Chandler February 2016 by City Lifestyle

Chandler FEBRUARY 2016

ChandlerLifestyle.com

™

our

Fabulous food issue!

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Lifestyle Letter

Food, glorious food

FEBRUARY 2016 publisher

ike most families, our gatherings always include food. Whether we are celebrating birthdays or anniversaries, a graduation or special holiday, food is always front and center and is what brings us together.

Since we have three young children, we often host many of these get-togethers at our home. Once in a while we'll dine out. We let the kids pick which restaurant we go to when it's their birthday. Sometimes their choices surprise me. It's rarely a favorite because of a certain meal, rather the environment and fond memories that were once shared. I am the “cook” in our house which means I prepare most of the meals during the week, too. I enjoy including my kids in the process – cutting and chopping vegetables, mixing the ingredients and assembling the dishes – it’s something they ask to help with every night. It takes time and patience, but they are learning about the variety of food they consume and how to prepare their own meals. This issue is centered on everything you love about food! You’ll meet d’Vine Gourmet owner Denise McCreery and learn about the delicious homemade treats and local goodies (think chocolate caramels and wine-infused jellies) and unique gift baskets that are available at this local specialty store. At Matthew’s Crossing Food Bank, emergency food boxes are assembled for the homeless and hungry. The organization has been providing hope and relief to Arizona residents since 2001. Our family feature is one that truly brings the issue together. This mother-and-daughter duo cook authentic Southern Italian food, operate a popular catering business and prepare weekly meal service for the Chandler community. We had the opportunity to meet Joanne Spataro and Rose Spataro-Petersen when we shot our cover photo and had a great time spending the afternoon laughing and eating delicious Italian food.

Steven Schowengerdt sales director

Eric Williams | EWilliams@LifestylePubs.com editor

Meghann Finn Sepulveda | MSepulveda@LifestylePubs.com contributing writers

Amy Aguirre, Jackie Binsfeld, Erica Forst, Alison Stanton contributing photographer

Bridgette Marie Photography

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While food often sets the tone, it’s the meaningful conversations, bonding time and special memories that you’ll cherish long after you put your fork down. Enjoy!

by Community ™

Meghann Finn Sepulveda, Editor

ChandlerLifestyle.com ON THE COVER The main ingredient in this delicious Italian dish is the love found between mother and daughter of Joanne’s Catering. PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRIDGETTE MARIE PHOTOGRAPHY 4

Chandler Lifestyle | February 2016

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February 2016

Departments 8

Good Times

Around Town

Giving Back

Hot Spot

Family Feature

Locally Owned

Lifestyle Calendar

Parting Thoughts

14 The fight to end hunger

Matthew’s Crossing Food Bank provides emergency food boxes to Arizona residents.

18 Earnest is redefining comfort food

Modern vibe, classic American dishes create the perfect gathering spot.

26 Fine wine, local specialties found at d'Vine Gourmet

Local retailer offers homemade treats and creates unique gift baskets.

Good Times

Art Walk

Over 50 local artists showed off their skills at Downtown Chandler's Art Walk. This monthly event features different varieties of artwork, including photography, pottery, and jewelry. PHOTOGRAPHY ROB KUBASKO, IGUANA INC.

Chandler Lifestyle | February 2016

Parks and Recreation

Mayor Jay Tibshraeny and the Parks and Recreation Board celebrated two Chandler Parks on December 12. Folley Memorial Park's renovations near downtown and Citrus Vista Park's completion in southeast Chandler were both recognized. Renovations included the addition of ramadas and upgraded landscaping.

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480.857.7226 February 2016 | Chandler Lifestyle

Around Town

AROUND TOWN

Steren Electronics Solutions Plus Hobbies is located at 4245 South Arizona Avenue. For more information, call (480) 883-7696.

THE EXPERIMAC DIFFERENCE Have your Apple products assessed by Experimac's in-house repair team, which works hard to fix devices quickly and accurately. The team can also enhance your devices with improved memory and software. Experimac works hard to bring customers quality

IMPROVING HEALTHCARE FOR VETERANS

products for the lowest price possible. Along with repairs, Experimac also buys, sells, and trades Macs, iPhones, and iPads. Cables,

The Chandler Fire, Health & Medical (CFHM) Department and

adapters, and other Apple-specific accessories are on hand for

the Phoenix Veterans Affairs Healthcare System has joined together

purchase. Experimac is located at 4015 South Arizona Avenue. To

to create the Community Involvement and Intervention Project. The

learn more about the store, visit Experimac.com/Chandler-AZ

six-month project aims to improve healthcare for thousands of area

or call 480.207.1150.

