Feeling Thankful
In my home, I have a storage area where I keep all of my holiday decorations. Among them are arts and crafts projects family members have made (such as the turkey created out of a paper bag with construction paper decorations that say what my then-preschool-age daughter was thankful for on them) and other passed-down mementos. For one holiday, I even have a decoration I bring out that my grandparents showcased on their holiday table. It not only continues their traditions and brings back memories but makes me feel like they are still part of everything.
Looking at these personal mementos makes me smile and truly exemplifies the meaning of the holiday season for me. It’s my family. It’s the generations that came before me and those sitting in front of me. That’s who and what I am most thankful for.
For some of you, those you are celebrating with might be the family that you’ve chosen—friends who have become family, rather than your blood relatives.
Really, it’s just about being with the people who matter to you and taking the time to be grateful.
Of course, there is so much to be thankful and grateful for, too—and our November issue is dedicated to those stories of gathering, gratefulness, and giving back to our community.
We touched base with several of our partners to see which causes they supported and we share what you need to know about home care for veterans (thank you for your service!). We also spotlight a local animal charity. And for those gearing up for next month's holidays, read all about Elf on the Shelf and get ready for fun!
This holiday season, as we prepare to gather with our loved ones, and in the true spirit of thanksgiving, let’s set time aside to consider what truly makes life meaningful and stop to reflect on those blessings—one person, one impactful deed, and one handmade memento at a time.
Yours,
November 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
Angela Broockerd, Michelle Talsma Everson, Gretchen Pahia, Alison Stanton
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
MICHELLE GLICKSMAN, EDITOR @CHANDLERCITYLIFESTYLE
city scene
1-2: Assistance League East Valley's Target Dressing Event, where they provided $100 to each child for school clothes. 3: Barb Mozdzen, the Chandler High School Junior ROTC, and Frank Narducci at the Chandler Education Foundation Golf Tournament & Fundraiser. 4: Volunteers supported the Chandler Education Foundation Golf Tournament & Fundraiser. 5: Residents at Cadence Chandler enjoyed a Fall Harvest Chef's Dinner, with a meal made by their culinary team. 6: Chandler Gilbert YMCA board of directors putting some "fun" into their fundraising mission to benefit childcare, education, and youth sports. 7: Attendees at the Wake Up Chandler event by the Chandler Chamber.
8-14: The Chandler Chamber's Golf Tournament was held at Ocotillo Golf Club and raised scholarship funds for the Chandler Chamber Community Foundation to send a select group of students to Chandler-Gilbert Community College.
city scene CONTINUED
15: There was an open house and Chandler Chamber ribbon-cutting at Mox Boarding House. 16: Gameday Men's Health is now open in Chandler. 17: The Chandler Chamber held a ribbon-cutting for Gameday Men's Health.
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A ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES
Bottle & Bean Expands and Revamps Its Patio and Lawn Space
Bottle & Bean Coffee House & Wine Shop recently celebrated the grand opening of its newly expanded and renovated outdoor lawn space. The existing lawn space was completely revamped to include an all-new look, as well as provide additional seating for dining outdoors. The center of the patio space includes a turf lawn area, and surrounding the lawn are natural stone pavers, adorned with 60 feet of custom iron seating, covered with shade structures. Bottle-Bean.com
Photography courtesy Bottle & Bean
Chandler Ranks Second for National Government Experience Award
The City of Chandler was ranked second in the nation for the Government Experience award for a city by the Center for Digital Government. The awards recognize the achievements of states, cities, and counties that raised the bar on the experience of government services to create a better engaged constituency and a more responsive government. Chandler has a long-held commitment to innovation and technology, and looks for opportunities for smart, sustainable solutions and innovative ideas that promote efficiency, productivity, and connectivity. ChandlerAZ.gov
Early Detection Bloodwork
Early Detection Blood work or EDB is something Animal Medical of Chandler offers discounts blood panels to ensure your pet is healthy and happy!
