Gilbert, AZ December 2019

DECEMBER 2019

That's a WRAP

LifestylePubs.com/Gilbert

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

TAMALE TIME

TALE OF TWO SCROOGES

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

DECEMBER 2019 PUBLISHER

Robin Belley | robin.belley@lifestylepubs.com SALES DIRECTOR

Kristy Belley | kristy.belley@lifestylepubs.com EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Wrapping Up the Year, the Gifts and the Decade!

AS THE SAYING GOES, TIME FLIES WHEN YOU’RE HAVING FUN, AND TIME SURE HAS FLOWN BY THIS YEAR. We can’t believe that we just sent to press the final issue of Gilbert Lifestyle for 2019! It seems like we just blinked, and now it's the holiday season.

MacKenzie Belley | mackenzie.belley@lifestylepubs.com AD DESIGNER

Chad Jensen LAYOUT DESIGNER

Sara Minor

Are you ready? Have you decked your halls with boughs of holly? Have you started

COPY EDITOR

holiday shopping yet? Made plans to travel or have guests arriving? Mapped out your

Kate Baxendale

Black Friday buying strategy? Which family gatherings have you negotiated to attend?

Said yes to way too many holiday parties? Who is on the naughty or nice list? Why are our lighting decorations blowing all the electrical circuits in the neighborhood? How did that elf get on the shelf?STOP! Seriously! HOLD ON!!!

We know the holidays can cause anxiety in many people. In the Belley household, we have full-out Holiday Stress Disorder. Is that a thing? I think it should be. There’s a unique perspective that working in publishing brings. We’re always looking toward the future. Whether it’s planning our next issue or developing story ideas for the next year, we’re often already

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

MacKenzie Belley, Robin Belley, Kristy Belley, Jacqueline Bregar, Kayla Kolar, Sue Kern-Fleischer, Rebecca Magaña CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Carolina Arroyo, MacKenzie Belley, Elaine Kessler, Hale Theatre, Eden Martin, Jillian Milam, Nick Woodward-Shaw

fast-forwarded to future months before the current month has even begun. The fast pace of this industry can often make it difficult to really settle down and absorb what’s going on around us and, before we know it, the year is over and it’s time to move forward again.

For the December issue, we decided to try to help wrap all things holiday-related with the

CORPORATE TEAM

hope that this season will be one that you can relax and enjoy. We will be wrapping up

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

another decade and looking ahead to what the next 10 years will bring for Gilbert as we cel-

CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry

ebrate our town turning 100 at the HD South Night at the Museum Gala. We will go behind

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

the scenes to bring you some interesting insights into what it takes to bring a Christmas

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

tradition to life and meet a new neighbor as we learn to wrap up some homemade holiday

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

essentials. Get some end-of-year financial advice from one of our local experts, and, of course, offer some interesting suggestions to help wrap up your holiday gift-giving.

So this December, we truly hope you can take the time to slow down a little bit. Enjoy your time with family and friends, bask in the magic of our Arizona winter season,

EDITORIAL MANAGER Nicolette Martin AD MANAGER Chad Jensen REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

reflect on past memories you hold closely in your hearts and keep the new ones you create in the present for as long as you can.

We’ll take your lead, and we can’t wait to see you next year!

Happy holidays, and Merry Christmas!

ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA NEVADA | NEW JERSEY | NORTH CAROLINA | OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON SOUTH CAROLINA | TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

Robin and Kristy Belley, Publishers

LifestylePubs.com/Gilbert ON THE COVER A Christmas Carol PHOTOGRAPHY BY NICK WOODWARD-SHAW 4

Gilbert Lifestyle | December 2019

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO Proverbs 3:5-6 Gilbert Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Gilbert areas’ 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 Gilbert Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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INSIDE THE ISSUE DECEMBER 2019

FEATURES 12 New Year Nearby Run Wild at Wild Horse

18 A Tale of Two Scrooges A Christmas Carol at the Hale Centre Theatre

26 Tamale Time!

Nothing Signals the Holidays More Than Sharing Tamales with Family and Friends

28 Night at the Museum Gilbert Turns 100! The Upcoming

26 12

2020 Celebration to Benefit the Gilbert Historical Society

28

18

DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

8

Good Times

9

Around Town

12

Travel Destination

26 Culinary Creations 28 Giving Back 31

Realty Report

32 Lifestyle Calendar 34 Financial Buzz

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7

GOOD TIMES

Chandler Lifestyle Celebrates Men & Women of the Year Lovely evening with the Lifestyle Publications family to celebrate with our friend Joyce Selk, publisher of Chandler Lifestyle. Joyce and Chandler Lifestyle were recently awarded Micro-Business of the Year from the Chandler Chamber of Commerce. The entire AZ Lifestyle Publications team and her many longtime clients were on hand to celebrate the success of their favorite Chandler magazine.

