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Happy Holidays
As the saying goes, time flies when you’re having fun. And time sure has flown by this year—we can’t believe we’ve put together the final issue of Chandler City Lifestyle for 2024!
While the holidays are just now upon us, it feels like they’ve been here for a while—after all, Costco began showcasing gift items and holiday decorations in September!
I’ve always loved this time of year. The decorations, get-togethers, and, let’s be honest—who doesn’t enjoy receiving a present?
I also enjoy it because, among all the holiday hustle and bustle, people still slow down a bit. Working in the world of publishing brings a unique perspective. While we certainly don’t want to wish our lives away, we’re always looking toward the future. In August, we’re looking at winter clothes and holiday stories. And in December, we’re already working on February and March issues. Because of deadlines, we’re often already fast-forwarded to future months before the current month has even begun.
The fast-paced lifestyle this industry calls for can often make it difficult to take the time to enjoy what’s going on around us.
This December, though, I’m making it a point to slow down, enjoy those around me, and participate in wrapping up the year with family and friends.
I hope that you do the same. Make the time to take in the holiday season, reflect on memories you hold closely in your heart, and keep the new ones you create in the present for as long as possible.
Give gifts from the heart (look for ideas from our gift guides!), decorate your home (see our story from TomKat Design + Real Estate), read about holiday traditions, and make time to tell your friends and family how much you love and appreciate them.
Also, make sure to read about our giving campaign. Each year, City Lifestyle asks for stories about those in our community who need some extra help. As part of the community, we want to give back wherever we can. Send us a note so we can be there.
Enjoy the holidays—and we can’t wait to see you next year!
Yours,
MICHELLE GLICKSMAN, EDITOR @CHANDLERCITYLIFESTYLE
December 2024
PUBLISHER
Joyce Selk | joyce.selk@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Michelle Glicksman
michelle.glicksman@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANTS
Jessica Bush | jessica.bush@citylifestyle.com
Christina Larson | christina.larson@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Jessica Bush | jessica.bush@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Gretchen Pahia, Rebecca L. Rhoades, Alison Stanton, Kim Stoegbauer
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Lindsay Borg, Elizabeth Lawlor
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard
Learn
city scene
1: Participating in the MUDGIRL Phoenix 2024 race, held at Rawhide Western Town. 2: Young actors took to the stage at the Chandler Performing Arts Fall Camp. 3: The team at Animal Medical Center of Chandler celebrate veterinary technician appreciation week. 4: Chandler's Diamond Kings 10U team were the champions at the 11U AAA division at the USSSA Strike Out Cancer tournament. 5: Darwin Wall and this year's recipient of the 11th Annual Save Second Base Pub Crawl fundraiser in Downtown Chandler. 6: Darwin Wall Real Estate Team fights breast cancer with its 11th Annual Save Second Base Pub Crawl in Downtown Chandler. 7: A check presentation at Slick City Action Park recognized the work of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Valley.
8: The Darwin Wall Real Estate Team fights breast cancer with its 11th Annual Save Second Base Pub Crawl in Downtown Chandler. 9: The Chamber sponsored the Conversation With Congressman Greg Stanton. 10: Walmart Pet Center Chamber ribbon-cutting. 11: Chamber Leadership Class 40 Legacy Project ribbon-cutting. 12: Celebrating the long-awaited opening of Traders Joe's with a Chamber ribbon-cutting. 13: Our very own publisher, Joyce Selk, was the big winner of the $4,100 Chamber pot! Woohoo! 14: Jeff Reynolds was awarded Best Director and Best Drama for the movie Damaged by filmmaker Dana Kipple.
