Chandler March 2016

Chandler MARCH 2016

ChandlerLifestyle.com

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THE BEAUTY OF

Artistic Expression NEW PERFORMANCES AT CHANDLER CENTER FOR THE ARTS LOCAL ICE DANCER COMPETES ON TEAM USA PEEK INTO A SOPHISTICATED WINE LOUNGE

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Lifestyle Letter

Enjoy the arts!

MARCH 2016 publisher

I

was fortunate to be exposed to the arts at a very young age.

Growing up in New York, my earliest memories date back to when my grandparents took my sisters and me to see The Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall. It was a tradition we kept every year. We also saw “Annie” on Broadway and watched in awe as our idol performed on stage. To this day, it’s still special to watch a play, a musical performance, concert or entertainer and have the opportunity to share that experience with someone I love.

If you haven’t been to Chandler Center for the Arts, I encourage you to explore all that is offered. Now in its 26th year, Chandler Center for the Arts embodies the true meaning of visual and performing arts, with innovative and diverse cultural experiences for children and adults. Chandler Center for the Arts is proud to welcome Tony n' Tina’s Wedding, taking place March 8-13. The audience will have the opportunity to participate in this fun, festive and interactive wedding ceremony.

Steven Schowengerdt sales director

Eric Williams | EWilliams@LifestylePubs.com editor

Meghann Finn Sepulveda | MSepulveda@LifestylePubs.com contributing writers

Amy Aguirre, Jackie Binsfeld, Erica Forst, Ashley Oakes Scott, Alison Stanton contributing photographer

Bridgette Marie Photography

CORPORATE TEAM | Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

CHIEF SALES OFFICER

At Burst of Butterflies Pottery Painting & Art Studio, novice and experienced artists are encouraged to get creative through pottery, canvas painting, ceramics, jewelry, glass fusing and more. Classes and events are held regularly along with summer camps for the kids.

You’ll learn about the beautiful art of ice dancing as Chandler native Karina Manta shares her passion and journey towards competing as an ice dancer on Team USA. This young woman proves that hard work and dedication can fuel success.

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DIRECTOR OF MARKETING

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR AD COORDINATORS

We hope this issue will inspire you to take advantage of the many cultural and artistic venues right in your own backyard.

| DeLand Shore | Brad Broockerd

| Sara Minor

ART DIRECTOR

| Nicole Sylvester

| Cyndi Harrington, Chelsi Hornbaker, Kim Foster, Megan Seymour

LAYOUT DESIGNER

Finally, if you’re looking for an intimate spot with delicious food and an extensive wine list before a night out, stop by Vintage 95 in Downtown Chandler. This exquisite wine lounge, that might be known for its bruschetta, has an expanded menu offering classic dishes that utilize local and fresh ingredients.

| Matthew Perry

DESIGN SPECIALIST

| Nicolette Martin | Ashleigh Thomson

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT APPLICATION ARCHITECT WEB DEVELOPER

| Melanie Carlisle | Michael O’Connell | Hanna Park

Enjoy!

Meghann Finn Sepulveda, Editor

by Community ™

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Chandler Lifestyle | March 2016

TALK TO US

P.O. Box 12608 Overland Park, KS 66282-3214 Proverbs 3:5-6 Chandler Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of Chandler’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors.

Information in Chandler Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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March 2016

Departments

16

14

8

Good Times

10

Around Town

14

Inspired By

16

Hot Spot

24

Locally Owned

28

Artist's Palette

30

Lifestyle Calendar

34

Parting Thoughts

The art of ice dancing

One athlete's journey towards competing on Team USA

20 Chandler Center for the Arts welcomes

Tony n' Tina's Wedding Off-Broadway performance is a festive celebration for the entire audience.

24 Let your creative juices flow Burst of Butterflies Pottery Painting & Art Studio features interactive classes.

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Lifestyle Publications Arizona | California | Colorado | Florida | Georgia | Idaho | Illinois | Kansas | Missouri | Montana | Ohio | Oklahoma | Texas | Utah

Good Times

Trivia Night

Trivia Night, hosted by Marshall Shore, known as Arizona’s Hip Historian, The Chandler Museum and The Ostrich Bar joined up to present a Trivia Night at the Crowne Plaza San Marcos Golf Resort. Attendees ate delicious food and drank cocktails while answering trivia questions.

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Daddy Daughter Valentine's Dance

Fathers and daughters celebrated the evening at the City's annual Daddy Daughter Valentine's Dance on Feb. 5 at Snedigar Recreation Center and Feb. 6 at the Chandler Community Center. The parties included dancing, contests, dinner, and crafts.

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Around Town

AROUND TOWN THE GOOD LIFE FESTIVAL In its sixth season, The Good Life Festival

welcomes

Brian Asdell, who organizes the parties says, “Kids get such a thrill out of these activities. When children find or discover something new they get so excited! They love to show off their achievements to their friends and of course they get to learn new things while having lots of fun.”

