Queen Creek, AZ August 2023

THE

KIDS AND PETS OF

QUEEN CREEK

ELEGANT STEEL DOOR

PRODUCT-

Kids & Pets

This issue is always one of my favorites. I suppose because of the immense joy that children bring to their families and the significant impact they make on their communities.

Children are not merely the hope for a brighter tomorrow; they are the foundation upon which our society stands. Their innocence, curiosity, and boundless potential have the power to shape the world in ways we can only imagine. Kids represent our hardest work and greatest investment and we are happy to highlight the best for the town's kids in this issue.

Secondarily, who could forget pets? The special kind of companionship can be a transformative experience for children and adults alike. Pets provide us with unconditional love, the opportunity to learn, grow and develop essential life skills in a nurturing environment. And who could ignore the bond between kids and their furry or feathery friends? The bond is often deep and meaningful, fostering qualities like empathy, responsibility, and companionship.

Although children are of infinitely more value, what children and pets share in common is that they need us. Our care, attention and intention shapes how they are raised and who they become. We hope this issue inspires you to pour a little extra into the children and pets in your life this month.

Yours truly, Kaylee

& Myla

KAYLEE WILLIAMS, PUBLISHER @QUEENCREEKCITYLIFESTYLE

August 2023

PUBLISHER

Kaylee Williams | kaylee.williams@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Florence Daniels | florence.daniels@citylifestyle.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Kimberly Heywood | shademarketingaz@gmail.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Dr. Kathleen Smith, Diva Galan

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Kaeden Peterson, Jennifer Boubelik

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

CONTROLLER Gary Johnson

AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall

LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman

Elevated Design Premium Locations Exceptional Value

Nestled in the foothills of the San Tan Mountains

Priced from the mid $500k’s

The prices of our homes, included features, plans, specifications, promotions/incentives, neighborhood build-out and available locations are subject to change without notice. Stated dimensions, square footage and acreage are approximate and should not be used as a representation of any home’s or homesite’s precise or actual size, location or orientation. There is no guarantee that any particular homesite or home will be available. No information or material herein is to be construed to be an offer or solicitation for sale. A Broker/Agent must register their client in person on client’s first visit at each community for a Broker/Agent to receive a commission or referral fee, if available. Not all features and options are available in all homes. Unless otherwise expressly stated, homes do not come with hardscape, landscape, or other decorator items. Any photographs or renderings used herein reflect artists’ conceptions and are for illustrative purposes only. Some amenities may not be constructed. Builder reserves the right to change the size, design, configuration, and location of amenities not yet constructed and does not warrant the suitability thereof for any use or for any person. Builder does not warrant the suitability of any trail for any use or for any person. All sales are conditioned upon buyer’s acceptance of

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @queencreekcitylifestyle

1: Town representatives chatting with residents at the 'What's Poppin' in QC' event at the library. 2: Chillin with a Cop event. 3: Queen Creek officers greeting residents at Chillin with a Cop event. 4: Wildman Phil showing a lizard to children at an event at Queen Creek Library.

5: Grand Opening of Sophie May Boutique. 6: Flat Iron Church Coffee & Charcuterie Interest Party at the Big Tin Cotton Gin.

7: Shoppers at the Grand Opening of Sophie May Boutique.

TOWN OF QUEEN CREEK

TOWN OF QUEEN CREEK

TOWN OF QUEEN CREEK

F. DANIELS

SHELBY BURCHFIELD PHOTOGRAPHY

SHELBY BURCHFIELD PHOTOGRAPHY

MARCIE JORDAN

Chill at the Mill

The Queen Creek Olive Mill is offering amazing specials this summer –now through September 1st.

• $2 off single scoops of gelato

• 2 pizzas + 2 pints OR two glasses of wine - $45

• Board & Bottle – Antipasto board & bottle of wine - $30

• Summer Sippin’ Happy Hour - $3 off all bar items

Tuesday-Thursday: $5 off all flights AND $3 off all bar menu items

Wine Wednesdays - 30% off select bottles

Want

Photography Queen Creek Olive Mill

Santan Mountain Casino Opens!

Santan Mountain Casino celebrated a soft ribbon cutting ceremony on June 17th. The new casino is located at 7101 S Gilbert Rd, Chandler, AZ 85249 on the corner of Gilbert Road and Hunt Highway. The casino boasts 'views of the Santan Mountains, modern touches, and elevated amenities,' making it an ultimate destination in Arizona. www.playatgila.com

WE BRING YOUR IDEAS TO LIFE

Pita Jungle's New 'Summer Whirl' Menu!