Seafood City Supermarket to Open at Chandler Fashion Center
Arizona’s first Seafood City Supermarket will open at Chandler Fashion Center in 2025. The over 65,000-square-foot gastronomic paradise is renowned for its high-quality authentic Filipino specialties and diverse Asian offerings. Find Filipino Asian groceries, fresh fish and seafood, hard-to-find fruits and vegetables, premium meats, baked goods, restaurants, a bakery, pan-Asian street food, home and kitchen essentials, and a health and beauty section. There will also be a 2,035-square-foot community room that can be reserved. SeafoodCity.com
Dr. Joshua Russek , DVM
Dr. Nathan Goodwin, DVM
Andrea Stickland, DVM
Dr Adalis Montero, DVM
Lobster Debuts 'Love on the Rocks'
In addition to its new executive chef, Christina Dalumpinis, and a fresh, upgraded look, Rock Lobster sushi bar also recently rolled out a new special weekly called “Love on the Rocks” Date Night. Offered every Thursday night, “Love on the Rocks” includes one appetizer, two rolls of your choice, and two Rockaritas for just $25 per person. RockLobsterRocks.com
Amount to Chandler Educators
The Chandler Education Foundation (CEF) awarded a record-breaking $179,438 through its annual Cash for Classrooms program. These funds directly support teacher-requested grants across the Chandler Unified School District (CUSD), enhancing the educational experience for students throughout the district. Of the 211 applications received, 120 classroom grants were awarded across 44 CUSD schools and sites, with funding amounts ranging from $260 to $3,000. Grant applications were thoroughly evaluated by CUSD leadership and CEF staff to ensure they addressed the most critical needs.
D.R. Horton Purchases
Building on Price Corridor for New Division Headquarters
D.R. Horton, the largest homebuilder in the United States, has purchased a 41,000-square-foot office building on Price Corridor to expand their local operations. Located at 1890 S. Price Road, D.R. Horton began tenant improvements in October and plans to complete their office build-out by April 2025. D.R. Horton will share the same campus as Yield Engineering System. On this Price Road campus, one office building at 1900 S. Price Road remains available for occupancy.
changed his middle name to Santa Claus so when he published his book about his Santa experiences under that name, he was being honest with children when he signed it. Want to meet him? Check the events page in this issue for his latest event.
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CUSD Opens Newly Reimagined Galveston Elementary School Campus
CUSD's Galveston Elementary School celebrated the grand opening of Phase I of its campus reimagination project. Originally constructed in 1963, the campus’ first phase of the $35 million reimagination features a 53,000-square-foot, two-story classroom building; a 7,000-squarefoot administration building; and a 21,000-square-foot multipurpose gymnasium facility. Phase II includes the demolition of the 60-year-old original building and the construction of new athletic fields and a playground. The project is slated to be completed in February 2025.
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CONTINUED >
Kohler Bathroom Design
Partner with the KOHLER® Signature Store design consultants to find innovative products, colors, materials, and finishes to bring your design dreams to life.
Legends Showcase Bar & Grill is a Unique Destination
Legends Showcase Bar & Grill, which opened a few months ago near the northwest corner of Alma School and Warner roads, is a unique entertainment-focused venue with a menu offering options from meat to seafood. Transitioning from her previous success with the popular Singing Pandas Asian Restaurant & Bar, owner Sherry Chen has transformed the space into a lively bar and grill that retains the spirit of Las Vegas-style entertainment, with free live shows six nights a week. LegendsShowcase.com
Home for the Holidays
ARTICLE BY KIM STOEGBAUER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ELIZABETH LAWLOR
LOCAL DESIGN TEAM COMPLETES THIS CHANDLER RENOVATION JUST IN TIME FOR THE HOLIDAYS
“This home is ready to welcome family and friends with festive touches for a memorable holiday season.
The TomKat design team recently completed this stunning renovation in Chandler. Our clients are excited to embrace the holiday season in their beautifully transformed home, which now boasts a fresh and inviting atmosphere perfect for celebrating with family and friends.
Throughout the renovation process, our design team, led by Heather Maddox, focused on creating a seamless blend of modern style and comfort. We partnered with ProVision Renovations to execute our vision of revitalizing the home with neutral color palettes and rich textures, ensuring that it feels warm and welcoming.
