Chandler Chamber Business and Relocation Guide 2016-2017 by LOCALiQ

2016-2017 Chandler Chamber Business and Relocation Guide

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Table of Contents Connecting people, business and community

Meet the Staff.......................................................................................... 6 Chandler Chamber: Vision for business, growth and prosperity................... 8 Birds of a feather flock...to the Ostrich Festival........................................... 9 Still attracting the best of the best.......................................................... 10 Membership benefits.............................................................................. 11 Events.................................................................................................... 11 Chandler Chamber Business Directory.................................................... 30

Chapters

BUSINESS: On the edge of tomorrow..................................................... 12 HOUSING: Living the good life in Chandler.............................................. 20 HEALTHCARE: A higher expectation....................................................... 22 DINING: Unique eateries make Chandler dining destination...................... 24 EDUCATION: Classrooms for life............................................................. 25 ATTRACTIONS: Chandler: Attracting attention........................................ 26 SHOPPING: Great bargains, fun finds..................................................... 28 RECREATION: Biking, playing and hiking................................................ 29

Cover photo: Chandler Gilbert Community College Coyote Center. Photo by Everardo Keeme.

Created by the Republic Media Custom Publishing Group 200 E. Van Buren St., Phoenix, AZ 85004

General Manager: CAMI KAISER, ckaiser@republicmedia.com Creative Development Director: ISAAC MOYA, imoya@republicmedia.com Editor: JIM WILLIAMS, jlwilliams@republicmedia.com Project Manager: NICK KOSTENKO nkostenko@republicmedia.com

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Neither the Chandler Chamber of Commerce nor Republic Media is responsible for errors or omissions. To our knowledge, all information contained within this magazine is accurate as of the publication date.

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Hablamos Español 1211009 4 | Chandler Chamber Business and Relocation Guide

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President’s Welcome ello and welcome to the annual Chandler Chamber of Commerce magazine! As always, I am extremely proud to share some of the many amazing things that the Chamber has accomplished over the past year. This issue includes articles that focus on the many benefits of Chamber membership, profiles of some of our incredible members and their businesses, stories about our popular events, and much more. The Chamber, which has been going strong for 104 years, has always strived to encourage and support local economic growth. I’m pleased to say that the Chamber is as committed as ever to our valued members and their businesses, as well as creating a cohesive community. I’m also excited to update you with the details of our recent expansion. The Chamber was figuratively turned upside down during an extensive remodeling project that now encourages an even more member-friendly environment. We now have expanded into a large conference room that is capable of holding up to 100 people. To say that this new space is state-ofthe-art is putting it mildly—the video capabilities in the larger

space are incredible, and allow us to record and stream sessions in an unobtrusive manner. In addition, we now have several meeting rooms that our members are welcome to use. The Chamber has also added more educational opportunities for our members with our new Ask an Expert series. Once a month, we program dynamic “experts” to share first-hand experience and knowledge with others about important topics like QuickBooks, marketing, social media, holiday marketing and more. Our Women in Business also caters to the networking/ education sector, offering monthly mentoring and educational keynote speakers during the luncheons. As the proud President of the Chandler Chamber of Commerce, I am truly fortunate to spend my days working with a talented and dedicated staff, an amazing board and a group of terrific members. I hope you enjoy reading the wonderful stories in this magazine, and I look forward to continuing to work with and support local business for many years to come. Sincerely,

Terri Kimble

Meet the Staff The Chandler Chamber staff is a team of experienced professionals that are here to support businesses and enhance the business climate in our community. We are always looking for innovative and creative ways to deliver programs and services in support of our members.

Terri Kimble, President/CEO

Mary Ann Przybylski, Director of Programs, Events, Sponsorships

Barbara Caravella, Director of Business Development

Michael Beagle, Digital Media & Training Manager

Sarah Bruner, Business Development

Brenda Whipple, Business Development

Lori Moreno, Business Development

Paulette Pacioni, Marketing & Communications

Sarah Miranda, Special Events

Lee Hines, Accounting & Finance

Zella Muro, Education Coordinator

Kristen Encinas, Administration

Yvonne Torres, Administrative Assistant

Mary Kaye Allen, Volunteer

Connect with the Chamber

Chandler Chamber of Commerce chandlerchamber.com | 480-963-4571 6 | Chandler Chamber Business and Relocation Guide

Connect with us! Find us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Follow us to learn the latest about Chandler Chamber community events and benefits.

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INTRODUCTION

Chandler Chamber: Vision for business, growth and prosperity Leading the way to create opportunities, meet business needs by Alison Stanton ince the Chandler Chamber first opened its doors over a century ago, it has strived to be a dynamic community leader as well as a catalyst for business prosperity. One of the ways the Chamber achieves this goal, said Immediate Past Chair Camille Cisek, is by hosting a large number of events. “The Chandler Chamber works closely with city leaders to promote business growth and retention. Through our numerous weekly events, the Chandler Chamber strives to assist and promote all businesses from the small start-up entrepreneur to the large corporation,” she said, adding that the Chamber also tailors its programs to meet the various needs of the members.

Evolving and renovating In order to better serve its valued members, the Chamber recently underwent some significant remodeling. “We expanded across the hall and now have a conference room that will seat 100 people, with video and audio capabilities to record and live stream,” said Victor Napolitano, Chairman of the 2017 Chandler Chamber Board of Directors. “The expansion also includes a large serving area and prep room. We now have five smaller meeting rooms equipped with 42” monitors with Chromecast capabilities for our members’ use.” The recent expansion, Napolitano said, has definitely improved the Chamber’s ability to serve its members. “Our intentions were to make the Chandler Chamber office space conducive to our members’ needs,” he said. “Many of our small to medium size businesses need a place to meet with clients, give presentations or seminars or hold training classes. We now offer that to our members. We wanted the Chamber office to be the go-to source for many of their needs and I think we have accomplished that.” 8 | Chandler Chamber Business and Resource Guide

The Chamber’s Economic Update Series is one of many ways they bring the business community together.

Thinking outside the box In addition, Napolitano said, the Chamber is now able to accommodate large groups for workshops and seminars that provide educational presentations for the members. “We want them to grow and prosper so offering them current information on the latest trends just enhances their membership,” he said. “We like to offer our members a chance to look outside the box, discover new techniques and practices and learn to use this information to grow their business and better their employees.” Cisek said the recent expansion has definitely had a tangible and positive effect on both the Chamber members and staff. “The remodel provides our members with more meeting rooms where they can meet with clients, attend our small business training sessions or just have a quiet space to work uninterrupted,” she said. “The renovation has not only brought a fresh upbeat feel to the office but has also improved the efficiency for the staff.”

Chandler Mission and Vision Vision Statement The Chandler Chamber of Commerce will be acclaimed as a leader and catalyst to facilitate business prosperity and foster a premier community. Mission Statement The Chandler Chamber of Commerce supports business and our community by providing vital programs and services that attract and retain business while embracing our diversity.