Fall Markets in Full Swing The weather is finally cooling off. Gilbert's markets are a lovely way to spend an afternoon. Alternating Gilbert Farmers and Artist Market features artisans from across the city selling their unique handmade goods or homemade treats. Those aren't the only farmers markets in Gilbert. Every Wednesday evening, Power Ranch hosts its weekly farmers market, which includes specialty food trucks!

8

Gilbert Lifestyle | December 2019

AROUND TOWN Clean best in the state with a perfect score of 100. They also ranked Clearly Clean the 49th best business in the state across all categories. Clearly Clean Carpet is a family-owned and -operated business based in Gilbert. They also provide tile and grout and upholstery cleaning services, odor remediation and are certified in environmental disinfection. They have been active members of the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce since 2013 and are A+ rated by the Better Business Bureau. Clearly Clean Carpet can be found online at CarpetCleaningGilbertArizona.com.

ADOPT A SENIOR THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

ACCEPTING NOMINATIONS FOR THE EAST VALLEY PERSONS OF THE YEAR

The Gilbert Chamber Foundation is organizing the 11th annual "Adopt A Senior" program this

Positive Paths, an Arizona nonprofit organiza-

holiday season to benefit Gilbert's low-income

tion, is accepting nominations for the 2020 East

senior citizens, homebound seniors and disabled

Valley Man and Woman of the Year. The East Valley

Gilbert residents in partnership with the Gilbert

Man and Woman of the Year award aims to recog-

Senior Center. The chamber is collecting holiday

nize individuals who have demonstrated outstand-

wish lists from these seniors and asking mem-

ing leadership and vision or introduced new and

bers of the community to support this year's pro-

innovative ways to assist women in the East Valley.

gram by requesting a wish list, then shopping for

Nominations will be accepted through Jan. 9, 2020,

and returning the items to the Chamber. Contact

at PositivePathsAZ.org. Gilbert Chamber of

Kristine at Kristine@GilbertChamber.com to

Commerce President/CEO Kathy Tilque was hon-

request a wish list. GibertChamber.org

ored as Woman of the Year 2019.

TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW TO THE 100TH BIRTHDAY BASH FOR GILBERT

CLEARLY CLEANED CARPET RECOGNIZED AS BEST IN THE STATE

The Gilbert Historical Society is hosting its eighth

Clearly Clean Carpet has been recognized as

annual signature fundraising event, “A Night at the

the best carpet cleaning business in the State of

Museum – Gilbert Turns 100!,” which will take place

Arizona. TopRatedLocal.com has ranked Clearly

CONTINUED >

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AROUND TOWN

(CON TI N UED)

on Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020, at HD SOUTH. This year's event will celebrate the centennial birthday for the town of Gilbert. Set in the magical, evening ambiance of HD SOUTH, the spectacular evening features a lively cocktail hour and silent auction, followed by dinner, live entertainment and dancing. This is the largest fundraising event of the year for the museum. There are limited tickets for the event. Tickets sales begin Dec. 1 and are anticipated to sell out quickly. Visit HDSouth.org to reserve your tickets.

PITA JUNGLE TO LAUNCH A NEW SEASONAL KITCHEN CRAFTS MENU A nostalgic nod to some of its greatest culinary hits, Pita Jungle is commemorating its 25th anniversary

by

bringing

back

fan-favorite dishes over the last few decades. But this time it’s with a rebirth of deliciousness that combines the balance of a wonderful Mediterranean diet with global cuisine and dietary trends of keto, paleo and gluten-free. The seasonal menu will run through the end of the year. It will be offered at all 21 (soon to be 23) Arizona locations. PitaJungle.com We are always accepting submissions for announcements you’d like to see included in our Around Town section. Submissions are accepted via the Contact Us tab at LifestylePubs.com/Gilbert.

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Gilbert Lifestyle | December 2019

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bayequityhomeloans.com/bolesgroup bolesgroup@bayeq.com December 2019 | Gilbert Lifestyle

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TRAVEL DESTINATION

N E W Y E A R

ARTICLE SUE KERN-FLEISCHER | PHOTOGRAPHY JILLIAN MILAM

N

RUN WILD AT WILD HORSE

E A R B Y

S TAY GILA RIVER HOTELS & CASINOS – WILD HORSE PASS IN CHANDLER IS A BEAUTIFUL, MODERN FOUR DIAMOND-AWARDED HOTEL THAT IS

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PERFECT FOR A STAYCATION OR FOR OUT-OF-TOWN VISITORS LOOKING FOR A FUN-FILLED WEEKEND GETAWAY. Highlights include 242 newly refreshed guest rooms, flexible meeting space with amenities aplenty, seven adjoining restaurants, live entertainment and gaming. A popular destination for tourists and locals alike, the hotel and casino are ideally located at the Wild Horse Pass Destination that offers 36 holes of Troon Golf at Whirlwind Golf Club, close access to Phoenix Premium Outlets and Rawhide Western Town, Aji Spa and Koli Equestrian Center—all located less than 20 minutes from Sky Harbor Airport.

