ARTS + CULTURE STUNNING ART
BY BECKY SPRADLING
FOOD + BEVERAGE UNIQUE CRAFT BEERS
CHICK-FIL-A’S LOCAL OWNER
Love What's Near
I don’t know about you, but this time of year I am always torn—I find myself caught between resisting the commercialization of another greeting card holiday (ok yes, deep down I do love it though!) and indulging in all the sweet excuses to enjoy the season.
To do a Valentine’s Day date out or enjoy a cozy night at home? To buy a card or just say a kind word? I usually land somewhere a little in between.
We’ll each arrive at different answers based on our preferences and personalities, but what we hold in common is an opportunity to make sure those around us know we love them. And regardless of how you choose to celebrate, we hope the pages of this month’s magazine will help you do just that as we highlight what’s to love in your local community.
In this issue, we spotlight Catalyst Crafted Ales and its innovative offerings. Stop in, grab a drink, and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere at this unique spot. We also spoke to the owner of two Chick-fil-A locations. In addition to tasty food, he and the team have become woven into the fabric of our city. Check out the story to read why. And wow—artist Becky Spradling’s artwork is amazing! These people and businesses are just a few of the reasons why Tempe is so great.
“Love local” means your local businesses and those in your community—but it also means loving what is nearby. Those under your own roof included. So grab a coffee at your favorite local spot and head home for a game night with the family. Or order a meal from your favorite local restaurant and indulge on a movie night in.
We’ve always believed what we can do together is so much more than what we can do apart. And we continue to see that demonstrated through the many stories told on these pages month after month.
Thanks for letting us be a part of the life you’re building, whatever that may look like.
Our hope is that we inspire you to love it—as well as our local community—just a bit more than you did before.
Happy February!
Yours,
February 2025
PUBLISHER
Wendy Bates
wendy.bates@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Michelle Glicksman
michelle.glicksman@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Micaela Camacho
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Brad Hendron
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley
AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto
LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas
MICHELLE GLICKSMAN, EDITOR
Diana Rieger & Dr. Annette Hobi
1: Business leaders attend the State of the City at the Omni Tempe. 2: Tempe Mayor Corey Woods and Tempe Chamber of Commerce CEO Robin Arredondo-Savage host the annual event. 3: Tempe Chamber of Commerce members, The Slalom Group. 4: Megan Campbell, Miss Tempe 2025, sang the national anthem. 5: Presenting sponsor remarks by Wayne Roberts, principal with the Edward Jones Enterprise Leadership Team. 6: Diamond sponsor remarks by Buchanan Davis, director of local government affairs with SRP. 7: Tempe Councilwoman Jennifer Adams.
8: Members of the Tempe Chamber of Commerce attend the grand opening of Chick-fil-A’s second location. 9: Local businesses and the Tempe Chamber of Commerce team enjoy breakfast at the Chick-fil-A grand opening. 10: Chick-fil-A owners Brandon and Julie Barrett celebrate the grand opening with the team. 11: Brothers and Make-A-Wish Arizona Wish Kids Elijah and Jeremiyah McKethan pose with their pretzels. 12: Make-A-Wish Arizona Wish Kid Sula Brolsma butters the freshly baked Wetzel’s Pretzel she made. 13: Wetzel’s Pretzels CEO George Diaz, CFO Annie Thomas, Giselda Robles, and Bianca Diaz with Wish Kids. 14: Shaunna Cooper, with Three and Me Designs, has fun touring the Falcon Field Historic WWII Hangar.
Myranda Fine Jewelry Opens New Showroom
Sought-after designer Myranda North Molina and her team at Myranda Fine Jewelry celebrate the grand opening of their beautiful new showroom at 5055 W. Ray Road. Myranda has more than 25 years of experience in the jewelry industry and is the founder and creative director of Myranda Fine Jewelry. At just 12 years old, she crafted and sold her first piece of jewelry, which led to a lifelong dedication to jewelry design and craftsmanship. MyrandaFineJewelery.com
Authentic Art
ARTICLE BY MICAELA CAMACHO PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRAD HENDRON
The Winding Journey of Artist Becky Spradling
When you talk to local artist Becky Spradling, a word she continuously uses to describe her work is “authentic.” Painting in oils and mixed media, Spradling creates colorful images of nature and people—two of her favorite subjects. A full-time artist since late 2016, she took a winding path to be where she is today but believes it was all meant to be.