Themes for ages 3 to 6 are: In the Garden, Bug Bash, and Wild Child; for ages 5 to 8: Treasure Hunt, Digg’n Dinos, Rock Hound, Under the Sea, Out of the World, and Desert Wildlife; and for ages 6 to 13: Go Fish and Meet the Creatures. With exception to Meet the Creatures, parties cost $100 for 10 children. Additional children are allowed for a small fee. Party requests must be made at least two weeks in advance.

The EEC is located at 4050 East Chandler Heights in Veteran’s Oasis Park. To make reservations, call 480-782-2890.

FAMILY EASTER CELEBRATION

guests

Gather up your little bunnies and join in the holiday fun at this year’s

of all ages to enjoy

Family Easter Celebration. The day starts at Snedigar ­­­­­­ Sportsplex with

food,

music,

stage entertainment by Stacy J Dancing, Pueblo Middle School Show

and community in a

Choir, and Desert Star Dance. Then children up to nine years old can

setting with breath-

take part in the Easter Egg Scramble. Kids hop around while hunt-

taking views of a five-

ing for eggs with candy and toys in them. If they find an egg with

star resort. Launched in

a golden ticket in it, they win a prize. There will also be a coloring

2010, the Encantarra Country Club has become home to The Good

contest, Family Easter Basket Giveaway, carnival games, and food

Life Festival. Hal Looney, Shea Homes Active Lifestyle Communities

vendors at the event.

over

The Band Perry performs at this year's The Good Life Festival

5,000 great

Arizona Area President says,

The celebration kicks off with the stage entertainment at 9 a.m. and

“The festival has become a signature, annual event for our mem-

the rest of the festivities continuing on until noon. Please note that this

bers and is known to bring an evening complete with great music and

is a cash only event. Photos will be available with the Easter Bunny for

new memories.”

a minimal charge. Snedigar ­­­­­­ Sportsplex is located at 4500 South Alma

This year’s lineup includes the pop-country trio, The Band Perry.

The trio picked up the 2014 Academy of Country Music Awards

School Road in Chandler. To learn more about this Easter eggstravaganza, visit ChandlerAZ.gov/Special-Events or call 480-782-2735.

Vocal Group of the Year, as well as the Best Country Duo/Group Performance Grammy Award. The group, known for its hits, “If I die Young,” and “You Lie” kicks off the Spring season on March 5.

The Good Life Festival continues on into April when Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Famers, Ann and Nancy Wilson of Heart, bring their rock and folk sounds to Encanterra. Hits like, “Crazy on You,” and “Barracuda” will take you back and get you moving out of your seat.

The spring festival also includes wine and beer tasting, artisan, shopping, delicious eats from food trucks, and massage demos.

Encanterra’s Model Home Gallery hosts wine tasting and music from noon to 3 p.m. on March 5. Gates to the venue open at 2 p.m.

Encanterra Country Club is located at 36460 North Encanterra Drive in San Tan Valley. To learn more about The Good Life Festival, visit

A piano waiting to be played at Mesa Arts Center

Encanterra.com.

STREET PIANOS MESA: PLAY ME, I’M YOURS

NATURE THEMED BIRTHDAY PARTIES

in public places throughout the community. Starting on March 1 and

Through the project, Play Me, I’m Yours, pianos have been placed

Chandler’s Environmental Education Center (EEC) invites children

continuing on to April 9, more than 20 pianos will be available for the

to celebrate with nature for their next birthday party. These Saturday

public to play and enjoy. The event began in 2008 in Birmingham,

parties start with a one-hour long staff-led activity and follow with

United Kingdom and it is estimated that more than 140,000 people

an hour of party time. These nature celebrations can take place both

played or listened to the music from the pianos. To learn more about

inside and outside.

locations of the pianos, visit StreetPianos.com.

10

Chandler Lifestyle | March 2016

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A dress on display at this season's, Arizona Chic: Couture from Arizona’s Past

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Vision Gallery’s: Arizona Chic: Couture from Arizona’s Past. Curated by Robert Black of Fashion by Robert Black of Scottsdale, the display will carry different styles of garb from resort wear to high-fashion.

Curator Robert Black says, “There was a time when Arizona's Chic Fashion was written about and taken to destinations all around the world! Visitors were enamored by the western and southwest themed styles as well as the comfortable cotton fabrics and bright colors that were made for our desert sun. This exhibit will explore the local look of Arizona chic as well as the international designer dresses that were sold in many high fashion boutiques. From the high toned Goldwaters department store to the trading posts on Arizona's reservations, fashion was being created for every fashionista!”