About Kim Stoegbauer
Kim Stoegbauer, designer/realtor® of TomKat Design + Real Estate, moved to Chandler from Orchard Park, N.Y. at the age of 11. She married her ASU college sweetheart, Dan, and they have two children, Tommy and Kate. They currently live in their dream home in Oakwood Hills. TomKat Design + Real Estate is located in Downtown Ocotillo, and will soon be opening The TomKat Shoppe! TheTomKatStudio.com
The spacious family room is thoughtfully designed for both relaxation and entertaining. We couldn’t wait to style the client’s new fireplace and custom white oak shelving for the holidays, creating the perfect focal point for festive gatherings. For the fireplace, we opted for a lush faux pine garland that cascades across the mantel, bringing a traditional and natural element to the space. The addition of cozy plaid stockings, accented with taupe velvet ribbon bows, creates a classic yet modern look that adds character and charm. With these festive touches, this Chandler home is ready to welcome family and friends for a joyful and memorable holiday season!
Kim Sto egbauer
ARTICLE BY GRETCHEN PAHIA
O L I A Y I V I G N
Looking for Gift Ideas? We Have Plenty! D
PHOTOGRAPHY BY LINDSAY BORG
g ifts for the home
If you are looking for a perfect gift for someone who loves to entertain, this is it!
1. Acacia Wood Domed Pedestal Server, $125; TomKat Shoppe, Downtown Ocotillo
Nothing makes a house a home or brightens a day like fresh flowers!
2. UrbanStems, assorted arrangements, subscriptions from $55; UrbanStems.com
Turn a favorite photo into a memorable hand-created work of art.
3. Custom artwork in choice of pencil, ink, watercolor, or oil, from $66; MyDavinci.com
Treat family and friends to soft serve ice cream made fast and fresh at home!
4. Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker, $99; Cuisinart.com
Never worry about your glass sticking to a coaster or ruining a table again with these all-natural, merino wool coasters.
5. Bierfilzl Coasters, $28; GrafLantz.com
Practical and beautiful! Hand-carved mesquite wood charcuterie board, crafted by local artist Dick Brown.
6. Custom board, $150; d’Vine Gourmet, 7 S. San Marcos Place, Downtown Chandler
Both decorative and functional, this footed marble bowl elegantly displays the popular black wood beads with jute tassels.
7. Marble Footed Bowl, $74.50; Beads, $24.50; TomKat Shoppe, Downtown Ocotillo
g ifts for her
This year’s hottest trend in jewelry is custom-designed stretch rings and bangles in diamonds and every colored stone imaginable!
1. Custom stretch bangles, from $2,500; Myranda Fine Jewelry, Chandler Sleep tight and end flyaway hair, skin creases, and night sweats with a dreamy 100% pure mulberry silk pillowcase.
2. Blissy Silk Pillowcase, $56; Blissy.com Just five minutes a day of expressing gratitude can transform her life and improve well-being.
3. The Five Minute Journal, $28; IntelligentChange.com FDA-approved, professional-grade LED therapy uses both red light and blue LED lights in the comfort of your own home.
4. Dr. Dennis Gross DRx SpectraLite Dpl FaceWare Pro, $455; DRDennisGross.com
This mini power bank keeps your phone or tablet juiced up with it’s large capacity and quick charge feature.
5. iWalk USB Portable iPhone Charger, $30; Amazon.com She likes to be outdoors in the Arizona winters, so this wine tumbler is the perfect gift and can even be personalized.
6. Rambler Wine Tumbler, $25; YETI.com
Pick out some of her favorites and have a custom basket created just for her.
7. Custom gift basket, from $90; TomKat Shoppe, Downtown Ocotillo Because she likes a party, this hand-crafted, one-of-a-kind sequin and beaded cropped jacket is a must!