Birds of a feather flock... to the Ostrich Festival By Alison Stanton As thousands of people gather at Tumbleweed Park for the Chandler Chamber of Commerce’s annual Ostrich Festival, they might not realize they are honoring the very man who founded the city in 1912. As Ralph Guariglio, Chairperson for the 2017 Ostrich Festival explained, Dr. A.J. Chandler was a veterinarian and a leading ostrich rancher. “The Ostrich Festival is really a tribute to him. In 1914 he was the third largest ostrich farmer in the state.” Guariglio said, adding that the event recently finished its 28th year. The Ostrich Festival has grown to become one of the premier festivals of the Southwest, attracting

nationally famous recording artists and the best in exciting carnival rides and other amusements. In addition to the signature ostrich races, which are held on all three days of the festival, attendees can also enjoy tasty food and beverages and dancing to live music, and visiting the ostrich corral to see the spectacular birds up close. Although the ostriches are plenty big, Guariglio said their size does not prevent them from reaching some pretty amazing speeds. “Ostriches really are an amazing bird in that their brain is smaller than their eyeball, but they are by no means stupid. And their powerful legs help them sprint to 43 miles per

The Ostrich Festival has been acclaimed as one of the best festivals in the southwest hour and can run for distance at 31 miles per hour,” he said. Guariglio said people of all ages have a wonderful time at the Ostrich Festival. “I’ve been a member of the Chandler Chamber for ten years and have worked at the festival for eight

years, and it is just a ton of fun to see the kids having a great time with their families in the family play area and watching the parents enjoy the musical acts.” For more information, visit www.ostrichfestival.com

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INTRODUCTION

Still attracting the best of the best A longtime magnet for world-class companies, Chandler continues to innovate and grow By Cara LaBrie ver the past 20 years, much of the attention paid to Chandler was related to its housing boom. But behind the scenes, Chandler’s leaders were laying a foundation for something just as impressive — long-term economic health. “The foundational strategy has transcended numerous mayors and councils,” said Micah Miranda, the city’s economic development director. “For more than 20 years, our Mayors and Councilmembers have adopted a probusiness attitude, which enabled staff to make wise and prudent development decisions. It was a very mindful, very thought-out plan that has served the city well.” From the roots set by Intel in the 1970s to the bustling Price Road corridor, Chandler has sustained its reputation as an attractive location for technology. World-class companies such as Intel, Infusionsoft, Air Products, NXP (formerly Freescale), Avnet and Microchip Technology have large operations in Chandler.

Growth in healthcare, finance But it’s not just technology. DaVita, a specialty pharmacy, and CVS are bringing more healthcare jobs to the area. And PayPal, Toyota Financial, Wells Fargo and Bank of America are leading an emerging financial base for the city. “One of the things that the city has been very proactive about is diversifying our economy,” Miranda said. “Wells Fargo in the Price Road

corridor currently has about 4,500 employees. Their campus plans call for 1.8 million square feet of space, and can accommodate up to 12,000 employees. CVS recently opened a new facility in the Price corridor that will absorb about 125,000 square feet of space and add 800 high-quality jobs. We’ve had a very good year from a job creation standpoint.”

Climate for entrepreneurship In addition to offering an attractive business climate for industries ranging from semiconductors to healthcare and finance, Chandler also is a destination for entrepreneurs. The Innovations Incubator program offers entrepreneurial support assistance to a diverse range of business startups in an effort to drive product commercialization quickly and efficiently. Makers also count on TechShop, a community-based prototype studio located at the ASU Chandler Innovation Center. And growing startups gather at community working hubs like Gangplank to share ideas, collaborate and innovate. “The entrepreneurial community is much more connected and what we’re seeing out of this is sharing of information and ideas, which is helping to commercialize new technologies,” Miranda said. “Entrepreneurs want to know there’s a community they can rely on, that there’s a sense of place.”

Chandler’s Top 10 Employers

Intel

11,000 Chandler Unified School District

4,875 Wells Fargo

3,795 Bank of America

3,500

Chandler Fashion Center

3,000

Dignity Health Chandler Regional Medical Center

2,532

Gila River Gaming Entertainment

2,300 PayPal

1,834 Verizon

1,600 City of Chandler

1,581

Source: City of Chandler Economic Development

10 | Chandler Chamber Business and Relocation Guide

Membership Benefits There are a number of reasons to join the Chandler Chamber of Commerce. For example:

Professional Development through Business Education and Training; this includes Women in Business, Educational Seminars, Ambassador Program, Chamber 101 and 202 and many others.

Stay posted on current legislation, bills and policies that affect the way companies do business through public policy-related events; this includes Meet the Elected Officials, Coffee with the Mayor, Public Policy Series, and economic updates.

Get to know fellow professionals at networking events, including Ribbon Cuttings, Wake Up Chandler, Business After Business, Leads and Referral Groups, Lunch Club and more.

The Chandler Chamber hosts a number of special programs each year that help with fundraising and community awareness; for example, the Ostrich Festival and Golf Tournament.

Marketing and Sponsorship opportunities that help to increase a businessâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s exposure and marketing reach, while also supporting the Chamberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s programs. Examples include E-News/E-Magazine, Lobby Displays and the Website.

EVENTS Third Friday Chandler Art Walk; the free-to-attend event includes over 35 local artists displaying and selling their works, as well as live music. When and Where: Third Friday of the month (except June and July), 6-9:30 p.m.. Dr. AJ Chandler Park, West. 3 S. Arizona Ave. 7th Annual Chandler Chuck Wagon Cook-Off; the free, family-friendly culinary event features authentic 1880s chuck wagon teams using historic cooking methods to prepare tasty eats that are fitting for the trail. When: November 11-12, 2016 18th Annual Chandler Jazz Festival; enjoy a free and fabulous weekend of jazz in a variety of outdoor venues. When: March 31 and April 1, 2017

COFFEE SHOPS RETAIL COWBOY BOOTS WINE BAR SPEAKEASY BREWERY LIVE MUSIC FARMERS MARKET DOW NTO WN FESTIVALS HISTORIC DOWNTOWN BURGERS AJ CHANDLER PARK DOWNTOWN STAGE OKTOBERFEST RUSTICA PIZZA MIXOLOGISTS BAKERY ART WALKS STEAKHOUSE MARGARITAS G A R I TA ICE CREAM SANDWICHES PAINTING & POTTERY ERY S STUDIO T FRESH SALADS IRISH BAR TWO STEPPING WE ARE WHERE HISTORY MEETS PUBLIC IC A ART R LIVE MUSIC FARMERS MARKETS FESTIVALS MODERN, WHERE VEGETARIANS BURGER LOVERS WILL BOTH OKTOBERFEST RUSTICA PIZZAAND MIXOLOGISTS BAKERY ART FOR FINDING FREE WALKS STEAKHOUSE SERVICES MARGARITAS ICE CRE PLACE WHERE SHOPPERS, FOODIES, PUBLIC PARKING: PAINTING & POTTERY AND GOLFERS STUDIO CAN ALL FINDCHICAGO SANDWICHES SOMETHING TO DO. WE ARE LOOK FOR THIS â&#x20AC;&#x153;Pâ&#x20AC;? STYLEWHENPIZZA FRESH SALADS #DOWNTOWNCHANDLER, IRISH BAR TWO AND STEPPING DRIVING: PUBLIC ART NIGHTLIFE GOLFING EATERIES LOCALLY OWNED BUSINESSES NIGHTLIFE PUBLIC LIBRARY BURGERS RETAIL BEER & BARBECUE FESTIVAL COWBOY BOOTS WINE D O W N TBREWERY O W N C HLIVE A N MUSIC D L E R .FARMERS O R G MARKET BAR SPEAKEASY

CHANDLER

Chandler Chamber Business and Relocation Guideâ&#x20AC;&#x201A;|â&#x20AC;&#x201A;11