12

Gilbert Lifestyle | December 2019

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CONTINUED >

December 2019 | Gilbert Lifestyle

13

TRAVEL DESTINATION

(CON TI N U ED)

E AT For those with a taste for perfection, your table is waiting at Shula’s Steak House at Gila River Hotels & Casinos – Wild Horse Pass. Founded by the legendary football coach of the Miami Dolphins, Don Shula, Shula’s has a polished history of delivering consistently high-quality, chef-driven cuisine paired with award-winning wine lists and craft cocktails.

Shula’s Steak House will delight guests with its menu of premium cuts of steak made from Black Angus beef, hand-selected and aged to perfection. The restaurant’s most popular featured entree that is sure to satisfy even the heartiest of appetites is its delicious 22-ounce dry-aged Cowboy Rib-Eye. In addition to its new lunch menu, Shula’s Steak House refreshed its dinner menu, adding several new items. Indulge in the Wagyu Short Rib Sliders topped with Philly cheesesteak sauce and crispy shallots. Or, choose a crowd favorite, the Wagyu Beef Meatball topped with Parmesan, whipped ricotta and basil persillade.

14

Gilbert Lifestyle | December 2019

PL AY Lately, there’s been a sea of red taking over Wild Horse Pass after Gila River was named the Official Hotels & Casinos of the Arizona Cardinals.

For 15 years, the Arizona Cardinals have enjoyed a unique relationship with Gila River, through which the two organizations have collaborated to create exciting promotions for fans, often teaming up to support local charities.

To celebrate the official announcement, Gila River is offering more than $250,000 in prizes in one of the largest promotions in its 25-year history.

Some of the fun promotions include an Arizona Cardinals Biggest Fan contest, where fans show off their Cardinals spirit by uploading a photo to CardinalsBiggestFan.com. Prizes include season tickets, but hurry, because this contest ends on Sunday, Dec. 15.

Gila River Hotels & Casinos has also partnered with Arizona Ford Dealers for a Football Truck Giveaway, and fans can “Check in with the Cardinals” by booking a custom Cardinals-designed hotel room, which is available year-long.

CONTINUED >

December 2019 | Gilbert Lifestyle

15

TRAVEL DESTINATION

(CON TI N U ED)

DO Come celebrate New Year’s Eve at Wild Horse Pass and ring in a new decade, the Soaring '20s. Enjoy flappers and gangsters on the gaming floor, live DJs across the entire casino, fun party favors and a Champagne toast at midnight. Be sure to get your tickets now for “Dueling Pianos;” last year’s show sold out! The show starts at 8:30 p.m. and features two talented musicians who compete on their grand pianos as they try to win over the audience with their humor and performances of popular hit songs. Tickets start at $20.

GILA RIVER HOTELS & CASINOS – WILD HORSE PASS 5040 Wild Horse Pass Blvd., Chandler, AZ 85226 PlayAtGila.com 1-800-946-4452

16

Gilbert Lifestyle | December 2019

MEET OUR DOCTORS

Dr. Vu and Dr. Asgari are excited to welcome a new member to their team!

Dr. Trent Cox is an Arizona native who attended Arizona State University. After graduating, he spent two years in the Dominican Republic where he learned to speak Spanish while serving a church service mission. After returning to ASU, he completed dental school, earning his Doctor of Medical Dentistry Degree (DMD). It was there that he also received his certificate in Public Health, Certificate in Orthodontics and his Doctor of Health Science degree (DHSc) and completed the process to become board certified by the American Board of Orthodontics.

Dr. Cox is active in his church and enjoys all outdoor activities. An accomplished long distance runner, he has competed in both marathons and ultramarathons.

He also competes in mountain biking and road cycling races. He recently hiked Mt. Whitney but his favorite hike was the Grand Canyon. Most importantly, Dr. Cox is a family man. He and his wife Carrie are the parents of four children, 3 girls and a boy. He loves being an orthodontist and considers it his dream job being able to create beautiful smiles.

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December 2019 | Gilbert Lifestyle

17

ARTICLE ROBIN BELLEY | PHOTOGRAPHY NICK WOODWARD-SHAW, HALE THEATRE

A TALE OF TWO SCROOGES A CHRISTMAS CAROL AT THE HALE CENTRE THEATRE

HAVE YOU EVER WALKED BY THE HALE CENTER THEATER AND WONDERED WHAT WAS HAPPENING INSIDE? Is it a movie theater? A comedy club? The '50s-style marquee always intrigued me, but, having moved to Gilbert only a few years ago, I had not really had a chance to investigate yet. Walking into the theater on a Saturday morning, it felt like going through the doors of the movie theater where I grew up watching matinee movies before the advent of cable television. Carpeted lobby?

Check. Ornate frieze? Check. Curved staircase leading to the balcony? Check. What I was not expecting was what I found on the other side of the spacious entrance.

You see, Hale Center is a theater-in-the-round, a center-stage theater where the audience sits around the stage, the actors just a few feet away from them. Immediately, I was struck by visions of the actors standing center-stage playing to an audience all around. This must be quite an intimate and immersing experience.