The exhibit includes designs from local Arizona designers: Kay Bennett, Lloyd Kiva, Novis Denne, Leona Caldwell, and Harwood Steiger.

Arizona Chic: Couture from Arizona’s Past opening reception takes place on Friday, March 18 from 7 to 9 p.m. The exhibit runs from March 18 to April 30.

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The Vision Gallery is located at 10 East

Û North

Chicago Street in Chandler.

For more information, contact Yvonne Villareal-Torres at 480-782-2695.

CONTINUED >

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.

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11

Around Town

(CON TI N UED)

CHANDLER PREP RANKED NO. 1 IN ARIZONA BY NATIONAL SCHOOL DATABASE Chandler Preparatory Academy has been recognized by Niche as a top performer in Arizona. The Niche database takes the strength of academics, school resources, quality of teachers and student life, as well as reviews into account when ranking schools. Chandler Prep is part of the Great Hearts network, which provides classical education for 13,000 students at 29 public schools. Interim CEO Christine Jones says, “Great Hearts academies provide an unparalleled liberal arts education that encourages students to grow into focused and mature leaders. It’s wonderful to see our academies recognized by such a comprehensive ranking system, which reflects so many of the factors we value in our educational model.”

Great Hearts focuses on teaching innovation, communication, and critical thinking while developing students’ character. To learn more about Chandler Preparatory Academy and Great Hearts, visit GreatHeartsAZ.org.

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Chandler Lifestyle | March 2016

To celebrate rich history, as well as provide a first-class community event, the Chandler Ostrich Festival began in 1989. The event has grown to become one of the premier festivals in the southwest, with 250,000 to 350,000 people attending the threeday celebration each spring.

The Ostrich Festival, taking place March 11 - 13 is a community family event featuring live ostrich races and ostrich-themed activities, national and regional entertainment, carnival midway, spectacular food, upscale arts and crafts, a Saturday morning parade and much more. Learn more at ChandlerAZ.gov.

Inspired By

The Art of

Ice Dancing CHANDLER NATIVE KARINA MANTA IS SKATING TOWARDS HER DREAM ARTICLE JACKIE BINSFELD

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

14

Chandler Lifestyle | March 2016

F

or some, it can take several years, even a lifetime, before they find their true passion. But for Karina Manta, that was not the case. Since the age of five, Manta has pursued her love of skating.

She explains that it all started when she attended a friend’s birthday party at a skating rink and enjoyed the experience so much that she begged her parents to sign her up for skating lessons. She spent the next several years in Chandler, building her talent and immersing herself in the city’s wonderful skating community.

Manta was a singles skater until the age of 15, when she switched into ice dance. Wanting to transition into partner skating, she auditioned for months until she found a partner in Colorado.

She then had to make the decision to leave Chandler, her home for 12 years of her life, and embark on a new adventure. Manta now resides in Colorado where she can practice with her partner and the rest of her team, as well as pursue more skating opportunities.

However, she often goes back home to Chandler to visit her family and friends.

SUCCESS IN COLORADO

During her first few months of skating in Colorado, Manta crossed paths with her current partner, Joseph Johnson.

Coincidentally, when it was time for Manta to find a new partner, Johnson was doing the same. Manta auditioned with him and they have now been skating together for two years. They are also assisted by a coach and two choreographers (one for short dances and one for free dances). Working together, the team prepares for various competitions, taking two to three months to finish a program’s choreography. In a year, they can compete anywhere between five and eight competitions. The partners made it to the national competition in St. Paul, Minnesota and, as of last year, have become a part of Team USA. Through Team USA, Manta and Johnson represent the United States in international competitions. Their first competition as Team USA members took place last year in Canada.

This sport has been a part of Manta’s life for the past 15 years. There are countless reasons why Manta loves skating, but one is that it allows her to partake in something that is both a sport and an art. She also appreciates the detail-oriented nature of skating. The activity requires intense focus and dedication to perfecting her routines. This is important to Manta as she enjoys the opportunity to always be able to improve.

OFF THE RINK

Before Manta directed her skating talents toward ice dancing, she enjoyed spending time dancing off the ice. She practiced ballet for years, allowing her to have a base of dance skills to bring to the ice. She currently works part-time at a daycare and is a student at the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs. When she’s not skating, working, or in school, Manta enjoys the little free time she has doing yoga and relaxing. She also makes sure to find time to go back to Chandler, home to her family and the place where she first discovered her passion.

March 2016 | Chandler Lifestyle

15

Hot Spot Vintage 95 95 W. Boston St, Chandler, AZ 85225 Vintage95.com.

e n i W r a B

NOT YOUR AVERAGE

VINTAGE 95 SHARES NEW MENU ITEMS AND CRAFT COCKTAILS

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Chandler Lifestyle | March 2016

ARTICLE ASHLEY OAKES SCOTT | PHOTOGRAPHY BRIDGETTE BALMES

V

intage 95 owners Craig and Tricia Hills opened their award-wining lounge four years ago. Having grown up in Chandler, Craig wanted to bring something unique to the Downtown area.

