Valley Lifestyles November 2014 by Times Media Group

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VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014

Women’s Hair Loss

Why Does it Happen? & What can you do about it? What used to be a “men’s condition” is now quickly becoming a female epidemic. It is scary to think that you could randomly wake up one day and begin to see more hair on the pillow case and less on your head. For women losing their hair, it is a serious blow to femininity and the ideal vision of themselves. We are constantly cutting and coloring to make sure our hair looks the best it can. But what if one day the un-thinkable happens… and it falls out and doesn’t grow back?

Question: What causes women’s hair loss?

Answer: Female hair loss can be caused by multiple factors, but the most common cause is an underlying genetic pre-disposition to hair loss known as androgenetic alopecia or female pattern hair loss. Unlike the popular myth that you inherit hair loss from your mother’s father, women can inherit hair loss from either side of the family. This means that women can inherit hair loss from men and vice versa. It is much more common than people know. There are other factors that can cause hair loss or increase hair loss due to family history. They include stress, lifestyle, diet, thyroid disfunction, fungal infections, scalp parasites, and medications (most common hormone replacement and birth control pills). MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014 2 VALLEY LIFESTYLES

Question: What do your clinics use to help women with thinning hair?

Answer: Depending on the reason for the loss, the treatment protocol will vary. Usually though for common female pattern hair loss the protocol is relatively similar. We a have a 9 month program that includes twice weekly office visits for cool light laser treatments for the scalp. This stimulates cell regeneration and is already approved to promote thicker hair. Our program also includes topical pharmaceuticals, hormone therapy balancing cream, nutritional supplementation, holistic hair care products, and topical scalp serums. This is most aggressive treatment that we offer, but it works. When you use everything together the way that our program does, you are bound to get results.

Question: What advice would you give a woman who is dealing with this problem?

Answer: Find the source of the problem as quickly as possible and treat that problem. Don’t try to treat it yourself because it wastes time that could be spent growing hair back. I obviously would recommend to call us and then come in for a consultation. Worst case scenario, you can stop the progression of the loss. Best case, we can dramatically reverse your hair loss and regrow hair. We have had numerous cases where a woman was wearing a wig or extensions when they started the treatment. Then 9 months later they were able to remove their wig permanently or stop getting extensions because their hair had gained so much volume and density.

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Question: Is there hope for women with thinning hair? How do you control it?

Answer: There certainly is. There are

so many tools that can be used to control female hair loss and reverse it in many cases. Once you have established the reason for the hair loss and it can be treated with a variety of methods. Unfortunately, most general physicians simply don’t have the time or the knowledge to get a full understanding of why a woman is losing her hair. The female patient is then left combing the internet for solutions that rarely leads to any real answer.

Question: How you do know what is causing your hair loss?

Answer: A simple patient history is the easiest way. Many women have blood tests for hormonal issues, thyroid dysfunction, iron levels, and vitamin D deficiency. Unfortunately this rarely produces any other cause other than normal pattern hair loss. At our clinics we use a video microscope to analyze the condition of the scalp at 50x magnification. At this level we can tell if the client has loss due to stress, diet, infection of the hair follicle, or simple hormonally related hair loss.

Question: Is there maintenance required?

Answer: 99% yes. I usually tell people it’s like brushing your teeth. If you don’t brush them and go to the dentist, your teeth will rot and fall out. The same goes for your hair. If you have a genetic hair loss problem, you have two options; oneyou can treat the problem long term, or two- let your hair fall out and go bald. Clearly our clients choose hair.

WILLIAM GAUNITZ, WTS CEO of Evolution Hair Loss Institute 4450 South Rural Rd. Bldg C. Suite 222 Tempe, AZ 85282

480-222-HAIR(4247) VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014 www.hairgrowthcenters.com

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EXECUTIVE EDITOR

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ASSOCIATE EDITOR

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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Lynette Carrington, Christina Fuoco-Karasinski, Alison Stanton, Katie Selph, Julie Lemerond, Melissa Hutsell ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Sheree Kamenetsky EDITORIAL INQUIRIES ccaldwell@valleylifestyles.com CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Sam Nalven, Kimberly Carrillo, Tim Sealy • Sleek louver design gives you a clean, sophisticated look!

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november

FEATURES 32

YOUR EAST VALLEY HOLIDAY SHOPPING, MAPPED

Is it just us, or does your holiday list seem to grow every year, too? Fear not, we’ve mapped out your entire East Valley shopping trip for you. From Mill Avenue to San Tan Village, from Downtown Chandler to must-stops along the 60, we’ve picked out the best places to shop for everyone on your list—all on-the-local. By Christina Caldwell

‘TIS THE SEASON TO EAT LOCALLY

THE POLAR EXPRESS IN WILLIAMS

From being cost effective to providing better-tasting produce, the beneﬁts of seasonal and local eating are becoming common sense. While some might view this as simply the latest trend in the restaurant biz, we’ve found ﬁve East Valley restaurants who have truly taken cooking local and seasonally fresh food to heart. By Breanne DeMore

Based on the beloved children’s book, The Polar Express is a magical journey from Williams all the way to the North Pole. With the help of a very special “magic tunnel” the Grand Canyon railway transports passengers directly to Santa’s Village. Just wait until you see the smile on your little one’s face as Santa hands them their own magic jingle bell. By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

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VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014

november DEPARTMENTS

12 FROM THE EDITOR 15 UPFRONT | 480 KICK IT! When the football team at Tempe’s Corona del Sol High School needed a new kicker, one very brave player stepped forward and began kicking down boundaries. That player was Hayley Langille, a female student, who, at 17 years old, has shown a whole lot of courage.

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53 FOOD & WINE RANCHO DE TIA ROSA Brings Old Mexico to Gilbert

58 IN SEASON: Cranberries 60 YOU GOTTA TRY

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VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014

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What if there waswas a place you you could go where you could get crowns donedone fromfrom startstart What if there a place could go where you could get crowns What ifindustry-leading there was a place you could go where you could get crowns done from start where industry-leading dental innovations werewere created; where everything fromfrom usualusual to to where dental innovations created; where everything

complicated dentistry is routine; and and where the dentist himself is sought afterafter nationally complicated dentistry is routine; where the dentist himself is sought nationally where industry-leading dental innovations were created; where everything from usual to andand internationally to discuss the latest techniques and innovations in dentistry? internationally discussand thewhere latest the techniques and innovations dentistry? complicated dentistry istoroutine; dentist himself is sought in after nationally There is—and it’s right in your ownown backyard. There is—and it’s right in your backyard.and innovations in dentistry? and internationally to discuss the latest techniques John A. Garza D.D.S., P.C. is like no other dental office you’ve experienced. Here, A. Garza D.D.S., P.C. like no other dental office you’ve experienced. Here, ThereJohn is—and it’s right in your ownisbackyard. you’ll find find - the- absolute cutting - edge in laser dentistry in order to make youryour visitsvisits as as you’ll the absolute cutting edge in laser dentistry in order to make John A. Garza D.D.S., P.C. is like no other dental office you’ve experienced. Here, painless as possible. short, easyeasy andand painless as-possible. you’llshort, find - the absolute cutting edge in laser dentistry in order to make your visits as Dr. John A. Garza, a licensed general & certified diode laserlaser dentist, serving the East Dr. John A. Garza, a licensed general & certified diode dentist, serving the East painless as possible. short, easy and Valley since 1994, vowed to create a locale that that waswas someplace he would wantwant to gotoifgo if Valley since 1994, vowed to create a locale someplace he would Dr. John A. Garza, a licensed general & certified diode laser dentist, serving the East he were the patient. He wanted to create a place that that waswas co-diagnostic and interachesince were the patient. wanted create place co-diagnostic interacValley 1994, vowedHe to create a to locale thata was someplace he would wantand to go if tive,tive, andand where the patient themselves would be able to make a decision about theirtheir where the patient themselves wouldthat be was able co-diagnostic to make a decision about he were the patient. He wanted to create a place and interacdental carecare based on what theythey werewere shown could be done via the interactive based on what shown could done via latest the latest tive, dental and where the patient themselves would be able tobe make a decision aboutinteractive their technological tools. technological dental care based tools. on what they were shown could be done via the latest interactive