Animal Medical Center of Chandler
Dr. Joshua Russek , DVM
Dr. Nathan Goodwin, DVM
Andrea Stickland, DVM
Dr Adalis Montero, DVM
Kohler Bathroom Design
Sandra Bassett Joins Chandler Center for the Arts' Leadership Team
Chandler Center for the Arts recently appointed Sandra Bassett, a seasoned leader in the Arizona arts and culture community, to its leadership team as the head of Development and Communications. Bassett, who previously served as CEO of the Phoenix Center for the Arts, brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record in arts administration, fundraising, and community engagement. In addition to her professional achievements, Bassett serves on several key arts and civic boards. ChandlerCenter.org Veterans Heritage Project Rebrands to Imprints of Honor
Veterans Heritage Project has rebranded to Imprints of Honor.
Founded in 2004 and established as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in 2009, Imprints of Honor's mission is to connect students with veterans to honor veterans, preserve America’s heritage, and develop feature leaders. The program is recognized by the Arizona Department of Education as a Character Education program and is approved in all categories for the Seal of Civic Literacy. VeteransHeritage.org
Arizona Liver Health/ Arizona Clinical Trials Opens ACT Medical Park
Arizona Liver Health (ALH)/Arizona Clinical Trials (ACT) recently opened its new state-of-the-art ACT Medical Park in Chandler. The ACT Medical Park, a 28,000-square-foot facility located at 910 E. Pecos Road, showcases the ACT Phase 1 Unit and the ACT Imaging Center, both designed to offer cutting-edge medical and research services. This facility represents a major advancement in the region's healthcare and research infrastructure. AZLiver.com
Mayor Hartke Named Arizona League of Cities and Towns Executive Committee President
Chandler Mayor Kevin Hartke has been named president of the Arizona League of Cities and Towns Executive Committee. He will serve a two-year term to lead the 25-member executive committee, consisting of mayors representing cities across Arizona, that governs the League’s activities. Members of the League of Arizona Cities and Towns selected new officers and members during its executive committee at its annual conference. Hartke served as the League’s executive committee vice president for the past two years.
Making an Impact
Bernard J. Johnsen
Praesidium Law, PLLC | Praesidium.law
INVOLVED WITH: State Forty Eight Foundation
"I appreciate and understand the courage and dedication that it takes to start a business, but most importantly, I know that it can be terrifying. The education and support that the State Forty Eight Foundation provides is invaluable to entrepreneurs."
CarolAnn Tutera
Principal, Tutera Medical® & SottoPelle® TuteraMedical.com, SottoPelleTherapy.com
Myranda
Owner, Myranda Fine Jewelry MyrandaFineJewelry.com
INVOLVED WITH: Chandler Service Club
"I am a member of the Chandler Service Club because it’s very simple: We feed children in our community. We also clothe children in our community, and that personally touches me because I grew up and I did not have the means sometimes for even food, so this is my way of giving back for something that I’m passionate about."
Amy Jones Real Estate Group & Founder, Community on Purpose AmyJonesGroup.com
Denise McCreery
Owner, d'Vine Gourmet and Boutique on Boston dVineGourmet.com, BoutiqueOnBoston.com
INVOLVED WITH: Operation Thrive
“As a family of veterans ourselves, we love and respect what Lashay Marks is doing with Operation Thrive vets! Serving those who defended our country right here in our community ... how could we not want to support that?”
President/CEO of BackFit Health + Spine BackfFitHealth.com
INVOLVED WITH: Where Hope Lives FOUNDED: Community on Purpose FOUNDED: BackFit Cares
“I am involved in a women’s group called Creative Women of Pinnacle Peak. I joined this group to meet other women who support charities in town. My main reason is to help raise money for Where Hope Lives.”
“I founded Community on Purpose to create an accessible platform for volunteering and supporting local organizations while amplifying the work of Valley nonprofits. After building a real estate business focused on service, I wanted to foster leadership, philanthropy, and connection in others.”
"BackFit Cares is a foundation started by myself and my sister, Dr. Yasmin Rahimi, shortly after our mother passed. As the CFO for BackFit for close to two decades, our mom encouraged us on a regular basis to give back to the community in any way we can. She was the driving force that pushed us to begin the process of creating our foundation, and after her loss, we wanted to make sure we followed through with it. We know she is smiling down at us and proud of the impact BackFit Cares has made on the health of many kids in our Valley."
