Discover the artistry of cosmetic dentistry at Smiles By Hanna, where cutting-edge technology meets unparalleled expertise. Dr. Mansoor’s world-renowned treatments offer painless, swift, and stunning results that last a lifetime.
YOUR PERFECT SMILE EXISTS! Experience why discerning patients travel from across the world for the natural-looking smile transformations from Dr. Hanna Mansoor.
Men’s health matters in order for men to feel their best and strongest at any age!
At Alexander Medical we encourage men of all ages to take control of their health through regular health screenings and proper diet and exercise. If you are struggling with less energy, lower stamina, decreased sexual health, and weight gain, then a hormonal problem may be to blame. Andropause, or low testosterone, is one of the most common issues that men face as they age. Without proper testosterone levels, the body lacks an essential ingredient to maintaining overall health.
Testosterone plays a vital role throughout a man’s entire lifetime. Without a balanced testosterone level, your sexual health, red blood cell production, and muscle growth will suffer. Furthermore, testosterone deficiency is the lead contributor to symptoms of erectile dysfunction.
Finding out if you have low testosterone and could be eligible for hormone replacement therapy is as easy as a simple blood test. When hormones are replaced to optimal levels, patients often feel better and experience beneficial outcomes like stronger bones, increased sexual health and higher muscle mass.
This men’s health month, encourage the men in your life to book an appointment to have their hormone levels checked. We are offering special pricing for our initial wellness panels when you mention City Lifestyle Magazine at your consultation.
Ready to revolutionize your health?
Robert Alexander, ACNP, NP
Rooted in Strength
There’s a certain kind of man who doesn’t need a spotlight—his work speaks for him. You’ll find him in the early mornings, the late nights, the quiet decisions that shape a business, a family, or a community. Gilbert is full of men like this, and this issue is our way of saying: we see you.
As a husband, father, business owner, and proud member of this town, I’ve spent years watching Gilbert grow—and with it, watching the men who help carry that growth forward. They do it with grit, humility, and a quiet strength that doesn’t ask for recognition but deserves it anyway.
This month, we’re proud to share stories of influential men across our community—builders, risk-takers, mentors, and everyday leaders who are showing up in ways that matter. These aren’t just profiles—they’re reminders of what it means to lead with character and commitment.
One of the highlights in this issue is our Men of Gilbert feature. These guys were nominated by people who know them best—not for titles or accolades, but for the impact they’ve made. Some run businesses. Some serve behind the scenes. All of them represent what’s possible when you lead with purpose.
There’s also something special about watching businesses led by men evolve— not just in what they build, but in how they lead their teams and shape culture. That’s the kind of leadership Gilbert thrives on.
Kylie Strawn-Badger, Kristy Belley, Krista Carpenter, Gretchen Pahia, Liquid Caterers
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Blushing Cactus Photography, Cale Benson, Ethan Beazley, Yasmine Carmen Photography, Diamond Backs PR
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
Arizona
Men
From
From
business monthly
Gilbert Economic Development Director Dan Henderson Honored with Organizational Leadership Award
Gilbert Office of Economic Development Director Dan Henderson, CEcD, was honored last week by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) as the recipient of the 2024 Jeffrey A. Finkle Organizational Leadership Award in recognition of his exceptional leadership and dedication to economic development. The distinguished award honors an individual who has demonstrated extraordinary leadership, integrity, and a philanthropic spirit while leading the same economic development organization for multiple years.
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Gema Alcaraz Joins Desert Eyesthetics Oculofacial Plastic Surgery
Gema Alcaraz recently joined the team at Desert Eyesthetics Oculofacial Plastic Surgery, bringing over 15 years of experience, and specializing in ophthalmology and oculoplastic surgery. Originally from Nicaragua and raised in Bell Gardens, Calif., she moved to Arizona in 2005. After graduating from Lamson College as a surgical technologist, she began her career assisting ophthalmology surgeons in the operating rooms. Alcaraz is fluent in both English and Spanish. E yePlasticsAZ.com
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Stackin Weight Precious Metals Celebrates One Year Anniversary
s Metals specializes in the purchase and sale of precious metals, rare coins, exquisite bullion, collectibles, and a wide range of other valuable items. Bren Blanchette has made this a family business and his expert team includes his two sons and nephew, ensuring clients receive the utmost in quality, authenticity, and value whether they are buying or selling.
