098

83

Chandler Heights Estates

$484,900

$485,000

100%

6

4.5

4,620

51

Geneva Estates

$484,900

$484,900

100%

6

3.5

4,106

28

Barcelona at Valencia 2

$494,811

$479,000

97%

4

3.5

2,757

107

*DOM - Days on Market. Above Sales data from MLS between 2/1/2014 - 3/1/2014.

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22 Chandler Lifestyle | April 2014

Now Open

(continued)

A life-long love of learning

weddings in July and August and everyone can be comfortable,” Schmidt says.

The outdoor terrace is widely utilized in the cooler months.

Packages

Typically, most weddings include an eight hour package, with flexible hours. There are no noise ordinance restrictions since the venue is not located in a residential area.

“We have to stop serving alcohol at 2 a.m., but guests can still enjoy the party until later if they desire,” Schmidt says.

While cost greatly varies per individual wedding, packages range between $5,000 and $20,000 and can be customized to fit the needs of each bride and groom.

Additionally, certain days of the week and “off season” months provide a less expensive option.

Bright Beginnings is a preschool and elementary-middle charter school serving bright and curious children three years old through 8th grade. It’s an excellent place to start your child’s education and is an A+ excelling school as determined by the Arizona Department of Education. Receive a “private education” for free at our charter school which ranks among the top elementary schools in the state. We’re creating wellrounded students through accelerated curriculum developed to prepare students for higher learning.

Specialized Art, Music, Spanish and Physical Education classes.

Highly qualified teachers and low student-teacher ratio.

Honors classes offered for those who qualify.

Spanish classes designed for student success on the National Spanish Exam.

Book an appointment

If you are interested in speaking to a SoHo63 event curator, appointments are typically booked between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m., Monday through Friday in the venue office, located at 63 E. Boston Street in Chandler.

Learn more by calling 480.878.5663 or visit SoHo63.com.

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facebook.com/BrightBeginningsSchool April 2014 | Chandler Lifestyle 23

Hot Spot

Cork Any Occasion is the Right Occasion Article Kathleen Blair | Photography Provided

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passion for food and the desire to own her own restaurant, Danielle Morris’ dream came true in March 2008 when she opened Cork restaurant in Chandler. She had the right ingredients: training from Scottsdale Culinary Institute and experience working at Lon’s restaurant at the Hermosa Inn in Paradise Valley. She combined her culinary talents with that of her husband, General Manager and Sommelier Robert, and Executive Chef Brian Peterson. Together, these three co-owners have created a wonderful culinary destination.

Chef Brian has a bachelor’s degree in food and beverage management from Roosevelt University and also trained at Scottsdale Culinary Institute. He, Danielle and Robert, who worked together at Lon’s, make a winning team with their creative ability to bring American cuisine with French influences to their menu, which changes eight times a year.

“We use simple ingredients which allow our guests to taste the flavors, and we use only high quality items,” states Chef Brian who doesn’t shy away from preparing such items as duck, lamb, wild boar, venison and antelope.

A Great First Impression

I immediately loved the ambiance of the restaurant the moment I entered. I was greeted by the General Manager Winston De la Cruz who was very gracious and has an infectious smile. On my right, I 24 Chandler Lifestyle | April 2014

passed an impressive wall of wine that extends from the floor to the 25-foot-ceiling. This glass climate controlled room houses hundreds of wines from all over the world. Straight ahead is an intimate full service bar that houses two small flat screen televisions. The bar seats eight comfortably and directly across there are four high top tables. In the restaurant area are seven tables and six large booths positioned nicely creating an element of privacy and a wonderful mesh chain adds to the quaintness and coziness between the booths. A narrow patio opens up to the dining room for additional seating with a beautiful fireplace and heaters so it can be utilized year round. A private dining room which seats 10 can be reserved for special events and/or meetings.

Something for Everyone

As I sat down to begin my culinary dining journey, it was refreshing to see items that you may not find on most menus. From the prelude (appetizer) list, I sampled a pan roasted scallop with fried oysters. Hearing Chef Bri-

Details cork

4991 S. Alma School Road Chandler, AZ 85248 480.883.3773 CorkRestaurant.net Tues – Sat 5 pm – 10 pm 5 pm – 6:30 pm All day Wednesday

Hours:

Happy Hour: Tues – Fri

an’s description of his creation prepared my mouth for the wonderful flavors of the tender scallop and oysters. Absolutely loved it!