The lounge originally opened with a smaller menu, but the influence of its chefs helped to expand into food that is quite amazing.

Most who have heard of Vintage 95 think of bruschetta, cheese and wine. What most people do not realize is that Vintage 95 offers much more. First, Vintage 95 offers a lunch menu, including an $8.99 select two feature. Think half of a Havana sandwich with crispy porkbelly and half of a pear salad.

On Sundays a brunch menu is also available featuring items such as Huevos Rancheros and Porkbelly Board. The Vintage 95 patio is the perfect spot for this weekend activity, including the half off bottles of wine.

Vintage 95 is well known for wine, but many customers may not know that it is home to two, level one sommeliers. This insight has created a thoughtful list of wine varietals that can accommodate any new creation on the menu. Another list that shouldn’t be missed is the craft cocktails. Cocktails range from the Mainstay Manhattan to the Ginger’s Peach with Prosecco.

Being known as the wine bar in Chandler is a stigma that the culinary team at Vintage 95 has worked hard for four years to overcome. Executive Chef, Jose Farias, has been with Vintage 95 almost since the opening. Starting as a line cook, Chef Farias was mentored

by Vintage 95’s original Executive Chef, Mike Wahlberg. While Farias will be keeping some of the diner’s favorite dishes from Chef Wahlberg’s menu, this spring diners will experience a new menu.

Chef Farias will feature an ode to fresh vegetables and present classic dishes in a different way. Along with making ricotta cheese, fig honey and pastas in-house, Farias is also incorporating local food purveyors into his dishes including Hayden Flour Mills, Queen Creek Olive Mill and Hickman’s Eggs.

“I’m originally from Brazil, but grew up in Chandler. I started in civil engineering, but when the economy crashed, I decided that I

wanted to be doing something that I really loved. I love the challenges that the kitchen brings to me, and I think you’ll see that in this new menu,” said Chef Farias.

Reminiscing of a dish that his father would make, Chef Farias explained one new dish from the menu, “It’s a take on a dish I had growing up. I’m using a great Pork, Beeler’s, for the chop. The pork chop will be on top of a wilted kale and rice salad. On top of that, a Hickman’s fried egg.”

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March 2016 | Chandler Lifestyle

17

Hot Spot

(CON TI N U ED)

Chef Farias explained that on this new menu you will see his style of cooking shine through, but he also wants to keep items that his friend, Chef Wahlberg created that helped transition Vintage 95 from a wine bar, to a true dining experience.

“I eat the BLT salad with steak almost every day,” Farias explained.

And, I could see why. The fresh heirloom tomatoes, homemade croutons and crispy Beecher’s bacon all played nicely with the pungent blue cheese. A rosemary vinaigrette was the perfect way to bring the different ingredients together without weighing the salad down.

Other menu items include the staple bruschetta board. A favorite from the list was the bacon jam and whipped goat cheese bruschetta. The bacon jam created a sweet and salty flavor on top of the mild goat cheese.

The dish that reminded me that Vintage 95 is not your regular wine bar, was the salmon entrée. The perfectly cooked salmon was marinated with lemongrass. On top of the salmon was a Shitake Mushroom Salsa, that added a meaty flavor to the dish. The salmon sat on top of a bed of Coconut Almond Rice. The chopped almonds brought a welcomed texture to the overall dish.

Along with their new menu this spring, Vintage 95 has future plans to expand the kitchen and add more patio seating this summer.

View the new spring menu at Vintage95.com.

To celebrate the arts, Vintage 95 has a special promotion for anyone at-

tending Chandler Center for the Arts. During the month of March, before or after a Chandler Center for the Arts performance, bring in your ticket stub for a complimentary bruschetta board. Valid one per a table and only on the day of the show the ticket reads.

I̋ love the challenges that the kitchen brings to me, and I think you’ll see that in this new menu.”

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Chandler Lifestyle | March 2016

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Chandler Center For The Arts Welcomes ARTICLE ALISON STANTON PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

S

ince “Tony n’ Tina’s Wedding” first opened off-Broadway in 1988, the hilarious show has enamored tens of thousands of theater-goers with its loud and lively antics.

On Tuesday, March 8, Tony, Tina and all of their boisterous Italian-American friends and relatives will return to Chandler Center for the Arts for an eight-show run that ends on Sunday, March 13.

Michelle Mac Lennan, general manager of Chandler Center for the Arts, says “Tony n’ Tina’s Wedding” was first produced at the Chandler theater in 2010.