veterans and also serve as a model program for fire departments around the nation. “We value veterans in our community, and this partnership between the VA and our Fire, Health & Medical Department reinforces our commitment to being a ‘Veteran Friendly City,’” says Chandler Mayor Jay Tibshraeny. “Through this program, we are connecting patients with the people and the care that they need – and that will make a huge difference in the lives of Chandler veterans.” In the program, first responders will screen patients during emergency calls, identifying those who are veterans and then connecting them with medical services. One of the unique aspects of the program is the use of telemedicine. Paramedics visiting the patient can use teleconferencing technology to communicate with healthcare professionals at the VA. Fire Chief Jeff Clark states, “Our primary goal of this partnership is to connect every Chandler veteran with the Phoenix VA healthcare services that they not only need, but deserve.” Chief Clark also notes that an Intergovernmental Agreement with the VA allows the City to avoid expending additional funds: “We are utilizing programs and resources that are already in existence,” he said. “But now, if a patient is a veteran, we have additional resources to get that patient the quality healthcare they earned by serving this country in the armed forces.” For more information about the pilot project, call 480-782-2120, or visit www.ChandlerAZ.gov/Fire.

STEREN ELECTRONICS SOLUTIONS Batteries, cables, helicopters, trucks, and ham radio supplies can

CLASSIC CAR & HOT ROD SHOW

all be found at Steren Electronics Solutions Plus Hobbies, your one-

Get your motor running and head out for the Classic Car & Hot

stop shop for gadgets and gizmos. Ron and Carol Beasley recently

Rod Show. This event is free and family friendly. Specialty vehicles

opened the Chandler store, which also offers installation of surveil-

and hundreds of pre-1980 cars will be on display for your viewing

lance systems with smart home monitoring, home theater installa-

pleasure. There will also be food booths, a beer garden, and arts and

tion, and television mounting. Ron, the former 10-year owner of a

crafts to enjoy. Proceeds from the car show benefit youth and vet-

Maricopa Radio Shack says,

eran services organizations in the Chandler community. The show

“If you are used to buying it at Radio Shack, you can buy it here at our store, except for cellphones, which are not sold here.”

takes place on Saturday, Feb. 28 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. To learn more about the event, visit ChandlerCarShow.com or call 480-389-7709. CONTINUED >

Chandler Lifestyle | February 2016

Around Town

(CON TI N U ED)

Desert Dance Theatre and the South Chandler Self-Help Foundation presents the 27th Annual Black History Celebration. This day of celebration looks to create and ensure opportunities for the youth of Chandler. And it could not be a true celebration without food. Presented by the Chandler Men of Action, The African American Banquet, being held Friday, Feb. 27 at 7 p.m. at the Chandler Community Center, celebrates African American accomplishments achieved this year. Man of the Year and two student scholarships are presented at the banquet, which looks to build spirit and character. For more information about all of the weekend’s events, visit ChandlerAZ.gov or call Chandler’s Diversity Office at 480.782.2214. Discovery and exploration are front and center at Chandler's Science Spectacular

CHANDLER'S SCIENCE SPECTACULAR! See students, artists, and innovators from Chandler participate in the statewide Arizona SciTech Festival. Exploration and discovery are at the forefront of this weekend where folks can learn about all things science. The weekend consists of two main events: A Night of Art & Science and Chandler’s Science Saturday. On Feb. 19, Chandler’s monthly Art Walk transforms into a mix of technology and art. Learn about the science behind the food, beauty, and art around us. On Saturday, bring the entire family for entertaining, interactive demonstrations as students from the University of Arizona, Arizona State University, and Chandler Innovation Center’s TechShop explain the importance of science in our daily lives. The science fun starts Feb. 19 at 6 p.m. To learn more about this weekend, visit ChandlerAZ.gov.

A NEW KID IN TOWN “New American” is the way Gavin Jacobs describes his future Downtown Chandler restaurant. This style of fresh culinary eatery includes vegetarian options, seasonal cocktails, and laptop outlets catering to young professionals and families. Plans for the new restaurant include a large garage door entrance and a latenight menu that welcomes guests until 2 a.m. on weekends. The 2,400-square-foot venue of exposed original brick and raw concrete floors will have indoor and outdoor areas for patrons. The W.P. Carey School of Business at Arizona State graduate, Jacobs, states, “My passion is to create an exceptional experi-

BLACK HISTORY MONTH

ence for every person that walks in. I love hospitality and Chandler is my home.”

Every year, Chandler provides a variety of community events

The Brickyard Downtown is located at 85 West Boston Street.

honoring contributions and celebrating the history of African Amer-

Happy Hour service will be daily at 3 p.m. and the restaurant will

icans including the Black History Celebration and the African Amer-

serve food until 1 a.m. Thursday through Saturday. To see updates

ican Banquet.

on the restaurant, visit BrickYardDowntown.com.