PhotobyMind way Graphics
Photoby Li n dsay Borg
Many Chandler City Lifestyle Partners Give Back to the Community. Here, the Organizations They Support—and Why
State Forty Eight Foundation
Founded in 2020 by state-centric lifestyle and apparel brand State Forty Eight, the State Forty Eight Foundation was created to champion entrepreneurs in Arizona.
The 501(c)(3) foundation empowers Arizona entrepreneurs and small businesses by offering supportive programming, access to grant funding, and a thriving community network.
Its programs include Beyond Business Events, which are free, bimonthly gatherings that allow Arizona business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs the chance to connect, network, and build community—as well as the Entrepreneur Speaker Series, a free, four-part event that takes place weekly every August. Each week, the series tackles a topic or theme that is central to the entrepreneurial journey.
Also, through its Entrepreneur Grants Program, the State Forty Eight Foundation awards grant funding to small business owners across the state. By the end of 2024, more than $137,000 will have been awarded to entrepreneurs and small businesses.
StateFortyEightFoundation.org
Community on Purpose
Community on Purpose is a nonprofit organization that serves youth and families throughout the Valley.
The 501(c)(3), which was founded in 2022, focuses on three goals: serving youth and families, supporting women in leadership and business, and direct giving as needs are uncovered by the community.
Since its inception, Community on Purpose has helped more than a dozen organizations with their fundraising efforts and completed large and small volunteer projects. These have included the makeover of the teen center at ICAN, the renovation of the shop closet at House of Refuge, and two Love Local events with Cabi Clothing where volunteers clothed and pampered local women from organizations like Clothes Cabin and Positive Paths.
More recently, the organization partnered with the local real estate community to renovate the Azcend campus in Chandler—75 volunteers applied a fresh coat of paint to many of the outdoor areas.
CommunityOnPurpose.com
Operation Thrive
Operation Thrive aims to support veterans and others through a variety of wellness and community-building services that are designed to improve physical and mental well-being.
The Chandler-based charity, which was founded in 2024, offers a number of programs, including cold plunge sessions in the spring and fall that allow participants to take part in cold water immersion therapy.
Operation Thrive also offers yoga sessions that focus on flexibility, strength, and mindfulness; monthly organized hikes that provide participants with the opportunity to connect with nature and enjoy physical activity in a group setting; and ruck walks, which are designed to help build endurance, mental toughness, and can foster a sense of shared purpose among participants.
Finally, Coffee with a Vet allows veterans and community members to gather and connect in a casual setting. All of these activities are designed to foster resilience, connection, and well-being for participants.
OperationThriveVets.org
Where Hope Lives
Where Hope Lives is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to offering shelter, recovery services, and educational opportunities tailored specifically for teenage and young adult survivors of human trafficking.
Founded by Dream City Church in 2005, the center has become the cornerstone for the largest recovery operation for human trafficking survivors worldwide. Since its inception, Where Hope Lives has rescued and restored the lives of over 3,381 children and 2,707 young adults from situations.
The organization is recognized for its exceptional standard of care, utilizing evidence-based practices that prioritize the emotional, spiritual, and physical well-being of each survivor.
Their holistic healing model includes therapy, education, vocational training, and spiritual mentorship, empowering survivors to rebuild their lives after their experiences. Additionally, 100% of financial donations go directly to supporting their programs.
To request a presentation or create a fundraiser, contact JoAnna Shipe, corporate initiatives director, at jshipe@phxdreamcenter.org.
WhereHopeLives.org
Chandler Service Club
Chandler Service Club is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, all-volunteer women’s organization that was founded in 1933. Over the past nine-plus decades, members have focused on community service and responding to the fulfilling the many basic human needs within the Chandler community.
The nonprofit helps people of all ages and backgrounds, addressing problems associated with poverty, hunger, low self-esteem, and academic achievement.
One of the many ways the Chandler Service Club serves the community is through the Weekenders Food Program, which provides over 700 bags of “kid-friendly food” every weekend to children in need throughout the Chandler Unified School District. Also, thanks to its Warm Feet Warm Hearts Program, thousands of shoes and jackets have been given to children in Chandler over the last 27 years. Chandler Service Club also offers scholarships through its community scholarship programs.
ChandlerServiceClub.org
BackFit Cares Foundation
The BackFit Cares Foundation works to improve the lives of underprivileged children by offering natural options for physical and mental health and wellness, as well as alternatives to medication.