Like the performances six years ago, the current shows will include a core cast from New York City, as well as 20 local actors who were cast to play other roles. “‘Tony n’ Tina’s Wedding’ is the ultimate dinner theater experience,” Mac Lennan says.

“Anyone who has ever gone to a wedding before will love it. It’s all about family drama and full of comedy about a stereotypical Italian wedding.”

The performances will be staged in the foyer of the lobby of the Center, Mac Lennan says, adding that theater patrons can purchase tickets that determine if they are “Friends and Cousins” or “Family.”

“There will be round tables with the family members, and the friends and cousins are a bit further away. It’s a full staged wedding and the audience is the guests,” she says.

“The members of the cast will be seated around the lobby, so you might end up right next to the mother-in-law.”

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Chandler Lifestyle | March 2016

Y N O T S ’ A N I T N’ G N I D D E W

Since no big Italian wedding would be complete without plenty of good food, Mac Lennan says “Tony n’ Tina’s Wedding” will include a full meal from Floridino’s, wedding cake and dancing.

“The cast members will work off the audience, and the show really blurs the lines between fantasy and reality,” Mac Lennan says, adding that the performers are quite adept at sensing which audience members would like to get in on the action and who would prefer to enjoy the show in relative peace.

Mac Lennan, who has been at Chandler Center for the Arts for 16 years, says the show is a favorite of the staff, and even the caterers get caught up in the fun.

For someone who has never experienced live theater before, Mac Lennan says “Tony n’ Tina’s Wedding” is a great place to start.

“It’s definitely not average theater. It’s light and accessible, and it’s the type of show that husbands will be glad that they were dragged along to see,” she says.

“No two performances are alike, and there’s a different nuance for every show.”

Anthony Lauria, director and production manager for “Tony n’ Tina’s Wedding,” says he is “absolutely looking forward” to returning to Chandler.

“Chandler Center for the Arts is wonderful. The staff is wonderful and the local actors that were cast are also great performers,” Lauria says, adding that Chandler’s sunny warm weather is a definite bonus.

“I’m also looking forward to escaping the frigid weather and snow we’ve had this winter in New York,” he says, laughing.

OTHER UPCOMING EVENTS

While “Tony n’ Tina’s Wedding” promises to be a favorite among theater patrons, Mac Lennan says it’s far from the only show on the schedule.

“Another comedy that we have coming up is ‘The Second City—Fully Loaded’ on March 4,” she says.

Hailing from Chicago, the sketch and improv theater includes plenty of funny sketches and songs—some of which will include local community references.

Mac Lennan says famous comedians like Tina Fey, Stephen Colbert and Bill Murray CONTINUED > are alumni of Second City.

Chandler Center for the Arts is located at 250 N. Arizona Ave. in Chandler. For information call 480.782.2680 or visit ChandlerCenter.org.

TICKETS FOR TONY N’ TINA’S WEDDING WEEKDAYS

• $60 for Friends and Cousins • $70 for Family WEEKENDS

• $64 for Friends and Cousins • $74 for Family

March 2016 | Chandler Lifestyle

21

TONY N’ TINA’S WEDDING (CON TI N UED)

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“It’s a great event for a date night and is full of side-splitting laughs,” she says.

Rita Rudner, who had a regular gig in Las Vegas for 10 years, will appear at Chandler Center for the Arts on March 18.

“She is one of the best and her routine is completely clean. It’s really for everyone and includes a lot of female humor,” Mac Lennan says.

Another upcoming performance that Mac Lennan is especially looking for is The von Trapps on April 1.

“They are the great grandchildren of the von Trapps, so they are the real deal. They have become a hit group and perform a contemporary cabaret,” Mac Lennan says.

“They are just phenomenal and their voices are heavenly and the performance will appeal to people of all ages.”

CHANDLER CENTER FOR THE ARTS OFFERS SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

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22

Chandler Lifestyle | March 2016

No matter if they are looking for a musical performance, comedy or live theater, Mac Lennan says Chandler Center for the Arts definitely offers theater goers a wide variety of choices.

“We serve 175 events a year including public events, and national touring artists that most people have heard of,” she says.

“And if you count the multiple organizations that use our facility, we have one thousand events a year.”

One of the things that helps to set Chandler Center for the Arts apart, Mac Lennan says, is its amazing acoustics.

“When people come here for a concert it will be a great experience. No seat is further than 100 feet away from the stage, and the acoustics will enhance the quality of the sound and I guarantee it will be great,” she says.

Chandler Center for the Arts is also committed to helping local kids enjoy theater experiences up close.

“Our Connecting Kidz program serves 5,000 kids a year with a free or low-cost arts experience,” Mac Lennan says, adding that she hopes the program will help to build the audiences and casts of tomorrow.

No matter what brings kids, teens and adults to Chandler Center of the Arts, Mac Lennan says they are sure to find a top quality and enjoyable theater experience.