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Photography by Desert Eyesthetics
Photography by Stackin Weight Preciou
Photography by Town of Gilbert
Field of Dreams
ARTICLE BY GRETCHEN PAHIA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DIAMONDBACKS
Arizona Diamondbacks Pavin Smith Shares His Love for the Valley
For Arizona Diamondbacks outfielder Pavin Smith, becoming a part of Major League Baseball took him a long way from home—both literally and figuratively. Born in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and raised in Jupiter, Florida, Smith's road to the West is marked by countless moments of athletic passion, meaningful family relationships, and a lasting love for his new home in the Valley.
“I was born in Grand Rapids but moved to Jupiter at the age of four," Smith remembers. "My dad was a golf representative for the Gary Player organization, and my mom was at home with me and my sisters until she got her real estate license and began her career."
Sports were always at the center of his days, Smith recalls. “Baseball was the staple of my childhood.” However, he also spent time running around playing basketball and staying active with friends until about halfway through high school. That diversity of sports served him well as he climbed the ranks, eventually working his way onto the University of Virginia's baseball team. In 2015, he was a member of the team that took the Cavaliers to the College World Series national championship—a "forever special" experience that he says helped shape who he is today.
His aspiration to play as a pro became a reality in 2017 when he was selected by the Arizona Diamondbacks, and just a few years later, in 2020, he made his Major League debut—an unforgettable milestone in his journey.
But Smith's Arizona story is not just about baseball. It’s about planting roots, building a life, and truly making the Valley his home.
“My wife and I got married in 2020, and when spring training opened in 2021, we just rented a random apartment out here for a few months," says Smith.
"We immediately fell in love with Arizona. And since we didn’t have a set home base in Florida, we decided to make Arizona our permanent home.”
They’ve lived all over the Valley—including Scottsdale, Gilbert, Mesa, and Chandler—each town offering something they loved.
“We were drawn to the area by the family-friendly environment and the welcoming community ambiance. We liked the feel of the neighborhoods and the variety. After seeing a lot of houses, we were finally able to get the home that felt right,” he says.
The lifestyle sealed the deal. "There's no shortage of things to do here in the Valley," Smith adds. "Each city is packed with terrific restaurants, coffee houses, entertainment, and activities everyone can enjoy. Having grown up in Florida, the mountain vistas here never get old either. It's a whole new kind of beauty."
Away from the ballpark, Smith enjoys getting out into the community—and Downtown Gilbert is one of his favorite places to unwind. “It’s such a great atmosphere,” he says. “You can walk around, grab a bite, pop into a local shop or just sit outside and enjoy the energy. It has that mix of charm and liveliness that’s hard to find.”
Reflecting on his time with the team, Smith says that being a Diamondback has been fulfilling in more ways than one. "The organization is just full of terrific people and families," he says. "My teammates care deeply about helping you succeed, and we have a great time together—on and off the field."
So what would he say to someone considering a move to Arizona?
"Do it," he laughs. “There's everything and more—wonderful weather, awesome people, incredible scenery. Sedona and Flagstaff are just a short drive away if you want to escape the heat in the summer or enjoy the snow in the winter. It’s a nice balance that makes life here feel complete.”
And for Smith, it's a home beyond the field— it's a place to grow, to live fully, and to call home for good.
"You can walk around, grab a bite, pop into a local shop or just sit outside and enjoy the energy. It has that mix of charm and liveliness that’s hard to find.”
ARIZONA’S SWEETEST
Father & Son Business
How an East Valley beekeeping duo turns Arizona's harshest landscape into sweet culinary magic
ARTICLE BY KRISTA CARPENTER-BEASLEY & KRISTY BELLEY
Every Saturday morning at the Gilbert Farmers Market, a special kind of magic happens at the Sun Valley Bees stand. Here, a father-and-son duo transforms Arizona's harsh desert landscape into jars of liquid gold. You could say they've found their sweet spot in life. Once you taste this local honey, those grocery store squeeze bears will never make it to your cart.