8. Jozia Holiday Jacket by Joh Apparel, $199; Boutique on Boston, 96 W. Boston St., Downtown Chandler
Just because she would look stunning in this plush velvet pea coat with embroidered floral embellishments and deep hidden pockets.
9. Paparazzi, Los Angeles, $149; Boutique on Boston, 96 W. Boston St., Downtown Chandler
Because being a Dad is hard enough without having to come up with endless one-liners!
1. Emergency Dad Jokes, Brass Monkey, $12; BrassMonkeyGoods.com Take his backpack to the next level with this waterproof, lightweight, and spacious innovation that’s perfect for work and travel.
2. Troubadour Apex 3.0 Backpack, $245; TroubadourGoods.com
No one knows how to hug his feet better than UGG, and these machine-washable slippers are its absolute best-seller.
3. UGG Men’s Ascot Slipper, $110; UGG.com
This ideal gift is both durable and waterproof, with a spacious main compartment and inner pockets that will have him ready to go on any long or short journey.
4. S-Zone Duffle Bag, $50; S-ZoneShop.com
This commercial-grade burger press is a must for anyone who likes to flip burgers.
5. Sasquash Burger Press, $25; BurgerSmashers.com Culinary art meets technology with the world’s #1 most-loved, wireless, Bluetooth, no-fuss meat thermometer.
6. MEATER Plus, $100; MEATER.com Because LEGOs aren’t just for kids!
7. LEGO Technic 2022 Ford GT, $96; LEGO.com
gifts for the kids
A gift of gold and silver coins are an investment in your child’s future—they continue to appreciate.
1. Stackin Weight Precious Metals; 2335 S. Lindsay Road, Gilbert Give the kids a break from screens and let the Tonie take them on over 200 listening adventures!
2. Toniebox, $89, Tonies, from $16; US.Tonies.com
These award-winning kits introduce kids to STEM, having them making dozens of cool electronic gadgets. For ages 5+.
3. Snap Circuit Kits, from $24; Amazon.com
Toddlers can squeeze, stretch, and squish these smooshy blocks for hours of construction fun.
4. Goliath Jelly Blox, $20; Amazon.com
Keep the good vibes going by grabbing family and friends to have the most fun you can have with a paddle.
5. Spikeball Set, $59; Paddle set, $59; Spikeball.com Celebrate the Grand Canyon state with a local version of the classic family board game.
6. Arizona-opoly, $30; d’Vine Gourmet, 7 S. San Marcos Place, Downtown Chandler Looking for a perfect stocking stuffer?
7. Paint A Cactus Kit, $10; d’Vine Gourmet, 7 S. San Marcos Place, Downtown Chandler Desert Southwest puzzle that is educational and fun for the whole family!
8. Search & Find Puzzle, $25; d’Vine Gourmet, 7 S. San Marcos Place, Downtown Chandler The little ones all love their “stuffies,” and there are none better than those from Barefoot Dreams!
9. Stuffed animal, $38; TomKat Shoppe, Downtown Ocotillo
Nostalgic Holiday Traditions
Usher In Hanukkah, Christmas And Kwanzaa By Connecting To History, The Generations
Holiday traditions build strong bonds between families, a sense of belonging, communities and self-expression.
VINTAGE ORNAMENTS
Historically inspired or antique ornaments create a valued step back in time. Seek authentic vintage balls and bulbs at antique stores, or opt for retro looks with newer versions. Celebrate hidden-away childhood ornaments; pause and enjoy each memory they represent while hanging them.
ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON
GIVE OUT GELT
Gelt is the Yiddish word for "money." During the 16th century Hanukkah, it became a tradition to collect money to buy or make clothing for school pupils in need. By the 19th century, Eastern Europe Jewish families gave coins to their children. During the 1920s, American confectioners made chocolate Hanukkah gelt wrapped in gold foil, which remains its primary form. Consider getting bags of chocolate gelt to share with neighbors, co-workers and groups, as a sign of goodwill and a chance to strike up heartfelt conversations.