The new seasonal menu titled ‘Summer Whirl’ features a variety of Mediterranean-inspired dishes with light, fresh and unprocessed ingredients inspired by the sea, fields, streets and beyond. The ‘Summer Whirl’ menu is available starting June 20th, at participating Pita Jungle locations for dine-in, carry out and delivery. Try their Mediterranean Ceviche, Tuna Melt, Andalusian Gazpacho, Shawarma Toum Chicken Taco, just to name a few. www.pitajungle.com

Queen Creek, Arizona 85142

Photography Santan Mountain Casino

Photography Pita Jungle

AUGUST

local experiences

Grab the kids, pack your bags and hit the town for some end of summer fun. Use our list for some family-friendly adventures that will do everything from raising your heart rate, excite the little ones, and create lasting memories together.

SUPERSTITION SPRINGS CENTER: Take the kids to the only double decker carousel in the entire state. Keep cool indoors and enjoy some shopping and entertainment. 6555 E. Southern Ave., Mesa, Arizona 85206

LIL GOAT TOWN: Get in some goat yoga with baby goats and buy some goat milk products that include soaps and lotions. 7377 S. 169th Pl., Queen Creek, Arizona 85142

CRAYOLA EXPERIENCE: Let the kids explore their creative side! Make your very own crayon, enjoy games and entertainment and more. 3111 W. Chandler Blvd., Ste. 2154, Chandler, Arizona 85226-5071

POCKET PARK FOR PUPS: This off-leash park has two grassy-play areas with enclosed fencing and a drinking fountain. Open every day from 7am-10pm except Tuesdays 12pm-10pm. 22526 S. Ellsworth Rd. , Queen Creek, Arizona 85142

MANSEL CARTER OASIS PARK: A ship splash pad, a covered playground, and a place to build sand castles. This park is every kid and dog's dream! 19535 E. Appleby Rd., Queen Creek, Arizona 85142

The

Which Pet Should I Get?

ARTICLE

In case you were wondering, Queen Creek's kids give their idea of the best pet.

BY FLORENCE DANIELS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNIFER BOUBELIK, KAEDEN PETERSON

BROOKS, AGE 7

Horse named Shorty

“Shorty is the best because he's my best friend. He lets me ride him. I loved him since I was zero. He listens good and lets me brush him and braid his hair. He also lets me cuddle whenever I want”

TUCK, AGE 4

Fish named Bluey

“He likes to eat a lot. He gets to sleep with me in my room every night. He plays peekaboo with me.”

HENRY, AGE 12

Dog named Koda

“Koda is the best dog in the world for many reasons. She is very chill to be with, playful, and makes everyone laugh with her big eyes and facial expressions.”

MILA, AGE 11

Guinea Pig named Tumnus

HAILEY, AGE 11

Horse named Cherokee

“My horse Cherokee is the BEST. She makes a bad day better and always greets me with a neigh. She listens to all my stories and gives the best hugs!’”

“She is crazy, silly and goofy but also can relax at times. She can be super talkative and I love her hairstyles!”

JORDYN, AGE 13

Snake named Ruby

“She is really cool and super easy to take care of because her cage is low maintenance and you don’t always have to hold her.”

KINSLEY, AGE 6

Golden Retriever Puppy named Chloe

“She’s so soft. She plays with me and I just love her so much!”

Back to

SCHOOL LUNCH!

A FUN AND TASTY MEAL FOR YOUR SMART COOKIE!

As we head into another school year full of routines, homework, and school supplies, part of our challenge as parents is what to feed our kids. School lunches, in particular, can be a struggle. Here, Diva Galan, influencer and mom of two, knows your pain. This fun and creatively presented bento box lunch is a great way to satisfy their hunger.

@foodallergydiva

INGREDIENTS

• Cookies of your choice

• 1 black gel writer

• candy eyes

• Cheese (or dairy free)

• Pretzel sticks

• 1 apple

• 1 lemon

• sliced bread

• carrot, sliced

• cherry tomatoes, cut in half

• raisins

DIRECTIONS

1. Decorate cookies with a black gel writer and apply candy eyes for the smart cookies.

2. Use a small cookie cutter of any shape to make unique shapes in the cheese.

3. Pretzel sticks with apple slice for the A+ apple (Tip: use an A cookie cutter lightly and peel off the skin to make this). Add lemon juice to keep from browning.

4. Place cheese on top of bread for school bus with carrot and tomatoes for lights/stop sign (you can add turkey, more cheese, etc.).

5. Finish this bus with raisin wheels.

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY DIVA GALAN

LET’S MAKE A MOVE!

Whether you are first-time buyer, ready to search for your DREAM HOME or thinking of selling CALL ME TODAY!