technological tools. offered are digital ones, which reduce patient doses of radiation by 98%, and and computers offered are digital ones, which reduce patient doses of radiation by 98%, computers at the side of each chair so patients can view the x-rays (and other images) along with with at the side of each chair so patients can view the x-rays (and other images) along offered are digital ones, which reduce patient doses of radiation by 98%, and computers the dentist. the dentist. at the side of each chair so patients can view the x-rays (and other images) along with Some patients joke that “it’s like NASA here!” And that’s a good thing. Some the dentist. patients joke that “it’s like NASA here!” And that’s a good thing. “For“For example, with our smile makeovers, it takes about threethree hours to dotoan example, makeovers, it takes about hours do8-tooth an 8-tooth Some patients jokewith that our “it’s smile like NASA here!” And that’s a good thing. makeover. There are TV screens over the patient’s head playing movies, and throughout makeover. There screens over theitpatient’s headthree playing movies, throughout “For example, withare ourTV smile makeovers, takes about hours to do and an 8-tooth makeover. There are TV screens over the patient’s head playing movies, and throughout allows the patient to leave withwith color, shape and and teethteeth that that theythey want. And And because we’rewe’re allows the patient to leave color, shape want. because doing it together, they end up with a custom smile, rather than one where a remote lab doing it together, theywith endcolor, up with a custom smile, than one a remote allows the patient to leave shape and teeth thatrather they want. Andwhere because we’re lab technician is making the same thing for everybody and you’re hoping that what is sent is they making for everybody and you’re whatlab is sent doingtechnician it together, endthe upsame with athing custom smile, rather than one hoping where athat remote back for you is what you want. With this technique, the patient is very involved, and we’re back for you is what you want. With this technique, the patient is very involved, and technician is making the same thing for everybody and you’re hoping that what is sentwe’re able to personalize it as we go,” Dr. Garza explains. to personalize as weWith go,”this Dr. technique, Garza explains. backable for you is what youitwant. the patient is very involved, and we’re The one-visit solutions are possible thanks to the CEREC by Sirona Dental Systems. The one-visit solutions are possible thanks to the CEREC by Sirona Dental Systems. able to personalize it as we go,” Dr. Garza explains. It’s the world’s only system for the fabrication of all ceramic dental restorations in one It’s one-visit the world’s only system for thethanks fabrication all ceramic dentalDental restorations in one The solutions are possible to theofCEREC by Sirona Systems.

It’s theschedule world’s only system for the fabrication of all ceramic dental restorations in one busy for dental care! busy schedule for dental care! Dr. Garza is also the creator of The Crane, an innovative and industry-changing tool Dr. Garza is also care! the creator of The Crane, an innovative and industry-changing tool busy schedule dental that removes afor crown and bridge without the pounding tools dentists used previously. that removes a crown and bridge without theinnovative poundingand tools dentists used previously. Dr. Garza is also the creator of Theand Crane, an industry-changing tool His expertise regarding this device his extensive knowledge in general is called His expertise regarding this device and his extensive knowledge in general is called that removes a crown and bridge without the pounding tools dentists used previously. upon often in a speaking capacity, and he has taught and given lectures everywhere upon often in a speaking capacity, and he has taught and givengeneral lecturesiseverywhere His expertise thisatdevice his University extensive knowledge called from overseasregarding to nationally placesand like the of Oklahomainand the Southwest from overseas to nationally at places like the University of Oklahoma andeverywhere the Southwest upon often in a speaking capacity, and he has taught and given lectures Dental Convention. Dental Convention. fromSo overseas nationally at places like theaUniversity Oklahoma and thesmile Southwest whethertoyou need a routine cleaning, root canal,ofcrown, or complete makeSo whether you need a routine cleaning, a root canal, crown, or complete smile makeDental Convention. over, don’t you owe it to yourself to put yourself in the hands of one of the industry’s most over, don’t you you owe itato yourself to put yourself in thecrown, handsorofcomplete one of thesmile industry’s So whether routine cleaning, a root canal, make-most technologies respected dentists,need at a trusted location that offers the most cutting-edge technologies respected dentists, at a trusted location that offers the of most cutting-edge over, don’t you owe it to yourself to put yourself in the hands one of the industry’s and services so that you have the easiest and most advanced dental care possible?most and services soat that you have the easiest and most advanced dental care possible? technologies respected dentists, a trusted location that offers the most cutting-edge and services so that you have the easiest and most advanced dental care possible?

editor's letter

AS YOU PEER OVER YOUR UNBUTTONED PANTS this Thanksgiving, you’ll likely

ON THE COVER: Jenn Loyd, founder and blogger at sincerelyjenn.com PHOTO BY SAM NALVEN

VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014

regret every morsel of food you put into your mouth. Did you really need that second piece of cheesecake? Or even the first? And how about the fourth? I can already see my future. I’ll take a post-meal breather, staring at myself in the bathroom mirror. Looking into my eyes, I’ll rationalize that the broccoli salad counteracted the apple pie. Plus, how bad are apples for you anyway? Apple pie is practically a wholesome serving of fruit! Hiding my shame, I’ll skip unbuttoning my pants. Thanksgiving is a casual affair with my family (one thing the Caldwells do right), so you can bet I’ll wear the stretchiest yoga pants in my wardrobe and bypass that step entirely. After your Thanksgiving meal, it’s tough to imagine that anyone in the world is hungry. But there are people with very little to eat on Thanksgiving and throughout the year. As we embarked upon creating this issue, stuffed with food stories like a prized Thanksgiving bird, we felt the need to give back. After a recent family tragedy, I’m inclined to count my blessings now more than ever. If you feel the same, take a look at our 480 story on how to volunteer and give back this holiday. Then it’s time to dig in. The foodie feast that is Thanksgiving is usually less of a relaxing holiday for the family’s

matriarch or head cook and more of a giant hassle. Luckily, Valley chefs deal with cooking for the masses every day. We talked to some of the Valley’s hottest gourmets and event planners to get their advice on streamlining Thanksgiving so you can unwind with the rest of the clan. And if you’re like me, your postThanksgiving workout comes in the form of shopping. Yes, admittedly I am one of those insane Black Friday shoppers, which is really the only competitive sport in which I participate. (I don’t throw elbows, though. That’s foul play!) As shopping season kicks into full gear, we scoured the East Valley for the best shopping hubs and mapped out your trip, which will cover unique gifts for your significant other, kids, and the weirdo coworker that always heats up stinky food in the office kitchen. (That doesn’t even smell like food, Harold!) I’m bursting with holiday cheer, but unlike Thanksgivings and Christmases in my youth, these days they’re not all about me. ‘Tis better to give than receive, so I hope this issue makes your holiday a breeze. Thankfully,

CHRISTINA CALDWELL Executive Editor

VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014

My Favorite Thingz 480-895-9045

4955 S. Alma School Road Chandler, AZ 85248 Northeast Corner of Alma School and Chandler Heights 14

VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014

UpFront 480 TRENDS | PEOPLE | CULTURE | STYLE

KICK IT! BY CHRISTINA CALDWELL

CORONA DEL SOL’S HAYLEY LANGILLE SETS THE BALL FOR FEMALE HIGH SCHOOL KICKERS While most girls are beating the boys away with a stick at 17, Hayley Langille is giving them the beat down.

As a senior kicker for Tempe’s Corona del Sol High School, Langille is much more than just a girl who plays football—she’s a member of the Aztec team as much as any male player. But it wasn’t always that way. When she started playing as a freshman, she was met with curious looks and whispers. “Freshman year was really awkward,” Langille says. “I didn’t really know a lot of people, and you know, freshman boys are really immature.” But her brother, also a Corona del Sol player at the time, knew she was capable of hitting the field.

VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014

upfront 480

TRENDS | PEOPLE | CULTURE | STYLE

“He was just like ‘Hey, why don’t you go out there and show the boys up?’” Langille says. Unlike her male counterparts who grew up in the Pop Warner sphere, Langille never played football beyond flag games. And at first she struggled to find her place on the team. While she was a competent self-taught kicker, another player on her freshman team ruled the kicking position until his senior year. When the team looked for a replacement, Langille spoke up. “We needed a kicker, and we had a few guys that were defense and could get the job done, but I told coach ‘Hey coach, I can kick,’ and he said ‘OK, let’s see what you got,’ and I kept on kicking and making these field goals,” Langille says. “The first couple ones weren’t pretty because it had been like three years since I’d kicked, but eventually I got really good at it and he was like ‘Alright, Hayley. You’re going to be our kicker now.’” As more and more girls become involved with high school football across the country and as gender boundaries start breaking down in sports, one might think someone like Langille would be met with adversity, being one of the first of her kind. But in fact, it’s quite the opposite. “I get so much support from my school. Kids I don’t even know ... just come up and start talking to me because they know I’m the girl on the football team and it’s really cool,” Langille says. “I get so much support from my peers.” Part of that is thanks to her outgoing personality. Langille says she’ll talk to anyone and become friends with anyone, so there’s really no question about who she is or why she’s playing on the football team. It’s because she loves it, and football isn’t her only sports specialty. She also plays basketball and softball. Just because she gets support doesn’t mean she’s treated gently, though. Langille says other teams, even if they’re unfamiliar with her, still treat her as one of the team, female or not. “They still go all out,” she says. “It’s like there’s two extremes. You either get your a** kicked by a girl, and they don’t want that because that’s embarrassing, or they go all out on me and it’s just normal, so I don’t think I’ve been treated differently by another team.” While societal standards for girls in sports are changing and the younger generation is still open and accepting, their parents might have much more conservative thoughts about women in football. Langille doesn’t let the little criticism she does get irk her too much, though. She needs to be herself for her own good, and for the good of other young girls who want to play the sport, too. “If I could talk to [a girl who wants to try out], I’d say it’ll be really tough and it’ll be really, really awkward and hard for them. But they’ll get to a point where they realize why they do it and how much fun they have, hopefully, because it was a roller coaster ride for me, but senior year I have no doubts and I enjoy every minute out there.” VLM

VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014

upfront 480

TRENDS | PEOPLE | CULTURE | STYLE

GIVINGThanks AND GIVING

BACK

BY BREANNE DEMORE

BODY COMPOSITION

FLOW WITH JESSICA LANG DANCE THIS MONTH BY KATIE SELPH

One in five people in Arizona don’t know where their next meal will come from. That’s a pretty terrifying statistic. The good news is that you can do something about it. The holidays are the perfect time to take time to be grateful for our gifts and blessings and realize how easy it is to share them. Check out the organizations below to volunteer this season—and don’t forget to donate. A little goes a very long way! UNITED FOOD BANK

Working to provide food and nutritional education to Eastern Arizona, including the greater East Valley, United Food Bank Mesa is always looking for food and monetary donations ($5 can provide 20 meals!) as well as volunteers.

245 S. Nina Dr., Mesa, (480) 926-4897, unitedfoodbank.org TEMPE COMMUNITY ACTION AGENCY (TCAA)

With the mission “to improve the quality of life for the underserved in our community,” the TCAA works to end hunger and homelessness, build stability, keep families healthy and offer services to senior or aging citizens.

2150 E. Orange St., Tempe, (480) 350-5880, tempeaction.org FEED MY STARVING CHILDREN (FMSC)

A non-profit organization that is committed to feeding malnourished children around the world, FMSC needs volunteers—adults and children— to help pack nutritious meals to be shipped to nearly 70 countries.

The arrival of fall and winter might be enough reason for you to dance, but for choreographer Jessica Lang, it’s in her blood, and she just can’t shake it until her dance company performs Thursday, Nov. 20 at Mesa Arts Center. Lang, who was hailed “a master of visual composition” by Dance Magazine, brings her contemporary company for an evening of striking dance performances. The New York-based company will perform engaging contemporary works that incorporate architectural elements with traditional classical ballet technique. Brilliantly choreographed and passionately danced, the pieces often integrate projections on the stage that seamlessly flow with the movements of the dancers. Each dancer tells an emotional tale that is emphasized through the use of props and deep musicality brought out in the choreography. Lang’s work as a dancer and as a choreographer is worldrenowned. Since 1999 she has created more than 80 works with companies around the world. She received a prestigious Bessie Award, an annual award ceremony that recognizes outstanding and groundbreaking creative work by independent dance artists in New York City, in 2014 for “outstanding emerging choreographer.” Jessica Lang Dance has received rave reviews from press outlets across the country and enthralls each audience member with captivating movements and stunning imagery. Fans of dance and supporters of the arts should not miss this performance. VLM

7965 S. Priest Dr., Suite 106, Tempe, (480) 626-1970, fmsc.org ST. VINCENT DE PAUL

With 15 effective programs throughout Central Arizona, St. Vincent De Paul is always in need of new, energetic help, including volunteers for their Mesa dining room. Share your generosity with this charitable Valley staple.

67 W. Broadway Rd., Mesa, (602) 266-4673, stvincentdepaul.net VLM 18

VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014

DANCE IT OUT AT: MESA ARTS CENTER 1 E. Main St., Mesa (480) 644-6500 mesaartscenter.com

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TRENDS | PEOPLE | CULTURE | STYLE

LOCAL

LOOK

E.V. BLOG BEAT Jenn Loyd of Gilbert, sincerelyjenn.com BY CHRISTINA CALDWELL

COMPILED BY KIMBERLY CARRILLO

Kicking off our feature of East Valley bloggers is “Sincerely” Jenn Loyd, stylish scribe behind sincerelyjenn. com. The effortlessly fashionable Gilbert mom tells us where to shop in the E.V. to achieve her easy, breezy, girly style while balancing a hectic mommy schedule. How would you describe your personal style?

My personal style is a mix of stylish sophisticate and charming femme. I wear stylish trends with classic pieces mixed in, and I also like to embrace my feminism and wear pieces that are romantic, soft and girly. Where do you love to shop in the East Valley?

There are so many great places in the East Valley to shop. Francesca’s and Clothes Minded are great places to get affordable trendy pieces. Nordstrom’s, Dillard’s and Macy’s are where I find a lot of my staple pieces—pieces that I can wear from season to season, year to year. I especially love shopping those stores when they are clearing out their merchandise. You can get some amazing deals! How do you stay stylish while being a mom?

I believe it’s crucial for all of us moms to take a few minutes each day take care of ourselves. When we put a little time into ourselves, we are able to give better time to our families. This looks different for everyone. For me, it’s putting on a little makeup and an outfit that I feel ready to conquer my day in. I see a big difference on the days I don’t take the time for myself versus the days I do. I also get my daughter involved in the process. I let her help pick out what mommy is going to wear and I know she enjoys doing it with me. This allows me to stay stylish. What is your go-to outfit when you’re on the run?

My go-to outfit when I am on the run is my skinny jeans and a white T-shirt. In the fall and winter, I pair it with my Vans sneakers, boots or flats, and in the spring and summer, I jump into a pair of jeweled sandals. This outfit is so easy to build on. Depending on where I am headed, I will add a sweater, blazer or scarf. VLM GET THIS LOOK: Apricot Lane 2212 E. Williams Field Rd., Suite 101, Gilbert (480) 821-0055 apricotlaneboutique.com 20

VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014

CONNECT WITH JENN AT: Instagram: sincerelyjennblog Twitter: @xoSincerelyJenn facebook.com/xoxoSincerelyJenn sincerelyjenn.com

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TRENDS | PEOPLE | CULTURE | STYLE

Happy THE

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TRENDS | PEOPLE | CULTURE | STYLE

A STRESS-FREE

Feast

TIPS AND ADVICE FROM PROFESSIONALS ON HOW TO TAKE THE STRESS OUT OF THANKSGIVING BY BREANNE DEMORE

Celebrate your blessings with family and friends—that’s the tradition behind Thanksgiving. However, as the list of pressures and stressors on the host or hostess seems to get longer and longer every year, it can be difficult to remember why we’re all there. We’ve asked three East Valley professionals for advice on how to streamline Thanksgiving to make it actually enjoyable for everyone. PRIORITIZE

There is always that pressure to be “super mom”—the one that can do it all. But this year, allow yourself to prioritize and focus on the aspects that you really enjoy. If your skills lay in the kitchen, put your focus there and call your professional florist for help setting up the table. If you are more of the creative type, don’t feel badly about calling a local restaurant and ordering the dinner. Focus on your gifts and natural abilities and everyone will be better off for it. Tony Medlock, owner of PJ’s Flowers and Gifts, recommends calling a professional florist if you prefer putting your focus in the kitchen. It’s easy to discuss your vision and preferences with them

and not have to worry about it. However, for the creative types, he has some great advice for setting up the table. “Including pumpkins and gourds allows you to start setting up and planning the table much earlier,” he says. “Candles make dinner feel much more intimate. Mix tapered candles with votive candles to make it more interesting to the eye.” For those wanting to include flowers, Medlock recommends sticking with fall colors—deep oranges, rusts, golden mustards and pops of red. Roses are always great on tables, but for more texture and color, include cockscomb and hypericum integrated with grasses and grains. PLAN AHEAD AND PREPARE