John Ciurdar, a cabinetmaker with skilled hands and a curious mind, started beekeeping as a hobby back in 2007. What began as a weekend passion project blossomed into something bigger when his son Daniel graduated college in 2013. Together, they turned their shared fascination with bees into a thriving family business that locals can't stop buzzing about.
"We're not just selling honey," Daniel explains as he offers samples of their newest Catsclaw variety. "We're sharing a little piece of Arizona in every jar." The pride in his voice is unmistakable as he describes how their bees travel between Laveen and Buckeye throughout the seasons, capturing distinctly different flavor profiles along the way. Talk about a sweet journey!
What makes their honey special? It's all about the desert flowers. While bees in lusher environments might have steady access to blooms, desert bees work overtime during brief flowering periods, concentrating intense flavors into their honey. The result is something remarkable - a bold, complex sweetness that tells the story of Arizona's unique landscape. These aren't your average worker bees; they're overachievers in flavor extraction.
Spring brings honey with bright, citrusy notes from desert citrus groves, while late summer offers deeper, more complex flavors from mesquite and wildflowers that burst to life after monsoon rains. Each jar captures a specific moment in Arizona's seasonal dance. The Ciurdars have become expert seasonal trackers, moving their hives strategically to follow the desert's ephemeral blooms. "It's like being a honey sommelier," laughs Daniel. "We're constantly tasting, testing, and chasing the next floral explosion." Their autumn harvest— rich with notes of ironwood and desert sage—has developed something of a cult following among local chefs who reserve their supply months in advance.
Beyond their signature varieties, Sun Valley Bees' honey is the bee's knees in the kitchen. The complex flavors add depth to both sweet and savory dishes, as demonstrated in the recipes below. The natural caramelizing properties create beautiful glazes that transform ordinary ingredients into extraordinary meals.
THE HEALTH BENEFITS OF RAW DESERT HONEY
Don't let the sweetness fool you—this isn't just a treat for your taste buds. The Ciurdars maintain minimal processing techniques to preserve what makes their honey special. Unlike commercial varieties that undergo extensive heating and filtration (stripping away beneficial enzymes and compounds), Sun Valley's honey retains its natural goodness.
Raw honey contains antioxidants, phytonutrients, and enzymes that support digestive health. Many locals swear by a spoonful of local honey for seasonal allergies, though the Ciurdars are quick to note they make no medical claims. "We just know what works for our family," shared John.
What truly sets desert honey apart is its intensity. The harsh conditions of the Sonoran Desert mean plants produce smaller quantities of exceptionally concentrated nectar. Think of it as nature's reduction sauce—everything is amplified, from flavor to potential benefits.
Beyond their signature varieties, Sun Valley Bees' honey is the bee's knees in the kitchen. The complex flavors add depth to both sweet and savory dishes, as demonstrated in the recipes on the next page. The natural caramelizing properties create beautiful glazes that transform ordinary ingredients into extraordinary meals.
Whether you're looking for a weeknight dinner with flair or an impressive dish for entertaining, these honey-forward recipes will help you comb through your dinner dilemmas with delicious results.
SUN VALLEY BEES
Sun Valley Bees is a family owned business in metro Phoenix. Sun Valley Bees provides raw honey at over 12 farmers markets locally and few retail stores. So next time you're at the Gilbert Farmers Market, make a beeline for Sun Valley Bees. Your taste buds will thank you for bringing home a jar of Arizona's sweetest desert treasure.
SONORAN SUMMER CHICKEN WITH HONEY GLAZE
This chicken brings together sweet, heat, and smoke in one irresistible package. The honey caramelizes on the grill, creating a sticky, flavor-packed exterior that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. It’s a meal that’s sure to ruffle some feathers—in the best possible way!