Next I sampled the baby arugula salad which is made with toasted pumpkin seeds, ruby red grapefruit and Crow’s Dairy goat cheese then gently tossed with a honey vinaigrette dressing. I loved the combination of the grapefruit with the goat cheese and the roasted flavor of the pumpkin seeds left a pleasant after taste. Other salads offered are a beet salad, a prosciutto salad and organic green salad.

For my entrée I enjoyed a Hanger Steak that is served with a Cabernet reduction sauce. The steak was very flavorful and reduction enhanced the taste of the meat.

Chef Brian shared with me it takes five days to make the Cabernet reduction. I am so glad he takes the time to make it as it really is incredible. The steak was served with yummy scallop potatoes topped with blue cheese and broccoli.

After seeing the dessert menu, I was happy to sample one of Chef Danielle’s latest creations – the Ruby Red Grapefruit Possett. It’s made with the delicious ruby red grapefruit from local Argitopia, an Aperol-grapefruit granita, caramelized segments, black pepper shortbread & basil garnish. It was light and tasty especially with the chilled segments that topped the possett. A perfect treat after my delicious meal “We are always experimenting with foods to stay current with culinary trends

Bowling

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to offer a wide selection of items without changing the flavors but enhancing them,” shares Chef Danielle.

It’s obvious that Chef Danielle truly loves being a pastry chef. What could be better than doing what you enjoy each day -- creating new desserts and seeing the smiles on your guests when they sample them. In 2008 Cork received the Phoenix New Times award for Best Banana Cream Pie, which has an Oreo crust, toasted marshmallow and brulee bananas.

An awesome Happy Hour menu offers casual items that are big on taste. There’s the chef burger made with caramelized onions, a pork belly sandwich on a pretzel roll, a Merguez sausage sandwich with cheese sauce and piquillo peppers, fried chicken with mashed potatoes and gravy and much more. All menus are listed on the website detailed descriptions. In addition, Tuesday’s special is half price on a bottle of wine, on Wednesday’s the Happy Hour Menu is offered all day and on Thursday’s you can order half portions of any entree that makes sampling a couple entrees a nice option.

An iPad is brought to your table has the beverage list of craft beer, wine and cocktails. A couple of the signature cocktails include a grapefruit basil martini and a cantaloupe martini among

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ing Brunch + Unlimited Bowl

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others. Recognized for not only the delicious food but for their wonderful wine selection, Cork has received the AAA Four Diamond Award for the last four years and Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence for the last five years.

Most recently, USA Today included Cork in their national roundup of “10 great restaurants with stellar wine lists”.

Cork supports the local farms for diary, meat and cheese as well as the community and schools. In fact the girl scouts visited Chef Danielle for a day of baking. You will also find vegetarian and gluten free items on the menu.

In March of 2011, the three co-owners opened their second restaurant in Chandler, BLD, which is a more casual family restaurant serving delicious food for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Obviously, this threesome have found the right ingredients needed to create successful restaurants.

JOIN THE FUN!

Val Vista and Queen Creek 480-471-8444 ExploreFlipSide.com Open Sun–Thur 10am–9pm Fri–Sat 10am–12am

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April 2014 | Chandler Lifestyle 25

Field Trip

Butterfly Wonderland A Little Piece of the Rainforest Here in the Desert Article Michelle Guerrero | Photography Provided

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wo brilliant iridescent Blue Morpho butterflies fly past my shoulder as they play chase in the early afternoon. With wings stretched out, they look about the size of my hand. They move like puppets pulled with stings as they dance to the tune of trickling water from the fountains.

Filtered sunlight pours through the atrium’s glass ceiling. Meticulously groomed plants and brightly colored flowers line the pathways.

A group of school kids sits on the ground with their notepads and pens in hand. As I look around, there are beautiful butterflies everywhere, some on the plants, some eating fruit from bowls and one even hitching a ride on a little girl’s skirt. She freezes in place and squeals with excitement telling her friends she can’t move because she doesn’t want to scare the butterfly away. This truly is Butterfly Wonderland.