BUSINESS On the edge of tomorrow

Google, many other tech companies, look to Chandler to build and test new products By Brian Sodoma reat weather, a techfriendly culture and city leadership that understands the needs of tech companies were just a few reasons Google chose Chandler as a test city for its self-driving car program. It’s nothing new for Chandler, which has prided itself in being a technology hub and innovation center for decades. Here are a few more reasons why this growing southwestern city continues to turn the heads of tech executives every day.

infrastructure needs for utilities and access to nitrogen when developing the area. Eventually, existing tech companies became the city’s greatest advocates, Tibshraeny added. Today, more than 40,000 jobs have been created in Chandler and most of them are in the highly-desired STEM fields. Micah Miranda, Chandler’s economic development department director, said an available high tech labor pool and high-performing school system are other draws. “They can find a lot of

“It was very much a concerted effort to become a technology and innovation hub.” —Chandler Mayor Jay Tibshraeny

Not just a Sunday drive The Google partnership is one more advancement tied to a vision formed in the 1990s to leverage existing tech foundations built by Intel, materials technology company, Rogers Corp., and microcircuit builder Microchip Technologies, says Mayor Jay Tibshraeny. “It was very much a concerted effort to become a technology and innovation hub,” the mayor explained. The 1,400-acre-plus Price Road Corridor was born and city officials paid close attention to tech companies’ unique

high quality engineers and employees to help drive their company to the next level,” he said. “We also have wellregarded educational assets from K through 20 that give these companies a very profound sense of comfort in relocating employees and their children here.”

Beyond Google Both officials also say there are other recent, and significant, technology success stories the city can be proud of. Here are a few:

12 | Chandler Chamber Business and Relocation Guide

n After more than four decades

of manufacturing presence, Rogers Corp. recently announced the relocation of its entire headquarters to Chandler. The move will add 100 more manufacturing jobs, too. n Specialty Pharmacy, DaVita Rx, opened a 76,000 square-foot facility earlier this year, which will house more than 550 jobs in Chandler. TibShraeney says we should

expect to see more health care related technology companies calling Chandler home in the coming decade. n In April, Cambridge, United Kingdom-based semiconductor company, ARM, leased a 13,000 square-foot engineering office in Chandler to house 60 employees. “This represents an international foreign direct investment to Chandler,” Miranda said. “Those types of deals are very sought after.” n Netherlands-based NXP Semiconductors, with more than $10 billion in annual revenues and global employee count topping 27,000, moved about 800 jobs from Tempe to Chandler in the past year.

Garmin soars in aviation sector Satellite navigation leader Garmin International Inc. landed in Chandler in 2009 and has grown its Valley workforce to 140 employees since then. The company opened a new 60,000 square foot research and development facility in 2014, and its Chandler team is playing a direct role in bettering the pilot’s experience. Most recently, the Chandler team helped build out Garmin’s Flight Stream 510, a cost-efficient multi-media card using Garmin’s navigators to allow pilots to interact with the airplane’s systems with tablets and wireless devices. The platform also streams traffic, GPS and other critical information while utilizing wifi and Bluetooth technologies. Flight Stream 510 was unveiled at the Experimental Aviation Association (EAA) tradeshow earlier this year. “There’s a lot of excitement surrounding that product. … A lot of the work bringing the Flight Stream into our integrated flight decks was done by the team in Chandler,” said Roger Orf, a software engineering manager for Garmin Aviation’s User Interface Group. The Chandler team is also working to improve and further automate Garmin’s implementation of a Controller Pilot Data Link Communications system, which allows pilots and air traffic controllers to communicate through text messages. This work is particularly important in Europe where frequency congestion and misunderstood verbal communication can strain interactions between pilots and air traffic controllers. “Our mission is to create innovative products and service to enrich our customers’ lives,” Orf added, “and these examples are bringing increased safety and situational awareness to the cockpit.”

Q&A with Kim Moyers, Chandler Redevelopment Director Downtown Chandler has never looked so vibrant. By Pat Whitney n a recent interview, Kim Moyers, downtown Chandler redevelopment director, shared the vision behind the transformation to reinvent the city’s core.

What is at the heart of this renaissance toward greater economic and social sustainability? The City Council has long made downtown a priority for economic growth, vitality and a gathering place for the arts, entertainment and special events. Now, Chandler is creating an urban environment where residents can also live and work.

How does a city reinvent itself and still be sensitive to its historic roots? The city is building upon downtown historic successes such as the San Marcos Resort, Dr. A.J. Chandler Park and the original colonnades that tied the downtown together. The San Marcos recently spent $12 million in renovations to restore the resort to its original splendor. This year, Dr. A.J. Chandler Park will begin gathering community input for a master plan to update the park and add amenities to attract more visitors to downtown. Buildings in our “historic square” date back to the first

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BUSINESS

movie theater in Chandler. City Hall, built in 2010, has to be the flagship project and impetus of what we see today. This mix of historic elements with modern features and contemporary shops make downtown a unique destination.

What’s next? Some exciting projects are: “Chandler 87,” previously “Site 6” across from City Hall, envisions more than 150,000 square feet of office space and from 500 to 700 new jobs.

DC Heights will be mixed use with 200 apartments and retail. Alta Steelyard Lofts,

our newest 300-apartment community, has an urban, upscale vibe. The southwest corner of Chandler Boulevard and Arizona Avenue will feature an entertainment and restaurant venue to draw residents and visitors into the downtown. New retail is planned along Arizona Avenue with restaurants and entertainment at a city-owned site located at the southeast corner of Washington and Chicago streets.

Did you know? n In 1912, Downtown Chandler consisted of three wooden shacks—a town-site office, dining hall and the Morrison grocery. Today, downtown restaurants alone number 27. n The San Marcos Hotel was named after the Franciscan Friar Marcos de Niza, believed to be the first European settler in the Valley. n Chandler was actually named after a Canadian—Dr. Alexander J. Chandler of Quebec.

“Urban living has definitely made a comeback. Millennials, professionals and empty nesters want to engage in their communities without having to get in their cars. The urban lifestyle allows you to get to know your neighbors at the local coffee shop or at your favorite downtown restaurant.” – Kim Moyers, Downtown Chandler Redevelopment Director

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An outstanding career Longtime State Farm agent helps clients, the community

tate Farm agent Mary Contreras established her business in 1994 in the East Valley. She focuses on providing auto, home, renters’ and business insurance. Her business is set apart from her competitors by an unparalleled passion to serve her clients’ best interests. “We have worked to develop a culture of putting our clients first in every decision,” Contreras said. “The talent and tenure of our team is recognized Valleywide for their quality and we have a unique ability to look at the numbers and develop elegant solutions with affordable premium – utilizing creativity and solutions-based problem-solving from my engineering background.” And, she said, her team “services and pays claims for what we sell. We strive to keep clients for life.” Her mission is simple: to be her clients’ primary source for insurance and financial services. “My team members and I pledge to provide an environment of mutual respect and open communication,” she said. “We will review the insurance and financial services products with you to help meet your individual needs. We will continually improve upon our knowledge and the level of customer service we provide. “ Her superior service has caught the attention of State Farm. Last year, she won the State Farm Chairman’s Circle and Ambassador Awards. Contreras is as dedicated to the community as she is to her clients. Her teen driver counseling programs deliver information and readiness tips to new drivers that help ensure their first years are a little safer.