Ingredients:
• 8 bone-in chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon each: garlic powder, cumin, oregano
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/3 cup wildflower honey
• 2 tablespoons cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Jalapeño if you’re brave
Instructions:
1. Rub chicken with oil and spice blend; rest 30 minutes.
2. Simmer honey, vinegar, lime and jalapeño until slightly thickened.
3. Grill chicken skin-side down for 5-6 minutes until crispy.
4. Flip, grill 5-6 more minutes, then brush with honey glaze.
5. Continue grilling, turning and glazing until done.
“We’re not just selling honey, we’re sharing a little piece of Arizona in every jar.” — Daniel
DESERT SUNRISE HONEY-GLAZED SALMON
The sweet, smoky honey creates a caramelized exterior that perfectly balances the rich salmon. It’s dinner party-worthy but weeknight-simple. You might say it’s the perfect catch!
Ingredients:
• 4 salmon fillets
• 3 tablespoons mesquite honey
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Pinch of cayenne (optional)
• Olive oil
Instructions:
1. Season salmon with salt and pepper.
2. Mix honey, soy sauce, lemon, garlic and spices.
3. Sear salmon skin-side down in hot oil until crispy (3-4 minutes).
4. Flip, pour on honey mixture, and cook 3-4 minutes more.
5. Serve with cilantro and lemon wedges.
Men of Gilbert
FROM BUSINESS TO SERVICE, THEIR STORIES REFLECT HEART, HUSTLE, AND THE SPIRIT THAT MAKES GILBERT TRULY EXCEPTIONAL
ARTICLE BY KYLIE STRAWN-BADGER & KRISTY BELLEY
PHOTOGRAPHY BY YASMINE CARMEN PHOTOGRAPHY
W. Scott Anderson
Town of Gilbert - Mayor
W. Scott Anderson has been part of the Gilbert community since 1988, when the town was home to just 20,000 people. He felt at home immediately, thanks to Gilbert’s welcoming spirit, strong sense of community, and excellent schools—qualities that drew families in and fueled the town’s steady growth.
With a background in planning, Scott built his career around preserving Gilbert’s quality of life. Today, as Mayor, he continues that mission with a focus on sustainability and creating a future where generations to come can enjoy the same sense of place that welcomed him decades ago.
Outside of his leadership role, Scott’s interests are as unique as they are meaningful. He collects ancient pottery, studies prehistoric life, and helped shape one of Gilbert’s most beloved spaces: the Riparian Preserve. His passion for that project turned it into a point of pride for the town—a place where families gather and memories are made.
His insider tip? Don’t miss the Riparian Observatory, the Valley’s only public observatory. His advice: act well in your role—we all have one.
Patrick S. Banger
Town of GilbertTown Manager
Patrick S. Banger, Gilbert’s Town Manager since 2010, has spent the past 14 years helping guide one of the fastest-growing communities in the country. Originally from Iowa, Patrick grew up on the move, relocating every few years due to his father’s 30-year career in the Navy. Today, he and his wife, Belinda, are proud to call Gilbert home, along with two of their three daughters who live in the area. Their youngest will be a senior in college this fall.
From his very first day in Gilbert, Patrick “jumped in” to serve the town with dedication and purpose—and he felt embraced by the community from day one. His love of public service emerged from a journey of discovering his strengths and passions, ultimately leading him to a fulfilling career in city management. Managing a town of nearly 300,000 isn’t without challenges, but for Patrick, it’s about doing meaningful work that serves generations to come.
He’s passionate about preserving Gilbert’s exceptional quality of life and believes it takes more than just good government—it takes everyone. Residents, businesses, schools, churches, and hospitals all play a role in shaping Gilbert’s future.
In his spare time (what little there is), Patrick enjoys astronomy, ancient civilizations, English Bulldogs, and rooting for the St. Louis Cardinals and Las Vegas Raiders—while taking every opportunity to tease former Mayor John Lewis about his San Francisco Giants fandom.
You might spot him at Liberty Market, Garage East Farm Winery, or catching a show at Hale Theater. As for the best advice he never took? “Eat your vegetables.” He still stands by his logic: “Cows eat vegetables, and I eat cows.”