The foundation, which was established in 2022, focuses on raising funds that are used to implement holistic and alternative health options to children who live in underserved communities around the Valley.
The chiropractors, physical therapists, and holistic health professionals who are part of the foundation see firsthand how mental and physical health are intertwined, and how natural and holistic care changes the lives of their patients.
Since its inception, the BackFit Cares Foundation has aligned with like-minded holistic healthcare specialists to provide information and workshops on important topics like mindfulness, nutrition, acupuncture, meditation exercise, and more.
The foundation’s biggest fundraiser is its BackFit Cares Golf Classic, which is typically held the first week of May.
BackFitCares.com
Dr. Higgs Dr. Shumake
ARTICLE BY JOYCE SELK
Use Some Help! Even Santa Can
Photo by Caroline Strok
The Elf on the Shelf tradition began in 2005 and was created by Carol Aebersold and her daughter, Chanda Bell. Inspired by their own family traditions, they wrote a children's book titled The Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition , which includes a small elf doll.
According to the story, the elf is sent from the North Pole in late November or early December to watch over children during the holiday season, reporting their behavior back to Santa Claus each night. Returning each morning, the elf appears in a different spot, creating excitement, mischief, and always encouraging good behavior. The tradition has since evolved, with families having fun naming their elves and coming up with increasingly creative, imaginative, and playful scenarios for them throughout December, adding to the magic of the holiday season.
Today, Aebersold and Bell have joined Aebersold’s other daughter, Christa Pitts, as co-founders of the Lumistella Company, the dynamic enterprise behind the brand.
Over 28 million Elf on the Shelf dolls have been sold in 24 countries since the product was introduced. In addition to the original book and elf, the brand has expanded to include more stories, movies, and various elf-themed products, solidifying its place in modern Christmas culture. All the history, tips, “rules,” ideas, and products can be found on the Lumistella website at Lumistella.com. Several local stores are also licensed to sell the genuine products, or they can be purchased on Amazon.
Photo by Cindy Sonoda
Photo by Cindy Sonoda
Photo by Hannah Kowitz
COMMON RULES FOR THE ELF ON THE SHELF TRADITION
1. Arrive Anytime: Elves can arrive Thanksgiving night or on Dec 1.
2. No Touching : Children should not touch the elf, as it could lose its magic and be unable to fly back to the North Pole. Only parents are allowed to touch the elf. (If an elf loses its magic, check the website on how that magic can be restored!)
3. Elf Moves at Night : The elf moves to a new location each night while the family sleeps so that children can enjoy finding the elf in a new spot each morning.
4. The Elf Observes: The elf watches and reports back to Santa about the children's behavior, helping to encourage good actions in the lead-up to the holiday.
5. Naming the Elf : Families often choose a special name for their elf, adding a personal touch to the tradition.
6. Creative Scenarios: Each day, the elf should be placed in fun, creative situations to spark excitement.
7. Limited Interaction: Elves can’t talk but are great listeners, so kids are always welcome to talk to the elf.
8. Final Farewell: On Christmas Eve, the elf returns to the North Pole and stays there until the next holiday season.
Photo by Hannah Kowitz
Photo by Cindy Sonoda
Photo by Hannah Kowitz
Photo by Hannah Kowitz
Photo by Caroline Strok
Photo by Cindy Sonoda
local crafty holiday helpers!
ARTICLE BY JOYCE SELK
We found a couple of creative East Valley locals who sell complete kits to help Santa and make it easy for your elf to entertain your family! (Keep in mind that elves are not included).
MS. ELF HELPER
Hannah Kowitz has been helping Santa for four years and is a mom of two. She is a preschool teacher motivated by a love for the magic of Christmas! Each day requires 30-60 seconds to set up, so no more late night freak-outs!
Kits include 24 days of elf moves and ideas for $65. All supplies include setup pictures, props, welcome and goodbye letters, and two sets of daily report cards for the kids. Optional add-ons are available for purchase. MsElfHelper.com
ELFIN MADE EASY
This is Jackie Mirrione’s seventh year creating all kinds of elf shenanigans for families. For this mom of two with a special needs daughter and a full-time job with Gilbert Public Schools, it’s a fun side job to help provide extra money for the holidays.