Butterfly Wonderland, located in Scottsdale, is both a for-profit and non-profit 501c3 facility. The Butterfly Wonderland Foundation was established to provide on-going public education programs, activities and specialized materials for school children in the region.

The foundation also helps provide educational and research opportunities, as well as scholarship and internship programs.

“When you see a butterfly, you are seeing a survivor,” says Adriane Grimaldi, the director of education at Butterfly Wonderland. “There are four stages in their life cycle: egg, caterpillar, chrysalis and butterfly. In any of those stages, there is an obstacle that can prevent them from going onto the next.”

26 Chandler Lifestyle | April 2014

Children learn about the ecosystem, as well as powerful life lessons such as this when visiting the atrium. And thanks to the foundation’s scholarship program, hundreds of children are able to attend this wonderland at no cost each year.

Children’s First Academy in Tempe, a school for low income and homeless children, was granted a scholarship and sent 28 children on a field trip. The children enjoyed the butterflies and bees, and watch a specially edited, 14-minute version of the IMAX movie the Flight of the Butterfly, in 3-D. Grimaldi said they were proud to send the kids off with a Butterfly Wonderland sweatshirt to keep them warm.

One of Grimaldi’s favorite moments in the day was when one of the little girls she was leading down the hallway looked up at the butterfly pictures and declared that she would love to work here someday.

“These are kids who live on the streets, by the river bottom or in a shelter,” says Grimaldi.

Maybe this experienced sparked a passion within this youngster to chase her butterfly dreams.

Volunteers are an important part of the education program. Butterfly Wonderland has about 82 volunteers, 45 of which are active. Many of the non-active volunteers are snowbirds.

“Forty-four volunteers donated 512 hours in December. That’s pretty substantial for an organization that just opened in May,” says Grimaldi.

Volunteers help with numerous jobs, from taking tickets, to answering questions about the butterflies, bees, ants, aquatic fish or other critters at Butterfly Wonderland.

“We keep the atrium at 75-80 percent humidity to mimic tropical conditions for the butterflies,” says Grimaldi. “I like to tell the visitors and volunteer not to worry, we don’t charge extra for the facial!”

When Grimaldi designed the volunteer program, she kept a couple things in mind.

First she wanted the volunteers talking and interacting with guests. She also wanted the volunteers to educate the public on topics they found interesting, so this experience feeds their desire to learn as well.

There is much to see, learn and touch at Butterfly Wonderland. From the chrysalis nursery to the live active bee hive in the building. Don’t worry, the bees are perfectly safe from on-lookers due to a fancy Plexiglas contained hive and have access to the outdoors.

I consider myself a nature lover; however, I had much to learn during my visit, such

as, butterflies taste with their feet, or that some moths can’t eat because they don’t have a mouth. Butterfly Wonderland has 50 different species of tropical butterflies and 2,500 butterflies in their atrium. They receive fresh chrysalises every week since most of their butterflies live about 14 days, although some can live longer since conditions are perfect for them.

The butterflies may not have birds stalking them but they do need to watch out for children and feet of all sizes. Misters year round, swamp coolers in the summer, and boilers during the winter help create the tropical conditions in the atrium. Most of their butterflies come from Costa Rica, South East Asia and other regions of South America.

It’s easy to catch “butterfly fever” when visiting the atrium. I now want to take their class to learn how to grow my own a butterfly garden. And it’s easy to feel the passion their staff, interns and volunteers have for this little piece of rainforest located in the desert.

“I love my job!” says Grimaldi. “I love sharing the awesomeness of how butterflies come to be.”

Interested volunteer candidates can pick up an application at Butterfly Wonderland’s guest services or request one at adriane@butterflywonderland.com. Butterfly Wonderland Foundation welcomes financial support.

More information can be found on their website at ButterflyWonderland.com. Also, teachers and moms, there is great educational information available on their site for you to share with your kid.

To submit your favorite nonprofit organization, or a special person involved in the community, for our Giving Back department, send an email to MichelleMGuerrero@live.com.