Contreras is a member of the Chandler Chamber of Commerce, past chair of the Women in Business Council, a director of the Chandler Chamber Community Foundation and the Chandler Chamber Liaison to Intel’s Community Advisory Committee. Contreras and her team invite all clients and families twice annually for their Spring Fling and Pumpkin Patch events, at which a complimentary windshield repair clinic is held, where Contreras pays for clients’ windshield repairs to keep their insurance costs low. She has offered this service for 15 years to her neighbors and clients.

Now, after almost 23 years in the insurance business, Contreras is looking at the future of her business. “There is an opportunity for an individual interested in becoming a State Farm agent,” she said. “Our aspirant program is looking for candidates who want to work into this agency through an apprenticeship with our office. I have a great program for the right person.” FOR MORE INFORMATION: Mary Contreras Phone: 480-775-7788 Mary@MaryContreras.com

BUSINESS

Burst of creativity Art studio in Chandler encourages community’s talent By Debra Gelbart hen Cheryl Tisland’s younger sister Risa suffered a traumatic brain injury in a motorcycle accident three years ago, Tisland and her mother, Peggy Peters, decided to start a business that could involve the whole family. Tisland had been a software engineer and Peters was an optician. They enjoy art and Tisland, Peters, Risa and Tisland’s son Lucas are talented artists. The family began conceptualizing an art studio about a year after Risa’s accident and in January of 2015, they opened Burst

Burst of Butterflies is an analogy for “something beautiful and colorful coming from something not so beautiful.” - Cheryl Tisland

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Art celebrated in its many forms “We are a complete art studio for pottery, painting, canvas painting, airbrush painting, glass fusing and clay sculpting,” Tisland said. “We also offer pottery and sculpting classes and classes for many other art forms.” The studio also has a private party room for celebrations or teambuilding. The name Burst of Butterflies is an analogy for “something beautiful and colorful coming from something not so beautiful,” Tisland said, adding that for her it also refers to the metamorphosis her sister underwent in 14 weeks after her accident.

“You can walk into our studio without an appointment and start painting pottery or producing art in any number of other ways, even if you don’t feel that you’re artistic,” Tisland said.

Stretch your creativity Stopping by the studio is an easy way to be spontaneous, she said, on a date night or when you’re out with family or friends. Customers have applied art to textiles, wine glasses, mosaic tiles and pallet boards, in addition to more conventional materials such as canvas or clay, she said. The studio also has offered crochet and knitting classes. “When it comes to art and art forms,” Tisland said, “the sky’s the limit.”

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‘Crazy’ good videos Video production company caters to every business By Debra Gelbart nforgettable commercial video productions are a specialty, but not the only service Videoloco offers. The year-old company calls itself a “full-spectrum video production business for clients looking for the convenience of a one-stop-shop with fair, up-front pricing.” Videoloco produces not only videos, said Claudia Tone, business development manager, “but all aspects of media marketing from logo design to social media to web design. We help create a unique, authentic brand for companies.”

Broadening access “Media marketing shouldn’t just be a privilege large companies have access to, so we strive to make it accessible and affordable for every

business, from the singleproduct mom and pop to a midlevel organization,” she said. A client’s finished video might be placed on a company website, used on social media or in email marketing or posted to YouTube, Tone said. Jonas Funston, with a decade of experience in real estate development and Dave Urbanic, whose background centers on video production, established Videoloco to focus on all levels of video production. The company was seeking funding and additional expertise in growing the business and brought on board Mark Christenson, with his 12 years’ experience in business operations and human resources. Christenson introduced Stacie Mallen to the team based on her broad experience growing start-up organizations. What sets Videoloco apart from its competitors, Tone said, is a passion for high quality combined with affordability. “Our goal is to make sure video is accessible to businesses of all sizes while keeping the quality and customer service exceptional or ‘crazy’ good. We are crazy about video and passionate about our mission.”

omes by Eva Marin takes a “holistic” approach to serving clients, said owner Eva Marin, who also is an associate broker with Glass House International Real Estate. She helps her clients navigate through the real estate process. “Whether they’re buying or selling, I get to know my clients from the start. Getting to know them allows me to ask the right questions to determine the kind of community that would fit their life. Listening to their needs is critical.” She appreciates being able to assist a variety of clients, including incoming relocation buyers, outgoing relocation sellers, first-time home buyers or sellers, move-up buyers or sellers, vacation home buyers and seniors transitioning into new homes. “No matter what the situation, my approach is client-focused, working to make sure their best interests are always top of mind.”

MORE INFORMATION: Homes by Eva Marin 3100 W. Ray Road Suite 201 Chandler, AZ 85226 480-734-7019 homesbyevamarin.net/

BUSINESS

Sky high Helicopter training facility puts emphasis on safety, integrity By Debra Gelbart n Jan. 11, 1993, helicopter pilot Neil Jones took a risk. Not in the sky, but with feet planted firmly on the ground. After working for nearly a decade for a helicopter training facility in Scottsdale that had abruptly closed because of financial difficulties, Jones opened his own helicopter training business at the Chandler Airport. He began with a fleet of just two R-22 helicopters. Calling his business Quantum Helicopters, he and a small staff of flight instructors flew 3,000 hours

that first year. Despite what Jones says are the ups and downs in the aviation industry and the recession in 2009 and 2010, his company has grown exponentially since then. Last year, the company’s 16 flight instructors flew 19,000 hours with a fleet of 17 Robinson helicopters including R-22s, R-44s and an R-66 turbine jet helicopter. The company’s emphasis is on safety and integrity with offering flight instruction, Jones said. “We try to be very straightforward with our customers and avoid the gimmicks and poor financial

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en are turning a daily chore into an indulgence. High razor prices are driving more men to shave like their grandpa! Switching to brush, soap, & safety razor saves them up to $5 per week! It also helps prevent razor burn, irritation, dry skin, and ingrown hairs. And, it’s just plain fun to whip up a lather with a brush & soap. Did I mention the soap is scented? It’s amazing! It’s truly turning a chore into an indulgence. Wet Shaving Products has been making shaving products for over 5 years. They make all sorts of soaps & grooming supplies at their Chandler workshop. They were even featured in People magazine’s father’s day gift guide. Be sure to check them out if you’re in need of a men’s gift or just want to upgrade your shave.

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MORE INFORMATION: Wet Shaving Products 6505 W. Frye Rd Ste 19 Chandler, Arizona 85226 (623) 428-1342 WetShavingProducts.com 18 | Chandler Chamber Business and Relocation Guide

Quantum offers helicopter training that meets many different needs, including police departments, TV news pilots and even private citizens.

or no flying experience and turns the student into a professional pilot at an entry level, Jones said, adding that 85 to 90 percent of the company’s clients are pursuing a commercial pilot certificate or more advanced designation, such as a certified flight instructor. The other 10 to 15 percent may be seeking only a private pilot certification, Jones said. “Our modern helicopter training gives our customers great value and safety and provides our 31 employees with a great, stable place to work,” Jones said.

policy that are sometimes found in aviation training.” Quantum also is a Robinson helicopter dealer and service center.