Kits include 25 days of fun for your elf for $75. Supplies include a calendar of events, setup instructions, props, personalized notes, STEM activities for the kids to do with the elf, and QR codes for more online fun. Kits can be ordered through Facebook @elfinmadeeasy or Instagram @elfinmade.
HANNAH KOWITZ
Jackie Mirrione and her family
protecting OUR
PETS
LOCAL TEEN STARTS NONPROFIT TO HELP ANIMALS IN NEED
ARTICLE BY GRETCHEN PAHIA | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
One local teen is making it her goal to improve animal welfare and well-being across the Valley and the nation. Jordan Sucato is the brains behind the student-run nonprofit Laws For Paws AZ, which has a mission to bring awareness to the malpractice and mistreatment of animals.
Jordan Sucato
“We are advocates for those who cannot speak for themselves. While our initial focus was on legislative work, such as our bill to prohibit the sale of cosmetic animal-tested products, we have also actively worked with dogs,” he says.
One of the ways the group is actively working with dogs is through its fundraiser, Bear’s Boots (named for Sucato's family's Belgian Malinois). This event aims to provide essential care to homeless pets by supplying them with dog boots.
“These boots are necessary due to the excruciating heat,” shares Sucato. “We purchase the boots, which are then distributed by Dog's Day Out AZ, an organization we work with. We aim to raise awareness of the stigma behind dogs on the street and provide relief.”
For Sucato, this has been a labor of love for many years.
“At around the age of 8, my mom started involving me in her volunteer work with a local animal organization," she shares. "I became particularly interested in animal testing, which motivated me to start Laws for Paws. I am committed to making a difference and helping as many animals as possible.”
Laws For Paws AZ welcomes those interested in supporting the organization by helping or via donations.
LawsForPaws.org
“I am committed to making a difference and helping as many animals as possible.”
Cathy is great to work with. In my situation it was our first house and we were relocating from out of state. She handled everything smoothly and we even had a few bumps along the way but she was able to navigate us through the process. We’d highly recommend anyone searching for a real estate agent to use Cathy. I think her contacts and area knowledge allowed us to get the perfect home! I can’t thank her enough.
DAVE M.
Kimberly Akers
HOME CARE FOR SENIOR VETERANS:
TWO KEY VA BENEFITS
The Owner of the Local Amada Senior Care Shares What You Need to Know
ARTICLE BY KIMBERLY AKERS
This month brings Veterans Day, when many active-duty and retired service members will hear, “Thank you for your service.” How many times have you uttered those words to a deserving veteran or heard them directed to you if you’ve served in the Armed Forces?
While those protecting their country or home go back for as long as we can remember, there hasn’t always been benefits that provide in-home care opportunities for aging veterans and their families.
The VA Aid and Attendance Benefit, and the VA Homemaker Benefit, can make all the difference in the financial feasibility of aging safely and comfortably in one’s own home. More than 11 million adults aged 60 and beyond have served in the military—many of whom are eligible to receive these benefits.
WHAT ARE THE VA AID AND ATTENDANCE BENEFIT AND THE VA HOMEMAKER BENEFIT?
These benefits are designed to provide in-home, and in some cases facilities-based, assistance to veterans with medical requirements that prevent them from participating in their own care. To qualify for either, the primary point to consider is the veteran’s military service and income.
An individual is required to have at least 90 days of active duty on his or her service record, with at least one day of service occurring within a wartime period. The reason for leaving the service can be anything but a dishonorable discharge. A surviving spouse also may be eligible for these benefits, provided the marriage ended with the veteran’s death.
HOW IS ELIGIBILITY DETERMINED FOR THE AID AND ATTENDANCE BENEFIT?
If you already receive a VA pension, to qualify for the Aid and Attendance Benefit, income and assets are first considered.
You must also meet at least one of these requirements:
• You need someone to help you perform activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing, dressing, meal preparation, and walking, among others.
• You are bedbound or spend a large part of the day in bed, due to illness or medical condition.
• You are a patient in a skilled nursing facility due to the loss of mental or physical abilities related to a disability.
• Your eyesight is limited—even with glasses or contact lenses, you have 5/200 vision or less, or concentric contraction of the visual field to five degrees or less.