It’s much easier said than done, especially for those of us who tend to procrastinate. However, planning ahead, writing out a schedule and preparing as much as you can in the days leading up to Thanksgiving are vital to enjoying the day. Jeff Flancer, owner of Flancer’s in Mesa and Gilbert, suggests picking up your Thanksgiving dinner. Flancer’s offers a Thanksgiving dinner to-go that includes turkey and all of the other holiday favorites. A few years ago, Flancer was in the kitchen preparing Thanksgiving dinner for his family and friends when he realized that if he was going to do it for his family, he could do it for yours, too. However, if you prefer to be the chef, Flancer advises giving yourself plenty of time. “Give yourself a good three days. Some stuff you can make a few days ahead and just heat up on Thanksgiving,” he says. “At the very least, prepare everything the day before so all you have to do is cook the food.” ASK FOR HELP

This one can be especially hard, but you shouldn’t be afraid to ask for help. It’s important to keep in mind that this is a family-oriented event and the more the hostess is enjoying herself, the more everyone else will, too. Piggly’s Smokehouse in Mesa also offers a holiday meal pick-up option. Whether you’re a gourmet guru or a cooking catastrophe, there is no denying that picking up the time-consuming traditional fare allows you to focus on everything else that is required of you. “Don’t do it all yourself. Let us do the cooking— 24

VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014

COPPER BLUES GETS TEMPE MUSIC SCENE ROLLING AGAIN BY LYNETTE CARRINGTON

“Give yourself a good three days. Some stuff you can make a few days ahead and just heat up on Thanksgiving...”

your time is valuable and should be spent with your loved ones,” says Jake Guzman, Piggly’s general manager. If you’re from a big family or inviting a lot of guests, another option is to delegate. Medlock explains that allowing each family member to be in charge of a dish or other duty fosters the sense of family that should surround the holiday. Thanksgiving is a truly wonderful American tradition that should be celebrated and enjoyed by all. The pressure to have everything perfect and make sure that everyone is having fun (and behaving!) makes it easy to get lost in the chaos, but let yourself enjoy the holiday this year. “Family can be kooky, but it’s the most important thing you have in life,” Flancer says. VLM

THE PROS: PJ’S FLOWERS AND GIFTS 7828 N. 19th Ave., Suite 10, Phoenix (602) 995-4999 pjsflowers.com FLANCER’S 1902 N. Higley Rd., Mesa (480) 396-0077 flancers.com PIGGLY’S SMOKEHOUSE 1633 S. Stapley Dr., Mesa (480) 707-9009 pigglys.com

If you’re looking for a dinner-and-a-show date night without venturing into the drab world of dinner theater, Tempe’s new Copper Blues Rock Pub and Kitchen will inspire romance between you and yours. Upon entering the new venue, you’re first struck by the smart décor— reclaimed wood, clever hand-created artwork and a hanging garden that encircles the dining area. As you sit down at your table, you look up to see the bust of St. Hildegard, the patron saint of hop growers, on her perch above the DJ booth blessing the 51 local and craft brews that flow from the large tap handles that surround the stage. At this point, if you’re not already persuaded to love Copper Blues, just go ahead and order—the food will certainly convince you. Located adjacent to comedy hot spot Tempe Improv, Copper Blues Tempe officially opened doors in late September. The location will mirror its sister location in Downtown Phoenix’s CityScape. “A lot of the very approachable, lively, crowd-interactive bands...that have been successful for us downtown, we’ve brought over here,” says Doug Lyons, general manager of Copper Blues Tempe. You never know who might show up at Copper Blues Tempe. Comedians from Tempe Improv often step in to emcee a night of music. ASU students will also be featured in a variety of roles at the new club. “We’re really trying to invest ourselves in the community,” Lyons says. VLM

ROCK AND ROLL AT: COPPER BLUES ROCK PUB & KITCHEN 930 E. University Dr., Tempe (480) 376-1243 copperblueslive.com VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014

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TRENDS | PEOPLE | CULTURE | STYLE

Love

FOSTERING

AN EAST VALLEY MOTHER EXPLAINS HOW THEIR FAMILY OF FIVE BECAME A FAMILY OF EIGHT BY BREANNE DEMORE

THE SWANSONS FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: ZANE, 7, COLTEN, 9, SAM, 11, SCOTT, JULIE, HAYDEN, 14, ELIJAH, 7 AND AVA, 4.

When Scott and Julie Swanson got married at age 21, they weren’t planning on adopting. “When we got married, we were always sure that we were meant for something, but we just weren’t quite sure what it was,” Julie says. However, having children was never an easy process for them. Difficulties conceiving, miscarriages and tough pregnancies wore on Julie and Scott, and after the birth of their third son, the Swansons decided to close the chapter on their childbearing years. They would stick with the three wonderful sons they had—or so they thought. “One day, God just told me to open my home to other kids,” Julie says. “I spoke with Scott and he agreed. This was it. This was what we were always trying to figure out that we were called for.” She did a quick Internet search and found Arizona Adoption and Foster Care (AAFC). Five months later, the Swansons had their foster license and were ready to 26

VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014

meet their first foster child. The Swansons spent 11 months with that first child, a 5-year-old boy who faced behavioral, emotional and mental problems. Julie and Scott did everything they could for him, but at the end of the day, it wasn’t enough and wasn’t safe for their other three sons to have him in the house. After a much deserved break, the Swansons decided to continue to foster. The next kids they got, two little sisters that came to them at three days and 12 months old, would change their plans and their hearts. “This was the turning point,” Julie says. “We got a taste of what it would be like to truly love children other than our own.” Sadly, after fostering them for two years, the Swansons weren’t able to adopt those two little girls. The girls were Native American and their tribe decided that they needed to grow up in a Native American household. The Swansons were heartbroken over losing these girls—their babies—but the adoption seed was planted.

Then Elijah came into their lives. And then quickly Zane and his biological sister, Ava, joined them, too. In fact, the Swansons adopted all three in one year. After being put through the fostering ringer for years and losing out on children they truly loved, the couple was not about to miss the opportunity to invite these three children into their home. “Scott and I asked ourselves if we were okay with these children living with anyone else and the answer was no. They were already part of us,” Julie says. “Adoption doesn’t automatically make you a perfect, happy family. But it’s amazing what stability and consistency will do for children.” Arizona is one of only two states that have shown a significant increase in the number of foster children in their system over the past decade, according to recent federal data. As World Adoption Day and National Adoption Day approach on November 9 and 22, respectively, agencies want to raise awareness for fostering and adoption. While the Swansons have certainly seen their share of heartbreak during their fostering and adopting experience, Julie is quick to explain why they kept persevering. “[During this process], a lot of things happened that we didn’t agree with. But just because you hate the system doesn’t mean there aren’t kids out there that need you.” VLM

LEARN HOW YOU CAN FOSTER OR ADOPT: ARIZONA ADOPTION & FOSTER CARE 480.834.9424 childcrisis.org

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TRENDS | PEOPLE | CULTURE | STYLE

PREVENTATIVE CARE

IS KEY

FOR CHANDLER INTERNIST BY ALISON STANTON

When Dr. Kothandapany Shalini was a little girl growing up in India, she did not spend hours playing doctor with her dolls and stuffed animals. Actually, she had another future career goal in mind. “I always wanted to be an architect. I liked creative things,” says Shalini, a board certified internist at Banner Health Center in Chandler. Shalini’s father was the one who noticed that his daughter had the right personality for a career in medicine. “My father identified me as a very compassionate person and he told me ‘you should really try medicine.’ When I first walked into medical school, I thought ‘this is where I really need to be,’ so I really think my father was right on the dot.” After graduating from Kilpauk Medical College Chennai in Madras, India, Shalini completed her internship and residency at University of Nevada School of Medicine in Las Vegas. Shalini, who has been practicing medicine since October 1998, spent ten years working in Albuquerque, New Mexico before joining Banner Health Center about a year ago. At Banner Health Center, Shalini specializes in women’s health, including pap smears, menopause and hormone management; osteoporosis and chronic medical conditions with a special interest in diabetes, hypertension and hyperlipidemia. She is also the physician site lead at the practice. “Being an internist, I take care of

VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014

patients of all ages from 18 years and upward, but I’m especially interested in preventative medicine,” she says, adding that she is also has a special focus on geriatric and women’s health. “Through my work, I’ve found that so many health issues are preventable for women, especially things that typically happen to post-menopausal women like osteoporosis and hormonal issues. Whenever I see a woman with osteoporosis, I always look at how she got there and if we could have done something earlier.” Having the opportunity to work with patients of all ages is also something that Shalini especially enjoys about her work at Banner Health Center. “I like seeing both sides of the spectrum. I enjoy taking care of my patients and having them trust me,” she says. For women who are often busy raising their own families, Shalini says she would advise them to take more initiative about their own health and schedule a time for a yearly check-up and physical, even if they are not feeling sick. “Women are so centered on their families [and] often forget about themselves. But having a primary care physician is a big step,” she says. “Too often, women will say something like ‘oh, my head is hurting’ and then show up at the doctor, but they need to do yearly visits, even when they are healthy. This way, we can catch things much earlier.” Shalini, who enjoys reading, travel, meditation, yoga and spending time with

her family when she is not working, says she is glad her father helped guide her into her career. “I look at medicine as a true calling for me.” VLM

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TRENDS | PEOPLE | CULTURE | STYLE

SHORT WORKOUTS, MAXIMUM BENEFITS BY JULIE LEMEROND

It is no surprise to any of us that we live in an increasingly busy world. And if our normal world is busy, then the holiday season is busy on steroids. While this is a time of celebration, joy and parties, it’s also a time when our schedules get shifted around. We might not be able to find as much time to spend working out as we are used to. So here are a handful of tips to help you maximize your workouts while minimizing your time spent doing them—all terrific ways to work off those holiday cookies as quickly as possible. 1. GIVE YOUR WORKOUTS MORE POWER. Maybe you need to skip a few days a week due to other obligations during the holiday season. Allow yourself to be okay with that, but also take advantage and fully devote yourself on the days that you can make it to the gym. Add ten minutes to your treadmill run, tack on an aerobics class that you normally don’t take, try spinning for a change—whatever it is, just truly devote the gym time that you do have to being dedicated and undistracted. 2. TRY SOMETHING NEW. Maybe your gym offers a free personal training session that you haven’t taken advantage of yet. Or perhaps there is some sort of new interval-type class that you see other members trying but you haven’t gone for it yet. Step out of your box and try something new instead of your regular workout. Your body will thank you for switching things up a bit, and if you don’t like it, it’s probably only an hour of your time—No harm done! The body responds well to change (you know how great it feels to be sore after a new workout?); give it the opportunity to feel that. 3. MORE WEIGHT, FEWER REPS. If lifting weights is part of your personal workout practice, try adding more weight and subtracting the amount of reps. This will decrease time in the gym, but it will also help bump up your metabolism and challenge what your body is used to. For example, if you normally do 12 reps with a 10-pound weight, try doing 8 reps with a 15-pound weight. Make sure you aren’t using a weight that’s so heavy that you lose your alignment. Ladies, this goes for you, too! Don’t be afraid to use heavier weights—you will burn fat faster and develop lean muscle.

VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014

4. POWER YOGA. Find a Vinyasa-style power yoga class either at the gym or one of the many yoga studios in town, and get ready to sweat. If you are new to yoga or have never tried it before, start with a beginner or gentle class before working your way up to the power class. Yoga is such a wonderful way to strengthen every single part of your body while also getting a little more in tune with your sweet and charming soul, too. It’s a win-win! VLM

FIND JULIE: on Facebook at Truly Julie Yoga + Nidra julielemerond.com

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VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014

BY CHRISTINA CALDWELL

With a burgeoning shopping scene, the East Valley is a hotbed for everything retail, even for non-locals. Why go online to do your holiday shopping when there are so many great options surrounding us? Not sure how to go about hitting all of the hot spots? We mapped your holiday shopping so you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to.

VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014

Mill Avenue 1 2

VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014

Mill Avenue isn’t just for tipsy college kids looking for the next big party (but we wouldn’t recommend staying there past 7 p.m. if you’re looking to avoid that.) It’s a shopping destination with dozens of boutiques and unique stores for nearly everyone on your list. Make your way down the tree-shaded hot spot to get great ﬁnds from these retailers.

1 BRAND X CUSTOM SHIRTS For the whole family Honestly, who doesn’t love a T-shirt? If you’re looking for a special something for that picky person in your life and just can’t find it anywhere at the mall, Brand X will print a single custom T-shirt—or many! Entertain (or maybe just embarrass) the whole fam all at once with your own custom-made shirt that reads with a classic inside joke or family slogan! 414 S. Mill Ave., Suite 120, Tempe, (480) 200-2833, brandxtshirts.com

5 CHUCHILL’S FINE CIGARS For the stogy smoker Perhaps the most hoppin’ of all of Chuchill’s locations in the Valley, the Mill Avenue cigar store is also a cigar lounge. Stop by to smoke a stogy of your own, or just get in and out by purchasing from their in-store collection. Have a tall order? Chuchill’s has a custom cigar roller on staff that can help you roll the perfect smoke for that special someone. 620 S. Mill Ave., Suite 117, Tempe, (480) 731-5300, churchillsaz.com

2 YUCATECAN IMPORTS For the world traveler It’s like Cost Plus World Market, but totally legit! Yucatecan Imports lives up to its name, importing decorative and wearable goods from all over the globe. Impress your worldly mother-in-law with handmade leather wallets from Guatemala, purses from India and knick knacks from Africa. Yucatecan is a hidden treasure itself, tucked away in a courtyard on Mill Avenue. Once you find it, you’ll be in international heaven. 414 S. Mill Ave., Suite 108, Tempe, (480) 303-9404

6 THE SWEET SHOPPE AND NUT HOUSE For your coworker You know how your coworkers go nuts over store-bought candy? Imagine how they’ll go bananas over gourmet fudge, candy apples and chocolate-covered pretzel rods. A Flagstaff staple, The Sweet Shop and Nut House recently found a home on Mill Avenue and it’s the perfect destination for treats so thoughtful, they’ll think you made them. 740 S. Mill Ave., Tempe, sweetshoppecandy.com

3 PITAYA For your teenage daughter A favorite shopping destination of broke ASU students who want a lot of bang for their buck, Pitaya offers ontrend, low-cost clothing in trendy styles. Never skipping in quality like other fast fashion retailers meant for young adults, you’ll find durable basics and those trendy highwaisted pants all in one place at Pitaya. 524 S. Mill Ave., Tempe, (480) 557-9422, pitaya.com 4 HIPPIE GYPSY For the flower child Not just for stoners, Hippie Gypsy is the perfect spot to grab gifts for the earthy hippie in your life. From incense to psychedelic posters, band shirts to hemp dresses, Hippie Gypsy is a blast from the past with its ‘60s-inspired motif. Just try not to get a headache from the smell of wafting incense. 601 S. Mill Ave., Tempe, (480) 858-0400 facebook.com/HippieGypsyTempe

VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014

Downtown Chandler

Get in touch with your Western roots while embracing everything new about Downtown Chandler. The cultural center of town, Downtown Chandler boasts dozens of hot eateries mixed with some seriously speciﬁc shopping spots for even the pickiest people on your list.