April 2014 | Chandler Lifestyle 27

Family Feature

Saying ‘I Do’ on a Pitcher’s Mound One Valley couple declared their love in a unique and meaningful way Article Meghann Finn Sepulveda | Photography Provided

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ike most couples, Amy and Jason Morton hit a few rough patches during their five-year dating relationship. When the couple broke up in 2010 and went their separate ways, they continued playing softball together every Friday night at Snedigar Park in Chandler. They didn’t know that the sport they loved would eventually bring them back together.

Time apart heals

It was her first Thanksgiving without Jason. She discovered her dog had eaten through wires connecting to the television and she didn’t know who to call. Feeling helpless, Amy called Jason and asked him to come over to fix the wiring problem.

“At first he said that I should be able to figure it out on my own,” Amy explains. “I pleaded with him and he agreed to come over.”

After realizing the dog ate a cable that didn’t affect the TV, Amy and Jason talked for several hours.

“As he was leaving, he said that he wasn’t going to be my next boyfriend, but my next husband,” Amy says. “I was shocked and confused, but I realized he was right.”

Wedding planning

Almost immediately, the couple met with their pastor to begin planning their big day.

It was apparent that the softball field was symbolic of where and how their love blossomed while sustaining the ups and downs of their relationship.

“We didn’t have a special place that was ours, like a beach or a cruise,” Amy says. “We looked at each other and realized we wanted to do the ceremony on the softball field.”

The couple decided to declare their love on the pitcher’s mound of a softball field at Snedigar Park in Chandler on January 21, 2011.

28 Chandler Lifestyle | April 2014

The big day

Surrounded by their teammates after clearing a brief delay with the opposing team, and just before the 9:20 p.m. game, Amy and Jason headed to the pitcher’s mound and said their vows.

Wearing their uniforms, the couple said “I do” just moments before playing their scheduled game.

“Unfortunately we lost the game that night,” Amy says with a laugh.

“It was also the coldest night in January, but it was very special.”

Following the game and keeping up with tradition, the couple joined their teammates at Native New Yorker to celebrate.

Unique venues

The City of Chandler Parks and Recreation Department says the Morton wedding was the first and only wedding that has been held on a softball field. While uncommon, anyone who wishes to have their wedding at a park or other outdoor venue in Chandler should contact the Parks and Recreation Department at 480.782.2727 for rental information.

“There may be restrictions on outdoor spaces, but we can discuss options with brides and grooms,” says Hermelinda Llamas, special events coordinator.

Fees may be applicable and vary on the size of the wedding.

A homerun for life

Marriage is a lot like softball. As a team, everyone needs to work together to achieve a winning outcome.

Some days you strike out and other days you hit the ball out of the park. It’s important to remember that you need to be present, focused and ready to step up to the plate.

You’ll never know what pitch will be thrown, but your team will always be there to support and cheer you on.

Locally Owned

Chandler Dental is the Place for You Where They “Make it Easy to Smile” Article Moriah Schowengerdt | Photography Provided

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hase Davis, D.D.S, is ready to welcome you to his family and cosmetic dental practice where he and his staff will welcome you with a smile and care for you as if you were family. The convenience of having so many services provided in one place will ensure the ease and satisfaction of your next dental visit.

Often labeled as the “one stop shop” by loyal customers, Chandler Dental offers a wide variety of different treatments to get you in and out, saving you time and money.

“We offer same-day crowns, implants, sedation, teeth whitening, wisdom teeth and root canal therapy. We guarantee that these services will last you at least five years as long as you maintain good oral healthcare and routine dental visits,” says Davis.

He also stays well on top of his continuing education classes to ensure that he and his staff are up to date on the latest, top-notch techniques and equipment. This education helps the team make your appointment the most comfortable that it can be.

Chandler Dental opened in 2001. Since then it has gone through two owner transfers. Davis took possession of Chandler Dental in late 2012.

“I love the diversity of Chandler. There are so many great companies and amazing people that make us the best city in Arizona,” says Davis. “Our patients are fascinating and hard working and our neighbors are the greatest people. We try to represent Chandler within our practice to the best of our ability.”

Dental care is not the same as it used to be. A lot of dental practices are held by corporate offices that are owned by people who aren’t dentists. These are typically the types that run their dental offices as strictly business and often times their customers are treated more like numbers instead of people.

This is where Chandler Dental stands out.