WHAT QUALIFIES A VETERAN TO RECEIVE THE VA HOMEMAKER BENEFIT?
Unlike the VA Aid and Attendance Benefit, income and asset requisites do not correspond to the VA Homemaker Benefit. In short, eligibility is not based on finances.
A clinical need for in-home care, which must be authorized by a physician in the VA system, is the main determinant for eligibility. There are some exceptions when the VA will cooperate with a non-VA-sanctioned doctor, such as when there is a need for hospice care, according to Rob Storey, franchise owner of Amada Senior Care Orland Park, IL.
“Overall, the criteria are what the disease diagnosis is for the veteran, what he or she needs help with, like activities of daily living (ADLs), and/or housekeeping items like cleaning, laundry, and meal prep,” he says. “Also factored in is how much support the veteran has in the house—if he or she is living with a spouse, adult children, etc. This also helps determine how many hours a week of outside help can be allotted.”
WHAT VA BENEFITS CAN A SURVIVING SPOUSE EXPECT?
D.R. Salerno, franchise owner of Amada Senior Care North Orange County, says one of the biggest benefits of which surviving spouses are unaware is the VA Survivor’s Pension.
“If a wife loses her husband and needs in-home care, she’s entitled to apply for the spousal benefit for herself,” he says. “When we go out to the home to meet with a client who expresses concern about how to pay for caregivers, her eyes light up when we educate her about this, knowing she may qualify to receive help. This benefit so often is a complete surprise to many spouses! They can’t believe there’s VA money out there for the surviving spouse, which can help with care.”
QUALIFYING FOR VA BENEFITS LIKELY WILL BE A LONG PROCESS
Like many things, the wheels of approval can turn slowly when applying for VA benefits, sometimes taking up to six months. To that point, Storey says in his experience, approval of the VA Homemaker Benefit (as opposed to VA Aid and Attendance) can be much faster—as soon as a couple of weeks.
“When I meet with the veteran and family, if the veteran is already in the VA system, that’s an advantage timewise. But if he or she is not yet in the system, we ask that they make an immediate appointment with a VA doctor. Once the veteran is deemed eligible, we usually get the referral for a caregiver within a week or two,” he says.
There are also private companies such as VetAssist that the veteran can hire to help expedite the process, which can be helpful when applying for VA Aid and Attendance. Veterans can do this on their own, or as Storey explains, he will retain the company himself for prospective Amada clients in his region.
“In-home care can be life-changing for everyone—veterans and their families,” Storey says.
For more information or resources, visit AmadaMesa.com
giving dip -
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD I PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Fall is synonymous with gathering with friends and family and enjoying time together. Whether it is for Thanksgiving, a football watch party or a simple fall gathering, these easy appetizer dips are the perfect shareable snack to share.
fig & honey brie
The perfect cheesy fall dip that is both savory and sweet. The chopped pecans add a subtle crunch that makes this irresistible.
ingredients:
• 8 ounce brie wheel
• 1/3 cup fig spread or jam
• ¼ cup pecans
• 2 teaspoons honey
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh parsley
directions: Place brie in a baking dish. Spread the fig spread on top of brie and sprinkle with chopped pecans. Drizzle with honey. Add fresh herbs, and bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes. Serve with pita chips or crackers.
loaded hummus
This crowd-pleaser can be made in advance for easy entertaining.
hummus ingredients:
• 2 cans of garbanzo beans (chickpeas), drained
• Juice from one lemon (or ¼ cup)
• 1/3 cup water
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
toppings:
• Olives
• Cherry tomatoes
• Chickpeas
• Feta cheese
• Red onion
• Fresh Parsley
directions:
In a blender, add all of the ingredients except the olive oil and the toppings. Blend until smooth. Spread Hummus onto a plate or platter and top with chopped toppings. Serve with fresh bell peppers, zucchini, crackers and pita bread.