1 SIBLEY’S WEST For the out-of-town guest Give them a bit of Arizona. Sibley’s West stocks everything Arizona, from Red Dirt T-shirts to cactus Christmas ornaments, salsa to wall art. Give them a bit of “yeehaw” before they mosey on out of our southwestern state. 72 S. San Marcos Pl., Chandler, (480) 899-4480, sibleyswest.com 2 THE RELIGION STORE For the saint For some, the holidays are all about Christianity. At The Religion Store, which has operated in Chandler for 27 years, you can find unique gifts for the religious, including candles, crucifixes, figurines, art, rosaries and more. 101 W. Boston St., Chandler, (480) 786-5090 3 DI SCIACCA GLASSWARE For the wine aficionado Even people who don’t drink wine have basic red and white wine glasses. This holiday, think outside the box for the wine drinker in your family at di Sciacca Glassware. Color-tinged snifters, roly poly tumblers and classic goblets designed by Peter and Sigrid Sciacca all find a home at their storefront in this quaint Downtown Chandler location. 81 W. Boston St., Chandler, (480) 855-9888, disciacca.com 4 SABA’S WESTERN WEAR For the cowboy at heart One of many Saba’s locations, this one is special thanks to its location in historic Chandler, which is much different than its strip mall counterparts in the Valley. Stop in to get your mitts on authentic cowboy boots and Western wear. Whether your plan is to pick up duds for the real life cowboy or just items for your next costume party, Saba’s offers quality cowboy clothes at affordable prices. 67 W. Boston St., Chandler, (480) 963-4496, sabas.com

VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014

5 ZOOLIKINS For the babes and those who love them OK, so this is more for moms than it is for the babies, but who can resist a baby all decked out in ornate, boutique-style clothing? Zoolikins is a one-stop shop for new moms and toddlers who want to stand out from the pack, including diaper bags, baby and toddler clothing, shoes and more. Have an eco mom on the list? Zoolikins is the headquarters for cloth diapers and other items necessary for natural parenting. 51 E. Boston St., Chandler, (888) 677-3228, zoolikins.com 6 KOHL’S – SOUTH CHANDLER For everyone else A chain department store with almost everything under the sun, Kohl’s is located just south of historic Downtown Chandler. Here you’ll find clothes for the whole fam, perfume, makeup, shoes, home goods and more. 1430 S. Arizona Ave., Chandler, (480) 782-5865, kohls.com

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VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014

San Tan Village

More than just your typical mall, for anyone who lives in the East Valley, San Tan Village is the area’s central meeting place. Nothing to do on an afternoon? Go to San Tan! Hungry? Go to San Tan. That means the mall caters to varying tastes for everyone, from the sports enthusiast to the tech geek.

1 TOTAL WINE For the spirits snob Walk into Total Wine, and you’ll immediately notice the store is more than just wine. Stocked with everything from domestic beer to high end bottles of whiskey, Total Wine has everything you need to stock your holiday party and stuff stockings. Drop by the locked liquor display to see some of their more exclusive offerings, or dip into the cigar section to get a stogy or humidor for pops. 2224 E. Williams Field Rd., Gilbert (480) 786-0270, totalwine.com 2 BEST BUY For the tech geek Know someone who has their eye on the new Moto 360 or iPad Air 2? Drop by Best Buy to knock out your electronics shopping. Unlike shopping online, you can have the product inhand that day and Best Buy will price match online prices. 2288 E. Williams Field Rd., Gilbert (480) 722-9349, bestbuy.com 3 DICK’S SPORTING GOODS For the sports fan Whether the sports fan on your list likes to participate in the game or just watch, there’s something for them here. From officially licensed jerseys to ping pong tables, nearly everyone on your list will love something from Dick’s. 2299 E. Village Pkwy., Gilbert (480) 899-3993, dickssportinggoods.com

VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014

4 LASH & SUGAR COMPANY For the glamour girl Luxurious lashes, anyone? What do you get the woman who has everything? A service that makes her feel beautiful! The Lash & Sugar Company is a locally-owned store for everything lashes, including extensions on-the-cheap. 2168 E. Williams Field Rd., Suite 108, Gilbert (480) 268-9341, thelashandsugarcompany.com 5 DISNEY STORE For the kid and kid at heart Even adults feel whimsy when they walk into the Disney store at San Tan Village. And why wouldn’t they? There’s Disney gear for kids and adults alike. It’s easy to pick a well-loved gift at the Disney store, where the merchandise is already tied to memories of the studio’s films and how they made your giftee feel. 2180 E. Williams Field Rd., Suite 110, Gilbert (480) 855-3530, disneystore.com 6 BUILD-A-BEAR For the special kiddo Who wants a run-of-the-mill bear from a big box store? Build-A-Bear allows you to personalize your kid’s new hug buddy, and they don’t just have bears either. Take your pick of everything from My Little Ponies to Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and customize them with their own outfits and accessories. Too cute! 2180 E. Williams Field Rd., Suite 106, Gilbert (480) 812-2622, buildabear.com

6 5

2 1

1 VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | OCTOBER 2014

Along the 60 The main vein through the East Valley, the 60 is the most direct and fastest route to anywhere in town, though we all know to avoid it during rush hour. The 60 makes it easy to hit up some truly unique and wonderful stores and restaurants.

VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014

1 MILANO MUSIC For the maestro Milano Music has been an East Valley staple since it first opened in 1946. Grab the latest gear or get your hands on a vintage musical instrument. Milano’s has it all, and even music lessons for the maestro-to-be, too. 38 W. Main St., Mesa, (800) 344-9324, milanomusic.com 2 MESA ARTS CENTER STORE For the artist Mesa Arts Center is home to some of the Valley’s hottest shows, but it’s also a retailer, showcasing local art at a reasonable price. Know someone with an empty wall space? The MAC Store will help you fill it with priceless, unique works. 1 E. Main St., Mesa, (480) 644-6515, mesaartscenter.com 3 ULTA For the makeup addict Know someone who just needs the new Urban Decay palette in their stocking? ULTA stocks a combination of drugstore and high-end makeup, along with professional hair care products and tools to make your beauty-obsessed giftee yelp with glee on Christmas morning. 857 E. Baseline Rd., Gilbert, (480) 813-5985, ulta.com 4 GIRLY GIRLZ BOUTIQUE For the lover of all things pink A shop meant to please the tastes of little girls, moms have been known to go crazy in this pink, frilly shop, too. Girly Girlz boasts over 20,000 girly gift items in a too-cute atmosphere that sells trinkets and outfits, as well as hosts tea and spa parties. 3426 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 111, Gilbert, (480) 502-4832, girly-girlz.com 5 ANTHROPOLOGIE For the bohemian fashionista A grown-up version of Urban Outfitters, Anthropologie is the place for unique gifts and seriously stellar outfits for the fashionista on your list. A little bohemian and hipster, this is a great one-stop shop for the 20-something lady on your list. 1652 S. Val Vista Dr., Suite 113, Gilbert, (480) 497-0938 6 POTATO BARN For the decor diva Get inspired by all of this locally-owned decor store’s offerings. With a shabby chic aesthetic, Potato Barn will have the decor diva on your list salivating. Unique knick knacks and quality furniture are a winning combination for this East Valley staple. 1660 S. Val Vista, Suite 101, Mesa, (480) 632-0800 potato-barn.com VLM VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014

'Tis the Season

TO EAT LOCALLY BY BREANNE DEMORE AND NISSA HALLQUIST

BY BREANNE DEMORE

The Valley’s best restaurants boast fruitful menus for the holidays The beneﬁts of eating seasonally are vast and diverse—from being cost effective and environmentally friendly, to the seemingly common sense idea of produce simply being better in its natural season. However, as seasonality and locality seem to become the standard for truly great restaurants, the gap widens between those who are just using those words to get you in the door and those accurately describing their food. We found ﬁve truly great East Valley restaurants with menus inspired by autumn.

VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014

Quiessence at The Farm at South Mountain A favorite for a quick escape from the city life, The Farm at South Mountain has long provided East Valley residents with the real farm-to-table experience. Offering multiple dining options, The Farm has something different for every stomach. At Quiessence, the elegant dining option at The Farm, Chef Dustin Christofolo draws seasonal inspiration from the quality, freshness and sustainability of local meats and produce. With a focus on simplicity and artisan products, Chef Christofolo delivers delicious comfort food at this beautiful restaurant. Perhaps most important to Chef Christofolo, though, is the sense of community that is fostered when local food purveyors and restaurants can count on one another. “When you take a piece of native produce that is in season and create a delicious menu item out of it, you are not only providing your customers with great food, you are providing them with a local and seasonal experience of a certain time and place,” he says. Quiessence at The Farm at South Mountain 6101 S. 32nd St., Phoenix (602) 276-6360 thefarmatsouthmountain.com

not-to-miss-dish: Gnocchi with duck conﬁt, farmer’s cheese, rainbow chard, tomatoes and basil

VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014

Caffe` Boa

not-to-miss-dish: Lamb meatballs including peppercorn feta, roasted tomato, charred peppers and herbs

VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014

When Jay Wisniewski opened Caffé Boa with wife Christine, seasonality wasn’t so much a trend for the native Croatians as it was just a way of life. “Seasonality has been going on there for centuries,” Wisniewski says of his native land. “It’s just the way it’s done. What is local, in terms of ingredients and wine, is what’s on the table.” Which is why it was obvious to him to buy local and keep the menu seasonal. “Our dishes simply taste better when the raw ingredients are sourced seasonally,” explains Wisniewski. As Caffé Boa celebrates their 20th anniversary this month, Wisniewski is excited that Americans are finally realizing the benefits of seasonality. The move away from frozen and preserved food allows customers to actually taste the food and see how little preparation quality ingredients really need. Caffé Boa 398 S. Mill Ave., Tempe, (480) 968-9112, cafeboa.com

not-to-miss-dish: Risotto Zucca including Carnaroli risotto, squash, Sungold tomatoes, Pecorino Frico, pure toasted pumpkin seed oil and pepitas