Chandler Lifestyle | February 2016

February 2016 | Chandler Lifestyle

Giving Back

AR TI

STANTON CLE ALISON

| PHOTOGR A

PHY PROVID

MATTHEW’S CROSSING FOOD BANK OFFERS COMPASSION, DIGNITY AND HOPE FIGHTING HUNGER BY PROVIDING EMERGENCY FOOD BOXES TO THOSE IN NEED

Dan Ward, who led the McCarthy project, at the ribbon cutting with Chandler Leadership for the expansion project

ince Matthew’s Crossing Food Bank first opened in Chandler in 2001, tens of thousands of people have been able to get much-needed relief from hunger. IDENTIFYING THE NEED

Executive Director Jan Terhune says the food bank got its start inside the small kitchen at St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church. By 2005, the food bank had become too big so leaders applied for 501(c)3 status, and moved to a standalone location. They named the new location Matthew’s Crossing Food Bank. EMERGENCY FOOD BOXES

Terhune says three primary services are the core of the food bank. “We offer emergency food boxes that are available to our clients once a month. These provide six to eight days of hunger relief,” Terhune says, adding that the food bank is open for three hours every weekday. “We don’t ever turn anybody away on first visit, and we ask our clients to fill out a registration form. It’s not an evaluation but just helps us to keep track.” Terhune says they see a large number of working poor come in for the food boxes. CONTINUED >

Chandler Lifestyle | February 2016

January 2016 1-3 15 17 23

Zoppé-An Italian Family Circus Times Vary Black Violin 7:30pm TIMBER! A Production of Cirque Alfonse! 7pm Deana Martin - Honoring Dean Martin & Frank Sinatra 7:30pm 29 Moscow Festival Ballet presents Don Quixote 7:30pm 30 Fiesta Mexico-Americana with Los Lobos 7:30pm

February 2016

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Giving Back

(CON TI N U ED)

From left to right: Chandler Vice Mayor Kevin Hartke, Matthew's Crossing Food Bank Executive Director Jan Terhune and Ford Motor Company Business Development Manager Christie Mildner.

“They have cars and jobs but they just can’t make the money stretch, so six to eight days of food relief will really help to take the edge off.” Displaced workers, people on fixed incomes, infants, seniors, people with disabilities, veterans and the homeless also come to the food bank. Over 40 percent of the clients are children. FOOD DRIVES

Another key service is holiday food distributions. “At Thanksgiving we provide around 500 meals thanks to a partnership with PayPal and Wal-Mart,” Terhune says. “We have a smaller food distribution before Christmas and Easter," she adds. SUPPORTING LOCAL SCHOOLS

A new program called Meals to Grow is offered in a partnership with Chandler Unified School District. Terhune says the school district will purchase, prepare and transport warm meals one evening a week to the food bank, which will then serve the meals to enrolled school-age children. Parents are provided with nutrition education. “Our plan is to serve 60 to 75 children, and we’re working on a sponsorship to have enough food to take home, and also to provide some nutritional education to the parents,” Terhune says. “We are really excited about this new service.”

Chandler Chamber Leadership classmates helped paint the new space and purchase new furniture. In addition, Ford Motor Company donated a van, which will help with food pickups from local grocery stores. “We really are seeing record numbers of clients, and thanks to the expansion we can serve even more people,” Terhune says. “We used to see 50 to 65 individuals a week come in for emergency food boxes and now we average 75 to 125.” Matthew’s Crossing Food Bank gets its food from three primary sources. “United Food Bank delivers 18,000 pounds of non-perishable food on the first Friday of the month, and thanks to our new van, we pick up food from CVS, Wal-Mart, Winco, Bashas’, Fry’s, Albertsons and Safeway, many of which are new partners for us.” Food drives provide the rest of the food. THE NEED FOR VOLUNTEERS

Terhune, who has been at the food bank since October, 2014, says she is extremely grateful for the volunteers who keep Matthew’s Crossing Food Bank running smoothly. “We need 60 to 75 volunteers to stay open each week,” she says. She is proud of the services that Matthew’s Crossing Food Bank provides to people throughout Chandler. “Our three core values are compassion, dignity and hope. That’s what keeps all of us going. We offer an opportunity for hope, and to let people know that life can get better.” Matthew's Crossing Food Bank is located at 1368 N. Arizona Ave., Unit 112, in Chandler. For more information, call 480.857. 2296 or visit MatthewsCrossing.org.