Quite an experience, especially considering that I am here to meet the principal characters of a magical Christmas classic set in Victorian London, full of atmospheric effects, ghosts, rattling chains and a large cast of characters. That was the first thing that came to mind. The second was: “How?” As it turns out, it takes quite a lot of passion, two full casts one lead by Rob Stuart and the other led by Cory McCloskey both

18

Gilbert Lifestyle | December 2019

fun fact Hale Centre Theatre is a prestigious venue for quality theatrical entertainment, producing sometimes two different shows a week in their season which plays every week year round.

year, nearly 60 to 70% of the cast members come back to reprise their roles. From Thanksgiving to Christmas Eve, some 54 performances, Rob and Cory take turns dazzling their audience for two hours.

For both actors, portraying Scrooge is a labor of passion, each returning to the character from previous seasons. It is the second time Rob will take to the stage as Scrooge and the fifth season for Cory, who sees playing the character as a treat.

According to Rob, without the respite provided by the second cast, it would be impossible to survive the season. Each cast rehearses to hit their mark the same way just in case they must step in for another cast member in the same role.

playing the iconic grouch Ebenezer Scrooge, an amazing support team of scenic designers and wardrobe specialists bring the character from the page to the stage.

Each year since the opening of the center in 2003, Director David Dietlein has brought A Christmas Carol to Gilbert. Each CONTINUED >

December 2019 | Gilbert Lifestyle

19

A TALE OF TWO SCROOGES

(CON TI N U ED)

With a short six weeks of rehearsals— only three on the actual stage—this is critical since you never know what can happen from one performances to the next. This is live theater, after all, as Rob can attest.

He had to step in for Cory after the actor tore a ligament on one of the days he was scheduled to perform.

Nevertheless, you can tell each of them loves the challenge of this role.

“As an actor, to play this character is a privilege. There is so much to explore and enjoy. I just love to let myself go, and it can be draining. … especially when Scrooge witnesses the loss of his true love … I find myself often weeping at the end of the scene,” Cory says.

For Rob, the challenge is to accurately convey the deeper message that made A Christmas Carol such a holiday classic.

“What I hope is that, at the end of the show, they see the journey that Scrooge takes—his change in perspective as he

Note A Christmas Carol uses strobe lights and fog at times during the performance. This show may be frightening for younger children. The Ghost of Marley scene uses fog, intense lighting, loud noises and special effects.

20

Gilbert Lifestyle | December 2019

learns to appreciate the wonderful things in life instead of the money and the power that he focused on for how many decades before that and came to see what the Christmas season stands for … family, friends, the giving and the love.”

There is something magical here. That something that we used to experience when enjoying a matinee or going to the movies on a date. Something that large-screen TVs and home theaters have taken away from us.

Like Scrooge, it is something that we must experience firsthand in order to remember what we had.

A Christmas Carol is presented at the Hale Center Theater from Nov. 29 to Dec. 24. Produced by David Dietlein with music from Lincoln Wright and choreography from Cambrian James. HaleTheatreArizona.com

December 2019 | Gilbert Lifestyle

21

ARTICLE MACKENZIE BELLEY | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

G I L B E R T G I V I N G G U I D E THE PERFECT GIFTS FOR EVERYONE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

WE ALL KNOW IT’S THAT TIME OF YEAR AGAIN. The stress of finding a gift for a loved one can be overwhelming. Trying to buy a special gift for a husband who already has everything or the perfect gift for a mom when all she says she wants is to spend time with her family (we all know that’s not true.) And the kids want the next big toy, but what do kids even like these days? Well stress no more!

We’ve taken the time to handpick the perfect gifts for your family this holiday season. So sit back, drink some hot cocoa, and get ready to be the gift-giving hero this holiday season.

22

Gilbert Lifestyle | December 2019

G I F T S

F O R 2

1 1. TBG Deuce 2.0 Tactical Diaper Bag + Changing Mat from TacticalBabyGear.com

3

2. Arctican Can Cooler from WrappedWithRibbon.net 3. “Faked It Didn’t Make It” Ceramic Sentiment plate from WrappedWithRibbon.net 4. Multi-Gem Hoop Earrings from AllTheTinyPieces.com 5. Crystal Quartz Tri-Point Choker from AllTheTinyPieces.com 6. Crystal Quartz Nugget Bracelet from AllTheTinyPieces.com

4

7. His & Hers Relaxation Gift Boxes from Hand and Stone massage 2765 S. Market St. #101, Gilbert 8. Custom Family Doormat from Etsy.com/Shop/PorterHomeDecor

5

9. Gilbert Water Tower Coasters from LaceGraceAndPeonies.com 10. “King of the Grill” Kitchen Boa from WrappedWithRibbon.net

6

7 7 10

8

9

His & Hers

CONTINUED >

December 2019 | Gilbert Lifestyle

23

GILBERT GIVING GUIDE

(CON TI N U ED)