Thirsty Lion Pub & Grill

Earnest Restaurant A new restaurant by executive chef Brian Peterson and pastry chef Danielle Morris, Earnest offers classic comfort food with a modern, local and seasonal twist in a beautiful relaxing setting. In addition to the ever-important cost and flavor saving benefits to a seasonal menu, Morris loves how excited patrons get about changes in the menu, especially in a state that doesn’t always show the seasons. “As Arizonans, we appreciate anything that helps to define a ‘season’ when our weather can be sunny with beautiful temperatures for so much of the year. I know that we relish the time of year when butternut squash, figs and fresh pink grapefruit come into season, and we want to pass that along to our guests,” she explains. Now that customers are well aware of the benefits of seasonal and local eating, Morris thinks that this is a trend that will stick around. “The reasons for using seasonal and local ingredients are so beneficial, it makes sense for it to transform from a trend into a way of life,” she says.

Who says that the food at a sports bar has to be limited to burgers and fries? In an attempt to knock out that stereotype, Thirsty Lion Pub and Grill at Tempe Marketplace offers expansive and diverse options, including a special menu that rotates with the seasons. With the goal to combine the best aspects of European and American pubs, Thirsty Lion wants to be the ideal place for their customers to gather with family and friends to enjoy a truly great cuisine, craft beers, thought-out cocktails, music and sports. It’s clear that Thirsty Lion wants to go above and beyond customer expectations, but isn’t a seasonal menu a little out of reach for a pub? They don’t think so. In addition to encouraging the culinary team to exercise their creativity, the seasonally-changing menu allows guests to enjoy the bounty of the local seasons while also giving them a reason to come back to try new things frequently. Thirsty Lion Pub & Grill 2000 E. Rio Salado Pkwy., Suite 1041, Tempe (480) 968-2920, thirstyliongastropub.com/tempe

not-to-miss-dish: Fennel Sausage and Sundried Tomato Pizza including fennel sausage, roasted yellow peppers, caramelized onions, sun dried tomatoes, eggplant, toasted fennel seed, fresh herbs, red pepper ﬂakes, extra virgin olive oil, goat cheese crumbles, Roma tomato sauce and a four cheese blend

Earnest 4991 S. Alma School Rd., Suite 1, Chandler (480) 883-3773, earnestrestaurant.com

VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014

not-to-miss-dish:

House of Tricks Robin Trick has been ahead of the trend for a while. As the owner of House of Tricks, she has boasted a seasonal menu since opening the restaurant in 1987. While there are a few dishes that span the seasons (“They are just too delicious and our customers would be disappointed if they were not available,” says Trick.), the majority of the menu rotates with the seasons. “Nature seems to provide what we crave during different seasons: juicy peaches, plums and berries in spring and summer and rich squash and potatoes, crisp apples and tender greens in the autumn and winter,” Trick says. While she celebrates the full flavor and freshness of produce harvested when they are ripe, Trick finds the cost-effectiveness of eating in-season to be very important for her patrons. “Fresh and plentiful in-season produce, especially those that are harvested locally, reach us quickly, which not only avoids quality lost in shipping time, but also enables us to keep our costs lower and, in turn, our menu affordable,” she explains. House of Tricks 114 E. 7th St., Tempe, (480) 968-1114, houseoftricks.com

VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014

VLM

The Lamb Entrée including Sumac crusted lamb rack on apple-cauliﬂower puree with Amarena cherry-whiskey sauce and wilted kale

COLOR IS MY WORLD! Laura is a highly trained stylist bringing innovative color to Chandler! 15 years’ experience, Midwest transplant that has experience in hair all over the United States from New York, California and now to Arizona. When I moved to Scottsdale 6 years ago I was having a hard time finding a stylist to match my blonde color. I was frustrated going from salon to salon. I found Laura and have loved my hair since, and it is healthy as ever too. From highlights, lowlights, Ombre and pink extensions, she is the best. Her cuts give my hair life again and she stays up on current trends. I brought my 6 year old daughter in before a photo shoot for a cut and style and she loved Laura, she now does my little girls hair. I travel 45 minutes one way to see Laura and will continue to do so! We consult what I would like done and then I leave it up to her and it always comes out perfect. Finally no more gold bands in my hair! Affordable prices and love that she works late in the evenings to get me in. It’s always a pleasure seeing Laura and having her make feel special and have great looking hair. There is no better feeling than being pampered and where the customer service matters. — Sherry G., North Scottsdale

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2177 W. Queen Creek Rd. • Chandler, AZ (Located in Leidan Mitchell Salon & Spa) www.laurabensonsalon.com VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014

6 hour drive

OUR DESTINATION VACATION, NO MORE THAN 6 HOURS FROM THE VALLEY

The

POLAR E 48

VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014

Bring the season’s greatest story to life

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

With the snow lightly falling, riding on the Polar Express through Williams can be a magical experience. But when the man in red shows up, it turns from magical to downright chaotic. “I think that Santa Claus is the big guy of the whole night,” says Bruce Brossman of the Polar Express’ parent company Xanterra. The Polar Express, presented by Grand Canyon Railway from Nov. 7 through Jan. 3, is a holiday-themed train ride excursion that follows the storyline of the children’s book written by Chris Van Allsburg.

X P R E S S in Williams VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014

6 hour drive

OUR DESTINATION VACATION, NO MORE THAN 6 HOURS FROM THE VALLEY

“They leave from Williams on the same track that the regular day train goes on,” Brossman says. “They go through what we call the ‘magic tunnel.’ The ‘magic tunnel’ lights up and flashes different colors each way. The tunnel allows visitors to arrive at the North Pole at a fast pace. The journey travels through the starlit countryside to the North Pole and features a special reading of “The Polar Express” while passengers enjoy hot chocolate and cookies. “It’s a 17-mile trip,” he says. “As you get closer to the North Pole, Santa’s Village, you see the lights glowing. They’re really bright and beautiful. The train goes by and you see Santa and his elf there. They’re waving at the train with a giant bag of presents.” The train then stops, hits reverse, and Santa has disappeared—because he and elf Bernard have hopped on the train. Santa makes the return trip to Williams

VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014

with the passengers, greeting every child and presenting each one with a special gift—a jingle bell that rings when someone believes in St. Nick. “The combination of the train and the book and the movie are such a popular holiday thing,” Brossman says. “We have people who watch the video on the way up here in their cars. I think the video has become a very popular holiday classic for families. A lot of people bring their book to read on the train.” But the key to enjoying the trip is wearing pajamas on the train, he says. “People who are in costume seem to have more fun,” he says. “It just adds to the whole atmosphere. I would prepare for cold. You can’t just wear pajamas. You need to wear some long underwear and bring a jacket. “I’ve seen some kids being way cold out there. There’s the ‘Polar Room’ that has kids’ activities and

Mrs. Claus is in there. You can get warm in there. But standing waiting to board the train can sometimes take 10 to 15 minutes. Dress warmly for sure.” Williams and The Polar Express are about three and a half hours from Phoenix. Last year, more than 90,000 passengers experienced Christmas in a whole new way. Many of them are repeat customers who love to keep smiles on their children’s faces.” “We have a lot of people who wouldn’t miss a year of it,” he says. “It’s become a family tradition for a lot of people. Kids grow up, have kids and keep that tradition going. It’s an amazing thing.” VLM

TRAINS DEPART WILLIAMS

at 5:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. for the holiday experience.

Prices for most departures are $25 for kids ages 2 to 15, and $39 for adults. Matinee tickets are also offered on select dates at 3:30 p.m., for $20 for children and $34 for adults. The Christmas Eve Limited on Dec. 24 is priced at $69 for adults and $49 for children, and includes special mementos. The Grand Canyon Railway also offers a Polar Express overnight package, including the roundtrip train excursion, a one-night stay at the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel and breakfast and dinner at the Grand Depot Café. The starting package prices for two adults and two children is $379 and does not include taxes. Polar Express passengers also receive a 50-percent discount on a regular, everyday future train trip to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, valid 60 days from their Polar Express experience and train ride.