Pilots needed in many industries Quantum offers helicopter training for police departments, oil companies, TV news pilots and private citizens. A typical course of instruction requires between 10 and 13 months of commitment, Jones said. Quantum’s Professional Pilot Instrument Program takes someone with little

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State of success Apparel company promotes Arizona By Debra Gelbart

ichael Spangenberg and brothers Stephen and Nicholas Polando were looking for a way to start a business and

promote Arizona at the same time. “Mike had always wanted to start a fashion

company geared toward Arizona,” Stephen Polando said. The three are graduates of Chandler High School and the Polandos and Spangenberg are longtime friends. “We discussed some names and came up with State Forty Eight (Arizona became the 48th state in 1912),” Stephen said. “And then we asked my brother to come up with a logo and he knocked it out of the park.” The logo depicts the outline of the state as it would appear on a map with the name of the company prominently presented in tall, lanky capital letters within the outline.

A ‘shout out’ to Arizona “We create clothing inspired by the Arizona lifestyle,” Spangenberg said, adding that the business—through its online presence and a network of retail distributors—sells several shirt styles, pants, hats and accessories, including water bottles and wallets. “This is a brand we’re passionate about,” Spangenberg said. “We want to start a trend of celebrating Arizona in a positive way.” One way the company has helped Arizona is by donating $15,000 to the Arians Family Foundation (established by

Arizona Cardinals head coach Bruce Arians) by selling State Forty Eight products, including a t-shirt with a silhouette of Arians’ face with headphones around it. With eight people on the payroll, “we continue to see growth in our business, and we know it’s from listening to our customers and introducing new designs and new products,” Nicholas said. Stephen said the company’s mission is to become a premier brand across the state. “We want our brand to represent Arizona.”

HOUSING Living the good life in Chandler City known for its friendly, diverse neighborhoods By David M. Brown

verywhere in Chandler, you’re at home. Offering a strong residentialbuilding market and solid job base, Arizona’s fourth mostpopulous city is known for its friendly, diverse neighborhoods with many housing and rental opportunities. In the city’s downtown and suburbs, singles, families, empty-nesters and seniors are buying homes that exceed their expectations and meet their varying budgets. “Chandler is a remarkable city that has top-rated schools, golf courses, parks, plenty of shopping and dining, extensive employment opportunities, including high-tech employers such as Intel and Orbital, and is in close proximity to many transportation corridors,” said Reed Porter, Phoenix Division president for CalAtlantic Homes, Irvine, California, and Arlington, Virginia, builder of the Echelon community at Ocotillo in Chandler as well as neighborhoods in 16 other states. “High-paying jobs from a variety of industries . . . will continue to generate demand for attractive homes in wellplanned neighborhoods,” added David de la Torre, principal planner for the city’s Planning Division.

Variety of living space For many years, the city has committed to provide many housing types: single-family

The Ocotillo area is a popular housing option for many Chandler residents thanks to its proximity to top employers.

detached, patio homes, townhomes and apartments. “This has given residents with different needs who may be at different stages of life different living choices within the same neighborhood,” he said. A first-time home buyer can purchase a starter home and then, with a growing family, move into a bigger house, and later, as an empty nester, move into a townhome — all in one Chandler neighborhood. “Having a mix of housing types allows for different family members who are at different stages of life to live near each other and creates neighborhoods with diverse residents,” de la Torre added, noting that the city expects a 90-percent residential build-out by approximately 2025.

Urban lifestyles While the suburbs produced most of the developments

20 | Chandler Chamber Business and Relocation Guide

from the 1980s until now, downtown is reasserting itself, building on an early history of neighborhoods such as San Marcos near the landmark resort and Silk Stocking, with its distinctive bungalow-style homes. “Downtown Chandler has always been a destination for great food, entertainment and special events. With the addition of urban living options, it’s also a great place to live,” explained Kim Moyers, Downtown Redevelopment manager for the city. “The downtown area provides a unique opportunity for Chandler residents to live in an urban environment where they can truly live, work and play,” said de la Torre, adding that the city is reviewing applications to introduce more mixed-use developments in downtown to increase the number of residents, businesses

and retail/entertainment options there. Two of the recent developments are by Wood Partners, based in Atlanta. Approved by Chandler City Council in 2014 and opened in 2015, Alta Steelyard Lofts, at the southeast corner of Frye Road and Washington Street, are 301 luxury apartments on a 6.7-acre former site of a steel yard fabrication and supply company. And, just approved by city council in June, Alta San Marcos will comprise 273 mid-rise luxury condos on a 5.4-acre site at the southwest corner of Chandler Boulevard and Dakota Street, the former practice hole for the San Marcos Golf Course.

Office and retail The downtown has attracted strong nonresidential building, too. Chandler 87, for example, will be a build-to-suit office and retail development project with two office buildings and a retail pad on the approximately four-acre Chandler Site 6 parcel at Arizona Avenue and Chicago Street. “Chandler has been toward the top of the list in many of the categories that we watch for new development. The city’s commitment to growth and capitalizing on their hardearned reputation as a tech hub continues to yield expansion of existing businesses and good prospects for incoming employers,” said Steve Jordan, LEED® AP, director of

Development/Southwest for Minneapolis, Minnesota-based Ryan Companies US, Inc, developer of Site 6. Another development, Site 3, is expected to be a development project focused on entertainment, Moyers said.

By the water Outside downtown, Ocotillo has been one of Chandler’s signature lake neighborhoods with extensive open space, amenities, a variety of housing types and beautiful neighborhood design, de la Torre said. Echelon, for

Q&A

Developer Spike Lawrence: The Haven That is Chandler

Spike, a little about yourself? I am an Arizona native raised in South Tempe. After graduating from ASU in 1993, I started developing real estate with the support of local investors. I started the business in Tempe where I lived for more than three decades. I have primarily done retail and office developments. How did your relationship with Chandler begin? In 1999, I had the opportunity to buy the 10-acre corner of Alma School and Queen Creek Road in Chandler. After meeting with the neighbors, I decided that a specialty retail center called The Falls was what Ocotillo needed. Fortunately, we were right! After that, I developed the corner of Alma School and Ocotillo Road, bringing D’Vine Wine Bistro to Ocotillo. While developing both of those projects, we started assembling the 40 acres between Dobson and Price Road along Queen Creek Road. Fortunately, the Gilbane Group acquired 75 acres next to our land at the same time, and together we were able to masterplan Downtown Ocotillo and The Waters of Ocotillo. The city of Chandler was wonderful

instance, comprises singlefamily homes, 2,414 to 3,766 square feet, 396,900 to $516,900, at Alma School and Ocotillo roads. “The city’s attractive and amenity-rich neighborhoods have not been created by accident,” he explained. “Chandler became the first planned city in the state of Arizona when our founder, Dr. A.J. Chandler, created the original town plan in 1912, and the city was also the first in the Valley to adopt residential development standards.”