“My journey to becoming a full-time artist was a bumpy one,” she says. “As a kid, crayons were my favorite toys, and I originally intended to major in art in college. But I didn’t know any artists who were making an actual living, so I majored in psychology and worked in the mental health field for my main career. Still, art was always such a piece of me.”
To reconnect with her inner love for art, when her busy career allowed, Spradling began taking art workshops and classes in 2011. By the end of 2016, she was able to pursue art full time.
“I’ve always known that there would be a time in my life in which I could fully explore my passion … that time has come,” she says. “Now I’m able to pursue my art as a vocation and not a hobby; I continue to get better and better and am so grateful to be able to pursue this and see what I can do with it.”
While she no longer works as a counselor, her love of people and their lived experiences—even the supposedly mundane activities—is evident in her work.
“It has been a privilege to know so many people in such an intimate and real way through my counseling practice; it has inspired me to express that human connection in paint,” she explains.
This connection is evident in her “Beautiful People” series, where she shows people in everyday activities that somehow look more poignant when captured in paint.
“A lot of the work in my series is connected, capturing moments that are beautiful, powerful, and authentic in everyday life.”—Becky Spradling
“A lot of the work in my series is connected, capturing moments that are beautiful, powerful, and authentic in everyday life,” she says. “I love to use my work to capture the essence of people.”
In addition to her figurative work, she also specializes in capturing nature—particularly, botanical scenes from Arizona.
“I am a woman who loves being in nature,” Spradling says. “Arizona is filled with unique plants and with light that grabs my attention and inspires me to paint. Most often, these pieces are portraits of plants, but I sometimes add backgrounds that include abstract images of the surrounding area.”
Spradling was recently awarded a Carmody Foundation Grant. The purpose of the grant was to create art for a
November 2024 exhibit and charity art auction. Proceeds from the art auction benefited Valley agencies that work with clients in need, she explains.
“As someone who has worked in behavioral health, I know that a lot of organizations and community agencies have to stretch their dollars to help those in need,” she says. “I’m grateful that the proceeds from my work went to help those who need it most.”
In addition to the grant, Spradling has won multiple prizes for her work and has shown in a gallery. Her work will also appear in an exhibit at Tempe History Museum in March.
Instagram: @BeckySpradlingArt
Cheers to INNOVATION
MICHELLE GLICKSMAN
ARTICLE
It’s been one year since Catalyst Crafted Ales opened, and the brand is already redefining the local craft beer scene.
Catalyst Crafted Ales, which had been a brewery and taproom but recently transformed into a full-service brewery/ restaurant serving a blend of American and Southwest food, is located at 1845 E. Broadway Road. It was founded on a passion for brewing exceptional beer and a desire to elevate Arizona’s beer scene. Head Brewer Will Walthereson, whose background includes work with Bruery Terreux, Wren House, and Shop Beer Co., first partnered with Grant Williamson to establish Ad Astra Brewing Company. The success of that venture laid the foundation for Catalyst Crafted Ales—the brewery they both envisioned would push boundaries.
“We love craft beer because while you have the same ingredients to create a brew, it takes ingenuity and creativity to make something truly beautiful, which is what Catalyst has done,” says Renee Dodge Rafferty, director of operations. “[We prioritize] quality, innovation, and [have] a deep appreciation for the art of brewing. We think outside the box to bring flavors to all tastes through our wide style spectrums.”
Catalyst Crafted Ales, which is located in a centrally located, stunning space complete with a spacious outdoor patio, brews its beers on a custom-built, state-of-the-art water filtration system. Walthereson and Williamson created rigorous quality control standards for its creations, sourcing the finest ingredients and employing precise brewing techniques to ensure consistent excellence in every pour.
The team takes an experimental approach to brewing, introducing innovative and unique beers that challenge conventional norms.
“Our Paradise Valley Hazy IPA has consistently been a crowd favorite,” says Rafferty. “Its exceptional balance of juicy hops, smooth mouthfeel, and clean finish has made it a staple for beer enthusiasts across Arizona.”
(Left to right): Bartenders
Brad, Du' Waun, Jo, and Dre'
Some of Catalyst’s more unique creations include its Purple Rain wine seltzer and Trappist Barrel-Aged Belgian Quad A soonto-debut flavor is the Guava Sour.