His advice to others: Do great work, and greater opportunities will follow.
Martin Hurtado
Founder of Origen and Blu Seafood
Martin Hurtado is a builder at heart—of businesses, teams, and opportunities. After studying accounting at ASU, he shifted from construction to hospitality and now runs several purpose-driven restaurants across the Valley. His Gilbert journey began with Origen and Blu Seafood, where he felt an immediate sense of community. Martin believes in leading with empathy, learning through patience, and helping others find their voice. A childhood lesson he once dismissed—“Be patient, good things take time”—has become a guiding principle.
His advice today? Lead with empathy and purpose. People remember how you made them feel—so build with care, vision, and heart.
Eduardo Medina
Founder of Origen
Eduardo is more than a chef and entrepreneur—he’s a purpose-driven leader who believes in the power of food to bring people together and the power of persistence to fuel meaningful change. Rooted in his Yucatán heritage, Eduardo has built restaurants that feel like home and created spaces where community thrives. Since opening Origen in Gilbert, his impact has extended far beyond the kitchen. He’s donated thousands of meals, mentored young entrepreneurs, and continues to lead with humility, grit, and heart.
His advice? Embrace persistence, keep learning, and surround yourself with people who push you to grow. That’s how real impact is made.
Dr. Shane McCord Superintendent Gilbert Schools
Dr. Shane McCord has spent 30 years in public education, with roots that began in Gilbert when he student taught at Val Vista Lakes Elementary. That experience taught him the value of embracing the community you serve. Originally a business major, Shane changed course after visiting his wife Kristin’s kindergarten classroom— discovering his true calling in education. Family is at the center of his life, and time with Kristin, their sons Ryan and Sean, and their partners means everything. They love concerts, baseball games, and trips to the lake. “We try not to take life too seriously,” Shane says. He’s
passionate about people, relationships, and embracing kindness. “Each day we grow further apart. We need to set aside our differences and remember that without each other, we would be nothing.” He believes strong communities are built on genuine connection and mutual respect.
His local favorite? Origen restaurant. “The food, the team, the atmosphere—it all blew me away,” he says.
His advice: “Be kind. Be genuine.”
Adam Baugh
Partner at Withey Morris, PLC
For Adam Baugh, building relationships rooted in likability and trust is the foundation of success—in business, community, and life. A dedicated Gilbert resident and attorney, Adam’s journey into civic leadership began when he joined the boards of the Gilbert Community Action Network and the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce. Those roles opened the door to meaningful connections and inspired a deeper commitment to community engagement.
Originally from out of state, Adam came to Arizona for law school with dreams of becoming an immigration attorney. But a pivotal internship with the Mayor of Phoenix changed everything. After watching a zoning attorney in action, Adam found his calling and never looked back.
He now channels his passion into mentorship as well, particularly through the Student Entrepreneurs Group with the Gilbert Chamber. “Every high school student should take a class in this,” he says, emphasizing how empowering it is to nurture young talent and innovation.
When it comes to hidden gems, Adam swears by Mugsy Dogs—the Rachel Dog, onion rings, and chocolate chip cookie are his go-to picks.
A powerful piece of advice he’s come to live by: “People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.”
Adam’s message to the community? Focus less on personal gain and more on serving others. He believes that genuine service and showing up for others has been the greatest accelerator in both his career and his life. In a world driven by self-promotion, Adam’s leadership is a reminder that making an impact starts with kindness, connection, and a willingness to give more than you take.
Darin Roberge President of Motorwerks Companies
Blake Katsnelson
Chief Operations Officer for Gila River Resorts & Casinos
Blake Katsnelson is a proud husband, father, and first-generation American whose family immigrated from Belarus in search of a better life. He and his wife found their forever home in Gilbert, drawn to its welcoming community and strong schools. As Chief Operations Officer for Gila River Resorts & Casinos, Blake has spent 16 years helping lead an organization focused on service and impact. He’s passionate about mentoring youth, supporting local initiatives, and creating opportunities for others.