Bryant Commercial Real Estate

to work with in giving us a beautiful, dense and diverse project. I was so in love with Chandler, I moved my wife and two daughters to Ocotillo in 2006. Tell us a little about Downtown Ocotillo? Fortunately, Downtown Ocotillo survived the Great Recession of 2008 to 2011. I was fortunate enough to help create and partner in The Living Room, Rock Lobster and Chop with Tom Kaufman and his group. It has been a wonderful experience. I just completed a 15,000square-foot building in the middle of Downtown Ocotillo with residential, retail and office. I moved my office into the building along with new tenants, Press Coffee, Realty Executives, Vinum55 wine storage and Kaufman Holdings. How do you see the future in Chandler? There is still more to be done in Downtown Ocotillo. I am excited for the future of The Price Corridor. It might be one of the greatest job generators in the entire United States over the next five years. I am proud to be a resident, real estate developer and investor in Chandler. I am happy to raise my family here and call it home.

ryant Commercial Real Estate’s expertise is in finding commercial space in the East Valley for small to medium-size businesses, franchisors and franchisees looking to buy or lease space, said owner and designated broker Adrienne Bryant. When a commercial property owner is ready to sell, BCRE can manage that entire process as well. One of the hallmarks of Bryant’s company is that clients will hear the truth from her, not necessarily what they want to hear. “If (a property) is not in your budget, we tell you, if it’s too large, we tell you, if you should look at a different type of property, we tell you that, too,” she said. During the lease process, BCRE relies on in-depth market knowledge and an unbiased approach to tenant representation to effectively advise clients on all appropriate options. By placing a client’s business needs at the forefront of any negotiation, “we believe we will create a long-lasting relationship,” Bryant said.

MORE INFORMATION: Bryant Commercial Real Estate 5555 E Van Buren Street Suite 105, Phoenix AZ 85008 (480) 802-8100 bcreaz.com

HEALTHCARE Chandler healthcare: A higher expectation Meeting the city’s ever-changing needs By Kristine Burnett

f convenient access to top quality health care is an indication of a strong community, then the City of Chandler is among Arizona’s strongest. Collectively, the area’s healthcare organizations and private practice physician groups are meeting the ever-changing needs of those who live, work and play in Chandler. From comprehensive maternity, newborn and pediatric services, to specialty care, acute inpatient hospital care, trauma services and more, there is no shortage of expert care close by.

Primary care providers Presidio Primary Care and Banner Health Center, medical imaging facilities like SimonMed Medical Imaging Center, outpatient orthopedic

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Gilbert 480-890-7705

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institutions such as Arizona Orthopedic and Surgical Specialty Hospital, acute care powerhouse Dignity Health Chandler Regional Medical Center, and others combine to ensure Chandler’s suite of healthcare services is both vast and varied.

Glendale 623-312-3000

Phoenix 602-494-6800

Mesa/Arbor 480-981-1326 Scottsdale 480-314-6670

www.ironwoodcrc.com 22 | Chandler Chamber Business and Relocation Guide

Tim Bricker, CEO of Chandler Regional and Mercy Gilbert Medical Centers, says the city’s growing healthcare industry is a direct reflection of the community. The 2014 addition of a new patient tower and Level I trauma center at the Chandler hospital are prime examples. “The county’s five trauma centers were all located pretty far away,” Bricker said. “With the opening of our trauma center, patients are now treated closer to home.” Bricker says the majority of the hospital’s trauma cases are related to blunt force trauma, resulting primarily from vehicle accidents. With a rising population comes an increase in traffic accidents

and, therefore, the number of patients requiring trauma services. “We knew there was a big need for trauma care, but we didn’t expect patient volumes to grow as fast as they have,” Bricker said. Thankfully, long-term planning is always underway. The patient tower that opened two years ago brought the hospital to 339 patient beds and expanded existing programs like surgery and emergency medicine services. However, Bricker says another patient tower and a parking structure – a welcome addition to any hospital campus – will likely open in the next three to four years.

Meeting needs While information about specific service lines and programs being added or expanded remain under wraps, Bricker highlighted the need for greater maternity services. “We’re already a high-acuity birth center with a neonatal intensive care unit, but there’s still a very real need to expand maternal/child services to further accommodate the young families and growing population,” he said. The hospital continues to expand other programs. Recently, its neurosurgery capabilities got a significant boost thanks to an existing partnership between Dignity Health and Barrow Neurological Institute.

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hen prospective home buyers and hopeful sellers connect with Realtors Sharon and Paul Scholl of Realty One Group, they’ll receive the care, attention and expertise of “two agents for the price of one,” Paul said. “We’re a team in real estate as well as in marriage,” he said. Sharon has 10 years’ experience in real estate in three states—Arizona, Georgia and Illinois. Paul joined Sharon in 2015 after many years as a senior executive in the corporate world. Their specialties include first-time buyers, new homes, relocation and retirement and active adult communities. “Nothing satisfies us more than seeing the smiles that come with a successful real estate transaction,” Sharon said. In addition to superior service in their business, the Scholls are known for reaching out to the community and helping others through volunteering and charitable giving. “Helping others through volunteering is very important to us,” Paul said. Being members of the Chandler Chamber of Commerce helps the Scholls stay involved in the community, he said.

MORE INFORMATION: Sharon A. & Paul M. Scholl Sharon: 480-206-4157 Paul: 480-646-7593 sharonscholl2@gmail.com sharonandpaulscholl.com

DINING

Unique and delicious eateries By Michelle Jacoby

here’s never a dull moment when it comes to dining in Chandler. Recently, an influx of new and exciting restaurants, gastropubs and cocktail lounges have opened their doors throughout the city, making Chandler a true dining destination. Here are a few new eateries to add to your must-dine list.

North Chandler BELLA GUSTO URBAN PIZZERIA is one of the most highly-anticipated restaurants to join the Chandler dining scene this year—and for good reason. Along with house-made charcuterie, cheese boards, pastas, sandwiches and desserts, the restaurant dishes out 12 specialty Neapolitan-style pizzas. Among them are the Flavortown topped with mozzarella, caramelized onions, mushrooms, spicy soppressata, pecorino and truffle oil; and the Triple P with pancetta, goat cheese, fig jam, mushrooms, arugula and pickled red onion. NISHIKAWA RAMEN adds another option for noodle-loving diners in the East Valley to add to their list of slurpworthy spots. Named after a city in northern Japan, Nishikawa touts a 28-hour broth and noodles made from scratch every day. There are six ramens to choose from: original and spicy versions of tonkotsu or miso, and the Nishikawa curry or black. Start your meal with a selection of tapas and salads, and end it with green tea ice cream with mochi.

South Chandler With 30 beers on tap, THE CASUAL PINT is a beer lover’s dream come true. Part bar lounge, part beer market, this relaxed and casual spot is a great place to enjoy a cold one with friends on the patio, catch the latest game, or stock up on a favorite brew. And since nothing goes better with a cold beer than a tasty snack, the Casual Pint’s menu features starters, hand-crafted flatbreads, wraps and brats. CUISINE & WINE BISTRO elevates Chandler’s fine dining scene thanks to chef-owner Fabrice Buschtetz, who puts a modern twist on traditional French cuisine. Menu items range from charcuterie and fromage boards, to croquettes and terrines, to salads and desserts. But it’s the chef’s recommendations that truly give diners a taste of France, particularly the classic magret de canard, sauce a l’Orange et Grand Marnier (duck breast with orange and Grand Marnier sauce, served with duchesse potato).