“We have a little bit of everything,” she says.

trunk Show MAR 19, 2016 I 10AM - 6PM Free gift with purchase! Food and Drink Available.

480-275-2898 I 11 W. BOSTON STREET, #2 I HISTORIC DOWNTOWN CHANDLER

March 2016 | Chandler Lifestyle

23

Locally Owned

B

urst of Butterflies Pottery Painting & Art Studio is a local art studio that allows anyone and everyone the opportunity to catch the creative bug. Located in Chandler at 141 West Boston St., Burst of Butterflies Pottery Painting & Art Studio is a go-to place for creative family fun.

Cheryl Tisland co-owns the art studio with her mother Margaret Peters.

Tisland’s son and sister also help run the studio. Tisland always wanted to open a family business, and thought an art studio would be the perfect place for her family to spend time together and celebrate something they all love, art.

FINDING MEANING

Burst of Butterflies Pottery Painting & Art Studio FROM A PAINT BRUSH TO A POTTERY WHEEL, CELEBRATING CREATIVITY IN ALL FORMS ARTICLE AMY AGUIRRE | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

24

Chandler Lifestyle | March 2016

The inspiration for the name “Burst of Butterflies,” comes from the process of creating an art piece. At the start of an art project you have a lump of clay. As the artist you can create whatever you wish with the clay, you can mold it, you can spin it on the wheel or you can paint it. The lump of clay eventually “evolves into something beautiful,” similar to a burst of butterflies, according to Tisland.

There is a multitude of creative options to explore at Burst of Butterflies Pottery Painting & Art Studio. You can select a ceramic piece from the shelves to paint. They offer many different types of ceramic pieces such as figurines, plates and candle holders.

The art studio also offers canvas painting.

There is no studio fee, you simply pay for the piece you are painting.

Burst of Butterflies Pottery Painting & Art Studio’s goal is to provide a place where anyone of any age and skill level can come and try new things and be creative. “We cater to all abilities and age groups, and if you come in and say ‘well I can’t even draw a stick figure,’ well, join us for an hour and let us show you what you can do and you will be quite amazed by what you can create when you think you aren’t that creative,” said Tisland.

CLASSES AND EVENTS

They offer a great list of classes for beginners and more advanced individuals, including glass fusing, clay wheel throwing and pottery and canvas painting. Their weekly schedule is full of creative learning opportunities.

Other than running the studio Tisland teaches all of the glass fusing classes. “I just love working with glass, cutting up the glass and creating beautiful pieces out of it is just a lot of fun,” said Tisland. In her glass fusing class you can learn to create anything from jewelry to picture frames.

Tisland’s son Lucas teaches the clay wheel throwing classes. He is currently majoring in ceramics and has impressed customers with his skill and patience, according to Tisland.

The class is taught in their wheel throwing workshop, where they offer kids wheel classes, intro adult classes and advanced classes.

They aim to host events that cater to many different age groups. They host adult nights, where adults can bring food and alcoholic beverages to enjoy while they paint at the studio. They also offer spring and summer art camps for kids to let out their energy and creativity. They also provide the opportunity

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Locally Owned

(CON TI N U ED)

I just love the people. People come in all the time and I get to know them, and I get to know the kids, and they give me a hug, and they thank me for helping them be creative, it’s just a lot of fun to be there and see people creating beautiful things when they didn’t really feel like they had that creative ability in them.”

26

Chandler Lifestyle | March 2016

for people to host all types of events at their studio. You can host a birthday party, bridesmaid gathering or any other type of event in their party room.

FIND YOUR INNER ARTIST

Tisland’s favorite aspect of her job is the people. Watching her customers grow creatively and discover a new artistic interest brings her joy, "I just love the people. People come in all the time and I get to know them, and I get to know the kids, and they give me a hug, and they thank me for helping them be creative, it’s just a lot of fun to be there and see people creating beautiful things when they didn’t really feel like they had that creative ability in them,” said Tisland.

With a growing art community in Downtown Chandler, Burst of Butterflies Pottery Painting & Art Studio is a great addition to the downtown art culture, “I love Chandler, I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else,” said Tisland.

Whether you wish to become the next Picasso or simply want to take on a new creative hobby, Burst of Butterflies Pottery Painting & Art Studio is a great place to let your creativity fly. To learn more, visit their website at BurstofButterflies.com or call 480-559-8016.

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Artist's Palette

Spotlight on local student artist Ryan Dempsey

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY RYAN DEMPSEY

A

t only 13 years old, Ryan Dempsey is a talented artist. An 8th-grader at Bogle Junior High, Ryan shares why he is so passionate and how he incorporates art into his life.

WHEN DID ART BECOME AN

WHICH ART PROJECT MAKES YOU

INTEREST/HOBBY?