Vintage Ornaments
FAMILY RECIPES
If childhood holiday traditions included baking with Grandma or Grandpa, then replicate those comforting dishes, cookies or perhaps gingerbread houses. Lovingly pull out those stained recipe cards and have fun making finger foods or yummies that never lasted long on holiday buffets. Or, try something like 1960s gelatin-infused molds driven by Jell-O/ Cool Whip creations.
OBSERVE KWANZAA’S SEVEN SYMBOLS
Each day of celebration, Dec. 26 through Jan. 1, is dedicated to one of the seven principles of Kwanzaa: unity (umoja in Swahili), self-determination (kujichagulia), collective responsibility (ujima), cooperative economics (ujamaa), purpose (nia), creativity (kuumba) and faith (imani). Discuss with family and friends what each principle means to you.
POMANDERS
Radiate an old-fashioned holiday with a bowl of clove-studded oranges. These bright decorations are pretty, and smell just like how holidays should smell. Pomanders are easy to make by pricking holes in citrus rind to insert cloves. Year after year, this tradition will deliver that always-at-home Christmas aroma, no matter the location.
YULE LOGS
Steeped in centuries of Christmas lore, this practice started as the crackling log burned in home hearths before trickling into kitchens. The Yule Log cake was originally a French custom that emerged in the 1800s. Made of sponge cake to resemble an actual Yule log, this delectable dessert is similar to a Swiss roll on the inside to mimic the rings of trees.
NATURAL GARLAND
Pop the corn to string the garland; some add cranberries. Better yet, pick up Jiffy popcorn prepackaged pans (originated in 1959) especially for this! An old-fashioned tree will feel complete with handmade touches like this one. Show creativity while slowing the hectic holiday pace for a spell. This tradition started on outdoor trees to give wildlife a treat, too.
PULL CRACKERS
These festive, tubular table decorations, originating in London during 1847, make snapping sounds when pulled open, and typically contain a small gift, paper hat and joke.
Note: Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights, was observed Nov. 12 this year.
fashion FORWARD
D’VINE GOURMET OWNER DENISE MCCREERY BRINGS STYLE, PRIDE TO DOWNTOWN
ARTICLE BY REBECCA L. RHOADES | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LINDSAY BORG
For the past two years, Denise McCreery, owner of local epicurean institution d’Vine Gourmet, had been subletting half of a storefront, where she rented out private event space and held regular wine classes, from a paleta business on Boston Street. When the sweet treat shop closed its doors earlier this year, McCreery saw an unmet opportunity.
“When we were able to take over the entire space,” she says, “we just felt so lucky and blessed to get the number one hot spot in Downtown Chandler.”
Initially, McCreery planned to expand her wine school and perhaps even offer cooking classes. But when she asked her
neighbors and customers what the area lacked, the response was unanimous: a woman’s clothing boutique.
“So that’s how we went from food to fashion. We were answering a need that Downtown Chandler had,” McCreery explains.
Following six whirlwind months of building renovations, buying trips, and setting up shop, Boutique on Boston opened. Specializing in elevated clothing and accessories by independent designers, the store targets fun, flirty, and sophisticated “fashionistas from 30 to 70,” she says.
Inside the open and airy space decorated in soothing beige tones and gold fixtures, there are dupioni bubble dresses by Samuel Dong next to statement-making bling-covered jeans by Miss Me. Cozy
lounge sets by Veronica M and retro-bohemian looks by Molly Bracken complement chic business staples by Lisette L. Complete the look with jewelry by Takobia. Sizes range from XS to, in some cases, 3X, and prices average between $50 and $190. Six stylists are on staff to help you find the perfect outfit for any occasion.