With Davis being the owner of the company and the doctor, there are huge benefits to the customers. One being that costs can be kept to a minimum due to not having to pay executives and stockholders. Another reason

(most important reason according to Davis) is that the customers at Chandler Dental are treated like family, not numbers.

“We build relationships that last in our office,” says Davis. It is even a requirement for the staff to treat their patients like family. They all go beyond expectations to show gratitude to their awesome customers. The staff feels that because of you, they have jobs that allow them to contribute to the society. It’s the fun, professional, and gentle staff that Davis has hired that keeps his customers coming back time and time again.

Although there are definitely ups and downs to running your own business, Davis finds joy in seeing his customers leave his office with smiles on their faces.

“The most rewarding part of owning my business in Chandler is being able to change our patients expectations of the dentist,” he says. “We have many patients that have avoided the dentist for years due to a bad experience. But after they leave our practice they regret that they have put off their dental needs for so long. That brings so much joy to me and that’s why we offer sedation to bring comfort to those with anxiety.” All they want at Chandler Dental is for you to find that going to the dentist can be comfortable and stress free.

Chandler Dental gives back to the community as well. They sponsor multiple youth activities, sports teams, local artists and charities.

“The main reason I decided on dentistry as a career was to be able to help people throughout the world,” says Davis. “I wanted to go to different countries and help kids with their oral health which I have been able to do multiple times.” This year in October, Chandler Dental is participating in Dentistry from the Heart. This will be a day where they will offer free cleanings, fillings, and extractions. There will be more information about this day as it gets closer. For questions please call their office.

Chandler Dental’s motto is, “We make it easy to smile.” It is evident that this is what Davis and his team strive for on a daily basis.

For more information about scheduling an appointment, visit ChandlerDental.com or call 480.917.8400.

April 2014 | Chandler Lifestyle 29

April Lifestyle Calendar

embellish a small fabric figure, using clay to create a one-of-a-kind face and then embellish it with a variety of mixed mediums. For more information, visit VisionGallery.org.

APRIL 4

APRIL 6

ZUCCHERO

PHOENIX YOUTH SYMPHONY

CHANDLER

CHANDLER

World famous Zucchero has worked with some of music’s biggest names including; Eric Clapton and Sting. Catch him for his only stop in Arizona at Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino.

For more information, visit WinGilaRiver.com.

Young pianist and composer, Ethan Bortnick, will be backed by the Phoenix Youth Symphony. The concert will also feature the Phoenix Boys Choir. For more information, visit ChandlerCenter.org.

APRIL 8 DIANA KRALL MESA

Diana Krall brings her extraordinary new album. Glad Rag Doll, to the stage to perform an exhilarating and adventurous new sound.

Krall is one of the best-selling jazz artists of her generation and a Grammy Award-winning performer. For more information, visit MesaArtsCenter.com.

APRIL 4

CHANDLER

Famous soul and R&B bands bring the funk to Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino Friday with smashes like, “Take Your Time (Do It Right)” from the SOS band and “Meeting in the Ladies Room” by Klymaxx. For more information, visit WinGilaRiver.com.

EL TOUR DE MESA MESA

Another exciting El Tour de Mesa is in town.

Open to cyclists of all ages and abilities, there is a ride distance for everyone. There will also be opportunities to earn gifts, prizes and awards. To learn more about the event, visit PerimeterBicycling.com.

APRIL 5 CREATING MIXED MEDIA ART WITH MARY POINDEXTER CHANDLER

Workshops are taught on Saturday at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Students will construct and 30 Chandler Lifestyle | April 2014

WITH LAURIE FAGEN CHANDLER

Learn to craft stories with artist Laurie Fagen. You will learn to write your very own short fiction or non-fiction story. To learn more, visit VisionGallery.org.

APRIL 12 CHANDLER SYMPHONY CHAMBER SERIES CHANDLER

Conductor Jack Herriman leads musicians from across the Valley of the Sun, as they provide audiences with the opportunity to hear great music. The concerts are provided to the public, free of charge. Though there have been financial pressures, the Chandler Symphony Orchestra is committed to reaching the community with quality orchestral music, regardless of one’s ability to purchase tickets. For more information, visit ChandlerCenter.org.