SUPPORT TO THOSE IN NEED

Terhune says she is extremely grateful to the many local corporations that make such generous contributions. When McCarthy Building Companies learned about the Meals to Grow program, the company’s philanthropic Heart Hats committee volunteered to renovate and expand the food bank. 16

Chandler Lifestyle | February 2016

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Hot Spot

Chandler Lifestyle | February 2016

ARTICLE ERICA FORST | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

T he E a r ne s t E x per ience CLASSIC, COMFORTABLE AND MODERN

DINING

iving inÂ Arizona can sometimes become visually mundane. With strip malls galore and desert landscape everywhere you look, a person can find themselves yearning for color and character. Sometimes, though, beyond the sandy brown walls and cookie cutter fronts, unassuming gems can be found where ingenuity and creativity come alive. Earnest Restaurant is one of those gems.

February 2016 | Chandler Lifestyle

THE EARNEST EXPERIENCE (CON TI N U ED)

Scott descr ibes Ea rnest’s food as “high-end comfor t.” He also states that if “I weren’t working here, I’d be eating here every day. You know what you’re going to get: consistent quality.”

OUR HOUSE

Soon after I'm seated by the friendly hostess, I am immediately struck by the warm ambiance of the eatery. Time and effort has obviously been put into making this the perfect setting for a good meal. Marigold-colored, floral curtains, tufted blue booths line wood tables, and modest photo frames hang on the wall, which gives this place a feeling of home. Exposed vents and hanging filament lights also give it a modern, almost industrial feel. The place is sophisticated, yet comfortable. Stylish, but not showy. Manager Scott Clore arrives to the table: let the eating games begin. IT'S FIVE O' CLOCK SOMEWHERE

Upon sitting, I am given an iPad. This is my drink selector for the night. As can be seen by the magnificent glass case full of wine, there are many options from which to choose. From big, bold zins to light whites, the restaurant has an extensive assortment of varietals to tempt the palette. If non-alcoholic drinks are more your style, there are delicious options for you, including my choice: the Desert Blossom iced tea. A refreshing tea with a strong apricot presence. MEALIN' AND DEALIN'

Scott describes Earnest's food as “high-end comfort.” He also states that if "I weren't working here, I'd be eating here every day. You know what you're going to get: consistent quality.” He then brought out his favorites for me to try. I started with the zucchini cakes. This appetizer pairs shredded zucchini and squash with crab, champagne hollandaise, asparagus, and pickled onions. The hot conglomeration melts in your mouth and the pickled onions give the dish just the right zing to balance out the richness. Next we were on to the double-cut, bone-in pork chop topped with a honey mustard bourbon glaze and house made applesauce. Sitting next to the chop were Yukon potatoes with sausage in a cheddar sauce. A hearty meal made for the hungriest guests. The side of Brussels sprouts was on another level. Even the biggest opponents of Brussels 20

Chandler Lifestyle | February 2016

sprouts would quickly turn into believers after trying these little mouth delights. The sprouts are fried and combined with capers, lemon, and parsley. Luckily, I left enough room for dessert: banana cream pie with toasted marshmallow and an Oreo crust. I learned that this treat earned itself a feature in Phoenix Magazine, the Arizona Republic, and the Phoenix New Times. And after tasting it, I can understand why. STRAIGHT FROM MAMA'S KITCHEN

Owner Danielle Morris introduces herself to the customers at each table, many of whom have turned from first-time patrons to weekly regulars. "The goal of Earnest is to be a neighborhood eatery," she says. "A place that people can come during the week for a casual dinner or for a date night. For a special occasion, or happy hour with friends. For a bottle of wine or just a beer. To bring friends and family, or just yourself. But somewhere that you always feel welcomed, always get good food." Danielle is not only the owner, but also the Pastry Chef. She learned her baking skills from her mother, making pies from seasonal fruits, cakes for birthdays, and cookies at Christmas. “I liked turning the ingredients into something beautiful and tasty," she says "Once I got into [baking as a career], I found that plating desserts was an outlet for my artistic energy." C'MON GET HAPPY

Earnest also has a happy hour where you can snack on marinated olives, an open-faced meatloaf sandwich with caramelized onions, gravy, and a fried egg; salted crème brulee; and an assortment of other tasty options. There are $2 craft beers, $4 house red or white wines, and a $6 featured cocktail of the day. Earnest is family-friendly and offers a kids menu for the young ones. Happy hour runs from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and reverse happy hour is from 8 p.m. to close. Earnest Restaurant is located at 4991 South Alma School Road in Suite One. Learn more at EarnestRestaurant.com. or call 480.883.3773 to make a reservation.

February 2016 | Chandler Lifestyle

Family Feature

Mother-Daughter Team Brings Authentic Italian Cuisine to Chandler JOANNE'S CATERING OFFERS HOMEMADE MEALS, DESSERTS

Chandler Lifestyle | February 2016

ARTICLE AMY AGUIRRE | PHOTOGRAPHY BRIDGETTE MARIE PHOTOGRAPHY

oanne’s Catering is a local Chandler catering business that specializes in Southern Italian food. Joanne Spataro runs Joanne’s Catering with her daughter, Rose Spataro-Petersen. THE INSPIRATION

Joanne was born in Calabria in southern Italy, where she developed a love for Italian food at an early age. She moved to the United States in her teens and she founded her catering business in New Jersey in the 1980s.