East Chandler EKLECTIC PIE celebrates the buildyour-own pizza trend with a selection of toppings you’d be hard pressed to find at your traditional pizza joint

24 | Chandler Chamber Business and Relocation Guide

(think tofu, walnuts, black beans and Chinese snow peas). Simply choose a dough, sauce and toppings, then watch as your pizza is freshly made in their state-of-the-art pizza oven. Family-owned and operated, the restaurant is committed to using all-natural ingredients and Arizonamade products. And for every pizza sold, a donation is made to a local food bank. If it’s a steaming hot bowl of pho you’re craving, AZ PHO & GRILL will definitely hit the spot. Open daily for lunch and dinner, the restaurant offers 11 pho soup bowls ranging from steak, brisket and oxtail, to seafood, tofu and veggie. Other traditional Vietnamese selections include banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich), noodle dishes, grilled meat dishes and stirfried specials. The restaurant also has a full beverage menu, which includes Thai milk tea, Vietnamese coffee and boba drinks. West Chandler NEW INDIA GATE brings northern Indian cuisine to the heart of Chandler. The extensive menu features a mouth-watering array of curry, madras, masala and biryani dishes, as well as tandooris, meats roasted in a clay oven. House specialties include the goat curry, goat achari, and kulfi, a house-made ice cream. If you can’t decide, try the lunch buffet, which was just featured in BuzzFeed’s “25 Most Popular Local Buffets in America.” LOS TAQUITOS MEXICAN GRILL was started by the Ochoa sisters— all five of them—and pays tribute to their mother’s recipes for authentic Mexican cuisine. Using only fresh ingredients, dishes include

handmade tacos, burritos, tostadas, quesadillas and enchiladas, as well as the house special menudo, pozole and chile relleno. If you can’t make it for lunch or dinner, start the day with an egg, cheese and potato burrito or chilaquiles just like mom used to make. Downtown Chandler Located at 55 Chicago Street in downtown Chandler, 55 CHICAGO isn’t hard to miss. The fittingly Chicago-themed cocktail lounge offers small-batch spirits and cocktails, and wines served at nightly happy hours and a reverse happy hour on Sunday nights. For a bite to go with your sip, a carefully curated menu features such unique offerings as Poutin Fajitas (garlic herb fries, gravy, cheese curds, over-easy egg, onions and peppers served fajita style) and a Vienna all-beef Chicago hot dog.

LA BOCCA WINE BAR & URBAN KITCHEN and MODERN MARGARITA give downtown diners a choice of two concepts under one roof. For a taste of European-style cuisine, La Bocca offers a menu of bruschettas, gourmet pizzas, and pastas served with wines, cocktails and and sangrias. For Latin-inspired tastes, check out Modern Margarita’s menu of dips, appetizers, salads, tacos and, of course, premium tequilas and specialty margaritas.

EDUCATION Classrooms for Life Chandler prepares the workforce and leaders of the future By Joan Westlake

wealth of educational opportunities is major factor in why the City of Chandler is attractive to business and industry. The Chandler Unified School District, serving more than 41,000 students in grades K-12 each year, has received countless honors including 70 Arizona A+ and National Blue Ribbon Awards since 1983 and has been rated the No. 1 K-12 school district in Arizona for the past two years, based on data from Niche rankings. Teachers are acclaimed, also. President Obama named Basha High teacher Dr. Michael McKelvy a recipient of the prestigious Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching. Students consistently score among the top in the state on college-entrance exams with CUSD graduates, during the 2014-15 school year, earning $92.6 million in scholarships and 25,479 hours of college credit through various dual enrollment and collegelevel testing programs. Four additional districts cited for academic honors serve Chandler residents including Kyrene Elementary School District, Tempe Union High School District, Mesa Public Schools and Gilbert Public Schools. Private and charter schools offer additional choices for K-12 schooling with many such as Chandler Preparatory Academy, Legacy Traditional School, BASIS and Champion Chandler winning state and national recognitions. Religious schools such as Seton Catholic

Preparatory, Tri-city Christian Academy and Valley Christian High School add to the options. The variety and caliber of K-12 education is reflective of the young, affluent Chandler residents, with nearly 70 percent having some college education. The vibrant Price Road employment corridor is home to major companies such as Intel, Wells Fargo, General Motors, PayPal and Orbital ATK that attract and retain these well-educated residents. These industries encourage employee personal and professional growth with high tech industries requiring the continuing education of their workforce. Chandler-Gilbert Community College and Mesa Community College, two of the 10 highly rated Maricopa Community Colleges, provide an affordable resource for those pursuing degrees as well as learning workforce skills. The Arizona Advanced Manufacturing Institute (AzAMI) at MCC collaborates with high tech and aerospace industries to provide the most up-to-date training for degrees and certifications in areas such as electronics, drafting, automation and machining, and welding. Also, in the Chandler area are private educational institutions including Western International University, University of Advancing Technology and University of Phoenix.A few minutes from Chandler, nationally acclaimed Arizona State University has a Polytechnic campus to the east and its Tempe campus to the west.

Von Hanson’s Offering Local Residents More Than 12 Years of High Quality and Delicious Meats

Shop is Well-Known for its Fresh Chicken, Beef and Pork as Well as 100 Varieties of Fresh & Smoked Sausages

hat began as a trip by snowbirds Martha and Gene Neese from Apple Valley, Minnesota turned into a new experience for Chandler residents. After bringing along suitcases full of Midwestern-grown meats from the original Von Hanson’s, the Neeses were unable to find establishments that were comparable in quality and flavor in the area. Looking to fill that niche in Arizona, Martha and her husband opened Von Hanson’s Meats & Spirits in Chandler. Von Hanson’s Meats has been a staple in the Chandlerarea for 12 years. For more than a decade, the store has built a reputation for its fresh, all-natural beef, pork and chicken. The store also specializes in homemade jerky, smoked sausages and wild game processing of elk, deer, javelin, bear, and mountain lion. In addition, Von Hanson’s has become a haven for barbecue aficionados who visit the store for its sauces, flavored woods and pellets. The store features both local merchants and varieties from different parts of the country. “Our signature product is our sausage. Since 1984, our Minnesota born sausage meister who has a strong German heritage has created over 100 different varieties. It’s our 12th year in business, so stop in and visit us in Chandler, sample, and check out our specials.”

MORE INFORMATION: Martha Neese Von Hanson’s Meats & Spirits 2390 N Alma School Rd. Chandler 480-917-2525 vonhansonsmeats.net

ATTRACTIONS Chandler: Attracting attention Abundance of outdoor activities, entertainment for the entire family By Meghann Finn Sepulveda handler residents can enjoy nearby restaurants and shopping, beautiful parks and a vibrant arts and cultural scene. Many new venues have recently moved into Chandler, bringing even more attractions and entertainment options to the family-friendly community.

Located in historic Downtown Chandler, The Chandler Center for the Arts includes three theatres and a 2,000 square foot exhibition gallery with a total seating capacity of 1,500. Now in its

Entertainment

Shopping • Chandler Fashion Center • Phoenix Premium Outlets

Parks and recreation

Arts and culture

There’s definitely not a shortage of things to do in Chandler. Whether you’re hitting the town for a night out with friends or spending a Saturday afternoon with your kids, there’s plenty of fun to be had at places such as:

• Alamo Drafthouse Cinema • Rawhide Western Town • Lone Butte Casino • San Marcos Golf Course • Aji Spa at Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort • Chandler Public Library • Skateland • Burst of Butterflies • Coyote’s Den

Chandler also boasts more than 60 regional, community and neighborhood parks along with special use facilities, offering play structures, basketball and tennis courts, spray pads, aquatics, nature trails, wildlife viewing and fishing. The Arizona Railway Museum at Tumbleweed Park is dedicated to the acquisition, restoration, preservation and display of railway equipment, artifacts and mementos related to Arizona railways of the past and present. Since 1983, the non-profit organization has been educating adults and children about railways of Arizona and the Southwest.