G I F T S

24

Gilbert Lifestyle | December 2019

F O R

Kids 12

11

13

14

15

11. Signature “Elle” cut bow in Aqua Jewel & Blush Jewel from DearLivvyKate.com

16

12. Handmade Unicorn bulbs made with a mix of beautiful glitters and perfectly designed flowers from The-Mug-Mama.Square.Site 13. The Growl Pal from WrappedWithRibbon.net 14. PRIMO Ride-One-Toy AmbossToys.com 15. Planet Board Game (Nominated for Game of the Year) BlueOrangeGames.com

18 17

16. Be Brave Little Monster soft book from WrappedWithRibbon.net 17. The Mommy & Me Activity Scarf from WrappedWithRibbon.net 18. Gumball Machine Maker ThamesAndKosmos.com

December 2019 | Gilbert Lifestyle

25

CULINARY CREATIONS

TAMALE TIME! NOTHING SIGNALS THE HOLIDAYS MORE THAN SHARING TAMALES WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS

Recipes Provided By - Rebecca Magaña of Becca’s Kitchen Becca’s Kitchen is a private caterer specializing in Tamales and Southwest Dishes If you are interested in having Becca’s Kitchen make tamales for your event or family gathering, contact pc_becca@yahoo.com

26

Gilbert Lifestyle | December 2019

ARTICLE REBECCA MAGAÑA & KRISTY BELLEY | PHOTOGRAPHY CAROLINA ARROYO

RED CHILE PORK TAMALES INGREDIENTS

MASA PERFECTION

TO ASSEMBLE:

MASA MAKES A DIFFERENCE

GATHER THE FAMILY

INGREDIENTS

INGREDIENTS

++ 3-4 pounds pork butt roast

++ 20 pounds fresh-ground unpre-

++ Filling

++ 2 14-ounce containers frozen

pared corn masa

++ Masa

red chile, defrosted

++ 3 pounds lard

++ Pack of clean corn husks

++ 1 bay leaf

++ 1/2 cup flour

++ Water

++ 1 1/2 tablespoons garlic granules

++ 3 tablespoons baking powder

++ Steamer pot and lid

++ 2 tablespoons salt

++ 3-6 tablespoons salt (gradually add

++ 2 cups water

to taste, may use more or less)

++ 2 tablespoons lard

++ Pork broth (reserved from cook-

++ 1/4 cup flour

ing roast for filling)

METHOD 1. Start the night before, placing roast in a slower cooker overnight. Add water, garlic granules, bay leaf and salt. Place cooker setting to low and let cook overnight, at least 8 hours.

2. When roast is done, remove pork from pot to cool and shred. Reserve broth to use in masa.

METHOD 1. In a large bowl, break up 20 pounds of unprepared masa.

2. Add the lard, flour, baking pow-

METHOD 1. Soak corn husks in warm water for at least 30 minutes.

2. Drain corn husks and place on a platter or baking sheet.

3. Set up the assembly station by placing the masa in a bowl, some of the filling in another bowl and the corn husk nearby.

der and salt (starting with 3 table-

4. Spread the masa on the husk to cover

spoons and adding more to your taste).

the smooth side of the husk up to about 2

3. Add the broth, which should be

inches from top.

3. In a 5-quart pot, make a roux out of 2

a little warm but not hot as it will cook

5. Add filling to the middle and fold each

tablespoons lard and 1/4 cup flour, browning

the masa. Using a mixer or hands, mix

side of the husk over the filling, folding down

the flower. Flour needs to cook at least 3 min-

until smooth. The masa should have a

the top empty part of the husk.

utes or more until it is a golden brown, then

smooth consistency to spread on the

add the defrosted containers of red chile. Fill

husk with ease.

each empty container from the chile half full with water. Add water to the pot. Whisk the

4. Once mixed to your desired consistency, set aside.

6. Once all of the tamales are filled, stack them into a steamer, with the open side up. Add water to the steamer—do not fill pot too full, as that may result in uncooked tamales.

ingredients until they start to boil and thicken.

7. Cover tamales with the lid and steam for

Reduce heat. Slowly add shredded pork.

1 1/2 hours. Once time is up, let the tamales

Stir while adding ingredients. Let simmer for

cool for a bit before eating.

45 minutes on low heat. Set aside to cool.

8. You may package tamales in a freezer bag after they have cooled. Freeze for up to 6 months.

December 2019 | Gilbert Lifestyle

27

GIVING BACK

ARTICLE KAYLA KOLAR | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Night at the Museum GILBERT TURNS 100! THE UPCOMING 2020 CELEBRATION TO BENEFIT THE GILBERT HISTORICAL SOCIETY 28