When Joanne moved to Arizona in 1992, she continued her catering business on a part-time basis. After retiring from house cleaning last year, Joanne decided that she would put her 30 years of catering experience to good use and pursue her love for catering with her daughter, Rose. Rose serves as the manager of Joanne’s Catering. She communicates with the customers, manages the orders and runs all the company’s social media platforms. The mother-daughter team decided to post their garlic knots to the local “Ocotillo Friends” Facebook page to see if anyone would be interested in ordering them. The garlic knots were a hit and as the demand for them grew, customers began to request that Joanne’s Catering offer more meal options on a weekly basis. They took their customer’s advice and put together a unique menu of authentic Italian food options. “It started out with garlic knots and now it has just grown and we are just so appreciative of everybody who orders from us,” says Rose.

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Every Thursday, a weekly menu is posted using the website SignUpGenius.com. After the menu is posted, customers can select their meals. A few of their popular dishes include Chicken Parmigiana, Lasagna, Pasta with Meatballs and a chicken dish created by Joanne called Chicken Monterey. One of their most requested desserts is a cannoli cake. They have succeeded at making even the less favorable food dishes tasty. “We have customers say, ‘I don’t like broccoli, but I love yours, what do you put in it?’ I tell them that we prepare it with love,” Rose says. Joanne’s Catering aims to provide their customers with affordable meals. Their large meal tray ranges between $35 and $40 and feeds four to six people. Half orders are also available.

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February 2016 | Chandler Lifestyle

Family Feature

(CON U ED) (CON TI NTI UN ED)

THE HEART OF THE BUSINESS

CATERING AND LARGE ORDERS

Family is a very important aspect of Joanne’s Catering. “My mother and I are very close, we’ve always been close; we are like best friends," Rose says. Their passion for family is also reflected in their relationship with their customers. “We actually view our customers as part of our family, we have built caring, long-lasting friendships with these people,” Rose adds. They not only care for their customers, but also Chandler and the community they serve. “We love Chandler, we feel that it is the best community and the best city to live in, not only for the schools, but for the people," Rose says. "We are a close knit group and a loving neighborhood that truly cares for one another." They donate between one and five meals a week to families in the community that are in need, whether it is "financially, spiritually or emotionally," Rose says. They also donate one free meal to a customer that has ordered a meal that week.

In addition to weekly meals, Joanne’s Catering also caters events such as wedding, birthdays and other large events for 300+ people. The team can work with any budget to create a beautiful and memorable occasion. Joanne’s Catering can also host private dinner parties where they cook a meal and serve you in your home, and cooking classes where you can learn how to cook your own Italian meal. Joanne's Catering is a special culinary gem in Chandler. They not only have a love for the food they cook, but also for the people they serve. To learn more about Joanne’s Catering, call 480-338-6184 or visit their public Facebook group page "Joanne’s Catering".

Chandler Lifestyle | February 2016

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HOMEMADE JELLIES, CHOCOLATE AND OTHER DELICIOUS TREATS

ARTICLE JACKIE BINSFELD | PHOTOGRAPHY BRIDGETTE MARIE PHOTOGRAPHY

f you are looking to treat your loved ones with memorable gifts this Valentine’s Day, or for any occasion, look no further than d’Vine Gourmet. Since 2003, Denise and Andrew McCreery have been providing Arizonans with delicious, gourmet foods and beverages. Before opening d’Vine Gourmet, Denise worked as a teacher for at risk youth in Tucson. Her husband, Andrew, being a sommelier, would bring home wine after work. Denise has always loved cooking and “playing in the kitchen,” so she would use the wine in her cooking. She concocted a variety of wine-infused jellies, including apple chardonnay. The McCreerys sold their jellies at local farmers’ markets and sold out after their first appearance. Soon, AJ’s Fine Foods heard of their wildly popular jellies and asked to carry their line. Denise then quit her job and started a wine jelly kitchen to focus on her new calling. McCreery next tried her hand at other gourmet foods and updated the kitchen so that she could create mustards, spiced nuts, and chocolates. Delighted customers began asking for gift baskets, and the McCreerys were happy to oblige. In 2009, they brought d’Vine Gourmet to Chandler, sharing their culinary talents with a new community.