SOS BAND, ZAPP BAND, AND KLYMAXX

MESA

APRIL 5

SO YOU WANT TO WRITE

APRIL 11

JOHN LEGEND

The hit single, “Ordinary People” led singer-songwriter, John Legend, into the spotlight earning him a Grammy Award for his 2004 album, Get Lifted. Now, Legend returns after five years with his much-anticipated fourth solo album, Love in the Future. For more information, visit MesaArtsCenter.com.

APRIL 12

APRIL 12 CHEECH & CHONG CHANDLER

The shameless comedy duo is back at it.

Cheech and Chong have entertained audiences for years with their unique brand of stand-up to some of the most unforgettable comedy albums of all-time. For more information, visit WinGilaRiver.com.

APRIL 16 CAMERON CARPENTER MESA

One of the most accomplished organists, Cameron Carpenter, comes to Mesa to show off his technique and jaw-dropping organ skills. For more information, visit MesaArtsCenter.org.

APRIL 17 MEDORA MESA

Medora is a documentary that follows the struggling town of Medora, Indiana and their down-but-not-out varsity basketball team over a season. For more information, visit MesaArtsCenter.com.

APRIL 19

APRIL 25

FAMILY EASTER CELEBRATION

MARC BAMUTHI JOSEPH

CHANDLER

MESA

Egg hunts, displays, and interactive amusements will all be a part of this year’s Easter Celebration in south Chandler. There will be some of the most enthusiastic Easter Egg Scrambles in the Valley for kids up to 9 years of age. For more information, visit ChandlerAZ.gov.

Take a journey through this Spoken World’s three-part performance. Included in the show is an excerpt of the award winning Word Becomes Flesh. Mark examines the way hip-hop culture has transformed the perception of America across the world. For more information, visit MesaArtsCenter.com.

APRIL 19 CALIFORNIA GUITAR TRIO

APRIL 27

MESA

GIRLS ON THE RUN 5K

Founded in 1991, The California Guitar Trio has created original compositions, surf covers, and classical re-workings. Its style fuses classical rock, blues, jazz, and world music. The group emphasizes technical virtuosity and humor. For more information, visit MesaArtsCenter.org.

TEMPE

Come out to Kiwanis Park and join Girls on the Run for a fun-filled 5k! The event is open to the public- men, women, and children, and participants of all levels are welcome. There will also be music, snacks, photos, a happy hair station, massages and other fun activities. For more information, visit GirlsOnTheRun.org.

APRIL 27 MAMBO KINGS MESA

Experience the heat and passion as the Salt River Brass transforms into the Mambo Kings for the night. The band takes you on a journey through Latin America and Spain with delightful sounds like, Scaramouche and hypnotic rhythms of The Brace Matador. For more information, visit MesaArtsCenter.com.

07/31/14

April 2014 | Chandler Lifestyle 31

History 101

A Slice of Life Brief History of the Wedding Cake Article Kory Kilmer

T

he perfect wedding is an ideal platform for the expression of eternal love between two lovers. Throughout history, however, weddings have also proved to be a perfect outlet for, an often overlooked third party--the baker--whose wedding cakes have been part of ceremonial traditions for thousands of years.

Wedding cakes first started to appear on the record back in the Roman Empire. Not quite the delicious confection of today, early cakes resembled something closer to a sweet loaf of white bread (white symbolizing purity), and were usually made with barley. Some say in an act of good fortune, while other claim in a demonstration of dominance, the groom would break the loaf over the head of the bride, followed by them both sharing some of the crumbs in their first act of eating together as a married couple.

Over time and surely to the delight of brides everywhere, the physical act of hitting the bride with the loaf eventually transitioned into the groom crumbling it much more gently over her head. Guests would then scramble to collect their own share of the crumbs, as lore said they were full of nutritious good luck.

Medieval Europe’s contribution to wedding cake history can be seen in those many towering tiers that are commonly used to bring height to the display. Back then, sweet rolls were stacked as high as possible to present the bride and groom one of the first challenges as a married couple. With each standing on opposite sides, they were to kiss without knocking the obstacle over. If successful, this act would predict a lifetime of harmony and bliss. If not, well, the road ahead was going to be a tad bit bumpier.