Gilbert Lifestyle | December 2019

A

GLAMOROUS NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM IS HD SOUTH'S MOST ANTICIPATED

Events like weekly yoga are a unique

EVENT OF THE YEAR. In 2013, the Gilbert Historical Society (HD SOUTH)

feature that brings HD SOUTH closer

debuted its first signature fundraising gala, A Night at the Museum: Gilbert

to the community. Its mission is to envi-

Comes Alive. A group of community volunteers joined together to help raise funds

sion communities where all generations

to help the museum continue to preserve the history of Gilbert. That event net-

know, trust and care for one another. The

ted $20,000. Since that time, the museum board expanded its mission, changed

next gala will be held on Feb. 29, 2020,

its name, and grew this event so that it sells out every year—and is now netting

and will celebrate the 100th birthday of

more than $75,000 each year. HD SOUTH is a vibrant part of Gilbert that cele-

Gilbert with a Roaring '20s-themed event.

brates the past, inspires unity and cultivates collaboration in the community. It is

Founded in 1920, Gilbert’s centennial is

also a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Housed in the original elementary school

definitely a reason to celebrate the past.

in Gilbert, the building is the oldest one still standing in Gilbert and the only one

Since 2020 is a leap year and the gala is

on the National Register of Historic Places. Many of the museums in surrounding

on Feb. 29, the event will also celebrate

communities are owned and operated by their municipality and are guaranteed

the exciting future that is to come. Tickets

funding year after year. Not so with HD SOUTH. As such, the organization has

for the event will go on sale Dec. 1 and

had to take a hard look at its activities over the last few years and how they fit into

will be $100 each, which includes a full

the community of Gilbert. Because of the rapid pace that Gilbert has grown, there

buffet dinner, complimentary beverage,

is a lack of arts and culture in Gilbert. So in 2017, the Gilbert Historical Museum

special entertainment, live and silent

expanded its mission to include not just history, but all arts and culture because

auctions, raffle, wine pull and dancing.

of the importance of its location at the southern end of the Heritage District. The

Sponsorships are still available, and more

name HD SOUTH was chosen to begin a new era in the organization. Now there

information can be found at HDSouth.org

are programs in history, art, science, music, literature, and health and wellness.

or by emailing info@hdsouth.org.

December 2019 | Gilbert Lifestyle

29

T R U ST. COMMI TMENT. RE S U LTS .

Deena Greenawalt

Our team is made up of caring, knowledgeable professionals that work tirelessly to help you with the home buying and selling process. We advocate for you – our client, throughout the entire process. We’ve got your back! We provide you with the most up-to-date market data in the area.

Visit our website today to:

• Search of the Perfect Property with our easy to use FAST property search! • Find out about what’s happening in your neighborhood. You can create a custom market report to see what’s active, under contract, and sold in your neighborhood! • If you’re considering selling or refinancing your home - get an INSTANT property valuation.

Contact Us today to find out how we can best help you achieve your real estate goals!

725 W. Elliot Road, #111 Gilbert | (602) 980-6001 | www.dmgazhomes.com | VB

AZ HOMES TEAM

ÂŽ

ÂŽ

REALTY REPORT REALTY REPORT

NEIGHBORHOOD

GILBERT

ORIGINAL PRICE

SOLD PRICE

%SOLD/ORIG

DOM

BDRMS

BATHS

TH RANCH

$1,250,000

$1,200,000

96.00%

2

5

5.5

CIRCLE G AT HIGHLANDS WEST

$1,250,000

$1,155,000

92.40%

4

5

5.5

RURAL

$1,149,000

$1,025,000

89.21%

161

4

2

CALLIANDRA ESTATES

$985,000

$940,000

95.43%

44

4

3.5

GRAYSTONE LOT A REPLAT

$899,000

$895,000

99.56%

28

6

4.5

CIRCLE G AT OCOTILLO PHASE 2

$874,900

$863,000

98.64%

1

5

3.5

LAKESIDE AT VAL VISTA LAKES

$859,000

$829,000

96.51%

64

4

3

SEVILLE COUNTRY CLUB

$899,000

$825,000

91.77%

385

5

3.5

ESTATES AT VELVENDO PHASE 2

$825,000

$815,000

98.79%

69

6

4

OCOTILLO GROVE ESTATES

$800,000

$800,000

100.00%

356

4

4.5

CIRCLE G SUPERSTITION RANCH

$797,000

$797,000

100.00%

525

5

5.5

GREENFIELD ACRES

$788,900

$770,000

97.60%

520

4

3

ACACIA REPLAT

$750,000

$742,000

98.93%

340

5

4

AGRITOPIA PHASE 1 REPLAT

$729,900

$722,000

98.92%

45

5

3

LAKEVIEW TRAILS NORTH AT MORRISON RANCH

$725,000

$711,000

98.07%

26

5

3.5

SONORAN VISTA VARIOUS LOTS & TRACT F REPLAT

$699,000

$695,000

99.43%

65

5

3

CIRCLE G AT HIGHLANDS WEST

$695,000

$695,000

100.00%

197

4

2.75

ESTATES AT VELVENDO

$675,000

$675,000

100.00%

66

5

4.5

K-C RANCH ESTATES PHASE 2 AMD LOT

$682,500

$675,000

98.90%

55

5

3

MARATHON RANCH

$654,854

$650,364

99.31%

89

4

3.5

AGRITOPIA PHASE 1 REPLAT

$655,000

$650,000

99.24%

110

4

2.5

WHITEWING AT HIGLEY

$699,900

$645,000

92.16%

130

4

2.5

WHISPERING ROCK

$643,934

$643,934

100.00%

24

5

3.5

ESTATES AT VELVENDO PHASE 1

$635,000

$635,000

100.00%

38

4

3.5

This data is a sampling of sold properties from the previous month. Source: ARMLS system. DOM = Days on Market.