“I didn’t expect to start a new business at my age and in a new industry altogether,” McCreery says, “but it’s so exciting and beautiful. And we really believe in Chandler. We want to help Downtown grow and thrive, and we want to leave a legacy and lay the foundation for good business.”
BoutiqueOnBoston.com
Denise McCreery
My wife and I chose Cathy to sell our house based on her straightforward personality, honesty and intelligence. She had given us real estate advice roughly two years ago that turned out to be 100% correct and we felt sure we could have complete confidence in her for this sale. We were not disappointed. She kept us totally informed with updates, market information and her keen understanding of the real estate market.
Gifting Love
PETS CAN MAKE GREAT HOLIDAY PRESENTS—BUT ONLY WHEN GIVEN RESPONSIBLY
ARTICLE BY REBECCA L. RHOADES | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Picture it—it’s Christmas morning and your family is gathered around the tree. One gift is left. Topped with a giant bow, it has your kids’ names on it. They excitedly open it and scream in joy as a new puppy or kitten jumps out. It’s a moment you will remember for years to come. Yes, this happy holiday moment can happen. But there are a few things to keep in mind to make the gift-giving experience a success.
“People think giving a pet is a cute idea or will bring joy to the person or family who is receiving the gift,” says Dr. Andrea Stickland, owner of Animal Medical Center of Chandler. “But it’s a lifelong commitment, and the animal should be chosen by the primary caregiver.”
DON’T MAKE IT A SURPRISE
If the pet is for your own spouse or kids, being a surprise can enhance the adoption experience. But if it’s for anyone outside of your household, it’s important to discuss the gift ahead of time.
“You need to inform the person who will be receiving the pet to ensure that their lifestyle is ready for a new family member—that they have the space and time and are in a good financial position to take on the care of an animal,” Stickland says.
Kimberly Vermillion, director of marketing and communications for Arizona Animal Welfare League (AAWL), suggests bringing the recipient to a shelter and allowing them to select which pet they want. If you have your heart set on giving a gift, “buy the supplies, get the leash, and some food and toys,” she says. “It’s a great way to create that element of surprise.”
CONSIDER COST AND CARE
As the saying goes, “There’s no such thing as a free cat.” Adoption is just the beginning of the journey.
There are annual veterinary visits, vaccines, food, bedding, toys, and training.
According to a study by financial services company Synchrony, pet owners can expect to spend between $960 and $2,800 in the first year alone on care. And that doesn’t include unexpected expenses, such as emergency vet services.
Animals also require a lot of time and attention. If you give your kids a puppy or kitten, know that you’re most likely going to be the primary caretaker. And while the holiday season can be the ideal time to welcome a new pet into the family—“Most people are home more during the holidays, so they have time to bond with the pet,” Stickland says—a living gift could also be unwanted.
“People could have trips or other plans that might make it difficult to take care of a pet,” she adds.
THINK LONG-TERM
It’s important to remember that any animal is going to be around for a long time. Dogs can live an average of 10 to 13 years, while cats can live 20 years or more. And while small pets such as hamsters or fish have shorter lifespans, children can become bored with them once the novelty wears off.
AAWL offers counseling for those seeking to adopt.
“We walk them through what the pet’s personality is and we ask about their lifestyle to make sure it’s a good fit,” Vermillion says. “We also follow up with the adopter several times to offer support.”
With the right preparation and consideration, bringing a furry family member into the home during the holidays can make the season merry and bright.
AMCOfC.com; AAWL.org
“You need to inform the person who will be receiving the pet to ensure that their lifestyle is ready for a new family member."
—Dr. Andrea Stickland
Mariah Abeita Was Inspired to Open Her Own Jewelry Business to Honor her Indigenous Heritage and Share Its Hozho—or Beauty— With Others
Pony Puff Beads
ARTICLE BY ALISON STANTON PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Mariah Abeita with her family
For as long as she can remember, Mariah Abeita has loved anything to do with creativity and craftsmanship.