MOST PROUD?

I have always loved art, and at age 7, I got really into drawing. A year later I started painting with acrylic on canvas. Within the last two years I have started doing photography as well.

One of my most recent projects, "The Wave," which is based off a photograph I took in Clearwater Beach, Fla., printed in a very light gray onto canvas, and painted back to life in color with acrylic paint. It took several weeks to complete.

HOW ARE YOU ABLE TO EXPRESS YOURSELF IN YOUR ARTWORK?

HOW DO YOU PLAN TO INCORPORATE

I really enjoy nature, especially the ocean, so most of my art reflects that. I have been doing a lot of photography as well in the past year, and the ocean is my favorite subject. I spent a few weeks in Ireland last summer, and the scenery was amazing and inspiring.

I love to travel and get new ideas for my art.

ART INTO YOUR LIFE AND AS YOU

WHAT TYPE OF ART DO YOU ENJOY MOST?

Painting, drawing and photography. Over the years I have done all three, but my latest projects have combined aspects of each.

28

Chandler Lifestyle | March 2016

CONTINUE IN SCHOOL?

Up until now, I have never taken any art classes or had any formal art training. I am excited to start at Hamilton High School in the fall and take some painting, drawing and photography classes. I have also been to many art shows and museums, and I plan to continue my appreciation of art in this way throughout my life. I have spent time sitting and learning from several professional artists over the years, and I hope to do more of that as well.

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Lifestyle Calendar

March MARCH 3 GATHER AZ TREMAINE RANCH Meet other creative professionals at Gather AZ. This event, which runs from 6 to 10 p.m., includes the Frites Street Food Truck, an open wine and beer bar, and a swag bag. Proceeds of this event will be donated to Central Arizona Shelter Services, which helps homeless individuals. For more information, visit GatherArizona.org.

MARCH 5 OSMOTICS SOFT SURROUNDINGS Head over to Soft Surroundings at Chandler Fashion Center to experience Osmotics Blue Copper 5 Prime prod-

MARCH 19

ucts, which can help lift, tighten, and plump all of those pesky fine

GLOBAL 6K FOR WATER

lines and wrinkles. Schedule your complimentary appointment from

CROSSROADS NAZARENE CHURCH

10 a.m. to 5 p.m. or call 602.283.3796.

Walk, run, or strut during this 6K race, which helps bring clean water

MARCH 8

to those around the world suffering from poverty. The World Vision race is six kilometers because that is the average distance that

AZ AG EXPERIENCE WELCOME RECEPTION

people in Africa walk for water. The race starts at 9 a.m. at Crossroads

AND DINNER EXTRAVAGANZA

Nazarene Church. For more information, visit TeamWorldVision.org.

CROWNE PLAZA SAN MARCOS GOLF RESORT Crowne Plaza San Marcos Golf Resort hosts this night of dinner, dancing, and a live auction. The reception begins at 5:30 p.m. followed by dinner, music, and a speech by Key Note Speaker, Keni Thomas.

Sergeant Thomas, as part of the 3rd Ranger Battalion, fought through an 18-hour firefight in Somalia which was retold in the film, Blackhawk Down. For more information, visit AZAGExperience.org

MARCH 17 AND MARCH 19 POT OF GOLD MUSIC FESTIVAL RAWHIDE CHANDLER Single-day and two-day discount tickets are available for advance purchase at the 2nd Annual Pot Of Gold Music Festival at Rawhide in Chandler. The lineup for the first day of the festival includes both Future and Fishbone and starts at 1:30 p.m. The second day (March 19) features both Big Sean and 311, and starts at noon. For more information, visit PotofGoldAZ.com.

30

Chandler Lifestyle | March 2016

MARCH 19

hiring companies, resume help, and business portraits will be at the

TRUNK SHOW

free event. For more information, visit CareerConnectors.org or call

11 W. BOSTON STREET, SUITE #2 CHANDLER AZ 85225

480-442-5806.

Stop by the Shoe Thrill trunk show, which will feature Dansko brand shoes. Guests will receive a free gift with purchase and can enjoy food

MARCH 25 AND 26

and drinks. Learn more at Facebook.com/ShoeThrill

ARIZONA QUILTERS GUILD QUILT SHOW MESA CONVENTION CENTER

MARCH 19

“Celebrate Tradition” is the theme of this year's Quilters Guild Quilt

GREAT AMERICAN BARBEQUE & BEER FESTIVAL

Show. The show runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday and 9 a.m.

DOWNTOWN CHANDLER

to 4 p.m. on Saturday, and includes skilled

Gather up your friends and family and head over

quilters from all over the East Valley, as well

to The Great American BBQ & Beer Festival in

as an auction. For more information, visit

Downtown Chandler from noon to 10 p.m. Nearly

AZQuiltersGuild.org.