Nothing screams fall quite like the flavor of pumpkin. This lightly sweet dip takes just a few minutes to make and is perfect for any fall get-together.
ingredients:
• 8 ounces softened cream cheese
• 1 can pumpkin puree
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
directions:
Place cream cheese in a microwave safe bowl, and soften for 30 seconds. Add brown sugar and blend with a hand mixer until smooth. Add in pumpkin and blend until combined. Mix in heavy whipping cream and mix on high for 2 minutes. Next, stir in pumpkin pie spice. Serve with sliced apples, pretzels, graham crackers or vanilla wafers.
creamy pumpkin cheesecake dip
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At Jungle Roots, we’ve been providing topquality pediatric and orthodontic care to our community for over 20 years. Our caring specialists ensure a fun, safe, and calming environment focused on patient comfort.
garlic herb feta dip
This savory dip is quick and easy to assemble and is perfect to serve with fresh veggies or crackers of any kind.
ingredients:
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 whole garlic bulb, roasted
• 1 ¼ cup feta cheese
• 3 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 Tablespoon lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon dill
• 1 teaspoon parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
directions:
First, cut the head off of the top of the garlic bulb, and drizzle olive oil on top. Wrap in foil, and place it in an oven heated to 425 degrees. Roast for 30 minutes or until soft. Squeeze roasted garlic into a bowl, and set aside. Next, add the yogurt, feta, lemon juice, salt, pepper and water in a blender and lightly blend. Add the roasted garlic and blend until smooth. Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle with fresh herbs. Serve with crackers or fresh vegetables. Enjoy!
Renovate Your Gate
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE TALSMA EVERSON PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Photo by Hayley Stall Photography
When someone visits your home, the first thing they see is something we may not often consider—your gate. An updated gate, whether stylish, practical, or both, can be a one-of-a-kind way to make your residence stand out. Luckily, there’s Renovate Your Gate, a locallyowned gate contractor that can take gates of all shapes and sizes from drab to fab.
James Lewis founded Renovate Your Gate in 2000 when he had the opportunity to turn a long-time hobby into a full-time business.
“It started when my HOA asked me to clean up my gate, so I put new boards on it, added paint, and fixed it up,” Lewis says. “I really liked it because I enjoy working with my hands and loved transforming my old gate into something new that stood out. When neighbors saw the gate, they asked me to do their gates, and my business grew from their referrals.”
Today, Lewis, along with his wife Heather, renovate gates across the East Valley and beyond.
Lewis says that there are many benefits to renovating a gate, including safety, security, and adding to your home’s curb appeal.
“Whatever the customer’s vision is, we can likely make it come to life,” he says. “We have worked on a lot of unique projects; if the homeowner can draw it, we can likely make it come to life.
“If you are dinged by your HOA, they oftentimes do not offer gate renovation services or referrals,” he continues. “So, we are here to be that local service to help homeowners become compliant with their HOA requirements, but also add some personalization and creativity, too.”
Some examples of possible gates include ones that are decorative and ornamental, or more practical for general use like an RV gate. The company can even
knock down block walls to widen spaces for gates and include technology aspects as well, such as electronic touchpads for easy and secure gate entry.
The Renovate Your Gate team has also renovated gates for side yards and dog runs. They can create gates to help with privacy, especially for townhouses or smaller spaces, and they always make sure that the gates are code compliant.
Lewis has lived in the East Valley for over a decade, and his wife Heather was born and raised in Ahwatukee. He says the fact his business remains family-owned and -operated is by design.
“We’re a small business, and demand is high, but we stay small on purpose, so we can continue to emphasize quality gates and flawless customer service,” Lewis says. “It’s quality over quantity for us, and we work with customers across the Valley.
“No job is too small, and we strive for excellence in every job that we do,” he adds.
Whether it's a residential or commercial gate, pride and innovation shape every project.
When it comes to what makes Renovate Your Gate stand out, their small team doesn’t take themselves too seriously and they have a fun sense of humor—making the gate renovation process painless.
“We had a wonderful experience with Renovate Your Gate, and we love our new gate,” local customer George Sant says in a review. “The company was responsive from the initial inquiry to completion. We got to pick our design and our color; they even recommended and installed the keypad lock.”
Looking toward the future, Lewis says that he hopes to continue to add more unique gates to the area, one home or business at a time.
Facebook.com/renovateyourgate
“We have worked on a lot of unique projects; if the homeowner can draw it, we can likely make it come to life.”
Sarah Scott Personal Lines Practice Leader
Solari is a nonprofit organization with a successful track record of building award-winning crisis services and programs that help those in need.