“They exemplify our commitment to experimentation and innovation,” Rafferty explains. “These showcase our dedication to exploring diverse flavor profiles and unconventional brewing techniques.”
In addition to the commitment to its creations, Catalyst Crafted Ales is dedicated to being an active member of Tempe’s community and supports local charities, hosts events, fosters partnerships with local
businesses, and pursues other community-minded endeavors.
“Catalyst is more than just a brewery; it's an exclusively inclusive experience,” says Rafferty. “We cater to all taste preferences, from the seasoned beer connoisseur to the casual drinker. Our taproom isn't just a place to grab a drink; it's a destination where you'll be greeted by our top-notch staff. We defy categorization, offering a diverse range of beers that span the style spectrum. From our aged Belgian brews to our refreshing seltzers and hazy IPAs, our creativity knows no bounds.”
CatalystCraftedAles.com
(Left to right): Bartenders Brad, Du' Waun, Jo, and Dre'
CARRYING ON A Legacy
The team at the ribbon-cutting to celebrate the grand opening of the Broadway at Priest location.
FOR BRANDON BARRETT, CHICK-FIL-A IS MORE THAN JUST A RESTAURANT
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE GLICKSMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
For many, the lure of Chick-fil-A’s freshly made chicken sandwiches, chicken nuggets, waffle fries, salads, and more—not to mention its iconic crave-able dipping sauce—is difficult to resist.
For Brandon Barrett, the lure for not just the food but the company and its culture, has been life-changing.
Barrett grew up in Georgia, where his father spent 38 years as a corporate employee in the financial services department, beginning in a controller position and retiring as vice president of finance.
And while Barrett was always aware of the company, in the beginning, baseball was a passion. He played throughout college, but by the time he finished graduate school, his outlook changed. He realized baseball was more of a hobby than a career and turned his sights on Chick-fil-A, noting that he realized that it offered so much of what he loved.
So Barrett joined the company, not in a corporate role like his father, but first working in a Chick-fil-A restaurant and then, in 2005, as an independent owner-operator (most Chick-fil-A locations are owned and operated by a single individual).
“It’s very much like the sports world,” he explains. “There’s teamwork, it’s competitive, and we very much say we’re in business for ourselves but not by ourselves. I’m not a mom-and-pop restaurant, but I can run it like one.”
Providing free sandwiches to what was then known as Tempe St. Luke's Hospital.
While he had begun working with the company in New Mexico, his first operator role was when he took over the Fiesta Mall location in Mesa. He then opened the Riverview location in Mesa in 2007. In 2013, he opened the University at Mill location in Tempe.
Today, Barrett owns and operates two Chickfil-A locations, both of which are in Tempe— 25 W. University Drive and 1139 W. Broadway Road.
“I like that there’s something always going on in the area here,” he says about the draw of Tempe. “And I like being next to the college.”
Plus, even after 20 years, he still enjoys being an individual owner, but part of a company.
“The secret to Chick-fil-A is the local ownership,” he says. “I own the business, and I’m here every day. I get to invest time into the leaders who work with me here.”
cheese, and even a berry parfait side option. And while the core menu stays constant, there are also always limited-time offerings to mix things up.
“I think what sets us apart is that we are a fastfood restaurant, but we have a much higher quality of food. We just can serve it faster,” Barrett says.
“We’re in the community and want to be involved. And the money stays local.”
In fact, many of those who work for him have been with him for years—one for 19, and others for 12 or 10.
They all work as a team to prepare and serve their array of chicken offerings, which are made from whole, boneless breasts of chickens and have no added fillers. The menu also includes soups, mac &
In addition to quality food, Barrett and the team focus on hospitality and customer service. They also make it a point to give back to the community, partnering with organizations such as Arizona State University Athletics and elementary schools in the area, participating in the Shared Table program where they donate surplus food to local food banks and shelters and places in need, and more. They also volunteer in the community at least once a month. As a part of the Broadway at Priest location opening, Chick-fil-A donated $25,000 to
Our Lady of Mount Carmel’s Food Bank and recognized 100 local community heroes by providing them with free entrées for a year.
“That goes back to the local ownership,” Barrett, who shares three children with his wife of 20 years, says. “We’re in the community and want to be involved. And the money stays local.”