AZ HOMES TEAM

®

®

Deena Greenawalt

725 W. Elliot Road, #111 Gilbert (602) 980-6001 www.dmgazhomes.com December 2019 | Gilbert Lifestyle

31

DECEMBER

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

1–24

7

13

A CHRISTMAS CAROL

HOLIDAY BALLOON & GLOW GIFT BAZAAR

EVAC STAR PARTY

San Tan Village Mall,

Southeast Regional Library,

A Hale Holiday Classic! The spec-

2218 E. Williamsfield Road, Gilbert

Guadalupe & Greenfield Road

tacular, heart-warming version of

Kick off the holidays with fun for the

Join the East Valley Astronomy Club

Dickens’ classic tale of redemption

whole family event. The event features

for the monthly star party. Amateur

is magically brought to life on the

more than 70 vendors and food trucks,

astronomers will share their tele-

Hale Stage. This production is rich

kids bounce zone, live entertainment,

scopes and answer questions about

with

stunning

Mr. & Mrs. Claus and more! Entry and

the skies above.

costumes and memorable charac-

parking are free! Early-bird discounts

ters that are guaranteed to enrich

from vendors, food trucks and kid

the holiday season for you and your

bounce zone when you come from 1–3

family. Now celebrating its 17th year

p.m. Balloons start to inflate at 5:30 p.m.

Hale Centre Theatre -

50 W. Page Avenue, Gilbert

traditional

carols,

in Gilbert! HaleTheatreArizona.com

7

4

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA

FOOD, FUN & FRIENDS

14 12KS OF CHRISTMAS Freestone Park,

1045 E. Juniper Ave., Gilbert

Christmas

carolers,

string

orchestra,

guitarists,

fiddlers,

HD SOUTH, 10 S. Gilbert Road, Gilbert

flutes, handbells and cellos, not

Maricel's Party House,

Santa and Mrs. Claus will be making

to mention cows, horses, goats,

106 E. Juniper Ave., Gilbert

their third annual visit to HD SOUTH.

sheep, donkeys and turtles all

Chef Zoia will be preparing a deli-

Kids will have the opportunity to

on

cious buffet meal for us at Maricel's

decorate cookies, help decorate a

on! Runners World ranked the

vacation rental. Zoia and her hus-

gingerbread house, listen to stories,

12Ks of Christmas as one of the

band, Vlad, have owned multiple

make an ornament and, of course,

top 11 races you should run with

restaurants and have been cooking

get a picture with Santa himself!

your dog and one of the top

and catering since 2006. They focus

Breakfast is included. Advance ticket

10 “Family Events” in the USA.

on

purchase required; space is lim-

12KRun.com/Unique-12K-Run

Mexican,

Eastern

European,

Italian, Greek, vegetarian, vegan, is $20 per person. Reservations online required

for

this

event.

Contact KarenJoseph4@MSN.com for reservations.

the

course

cheering

you

ited. HDSouth.org/events/#santa

gluten-free and comfort food. Dinner

13–15 THE NUTCRACKER

14 MADE WITH LOVE MARKET Heritage District,

Higley Center for Performing Arts,

384 N . Gilbert Road, Gilbert

6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21

4132 E. Pecos Road, Gilbert

Made with Love Market offers

Don't miss the excitement of going on

trendy,

RIPARIAN AFTER DARK

a magical journey with the Nutcracker

crafted items curated by small

and Clara as they battle oversized

shops. Walk the path and find cre-

Riparian Preserve, Greenfield &

mice and celebrate their victory with

ations that inspire you while local

Guadalupe next to the Southeast

the Sugar Plum Fairy. Now in its 13th

makers lead hands-on activities

Regional Library

season, led by artistic director Yen-Li

that are sure to delight. You can

Bring the entire family to stroll

Chen, the Southwest Youth Ballet

also sample local eats and treats

through the Preserve and enjoy hol-

Theatre brings to life this holiday clas-

along the way from a handful of food

iday music, lights and hundreds of

sic. Live music performed by Chandler

trucks. MadeWithLoveAZ.com

luminarias. HilbertAZ.gov/RAD

Symphony Orchestra.

HigleyCenter.TicketForce.com

32

Riparian Preserve, Next to

Gilbert Lifestyle | December 2019

handmade

and

locally

19

epic orchestrations and rich, dynamic

York apartment. Throw in a med-

three-part harmonies all composed by

dling mother, an eccentric upstairs

MAUREEN MCGOVERN

the group’s producer, Stephen Nelson.

neighbor and a double date that

HigleyCenter.TicketForce.com

goes disastrously wrong, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for laughter.