Chandler Lifestyle | February 2016

An Array of Offerings AN ARRAY OF OFFERINGS

Most of what you will find at d’Vine Gourmet is made in-house or by local businesses. Known for their exquisite gift baskets, d’Vine Gourmet provides customers with a tempting array of gourmet food collections. One of Denise’s favorites is The Arizona Gourmet, “filled with all things Arizona.” It includes delectable local products such as sweet chipotle snack mix, tequila lime with habanero spirit jelly, and prickly pear candy. Denise also highly recommends the Everything Chocolate basket, a customer favorite. In this gift set, you will find unique and delicious treats such as chipotle pretzel raisin chocolate bark, chocolate chip cookie dough drops, and chocolate pretzels. If you prefer a customized basket, d’Vine Gourmet allows you to build your own. Simply pick out your favorite items, and one of the friendly employees will wrap it for you. Or, place your order online, a service they started offering this year. CONTINUED >

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We provide our customers with the finest materials and service available in the area. Our experts can help you with your project through a variety of services, no matter how big or small the job may be. Whether you are renovating your home or working on a new construction project, we can help you get the results that you want.

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February 2016 | Chandler Lifestyle

Locally Owned

(CON TI N U ED)

All of d’Vine Gourmet’s creations are made fresh and on location. In fact, customers can see the cooks working in the kitchen as they shop. They can watch the production of their favorite treats, from candies to mustards. Their award-winning caramels come in an array of flavors (including a delectable vanilla hazelnut and unique chocolate chipotle caramel) and new ones are introduced each season and holiday. d’Vine Gourmet also specializes in collecting wines from both Arizona vineyards and around the world. Visit their wine cellar to see their large selection, or stop by on the fourth Wednesday of every month for a free wine tasting. At this event, customers can sample both wines and products from the store and meet some of the vineyard owners themselves. If you are not able to attend a wine tasting, visit on a Sunday morning to seek the expert opinion of Andrew, who serves as the store’s sommelier.

Holiday Gifts HOLIDAY GIFTS

It can be difficult to find special gifts for your loved ones, but d’Vine Gourmet can help make Valentine’s Day shopping a breeze. With several holiday-themed treats to choose from, you will be able to find delicious gifts for everyone. They offer special chocolate barks in flavors such as white chocolate cherry pecan and white and dark chocolate with cinnamon hearts. The chocolate selection includes chocolate almonds, pecans and truffles. Customers can also pick out candies from local brands. If you want to add wine to your gifts, Denise recommends classics such as champagne or moscato. Even if you are looking for something aside from the usual, they will be able to find the perfect match. 28

Chandler Lifestyle | February 2016

A Part of Chandler A PART OF CHANDLER

Although originally from Boston, the McCreerys have immersed themselves into the Chandler community, to the delight of the residents. Their success was confirmed when they received the title of "Micro Business of the Year" by the Chandler Chamber of Commerce in 2015. They have created strong relationships with local businesses throughout the years and encourage others to support local. They demonstrate this by keeping as many local products as they can in the store, even buying their jars and labels from Arizona-based vendors.Â dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Vine Gourmet is available online and open seven days a week. For more information, visit dvinegourmet.com.

Chandler

2875 W Ray Rd.

(SE Corner of Ray Rd. and 101 Near Whole Foods)

(480) 345-0133

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February 2016 | Chandler Lifestyle

Lifestyle Calendar

February FEBRUARY 5 SOUTHWEST PHOENIX HOME SHOW RAWHIDE Head on over to Rawhide to see a variety of landscaping, design, and spa vendors. The event has over 250 booths of professionals with information readily available. The show starts on Feb. 5 and runs through Feb. 7. For more information, visit Rawhide.com.

FEBRUARY 5 MARDI GRAS 2016 HACKETT HOUSE Bourbon Street comes to Tempe at the Hackett House's Sixth Annual Mardi Gras celebration. Wear a festive Mardi Gras costume

and

get

ready

dance to the brass sounds of New Orleans. This celebration includes

French

Quarter

cocktails, door prizes, a silent

FEBRUARY 13

auction, and special discounts at

CRUSH MUSIC FESTIVAL

the Gift Shop. The party starts at

RAWHIDE

6 p.m. For more information, visit

The Crush Music Festival is back for its seventh installment. Artists like

HackettHouse.org.

Netsky, Keys N Krater, and Wax Motif will bring the beats at this mu-

sic-filled festival. The show starts at 7 p.m. and is for adults 18 and older.

FEBRUARY 6 DOWNTOWN WALKING TOUR

For more information, visit RelentlessBeats.com.

CHANDLER MUSEUM

FEBRUARY 13

Learn about your city while walk-

SMOKEY ROBINSON

ing the streets of Downtown Chandler. The tour is led by staff from the

WILD HORSE PASS HOTEL & CASINO

Chandler Museum. Movie theaters, pool halls, and the San Marcos Ho-

Soulful crooner, Smokey Robinson brings his Motown sounds to Chan-

tel are all a part of the walk. The free tour starts at 10:30 a.m. For more

dler. The show also takes place on Valentine's Day, so bring your Love

information, visit VisitChandler.com or call 480.812.0900.