When she was about 8 years old, Abeita, who is from the Navajo Tribe Diné, began creating jewelry inspired by her Indigenous heritage and the stories behind the traditional designs.
In 2020, Abeita, who teaches fifth grade at Great Hearts Archway Chandler Academy, launched her own jewelry business, Pony Puff Beads.
“The decision to open my own business came as I recognized the importance of sharing these stories and connecting with others through my art,” Abeita says, adding that she creates beautiful, beaded pieces that honor traditional designs with a modern twist.
“In our culture, we live and walk in beauty. Hozho is the word we use to signify the balance of peace, balance, beauty, and harmony.”
Abeita says she enjoys thinking outside of the box when creating jewelry, for instance, using a variety of interesting materials like cornhusk.
“Corn is not only a vital part of our heritage, but also a symbol of sustenance and connection to the earth. Through my work, I honor this tradition and celebrate the beauty and versatility of cornhusk in my art,” she says.
As an Indigenous jewelry artist and a teacher, Abeita finds a rewarding balance between creativity and education that allows her to achieve her goal of “walking in Hozho.”
“My role as an educator allows me to share knowledge and inspire others, while my art enables me to express my cultural heritage,” she says.
PonyPuffBeads.com
We all need help sometimes and when those moments arise, Solari is there to answer the call. Trained and caring specialists are available 24/7 through our free and confidential crisis line.
988 Crisis Line Caller
“At a moment in time in life, I was at that place. I felt hopeless. I almost gave up and gave in. I was allowed another chance by a phone call and that’s just amazing to me.” Scan the QR Code to
As the year comes to an end, consider contributing to an organization that provides crisis and community support throughout Arizona.
MAKING SPIRITS
Making Spirits
JOIN OUR MISSION TO SPREAD WARMTH AND COMPASSION BY NOMINATING SOMEONE WHO DESERVES A CHRISTMAS BLESSING
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way.”
As the Christmas season approaches, we’re reminded of the power of community and kindness. This year, through City Lifestyle’s nonprofit, The Kingdom Building Foundation, we will help people who may be struggling quietly without the support they need. But we need your help to find them.
Over the past three years, this campaign has grown into something truly beautiful, touching the lives of more than 150 families nationwide last year alone. Each year, we’ve seen firsthand how generosity can bring relief, hope, and a renewed sense of faith in others.
One person we had the opportunity to help was an 11-year-old boy diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. After he had to undergo chemotherapy and surgery to remove his eye, his doctors recommended a prosthetic one, but insurance wouldn’t cover the cost, calling it “cosmetic.” When we heard his story, we knew we had to help. Because of this campaign, he got his prosthetic eye and a piece of his childhood back with it.
Another was a wife and mother of two who fought a yearlong health battle and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Just days before Christmas, she underwent surgery but passed away due to complications. Before her surgery, she received one of our cards and, in tears, told us this gift gave her some peace, knowing her family would have help in the difficult times ahead. It wasn’t just about the financial support but knowing that someone cared.
These stories remind us why this campaign is so meaningful. It’s not just
about writing checks; it’s about telling people they aren’t forgotten and that someone is there to lend a hand. It’s about giving families a moment of relief when the world feels unbearable.
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”
Together with Matthew Perry, President, Steven adds that the gratitude from recipients was overwhelming, affirming this tradition’s importance. “We believe God has blessed our company with success,” Matthew adds, “so we want to be a blessing to others.”
We know many more people could use a little help this Christmas, and that’s where you come in. Do you know someone who could use a blessing? We want to hear about them.
To nominate someone, scan the QR code or follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the form in our bio. Nominations are open from November 27 to December 10, 2024. Let’s bring hope to those who need it most.
The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized. All entries will be read, and selections and the amount given to each recipient will be based on the severity of the need. For more information, visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.org
Data source: Arizona Regional MLS.