His favorite local gem? Regal Gilbert at Town Square.
His belief: true leadership is about building trust, inspiring growth, and always putting people first.
Darin Roberge, president of Motorwerks Companies, blends passion, creativity, and grit across five automotive-focused brands—including marketing, charity, and event production. A Gilbert resident since 2010, he jumped into community life early by joining his HOA board and shaping his neighborhood with purpose. Born into a motorsports family, Darin turned his lifelong love of “cool things on wheels” into a successful business. He’s also a devoted boxer, drawn to its discipline and honest self-assessment.
His advice? Listen more than you speak, stay focused on what matters, and remember—anything worthwhile takes real effort, start to finish. No shortcuts.
WEDDING • BRANDING • COUPLES • GRADS
CA P T U R I NG Y OU R
M OS T J OY F U L &
A U T H E NT I C
M E M OR I E S T O P A S S
D OWN F OR
G E NE R A T I ONS
ARTICLE BY KYLIE STRAWN-BADGER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CALE BENSON
TIME WELL-SPENT
From classic to bold—build a watch collection with intention.
When it comes to personal style, details matter— and few pieces make a statement like a great watch. Whether you’re stepping into a meeting, heading out for the weekend, or simply dressing for yourself, the right timepiece doesn’t just complement your outfit—it defines it.
Watches today are more than functional. They’re fashion-forward, confidence-boosting, and deeply personal. From the timeless edge of a Rolex to the bold precision of a Breitling, a well-chosen watch doesn’t just elevate your look—it becomes part of your story.
For many men, collecting watches becomes less about trends and more about intention. A vintage piece that nods to your first big promotion. A sport watch that’s traveled the world with you. A dress watch passed down or saved for something worth celebrating. The beauty of collecting is that each piece marks a chapter.
If you’re refining your collection—or mentoring someone through theirs—here are four thoughtful tips to guide the journey:
1. Think legacy. A well-kept timepiece isn’t just personal—it’s generational. Consider what you’ll pass down and what you want it to say.
2. Curate, don’t accumulate. It’s not about quantity. It’s about the right pieces for the right occasions—and the life you’re living now.
3. Don’t overlook serviceability. A rare piece is only valuable if it can be maintained. Stick with brands and models that are built to last—and be repaired.
4. Wear them. The true joy of collecting comes not from storing them in safes—but in letting them collect memories right alongside you.
In the East Valley, Myranda Fine Jewelry has become a trusted resource for men who view watches as part of a refined lifestyle. With access to timepieces from around the world—including Rolex, Breitling, and other legacy makers— Myranda curates each piece with craftsmanship, heritage, and long-term value in mind.
A great watch doesn’t just tell time—it tells your time. And if you’re choosing carefully, it’ll keep telling it for decades to come.
SWEET, BOLD, AND A LITTLE DANGEROUS— THIS ESPRESSO COCKTAIL BRINGS THE HEAT IN ALL THE RIGHT WAYS.
Coffee just got a glow-up. This Honey Bourbon Espresso, a Liquid Caterers mixology masterpiece, is your cozy caffeine fix with a grown-up twist—smooth bourbon, sweet honey, bold espresso, and a touch of steamed milk for balance. Want to take it up a notch? Toss a pinch of cinnamon over a flame and watch the sparks fly (safely, of course). It’s the kind of drink that lifts your spirits, and might just steal the show at your next gathering.
Sweet. Smoky. Stirred. Strong.
ARTICLE BY LIQUID CATERERS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ETHAN BEAZLEY
HONEY BOURBON ESPRESSO
INGREDIENTS
• 2 shots of espresso (about 2 ounces)
• 1 tablespoon honey (adjust to taste)
• 1 ounce bourbon (adjust for preference)
• 1/4 cup steamed milk (or milk of choice)
• Ground cinnamon for garnish
DIRECTIONS
Brew two shots of espresso and pour into a heatproof mug. Stir in honey until fully dissolved. Add bourbon and stir again. Steam your milk until it’s hot and frothy, then pour it over the espresso mixture. Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon.