ChickFilA.com
A Beautiful Smile
ARTICLE BY BAILEY HALL | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Building the Perfect Bouquet
Valentine’s Day can be celebrated in many ways. Some people choose to go out for dinner and a movie, others hire a private chef for a romantic meal at home, some buy chocolates and find a fun activity in town, and some couples go out of town for an exciting getaway! One Valentine’s Day staple is giving a bouquet of flowers to someone special. Flowers are the gift that say I love you and can be given to your spouse, children, and mom. As a child, my father always got me roses on Valentine’s Day until I met my husband and he took over the tradition. A bouquet of flowers can say many things as each flower has a different meaning. If you’re wanting to say something special to the ones you love this Valentine’s Day, take a look at our list of three popular flowers, what they mean, and what flowers to pair them with.
USE THIS GUIDE WHEN ORDERING VALENTINE’S DAY BOUQUETS
Roses
LOVE & ROMANCE
Roses are by far the most popular flower to give on Valentine’s Day. They are beautiful by themselves or you can add Baby’s Breath to enhance the bouquet. These two make a romantic bouquet and are the perfect flowers to give to someone special.
Lilies
PURITY & FERTILITY
Lilies come in a variety of colors and are eye-catching! For a softer looking bouquet, pair your lilies with carnations. These two combined are fun and heartwarming and are a great gift for anyone.
Tulips
PERFECT FOR DEEP LOVE
A bouquet of tulips will brighten any space! Adding some Ranunculus, also known as buttercup, will complement the tulips wonderfully. These flowers have a refreshing look that will decorate any home beautifully in a crystal vase.
FEBRUARY 2025
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
high dose glutathione master antioxidant fights free radicals reduces fine lines + wrinkles builds immunity detoxifies the liver
SemaglutideTirzepatide
Sermorelin
FEBRUARY 7TH - 8TH
Yannis Pappas
Tempe Improv
Yannis Pappas is a stand-up comedian, podcaster, and TV host. He’s a regular on The Joe Rogan Experience, Tim Dillon Show, Your Mom’s House, 2 Bears
1 Cave, Bad Friends, and Tigerbelly; co-host of MSG’s sports fan show The Bracket, and more. Catch him live in Tempe. TempeImprov.com
FEBRUARY 11TH - 16TH
Some Like it Hot
ASU Gammage
Set in Chicago when Prohibition has everyone thirsty for a little excitement, Some Like it Hot—winner of four Tony Awards—is the “glorious, big, high-kicking” (Associated Press) story of two musicians forced to flee the Windy City after witnessing a mob hit. With gangsters hot on their heels, they catch a cross-country train for the life-chasing, life-changing trip of a lifetime. ASUGammage.com
FEBRUARY 20TH
Spring Training
Tempe Diablo Stadium
Spring Training kicks off with games held many days at Tempe Diablo Stadium (first game held here is Feb. 22), home of the Los Angeles Angels. Fifteen MLB teams practice across 10 Valley stadiums, with Tempe the perfect home base for experiencing the fun and excitement. CactusLeague.com
CONTINUED >
FEBRUARY 21ST - 22ND, 28TH - MARCH 1ST
Innings Festival and Extra Innings Festival
Tempe Beach Park
The ultimate celebration of music, baseball, and culinary delights can be found at this two-day festival at Tempe Beach Park. Three stages with more than 18 artists performing, including Fall Out Boy, Incubus, The Black Keys, Slightly Stoopid, The All-American Rejects, and more the first weekend and The Lumineers, Megan Moroney, The Red Clay Strays, Wyatt Flores, O.A.R., Trampled By Turtles, and more the second. InningsFestival.com
FEBRUARY 22ND - MARCH 9TH
Arizona Theatre Company: Blues in the Night
Tempe Center for the Arts
A musical celebration of the blues and its influence on American music, this toe-tapping revue weaves the stories of three women and one man as they navigate love, heartbreak, and rebirth. Set in a swanky 1930s Chicago hotel, this emotionally uplifting story features 26 of the hottest torch numbers by blues and jazz icons. ATC.org
FEBRUARY 28TH
The Psychedelephants Play HAZEL
Tempe History Museum
The Tempe History Museum presents a free visually enhanced experience of ‘60s spy rock as The Psychedelephants perform their third fulllength album, HAZEL: A Graphic Novel Soundtrack. Lead singer Paul Balazs’ comic book, HAZEL, has been turned into a projected movie that will play in sync with the live band in real-time. Joining The Psychedelephants will be a 4-piece horn section and extra percussion. Tempe.gov