DECEMBER 5TH
Annual Friends & Family Holiday Extravaganza
Cadence Chandler | 4:00 PM
Head to Cadence Chandler for this evening filled with music, carriage rides, treats, activities for the kids, and of course, photos with Cadence Chandler's very own resident Santa Claus—he's played Santa for more than 30 years—as well as a Mrs. Claus. CadenceChandler.com
DECEMBER 6TH, 7TH, 13TH, 14TH, 20TH, 21ST, 24TH
Meet Santa and Mrs. Claus
New Square Stage and inside DC Steakhouse | 6:00 PM
DC Steakhouse is sponsoring Santa and Mrs. Claus on the New Square Stage and inside DC Steakhouse on multiple nights from 6-9 p.m. each night. Bring your kids—the event is free to attend!
DECEMBER 7TH, 12TH, 14TH, 21ST
Santa’s House
Dr. A.J. Chandler Park
Santa Claus is coming to town and he’s hanging out at Dr. A.J. Chandler Park. Bring the whole family to visit with the jolly man himself at Santa’s House for free photos and to share holiday wishes. ChandlerAZ.gov
DECEMBER 7TH
Tumbleweed Tree Lighting Ceremony and Parade of Lights
Downtown Chandler | 4:30 PM
Some things are simply synonymous with the holidays—pumpkin pie, peppermint mochas, gingerbread houses, and of course, the city of Chandler’s annual Tumbleweed Tree Lighting and Parade of Lights. Every December, the mayor and city council invite you to celebrate the holidays in Downtown Chandler. View the iconic Tumbleweed Tree, visit with Santa, and enjoy musical performances and the parade. ChandlerAZ.gov
DECEMBER 13TH
Jingle Paws with Santa Claus
Chandler Senior Center | 5:30 PM
It's the season to snap a photo of your dog with the jolly fellow! Bring your pet for a magical day of holiday cheer, perfect for the whole family. Sing along with holiday carols while your pup enjoys a delicious holiday treat. Pictures will take place at the Senior Center Courtyard. ChandlerAZ.gov
DECEMBER 14TH
Sippin' Santas Pub Crawl
Downtown Chandler
The Sippin’ Santas Pub Crawl will sleigh Downtown Chandler. Enjoy $5 drink specials, food, and fun at the jolliest bars and restaurants in town. Live entertainment, Santa selfies, specialty drinks, and more. Wear your best Santa costume and cruise around on this self-guided pub crawl. Naughty and Nice List tickets are just $20 or be on Santa's V.I.P. List for $50. DowntownChandler.org
CONTINUED
DECEMBER 14TH
Make and Take: Perler Bead Ornaments
Vision Gallery | 11:00 AM
Get in the spirit with a fun holiday craft! Stop by Vision Gallery to make an ornament with fusible beads. Enjoy free hot cocoa or cider as you do any last-minute shopping in the gift shop, too. This is a free, self-led activity for all ages. Registering for a time slot helps the gallery plan, but drop-ins are welcome. VisionGallery.org
DECEMBER 14TH
Holiday Traditions in the Park
Dr. A.J. Chandler Park: Stage Plaza 1:00 PM
Holiday Traditions in the Park is a family-friendly celebration showcasing the diverse ways the community celebrates the holidays. This event highlights the many cultural holiday traditions that are in Chandler, including live holiday music, and will provide information on how to give back to the community during the holiday season. ChandlerAZ.gov
DECEMBER 31ST
Hooray for Hollywood: A New Year’s Eve Celebration
Chandler Center for the Arts 8:00 PM
Don your glamorous attire and step into the glitz and glamour of Tinseltown as Chandler Center for the Arts rolls out the red carpet at this dazzling event. Get your ticket to Hollywood's greatest musical hits, featuring cinema classics such as James Bond, A Star Is Born, Flashdance, Dirty Dancing, Grease, and more. The show features vocalists and a live band. ChandlerCenter.org
GLITZY GIFTS GALORE