PRO TIP
Feeling fancy? Toss a pinch of ground cinnamon over a flame for a sparkly, show-stopping effect. But easy, magician—cinnamon is wildly flammable. Do this outdoors, away from flammable stuff, and preferably not while wearing flowy sleeves.
Done right: impressive flair.
Done wrong: flaming eyebrows and a story you’ll never live down. Choose your moment— and your match—wisely.
Priceless Memories
Advice Editorial: Gift Giving Inspiration For Dads
ARTICLE BY MEL BOBAN
Learn Together
Learning a new skill together, or sharing a favorite hobby, is a great way to bond. If Dad likes woodworking or fishing, finding a class to attend together goes beyond gifting tools and allows fun.
Retro Movie Night
Enjoy a movie night together with popcorn, candy and all the fixings. Home movies enable strolls down memory lane, or one of his favorite movies from his childhood makes for fun conversation. Ordering a projector for a large format screening makes the movie night feel extra theatrical.
Chef’s Kiss
Take the food pressure off Dad and invite local culinary experts to prepare a meal. A fun theme, based around his favorite vacation, such as Hawaiian food, will make the evening memorable. Alternatively, try a local cooking class together based on his favorite cuisine.
Blast From The Past
Brainstorm childhood memories together and enjoy a day reliving them. If he chaperoned a trip to the zoo, experience it again together. If short on time, stop at a favorite ice cream stand and tell him how much you cherish the memories.
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
EVERY SATURDAY
Gilbert
Farmers Market
Downtown Gilbert | 222 N. Ash Street, Gilbert | 7:00 AM
Gilbert Farmers Market (GFM) is located in Downtown Gilbert just west of the iconic Water Tower and is open every Saturday. With over 100 vendors year-round, the market features local, chemical-free, organic produce from many local farmers, farm fresh eggs, meat, cheese, bread, sweets, coffee & tea, sauces, seasonings and many other locally made artisan products.
JUNE 1ST-28TH
The Scarlet Pimpernel
Hale Theatre | 50 West Page Avenue, Gilbert
Enter the world of swashbuckling adventure and romance with The Scarlet Pimpernel, a captivating musical set during the French Revolution. Follow the daring exploits of Sir Percy Blakeney as he disguises himself to rescue French aristocrats from the guillotine.
JUNE 4TH
Gilbert City Lifestyle
Happy Hour
Kiln | 2162 East Williams Field Road #Suite #111, Gilbert | 4:00 PM
Are you interested in growing your business and helping our community? If so, join us at Kiln for an afternoon of appetizers, drinks, and good company. Come mingle with fellow business owners and celebrate the release of our latest issue. This in-person event is a great opportunity to connect with other local entrepreneurs.
Kohler Bathroom Design
Partner with the KOHLER® Signature Store design consultants to find innovative products, colors, materials, and finishes to bring your design dreams to life.
2156 E Williams Field Rd Suite 114 Gilbert, AZ 85295 | 480-400-1008
CONTINUED
JUNE 5TH
H2O Fest
Freestone Park | 1045 E Juniper Ave, Gilbert | 3:00 PM
This family-friendly water fest presented by Legacy Traditional Schools and Tribal Waters, LLC features playful water obstacles, food trucks, music and more! 3 sessions will be held to ensure optimal slide time for each participant. Participants are encouraged to wear swim shoes, bathing suits or clothing that can get wet!
JUNE 6TH
Mother Son Glow Party Dance
Gilbert Community Center | 130 N Oak St, Gilbert
You will be “glowing” by the end of the evening after spending this special night with your son(s). Light refreshments will be served and there will be dancing, games, and photos to make the night even more special (each family will receive one printed photo and a digital download).
JUNE 19TH
Juneteenth Celebration
Southeast Regional Library | 775 N Greenfield Rd, Gilbert | 10:00 AM
Learn about Juneteenth with engaging activities and entertainment including the opportunity to explore local vendor booths, stroll through our captivating storybook walk, unleash your creativity at our arts and crafts stations and design something special to take home.