As your FULL-TIME Realtor®, I specialize in Queen Creek/San Tan Valley Real Estate!

Put my experience, and commitment to work for you!

ASK ME ABOUT:

A Seller Concessions?

A Down Payment Assistance?

A FHA vs Conventional Loans?

A How much is my home worth?

A Is it a Seller’s Market?

ABOUT ME

Military shaped my life. Having been married to a Marine before, during, and now after his time in service, I know FIRST-HAND the emotions that can be involved with any relocation. So many factors play into relocating and no two moves are alike. Having the honor of working for others during this time, along with my own personal experiences, gives me the unique ability to look for concerns and address them before they cause a problem. I love providing guidance and information that wasn’t always available during my own personal moves. Helping families through wherever life moves them has become a true passion of mine and I would love the opportunity to help you along your journey!

The healing bond between child and animal is greater than you think.

Lindsey and Matt Pittman

MANES AND MIRACLES

ARTICLE BY FLORENCE DANIELS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNIFER BOUBELIK

The horses at Manes and Miracles have names like Iceman and Maverick, a little nod to the film Top Gun. While the horses don't go at jet speed, they do trot along at the perfect pace for their riders. Their passengers are what matter most here, and the horses do more than just take them for a ride.

For Lucy, aged 6, she eagerly signs 'horse' to her mom, Mandy Woodman. Lucy has down syndrome and cerebral palsy and her mobility was therefore limited. Lucy has been riding for two years now and the rocking of the horse gradually strengthened her core and she can now sit up on her own. Lucy is just one of many children with special needs who reap numerous benefits from their time with the horses here.

Manes and Miracles is a non-profit that began in 2018 and helps up to 60-70 children each week. This organization developed out of a desire for service and community by Matt and Lindsey Pittman. Their journey began when Matt suffered an accident during his time as a police officer which forced him out of his job and a long road to recovery both physically and

mentally. Having lost a purpose without his career, Matt turned to equine therapy. Soon he and Lindsey saw their calling and embarked on creating Manes and Miracles to help children with developmental disabilities.

Another mom, Sarah Martin, says that riding has helped her son Jaxon, 6, to better regulate his mood and more endurance overall. Chandler, 16, has been riding for about a year and his mother, Michelle Dunlavy, says that the benefits have included giving him a sense of calm, more stability, and even improving his fine motor skills. Michelle says that the horse helps Chandler calm his sensory system down so that he is able to focus more on tasks.

Matt hopes to continue this work and more by extending the therapy to veterans and emergency service workers, like himself, who suffer from PTSD and other conditions. For now, Matt has found his passion and a sense of peace working alongside these gentle horses and watching the many kids here flourish in their company. www.manesandmiraclesaz.org

Lucy

Jaxon

Up In the Air

Helping kids aim high at Aerial Ovation.

Inside Aerial Ovation is a gym that has mats to cushion landings, trampolines, and a climbing wall. In addition, hung from sturdy hooks, are long stretches of colorful fabric like a set of drapes. They skim the floor looking something like a theatre curtain, suggesting an element of performance and drama. Owner, Shana Lord, says they are in fact called 'silks'. It is from these silks that students can wrap themselves in what seems to be complicated knots, taking up poses with acrobatic flair that appears both fun and easy.

As I watched one girl hoist herself up with ease, many feet up, she created a home in the air, then suddenly flipping herself and sliding down before breaking with precision. This playful demonstration which appeared unplanned and carefree, is in fact anything but. Shana explains that each performer is accountable for themselves, appreciating that gravity is king and being conscious of where their body is in space. That athleticism is balanced with

artistry, creating an aerial performance. Shana's own background is in gymnastics and dance and spent many years as an acrobat with Cirque du Soleil.

Yet, for Shana, working with kids and inspiring a love for athletics has become a true passion. Through Aerial Ovation she has established classes and camps to instill 'fun, fitness, and fundamentals' to promote longevity and strength for lifelong benefits. Although her students seem to be suspended in a solo effort of upper body strength, Shana says there is actually more collaboration behind what they do. Students encourage and advise each other, and empowerment is another theme here. 'Those who climb highest, lift as they go.' says Shana, indicating that the environment is a supportive one.

The engagement of both body and mind is how Shana hopes to teach her students to reach higher both in the air and on the ground. www.aerialovation.com

ARTICLE

Over-Heated Pups

ARTICLE BY DR. KATHLEEN SMITH PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNIFER BOUBELIK

As the summer heat intensifies, it's crucial for dog owners to take proactive measures to ensure their furry companions stay safe and comfortable. Here are four essential tips to help your dogs deal with the extreme heat:

1. Provide Ample Shade and Water: Create a shaded area in your yard where your dog can retreat from the sun's rays. Use a canopy, umbrella, or a designated shady spot with trees. Additionally, ensure your dog has access to cool, fresh water at all times. Consider using a pet fountain or leaving multiple water bowls around the house and yard.