Higley Center for the Performing Arts, 4132 E. Pecos Road, Gilbert

Elegantly sophisticated one moment, powerfully always

gutsy

the

translucently

next

and

pitch-perfect,

Maureen McGovern is a superstar

28

HaleTheatreArizona.com

JAN 3

OWL WALK & TALK Zanjera Park,

THE LANDING – THE 2020 PROGRAM BEGINS FOR TEENS AGES 13-18

with a lifetime of music that spans

3785 S. Lindsey Road, Gilbert

Broadway, Grammy nominations and

Desert Rivers Audubon Owl Watch

an Oscar-winning international No. 1

volunteers will lead a tour of the bur-

gold record. Her concerts offer fresh

rowing owl habitat at Zanjero Park.

insight into trademark tunes, showcas-

Meet us in the park parking lot, 3785

4450 E Elliot Rd, Gilbert, AZ

ing her skillful play on rhythm, meter

South Lindsay Road. Learn about the

A 52-week ongoing program that’s

and beautifully extended phrasing.

current status of the burrowing owls

mission is to help teens lead healthy

HigleyCenter.TicketForce.com

released in April 2012 in association

and happy lives. The program is

with habitat partner Wild at Heart.

designed to get teenagers talking and

21

Enjoy a breezy, fun and informative

exploring new ways of handle any

evening! DesertRiversAudubon.org

hurts, hang-ups, or habits that might

GENTRI

31

Mission Community Church-

be impacting their lives in a negative

Higley Center for Performing Arts, 4132 E. Pecos Road, Gilbert

GENTRI, which is short for “The Gentlemen Trio,” was established

way. For more information, please contact KristyBelleyAZ@Gmail.com or call 928-266-2970. 7:00pm – 9:30pm

BAREFOOT IN THE PARK Hale Centre Theatre,

in June 2014 and consists of three

50 W. Page Ave., Gilbert

dynamic tenors: Brad Robins, Casey

Fresh off a honeymoon at the Plaza

We are always accepting submissions

Elliot, and Bradley Quinn Lever.

Hotel, free-spirited Corie and her

for events you'd like to see included

Pioneering a signature sound they

buttoned-down husband, Paul, find

in our Calendar section. Submissions

call “Cinematic Pop,” the music of

themselves struggling to adjust to

are accepted via the Contact Us tab at

GENTRI is transfused with lush,

married life in their run-down New

LifestylePubs.com/Gilbert.

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December 2019 | Gilbert Lifestyle

33

FINANCIAL BUZZ

1

5

Expert Tips to Create Financial Freedom

PRIORITIZE, PLAY AND PLAN ARTICLE JACQUELINE BREGAR ILLUSTRATOR EDEN MARTIN

Jacqueline S. Fine-Breger Owner of Fine Breger Insurance Agency, LLC - Farmers Insurance 34

Gilbert Lifestyle | December 2019

Today it is easy to get caught up EXAMINE YOUR OVERALL

in the mindset of accumulating as

Financial Situation

many assets as possible. We hanker

If you changed jobs, sold a house or

after that gorgeous home, fashion-

expanded your family, you might need

able clothing, fast cars, and exotic

to add new insurance policies, adopt a more

vacations. Many are constrained

ambitious savings policy or rebalance your

by one inconvenient requirement–

long-term investments. Evaluate your col-

money! Nevertheless, with careful

lege savings plans, life insurance policies

prioritization of our needs, identifi-

and overall investment portfolio. Make sure

cation of what we want, and plan-

you have diversified your investments.

ning for the future, we can create our own financial freedom!

2

INSURANCE REVIEW Sit down with your insurance professional. Ensure your beneficiary designations are up to date. It is important

4

USE YOUR BONUS INCOME WISELY Any bonus or additional income received during this period should

to review your insurance coverage each year.

be put to work to instead of splurged.

Make sure you have enough auto coverage

Increase your emergency reserves. It is rec-

and that your liability limits are sufficient. If

ommended that you have at least three to

you have substantial assets, this may be a

six months’ worth of expenses in the bank.

good time to consider adding an umbrella

Invest these funds in a liquid and safe invest-

policy to your insurance portfolio.

ment. Alternatively, use these additional funds to pay down any consumer debt.

3

CHARITABLE CONTRIBUTIONS This is a perfect time to finalize your charitable giving contributions. Help others celebrate their holiday sea-

5

MAKING THAT BIG PURCHASE If you have planned, saved and prioritized a big purchase for this year, be sure to do your homework. Start shopping early,

son while teaching your own children the

and make informed and rational decisions.

importance of giving. Furthermore, these

Don’t forget to consider hidden expenses such

donations will count toward your current

as insurance, moving costs, fuel costs, etc. The

year contributions for tax purposes if made

holidays are a time when people get caught

before Dec. 31.

up in the excitement of the season and tend to make impulse purchases they later regret.

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December 2019 | Gilbert Lifestyle

35