60 vendors from across the state are serving up

their finest ribs, brisket, pulled pork, and chicken.

There will also be craft beer and live music. For

MARCH 26

more information, visit ChandlerBBQ.com.

RICHARD MARX WILD HORSE PASS HOTEL & CASINO

MARCH 22

Adult contemporary singer and songwriter,

CAREER CONNECTORS

Richard Marx, comes to Wild Horse Pass

CENTRAL CHRISTIAN CHURCH

Hotel & Casino. The 80’s and 90’s star is

If you are in career transition, discover what Career

best known for his hits, “Right Here Wait-

Connectors can do for you. This nonprofit organi-

ing for You,” “Don’t Mean Nothing,” and

zation connects professionals to high-quality resources and hiring

“Should’ve Known Better.” The show starts at 8 p.m. For more in-

companies. From 9 a.m. to noon, presentations on job search topics,

formation, visit WinGilaRiver.com.

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business directory ART & PHOTOGRAPHY

Bridgette Marie Photography (480) 254-1697 bridgettemarie.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 Pollack Tempe Cinemas (480) 888-0888 pollacktempecinemas.com

FAITH

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

FASHION & ACCESSORIES

Shoe Thrill (480) 275-2898 facebook.com/ShoeThrill/

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

Funktional Fitness (480) 855-0204 funkfit.com Medi-Weightloss Chandler (602) 497-4937 mediweightloss.com/locations/ chandler

HOME BUILDERS & REMODELERS

LEGAL

OTHER

LUXURY AUTOMOTIVE

Fresh Cleaners (480) 786-8803 freshcleanerschandler.com

Nielsen Law Group (480) 888-7111 nielsenlawgroup.net Christian Brothers Automotive Ocotillo (480) 264-0990 cbac.com

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

Huffs Automotive (480) 726-8900 huffsautomotive.com

HOME DESIGN & FURNISHINGS

MEDICAL CLINICS & FACILITIES

JK Cabinets (480) 219-9580 jkkitchencabinets2you.com

Experimac (480) 207-1150 experimac.com

PET CARE

Animal Medical Center of Chandler (480) 339-0406 amcofc.com

REAL ESTATE

Desert Sky Dermatology and Surgical Center 480855085 desertskyderm.com

Pioneer Landscaping Materials (855) 460-5689 East Valley pioneersand.com Dermatology Center (480) 821-8888 evderm.com The Dump thedump.com Ocotillo Foot and Ankle (480) 895-0276 HOME SERVICES ocotillofootankle.com Shamrock Roofing (480) 888-6648 shamrockroofingservices.com

Bryant Commercial Real Estate (480) 802-8100 bcreaz.com

RESTAURANTS, FOOD & BEVERAGE Otaku (480) 821-3908 otakusushi.com

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33

Parting Thoughts

Creating a

Beautiful Masterpiece

For those who need it most

ARTICLE HEATHER DEVRIES, MARKETING DIRECTOR AT NIELSEN LAW GROUP | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

A

t Nielsen Law Group, we are actively involved in the community and seek organizations and causes to support that resonate with us. Our first introduction to the House of Refuge was when our attorneys offered free educational seminars to the members of their community. But we wanted to take things a step further by involving our attorneys and staff in a service project on the property. We felt this would be an opportunity where we could not only bond as a team but also give back to the community.

The House of Refuge asked us if we wanted to be a part of their mural project, which they fondly referred to as their giant coloring book! This sounded like so much fun and we jumped at the opportunity. I was very excited about the project and it was music to my ears to learn about a chance to spend an afternoon painting with my colleagues.

The mural is located on a retaining wall in the community’s garden and, once completed, will add to the natural beauty of the surrounding. I wish we could say we created the mural, but the design and outline was created and painted by the talented and vivacious muralist, Marilyn Jo (MJ) Adamovic.

34

Chandler Lifestyle | March 2016

Upon arriving, MJ’s excitement for the project was obvious and her design was very impressive. Her artistic passion was clearly evident and she helped get our group excited to begin painting. This was most likely the only coloring book that would require a ladder to reach the top of the page!

The mural scene was a garden. Our staff spent the afternoon on ladders painting bushes, watermelons, trees, corn, lettuce, and more.

We were able to make a significant dent in filling in the mural and enjoyed team bonding while serving the community.

The completion date of the mural is still to be determined as MJ is building upon the basic painting we provided and is filling in the detail and enhancements. We plan to visit the property upon its completion to see the final product. We hope that our efforts helped to speed up that process and that the residents in the House of Refuge community who are facing financial struggles and life trials can find a bit more solace and joy as they stroll among the now colorful community gardens.

Learn more about the House of Refuge at www.houseofrefuge.org.

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