Our organization has been Inspiring Hope in Arizona since 2007. Our 24/7 crisis line answers 40,000+ Crisis Calls a month with all crisis calls answered in 9 seconds or less. Your donations and support give our programs the foundation they need to support our Arizona communities.
“They talked me down and got me out of that situation and into an ambulance. They absolutely saved my life that day” - Crisis Line Caller
NOVEMBER 1ST - 8TH
Speak to Me Softly
Vision Gallery
While some activists advance their ideals using words, the artists in Speak to Me Softly utilize their crafts to address complicated subjects. Using soft materials and methods such as fabric, yarn, and embroidery, the artists spark conversations about issues we face in our world. VisionGallery.org
NOVEMBER 2ND
Live Life Songwriters Music Festival
2577 W. Queen Creek Road
Songwriters David Lee Murphy and Paul Overstreet headline this festival and sing chart-toppers they wrote for artists like Luke Bryan, Blake Shelton, Eric Church, Carrie Underwood, and Florida Georgia Line. Hits include Murphy’s own number one charted Billboard single “Dust on the Bottle,” and Overstreet’s “Daddy’s Come Around.” Drinks, vendors, and an after-party, too. LiveLifeMusicFestival.com
NOVEMBER 9TH
Covenant Hot Rod's 9th Annual Southwest Regional Car Show
Bottle & Bean, Downtown Ocotillo
View street rods, muscle cars, rat rods, sports cars, custom cars, trucks, classics, and competition cars. A portion of the proceeds supports Soldier's Best Friend. CovenantHotRod.com
NOVEMBER 9TH
Carpenters Legacy starring Sally Olson & Ned Mills
Chandler Center for the Arts | 7:00 PM
Direct from Las Vegas, Carpenters Legacy is the definitive show celebrating the music and legacy of the famed brother-sister duo. Starring Sally Olson as Karen Carpenter and Ned Mills as Richard Carpenter, the show is a re-creation of the Carpenters' live performances, featuring hits including “We’ve Only Just Begun,” “Yesterday Once More,” “Superstar,” comedy antics, and much more. ChandlerCenter.org
NOVEMBER 14TH
Chandler Golf Challenge
Bear Creek Golf Course | 12:30 PM
For more than 25 years, the Chandler Golf Challenge has brought together men and women from our community for a great day of golf that, in turn, improves educational and recreational opportunities for hundreds of people with disabilities. Join in for a day of golf, contest holes, and more. ChandlerAZ.gov
NOVEMBER 16TH
Woofstock
Tumbleweed Park | 9:00 AM
Dog lovers of all kinds can enjoy a "fur-filled" day in Tumbleweed Park. Whether your pooch prefers to "ruff it" on a hiking adventure or sit in the lap of luxury at a pet spa, the variety of pet-related vendors and activities are sure to have your dog (and you) begging to come out and play. Pet adoptions, pet caricatures, and more, too. ChandlerAZ.gov
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NOVEMBER 22ND
Average White Band Farewell Tour
Chandler Center for the Arts | 7:30 PM
Celebrate 50 years of music with this soul and funk band's farewell tour. It is a finale that will include their biggest hits and fan favorites, including “Pick Up the Pieces,” “Cut the Cake,” “Walk On By,” “Queen of My Soul,” “Schoolboy Crush,” “Let’s Go Round Again,” and more. The group’s consistently accomplished song-writing helped them to achieve multiple Grammy nominations. ChandlerCenter.org
NOVEMBER 27TH - 30TH
Kimes Ranch Million $ Breakaway
WestWorld of Scottsdale
The fastest-growing event in rodeo, Breakaway, takes center stage at this Inaugural event. An unprecedented million-dollar purse will be paid out in a 10-round competition consisting of the top 10 breakaway ropers in the world standings, plus 15 qualifiers. Daily trade shows, nightly awards ceremonies, as well as Friday and Saturday concerts will round out the momentous event. KimesRanch.com
DECEMBER 2ND
Jolly Jingle, Shop and Mingle
Assistance League of East Valley Thrift Shop, 2326 N. Alma School Road | 4:00 PM
Join the Assistance League of East Valley at this event, which will include entertainment, refreshments, and drawings. AssistanceLeague.org/east-valley