2. Schedule Outdoor Activities Wisely: Plan your dog's outdoor activities during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening. Avoid going outside during peak heat hours, usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when temperatures are at their highest.

3. Protect Their Paws and Skin: Pavement and sand can become scorching hot during summer days, potentially causing burns and discomfort to your

dog's paws. Walk your dog on grassy areas or use protective booties. Additionally, consider applying pet-safe sunscreen to areas with thin or light-colored fur, such as the nose and ears.

4. Use Cooling Products and Techniques: Help your dog cool down with various methods. Wet a towel with cool water and place it over your dog's body, paying extra attention to their belly and paws. You can also invest in a cooling mat or bed specially designed to regulate body temperature. Freeze treats or create ice cubes with dog-friendly ingredients like broth or small pieces of fruit to provide a refreshing snack.Remember, if you notice signs of heat exhaustion in your dog, such as excessive panting, drooling, rapid breathing, weakness, or collapse, it's vital to seek veterinary assistance immediately. By implementing these tips, you can create a safe and comfortable environment for your furry friend to beat the heat and enjoy the summer season. www.fureverstrongk9rehab.com

Dr. Kat Smith

Dr. Kat, a certified Canine Rehab Therapist and Arizona native, understands the challenges of summer. She wants to help keep your pup happy, and healthy year-round, ensuring the summer heat doesn't take away the fun.

Dr. Kat gives her advice on how to cool down your hot dogs!

Inspired Kids

INSPIRE ENTERTAINMENT AND THEATRE CO. HOPES TO PUT KIDS IN THE LEAD ROLE OF THEIR LIVES.

ARTICLE BY FLORENCE DANIELS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY INSPIRE THEATRE CO.

Michael Sackett is CEO of INSPIRE and sincerely believes in the transformative power of the arts, especially in the young. Participating in a youth production or just learning about the craft, he argues, helps kids build confidence, new friendships, teamwork, and the value of hard work. Yet Michael insists it can do even more, he says, 'I like to think of the performing arts as a preventative therapy of sorts. I think that every kid should be involved in the arts in some way. Studies have shown over and over again that performing arts stimulates the brain and helps growth in every area of development.'

INSPIRE has two parts to it, the Entertainment Company does instruction, competition, and performance, while the Theatre Company puts out high quality family friendly productions. They have done shows like The Little Mermaid Jr., Seussical Jr., and more. Their upcoming season will continue to grow with productions like Matilda Jr. expected in November. For

'Newsies' Musical Production by INSPIRE

these musical productions, Michael says about 100 kids audition. Ultimately 50 are chosen and they rehearse for about 3 1/2 months before the final four shows play to an audience.

Many of the students who audition come out of the INSPIRE community but the reputation of their productions has clearly grown and talent has been coming from all over. Michael credits their 'gifted' director, Shannon Rogers, and her staff for 'growing the program to what it is today'. The interest and even growing demand for theatre in the East Valley has encouraged Michael and INSPIRE to be a continuing source for kids and the arts. They offer summer camps for all ages and abilities. A theater camp runs for two weeks, music theater, tumbling and cheer, dance, and advanced camps like ballet intensives and vocal performance camps too.

Michael says the positive impact on young people was further highlighted back when he was a college student and was on tour with the Young Ambassadors in China and South Korea. He describes sitting with a little girl at an orphanage, saying that he 'kept thinking... this girl was dropped off by her family at birth... and she was so happy when we were there performing for her and her friends. I couldn't help but want to create something where thousands of students would have experiences like that and be able to share their talents for good. And also help them recognize that they have been so blessed just by being able to take classes in the performing arts.' www.inspireent.com

Backyard Chickens

Chickens have become increasingly popular as pets in both suburban and urban areas during the last 20 years. Backyard chickens may seem to be an unsuspecting animal to keep as a pet but the tried and true egg producers are back in fashion as food costs are soaring and families are looking for more food independence in light of recent supply chain shortages.

There’s a lot to like about raising chickens in your backyard. Surprisingly, chickens are relatively low maintenance. And bonus – unlike dogs, they don’t need to be bathed or groomed, and they don’t shed on your clothes or require training. Could backyard chickens be the perfect pet/producer to add to your home?