Machine and enjoy this romantic night. Doors open at 7 p.m. with the

show starting at 8 p.m. For more information, visit WinGilaRiver.com.

FEBRUARY 13

CHANDLER SPORTS HALL OF FAME INDUCTION CEREMONY

FEBRUARY 14

CHANDLER CENTER FOR THE ARTS

VALENTINE’S DAY

The 12th Annual Chandler Sports Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony

SANTAN BREWING COMPANY

will honor Olympic Silver Medalist, Lyndsey Fry; NCAA Softall Player

SanTan Brewing Company presents its Valentine’s Day menu, which

of the Year, Ashley Hansen; Pittsburgh Steelers Wide Receiver, Markus

includes oysters Rockefeller and roasted rack of lamb. As always, there

Wheaton; the 1972 Chandler High School Team, and an assortment of

is a multitude of beer options to choose from for a perfectly paired

other athletes. The ceremony starts at 11 a.m. and includes lunch. For

meal. No reservations are required and service starts at noon. For more

more information, visit ChandlerAZ.gov.

information, visit SanTanBrewing.com.

Chandler Lifestyle | February 2016

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FEBRUARY 20 STAR PARTY AT VETERANS OASIS PARK ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION CENTER Stars, planets, and nebulas, oh my! Explore outer space through high-powered telescopes at this free party at the Environmental Education Center. Viewing begins at 7 p.m. Learn more at ChandlerAZ.gov.

In striving to provide the best care to our patients we are ringing in the New Year with an expansion to our building! This extra space allows us to have two additional exam rooms as well as a separate feline treatment area.

FEBRUARY 23 CAREER CONNECTORS CENTRAL CHRISTIAN CHURCH If you are in career transition, discover what Career Connectors can do for you. This nonprofit organization connects professionals to high quality resources and hiring companies. Presentations on job search topics, hiring companies, resumes, and business portraits will be at the event for free. The event runs from 9 a.m. to noon at the Central Christian Church in Gilbert. For more information, visit CareerConnectors.org or call 480-442-5806.

FEBRUARY 24 EAT YOUR ART OUT CHANDLER CENTER FOR THE ARTS Arts patrons and Chandler restaurants join together to support the arts. Enjoy delicious food and support various programs by attending this community event. For more information, visit ChandlerCenter.org.

FEBRUARY 27 THE NEON RUN RAWHIDE Enjoy a night of neon glow body paint under UV black lights at this year's Neon Run. All ages and abilities are welcome to take part in

Andrea Stickland, DVM

Carolyn Duregger, DVM

this 5K. Run with family and friends through

Û North

glow zones as music plays along the way. The run starts at 5 p.m. For more information, visit TheNeonRun.com.

270 W. Chandler Heights Rd., Ste. 3 | Chandler, AZ 85248 Located on the NW corner of Arizona Ave and Chandler Heights Rd in the CVS Pharmacy complex, across the street from the post office.

CVS Pharmacy Complex Chandler Heights Rd.

(87) Arizona Ave.

Urgent Care Post Office

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business directory ANIMALS & ANIMAL CARE Animal Medical Center of Chandler (480) 339-0406 amcofc.com

ART & PHOTOGRAPHY Bridgette Marie Photography (480) 254-1697 bridgettemarie.com Uptown Art (480) 813-8059 Uptownart.com

AUTOMOTIVE

Christian Brothers Automotive - Ocotillo (480) 264-0990 cbac.com Huffs Automotive (480) 726-8900 huffsautomotive.com

DENTISTS & ORTHODONTICS

Chamberlain Orthodontics (480) 448-2480 smilestraight.com

Novelly Dentistry (480) 892-6868 drnovelly.com

ENTERTAINMENT & RECREATION Chandler Center For The Arts (480) 782-2680 chandlercenter.org

MEDICAL CLINICS & FACILITIES

Medi-Weightloss Chandler (602) 497-4937 mediweightloss.com/locations/ chandler

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

HOME BUILDERS & REMODELERS

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

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

Pollack Tempe Cinemas (480) 888-0888 pollacktempecinemas.com

Tanner Materials (480) 814-9838 tannertileandstone.com

OTHER

FAITH

HOME DESIGN & FURNISHINGS

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

FASHION & ACCESSORIES Shoe Thrill (480) 275-2898 shoethrill.com

HEALTH & WELLNESS Fit Republic (480) 324-1200 citizenoffit.com

Fresh Cleaners (480) 786-8803 freshcleanerschandler.com

RESTAURANTS, FOOD & BEVERAGE

JK Cabinets (480) 219-9580 jkkitchencabinets2you.com

Otaku (480) 821-3908 otakusushi.com

The Dump thedump.com

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

HOME SERVICES

Shamrock Roofing (480) 888-6648 shamrockroofingservices.com

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

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Chandler Lifestyle | February 2016

Parting Thoughts

How to Pair

Wine and Cheese like an Expert

Q&A BY ALICE ITSELL, AJ'S FINE FOODS WINE SPECIALIST | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED ARE THERE BASIC RULES TO WINE AND CHEESE PAIRING THAT AN INDIVIDUAL CAN FOLLOW?