This period in Britain also saw the emergence of what was referred to as the Brides Pye. Weighted much more to the savory side

32 Chandler Lifestyle | April 2014

of the spectrum, this elaborate pastry crust was filled with delectables such as oysters, minced meats, mutton, pine kernels, cockscombs, lambstones (testicles), sweetbreads and a variety of spices.

Every guest was expected to enjoy his or her own slice of the pie, and as an incentive, a ring was often placed inside. A woman who found the ring was said to be the next to marry, which is the precursor to the battle for the flowers that so entertains wedding audiences today.

The arrival of the 17th century brought the first appearance of a wedding cake that resembles those served today. The earliest were simple fruit cakes, symbolic of fruitfulness and prosperity, stacked short and positioned as the centerpiece of the party spread. True tiered cakes started to appear at royal weddings about two hundred years later, and they have been taking on a personality of their own ever since.

Over the years the wedding cake has also established its fair share of superstations as-

sociated with the bride’s big day. She is never supposed to bake her own cake, unless she wants her marriage to get off on the wrong foot. Most people know that keeping a piece of cake after the wedding ensures years of fidelity, but a taste beforehand will seal the deal for a husband to have a wandering eye.

One of the most symbolic and memorable moments on any wedding day is the cutting of the cake. Seen as the first act of the couple working together as one, this demonstration of teamwork sets the tone for every decision to come down the road. And there needs to be enough to go around, as each guest eating their fair share is the only way to ensure a marriage will be blessed with a household of happy, healthy children.

Today’s wedding cakes come in all different shapes, sizes, colors, and themes.

But one thing is for sure: They always symbolize the love of a happy couple, which much like any marriage, are built on traditions developed over many years of trial and error.

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April 2014 | Chandler Lifestyle 33

Parting Thoughts

A Love to Remember Words Hona Amer

E

veryone sits and waits with anticipation. The door opens and everyone stands to get the first look at the bride walking ever so slowly down the aisle. While the people sitting around me try to see the bride, I steal a quick glance toward the altar.

There stands a man who is about to commit his life to his bride.

The emotions are written on his face--excitement, fear, joy. His eyes peer through the crowd to get a glimpse. Then, he sees her.

Down the long aisle, the one he is waiting for comes closer and closer. His smile tells a story of its own, drawing my attention back to his bride, reminding me that this is their moment, a moment worth celebrating.

Somewhere between a beautiful love song and the lighting of the unity candle, the bride and groom say their vows. Some parts are unscripted and from the heart, while other words have been repeated for decades. Through these words that hold so much weight and meaning, they commit to love one another “for better or for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health.” In a beautiful instant, they have joined their lives together.

They walk back down the aisle jubilantly. That aisle is just the beginning of their path that will keep moving together as they navigate through days, weeks and months ahead. Those months will turn into years, and every year, there will be one day on the calendar that reminds them of this time.

In all of our lives, we need markers to remind us of the beautiful moments in our lives. Weddings and anniversaries need to be celebrated, because in the midst of the years, life happens. For some, the loss of a family member brings life into full view. For others, a 34 Chandler Lifestyle | April 2014

sickness may threaten to tear your marriage apart. In those times when life seems dim and cloudy, we need rays of hope that will spill into the darkest seasons. Anniversaries remind us of commitments that were made through smiles and tears. They give us strength to keep going when the vow of “through sickness and health” finds us in the former instead of the latter. Some anniversaries might consist of a sigh, followed by a declaration that “we made it.” Other years will be full of celebrations of new babies, new jobs, new homes and new grandchildren.

It would be wonderful to know the value of love as you live life. Yet, many times, the memories are most cherished when we look through the rearview mirror. Young love is beautiful, but there is something special about love that endures through decades. When two people walk hand in hand through life’s tragedies and triumphs, it’s worth celebrating. It’s worth pressing pause and remembering how one person has so drastically changed another’s life.

Hona Amer is the author of the book, Smart Work U, a book that focuses on helping prospective college students achieve the most from their college experience, in the most cost effective manner.

She received her M.B.A. from Missouri State University. Hona Amer is an adjunct professor at Evangel University. She is the founder of The H Group, a creative marketing company.

Her weekly inspirational message, Monday Morning Coffee with Hona, can be found at LiveOutLife.com.

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