Things To Consider Before Getting Chickens:

First, check local town ordinances to ensure that keeping chickens is even allowed in your neighborhood or if there is a limit to the number of chickens you can keep at once.

Make sure you have the space for a henhouse or a full-size chicken coop. It has to hold a feeder and water containers, a roosting area, and a nest box for every three hens. A proper coop should be large enough that you can stand in it to gather eggs and shovel manure comfortably, but a simple hen house can be quite a bit smaller. Plus, any housing must be sturdy enough to keep your chickens safe from all the predators out there. Gorgeous coops are aplenty on places like Pinterest if you’re building your own, but many pre-made options are available through various farm supply stores as well.

Chickens need food and water daily. Feed is about $20 per 50-pound bag, but prices vary depending on your location and the quality of the feed. How long a bag lasts depends on the number of chickens you have.

Hens will lay eggs through Spring and Summer and into the Fall, as long as they have 12 to 14 hours of daylight. Expect to collect eggs daily, or even twice a day.

Everything you need to get started on your backyard coop.

events

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

AUGUST 1ST AUGUST 2ND

Cool Off in the Foam Zone!

CHILDREN'S MUSEUM OF PHOENIX | 9:00 AM

Cool off in the Foam Zone event will be held daily from 9am-3pm at the Children's Museum of Phoenix. Play in bubbles all throughout the month of August. www.childrensmuseumofphoenix.org

Storytime in the Galleries

PHOENIX ART MUSEUM | 10:30 AM

Designed for the youngest PhxArt visitors (ages 0-5) and their parents or caregivers, Storytime in the Galleries is a wonderful opportunity to share the joy of early literacy, art-inspired play, and hands-on learning with family and friends. The Storytime in the Galleries series is offered on the first Wednesday of each month inside the Museum. www.phxart.org

AUGUST 15TH

Evidence Based Birth Class

CONNECTED HEALTH PHOENIX | 6:30 PM

Join these small intimate classes beginning on August 15th -19th from 6:30-8:30pm in Chandler. This will provide you with guidance on your birthing journey, empowering you with knowledge for you and your child. For more information go to www.manifestbirthservives.com

AUGUST 18TH

Flatiron Family Movie Night

COMBS HIGH SCHOOL | 6:30 PM

Grab your family and friends and head to Combs High School cafeteria for a fun evening watching THE SUPER MARIO BROS. MOVIE hosted by Flatiron Church. Popcorn and water are provided. Bring folding chairs or blankets and feel free to bring your own food and drinks. Admission is FREE and doors open at 6pm! Questions: admin@flatiron.church www.flatiron.church

AUGUST 26TH AUGUST 31ST

Butterfly Walk

BOYCE ARBORETUM | 8:00 AM

This one hour and a half walk led by butterfly experts will introduce you to the many different kinds of butterflies that call the Arboretum home. Space is limited so pre-registration is required. www.btarboretum.org

You're A Good Man Charlie Brown the Musical

COMBS PERFORMING ARTS CENTER | 7:00 PM

Based on the beloved Charles Schulz comic strip, Charlie Brown and the entire Peanuts Bunch explore life’s great questions as they play baseball, struggle with homework, sing songs, swoon over their crushes, and celebrate the joy of friendship. www.jocombs.org

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/QueenCreek

The Stuff Dreams Are Made Of

ARTICLE BY FLORENCE DANIELS

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KAEDEN PETERSON

TWO QUEEN CREEK SISTERS MAKE THEIR DREAMY DESIGNS YOUR REALITY.

Brandie DiCosmo and her sister, Rachelle Imlay created Sonoran Dreams Events a year and a half ago. They began as a slumber party planning company using teepees with fun pillows, and themes. Since then, they have expanded to balloon garlands, picnics, and more. Their inspiration for starting their business really came after Brandie had kids, and with six of them (ranging in age from 8 months to 12 years) there were lots of birthdays to plan.

Brandie didn't have any formal training in events or design, but says she always had an 'eye' with a clear vision, and was the unofficial party planner of the family. Rachelle is an Army veteran, and is busy with setup, delivery and client relations. Their most popular design has been the 'boho' look with blush pinks, natural wood tones, and cream colored fabrics. Ultimately, the decor and set up brings to life a dreamy and creative playscape that draws people in.

Brandie and Rachelle have laid out rows of teepees with every attention to detail and opulent balloon arches for their clients. The balloons are put together ahead of time but they have the set up down pat and can take just an hour to stage. They make life even easier with delivery and set up, including pick-up the next day as well. Whatever your celebration, Sonoran Dreams can help you create a fun and unique event. www.sonorandreamsevents

Rachelle Imlay and Brandie DiCosmo