“Complexity” is the true answer to this question. Traditional standards for wine and cheese pairing were created in a period when cheese focused on key styles (cheddar, Swiss, blue and brie) and wines were focused on French classics (thank you Julia Child). These classics are still spot-on and work perfectly, but in this day and age, the availability of cheese selections has expanded and wines have blossomed in style, region and varietal. Gourmet stores have expanded their selection and availability of specialty cheeses. Not only are international regional cheeses available to customers, but the expansion of domestic producers have elevated their cheese making techniques to stand toe to toe with top international producers. This has now developed a glorious haven for the cheese lover and wine connoisseur. A couple true-to-tradition pairings: Champagne and white wines will complement brie and double or triple creams. Chevre and goat cheese will pair beautifully with Sauvignon Blanc. Blue Cheese pairs well with Cabernet Sauvignon or Bordeaux; Gruyere will pair with Beaujolais, Merlot and Pinot Noir, and Havarti will complement Zinfandel, Merlot, Beaujolais and Cabernet Sauvignon. Cheddar or processed American cheese will create an off flavor when paired with red wines, while smoked cheese will be a miss with all wine styles. The smoky character will influence all wines negatively. Regional pairings work beautifully, and a hostess can create a food theme around the cheese selection. Dynamic couplings include Spanish Rioja with Cabrales cheese; Spanish Tempranillo or Grenache with Manchego; Tuscan Chianti with Pecorino; or French Chablis with Brie. Whether by coincidence or divine intervention, the foods within a geographical region often seem to complement each other. In this case, cheese is partnered best with wine produced near the cheese’s home. WHAT IS THE BEST TYPE OF CHEESE TO SERVE AT A PARTY?

It is all about style and variety. You are now in an era where it is not about what I need to serve but what I want to serve. You are the driver in your culinary cheese and wine journey. You now have the choice between Gouda or aged Gouda; goat cheese or goat cheese rolled in 34

Chandler Lifestyle | February 2016

herb, cranberry or pepper; double cream, triple creams or brie with mushroom. The selection can be endless, and includes cheeses rubbed with coffee, hatch chilies or red peppers. There are also dessert cheeses imparted with blueberry, cranberry or sweet hazelnut. As a hostess or host, you also can include gourmet accoutrements. Although sliced baguettes are thought to be the best companion, a selection of nuts and jams can elevate your standard to “gold.” Various selections of crackers can showcase a unique style: Plain, herb, seeded, flatbreads or whole grain. A variety of nut and fruit complements can round out your platter presentation: Raw almonds, marcona (Spanish) almonds, candied walnuts, sliced pears, grapes, figs, raisins or dried apricots. These elements bring an added variety to your selection. Jams and sauces can add a unique taste influence to your platter, as well. Fig jam is a perfect complement—flavorful, yet subtle on sweetness. Quince paste is often recommended with Manchego, while sweet jams or spreads with tart goat cheese. Honey drizzled over blue cheeses is delicious. The sweetness of the honey offsets the pungent bite of the blue. Want to reach even higher? The elevator to the vice president’s lounge is as simple as balsamic vinegar. This is a real hidden gem when working a cheese platter. The complexity of flavors can truly elevate the cheese component. Drizzling aged balsamic vinegar glaze over brie with a slice of pear or a few drops of very good balsamic vinegar on Parmesano-Reggiano can add a flavor component that will dazzle your guests. HOW DOES ONE CREATE A GOURMET CHEESE AND WINE EVENT?

With these few simple hints about cheese and wine, one will find pairing or serving to be a much less difficult road to maneuver. Recommendations for any individual looking to create a spectacular cheese and wine platter: Be dynamic, challenge the traditional cheese styles, vary your selection, and select unique complements. And don’t hesitate to ask the experts! Visit any AJ’s Fine Foods Wine Cellar or Fromagerie for recommendations. Each individual is versed in the expanded selection of wine and cheese; experts can help you create the components for your gathering. Challenge your style, create your gathering, and introduce the future to your friends. Learn more at AJsFineFoods.com.

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