List of attractions

Dining/Nightlife 27th season, The Chandler Center for the Arts features a variety of performances ranging from comedy shows to concerts and appeals to audiences of all ages.

Entertainment Chandler also proudly hosts a number of community festivals and special events each year. Of the most popular are the Ostrich Festival, Chandler Mayor’s Day of Play and the Chandler Jazz Festival. If it’s speed you’re seeking, the Bondurant School of High Performance Driving, includes a 1.6-mile track on a 60-acre facility, designed by world champion driver Bob Bondurant himself. Additionally, classroom facilities for instruction, enthusiastic and knowledgeable instructors along with a full line of Dodge SRT® vehicles and safety gear are available.

26 | Chandler Chamber Business and Relocation Guide

• The Living Room • Vintage 95 Wine Lounge • SanTan Brewing Company • Si Señor Restaurant • Singing Pandas Asian Restaurant & Bar

Parks • Desert Breeze Park • Environmental Education Center at Veterans Oasis Park • Tumbleweed Park • Hamilton Aquatic Center

Arts and Culture • The Chandler Museum • Zelma Basha Salmeri Gallery • Chandler Center for the Arts

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SHOPPING Great bargains, fun finds How Chandler is becoming one of the Valley’s most popular shopping destinations By Michelle Jacoby

handler is known for many things: family-friendly neighborhoods, excelling schools, technology centers and a burgeoning startup scene. But with a bounty of retail centers and specialty stores, Chandler is fast becoming a favorite stop for the most seasoned shopper. The city’s largest retail center is Chandler Fashion

Center, located off the Loop 101 Freeway and Chandler Boulevard. As one of the largest premier shopping destinations in the Southwest, it has an upscale collection of more than 180 stores including Ann Taylor, Michael Kors, Coach, Banana Republic, lululemon athletica and H&M, anchored by Dillard’s, Macy’s, Nordstrom and Sears. For fun and entertainment,

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Visit the Great Shops and Restaurants of Downtown Chandler!

Chandler Fashion Center is the city’s largest retail center, featuring an upscale collection of more than 180 stores.

there are 25 restaurants and eateries available, as well as a 20-screen movie theater, and The Village, a new outdoor event space featuring a splash pad in the day and a dazzling light display at night. More shopping opportunities continue at the Boulevard Shops, located just north of the center. Treat yourself to a spa day at Dolce Salon & Spa, pick up a gift for new mom or mom-to-be at Modern Mommy Boutique, or get fit with the latest exercise equipment at Fitness 4 Home Superstore. For serious shopping aficionados, Chandler Fashion Center offers shopping packages with local hotels and resorts, including the luxurious Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort & Spa and recently-renovated Comfort Inn. Those looking for a more upscale shopping experience will appreciate the selection of high-end shops and boutiques at the Shoppes at Casa Paloma, located on Chandler Boulevard, near Interstate 10. A true luxury destination, a day at Casa Paloma can

include discovering the latest fashions at Paris Paris, getting pampered at Rolf ’s Salon, or treating yourself to a shiny, new bauble at Coffin & Trout Fine Jewelers. Shoppers looking for a wide variety of retail options—and, of course, a good bargain— need look no further than the Phoenix Premium Outlets. With more than 90 stores, a great deal is always just around the corner from such retailers as DKNY, Kate Spade, Tommy Hilfiger, Polo Ralph Lauren Factory Store, and Saks Fifth Avenue Off 5th. If you prefer locally made goods, stroll downtown Chandler’s marketplace and square, lined with an eclectic mix of shops and boutiques. Check out the latest western wear at Saba’s, find unique women’s clothing and accessories at One Wing Boutique, or treat your feet to a fancy new pair at Shoe Thrill. Lastly, show your Arizona pride with a fun find at Sibley’s West, a gift shop carrying items from makers in Chandler and throughout Arizona.

RECREATION Biking, playing and hiking— Outdoor Chandler 10th consecutive year to receive the ‘Playful City USA’ award By Pat Whitney

handler is an outdoor mecca for runner and biker Crystal Thudium. “On weekends, my kids and I bike five to seven miles along the Paseo Trails,” Thudium said. “When it’s just my boyfriend and me, we do all the trails — about 30 miles—then stop Downtown Chandler at the craft breweries.” The Minnesota native grew up outdoors and is happy that her children can do the same. “There are so many opportunities to play here,” she said. “We are literally surrounded by parks.” Chandler has 65 parks — neighborhood, community and regional — according to Chandler Marketing & Communications Coordinator Tiffanie Hawkins. For the 10th year running, Chandler has received a “Playful City USA” award. Having fun has never been so easy.

Diverse options From tennis to trailblazing, picnicking to playground — Chandler’s park system leaves little to the imagination. Except at Paseo Vista Recreation Area—a repurposed landfill—where children climb the mountain of dirt to play on a massive Gila Monster, dig for dinosaur

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Paseo Vista Recreation Area

bones or walk through giant tortoise shells. There are picnic areas, walking trails, a dog park, archery range and disc golf course. Tumbleweed Park’s “Playtopia,” a 2.5-acre playground with multiple play zones, reflects Chandler’s heritage with farm and urbanlandscape themes. The park offers 14 covered ramadas with picnic tables — the largest accommodating 320 people —as well as grills, sand volleyball, horseshoe pits and tennis.

The League of American Bicyclists named Chandler one of the U.S.’s most bicyclefriendly cities in 2004, 2006 and 2009. Popular trails include: The 6.5-mile Paseo Trail: A 10-foot-wide multi-use pathway on the eastern side of the Consolidated Canal in east Chandler and an unimproved dirt surface on the western side for horseback riding or bicycling Veterans Oasis Park: 4.5 miles of hiking trails through park land, lake and wetlands/ groundwater recharge basins Oasis Park Solar System Walk: A series of concrete monuments that represent the significant objects in the solar system along a 2,500-foot pathway around the lake SanTan Mountain Regional Park: More than eight miles of hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding trails “It’s like a big playground all year long — always people outdoors, friendly, inspiring,” said biking enthusiast Melissa Masin.

Did you know? n Chandler has at least one 10-acre park for every square mile of residential. n Chandler has 327 miles of paved bike paths.

Fitness first in Chandler Chandler has also established itself as a great place for fitness-oriented enterprises and spas. A quick look on Yelp today and you’ll likely come across more than 50 highly regarded fitness-related businesses that cater to a wide range of people. The city’s diverse population sets the stage for a variety of fitness options. Some may simply look to local recreation centers or gyms for their fitness needs. Others may want an establishment like Redline Athletics for training for a specific sport. “Chandler’s a great fit for us,” adds Curtis Powell, head trainer and operational manager at Redline Athletics. “It’s a close-knit community and very relationship-driven with lots of parents with kids who are athletes.” Even the Valley’s professional hockey club, the Arizona Coyotes, recently invested in Chandler with a $6 million renovation of the Coyotes Ice Den skating facility. The firstclass site has seen a business boost and gotten the attention of fans around the valley. Others, like the 82,000 square-foot Ocotillo Village Health Club & Spa, offer a family-oriented, resort-style health club atmosphere. Kids can join mom and dad at the club and enjoy junior basketball and tennis development programs, a dedicated kid’s gym, fitness camps, and more. “Every day we are hearing from local moms and dads who are so excited to finally have a health club where children are not just welcome, but encouraged to come,” added Rick Erdenberger, the club’s general manager.

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