To book a package or tickets, visit www.thetrain.com or call (800) 843-8724.

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RANCHO DE TIA ROSA

Old Mexico

BRINGS

TO GILBERT BY LYNETTE CARRINGTON PHOTOS BY SAM NALVEN

Imagine sitting on the patio of a stately Mexican hacienda. While enjoying an ice cold margarita and a plate of mini chimichangas, you admire the colorful Mexican artwork that lines the high adobe walls and enjoy the cool breeze as it drifts across your face. This experience is brought to life at Rancho De Tia Rosa in Gilbert every day. At the helm of the hacienda concept of Tia Rosa are Dennis and Lizabeth Sirrine. Dennis Sirrine’s Grandmother Rosa Evans is the restaurant’s namesake and was born and raised in Mexico. Her influence is felt throughout the vast restaurant that just celebrated its fourth anniversary. Evans

VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014

food&wine

FOOD SPOTLIGHT

recalls Pancho Villa coming into town one day and saying “Leave Mexico or die.” The family moved to Tucson shortly thereafter, but the flavors and influence of her homeland carry on at Tia Rosa. “When Liz and I finally decided to do a restaurant, we toured Mexico off and on for about a year, going down to all the different cities and researching and getting recipes,” Dennis says. “Then we would come up here and tweak them out… then we would taste test them.” And the taste tests were plentiful, but hardly daunting. “They were pretty extensive in the taste testing. They had dinner parties for research purposes to get a lot of opinions about what people liked and what they didn’t like,” says Tia Rosa general manager Clay Eagar. “Liz and I are both chefs and we oversee the whole thing,” Dennis says of the vast menu. “I do more of the main dishes and she does more of the desserts.” Both he and his wife trained in the culinary arts decades ago and the menu at Tia Rosa is filled with the modified recipes based on dishes they discovered in Mexico. Dennis’ many years in high-end custom home building and extensive background in architecture also influenced the authentic look and feel of Tia Rosa. Art, tile, chairs and bricks used in building Tia Rosa came from Mexico. The Tia Rosa patio is always a great place for friends and family. Now that the weather has cooled, there is no better place to enjoy a pineapple margarita. Sirrine and Eagar were inspired by a margarita recipe find at a National Restaurant Association convention in Chicago and set out to recreate the drink for Tia Rosa. ABOVE: Tia Rosa’s ornate decor at the reception stand. RIGHT: Vanilla bean ice cream with fresh berries and Chambord sauce. FAR RIGHT: The Ancho Peach Chicken.

VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014

food&wine

FOOD SPOTLIGHT

YOU

“We brought in our very seasoned bartenders and had two or three different batches of pineapple that had been soaking in Don Julio Blanco tequila,” Eagar says. After soaking for three days, the pineapple tequila was used to create 10 different styles of margaritas. Once testing and perfecting the final recipe, the margarita that literally takes three days to create is now a signature drink. Traditional Mexican food often includes seafood, and Tia Rosa pays homage with its own salmon salad. The entree is an unexpected taste sensation that is as colorful as it is healthy and includes tender grilled salmon, onions, strawberries and oranges atop a bed of greens and drizzled with house made herbal dressing. The nuevo chili relleno is a unique recipe. The special relleno filling includes pork picadillo, pinon nuts, sour cream and cheese topped with a freshly made roasted red bell pepper sauce. Enchiladas Monterey is a signature dish at Tia Rosa and one of its most popular entrees. The colorful dish pays homage to the dish’s homeland. “It’s like the Mexican flag. We use red and green enchilada sauces,” Dennis says of the enchiladas made with tender beef inside of two flour tortillas and served with rice and beans. In addition to traditional Mexican flan, sopapillas and cinnamon apple chimi desserts, Tia Rosa is known for its house made vanilla bean ice cream with fresh berries, decked out with a Chambord sauce. Tia Rosa welcomes walk-in parties of 20 to 30 people and can also accommodate parties of up to 200. Guests to Tia Rosa will embark on a visual and culinary journey of Mexico courtesy of the Sirrine family and are guaranteed a dining experience unlike any other Mexican restaurant in the East Valley. VLM

DISCOVER THE TASTES OF MEXICO AT: RANCHO DE TIA ROSA 891 N. Higley Rd., Gilbert (480) 396-8787 ranchodetiarosa.com

Gotta Try: PUMPKIN WHOOPIE PIES AT THE COFFEE SHOP BY LYNETTE CARRINGTON

‘Tis the season to eat pumpkin! Tasty pumpkin items are popping up on menus across the Valley. Among the best of the festive orange squash creations are the heavenly Pumpkin Whoopie Pies at The Coffee Shop in Gilbert. “It’s probably my favorite thing in the pastry case, which is why I have this tattoo,” The Coffee Shop co-owner Jessica Flowers-Cuff explains as she proudly flashes the palm of her hand that reads “Whoopie” in a whimsical font. “My sister (Jenna) is actually the creator and chef behind them.” The sisters, along with their parents Steve and Jeanne Flowers and Jessica’s husband Curt Cuff, own The Coffee Shop. A cross between a cookie sandwich and a cake, you can think of a Whoopie Pie as a massive, freshly-baked Oreo. With cream cheese frosting sandwiched between two soft and freshly baked pumpkin “cookies,” The Coffee Shop’s pumpkin Whoopie Pie is one decadent holiday foodie must-have. “Everyone loves the flavor balance between pumpkin and cream cheese,” explains Flowers-Cuff. The Coffee Shop has other kinds of Whoopie Pies available, too. The traditional New England treat also comes in mouth-watering versions of lemon, mint chocolate chip and chocolate chip cookie dough. So stop by The Coffee Shop and bring home a pile of Whoopies to impress holiday party guests with something different. VLM GRAB SOME WHOOPIES AT: THE COFFEE SHOP 3000 E. Ray Rd., Gilbert (480) 279-3144 thecoffeeshopaz.com

VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014

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food&wine

IN SEASON CRANBERRIES

CRANBERRIES BY MELISSA HUTSELL

When European settlers first arrived in the U.S., they stumbled upon theses berries and named them after their resemblance to the Crane, which are still often seen wading through the bogs where cranberries grow. The shape of the berry’s stem, flower and petals reminded the early settlers of the bird. However, before the settlers arrived, these berries had several uses and names. Native Americans were known to use cranberries for food, medicine and dye. Later, the berries were given to starving settlers in Plymouth, Massachusetts, and therefore incorporated into the Thanksgiving feast, beginning a tradition we still partake in

VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014

today. The first recipe for cranberry sauce is said to have appeared in the Pilgrim’s cookbook in 1663. In addition to the seasonal dish we all identify with the holidays—cranberry sauce—these berries are also known for being a super food. High in antioxidants and phytonutrients, cranberries contain Vitamin C, dietary fiber, minerals and manganese, among many other health benefits such as reducing your risk of high blood pressure. These berries are also known to aid digestion and have antiinflammatory and anti-cancer properties. While ripe, raw, juicy and whole cranberries are the healthiest form of

the berry, containing most of its health benefits in the skin and flesh, these berries can be eaten in a variety of ways. From frozen to dried, whole to jelled, juiced to sauce, cranberries can be thoroughly enjoyed during any season or holiday. They are known for their tartness, and therefore pair well with other fruits such as apples or pears. Whether you are in the mood for a snack or decadent salad, try some of these delicious cranberry recipes to create your take on the seasonal harvest and brighten your table with a festive and healthy dish. VLM

Cranberry Margarita INGREDIENTS:

For Jam: ¾ cup fresh cranberries • ¼ cup sugar • 1 tsp. finely grated orange zest • 2 tbsp. fresh orange juice For Margarita: 1 tbsp. kosher salt • 1 tbsp. sugar • 1½ tsp. Chinese five-spice powder • 1 lime wedge, plus 2 oz. fresh juice • 4 oz. fresh orange juice • 6 oz. tequila DIRECTIONS:

1. For the jam, bring cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and ¼ cup water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until thick and jammy for 30-40 minutes. Mix in orange zest and let cool. 2. Mix salt, sugar, and five-spice powder on a small plate. Rub rims of glasses with a lime wedge, then dip in salt mixture and fill glasses with ice. 3. For each cocktail, combine ½ oz. lime juice, 1 oz. orange juice, 1½ oz. tequila, and 2 tbsp. cranberry jam in a cocktail shaker and fill with ice. Cover and shake until outside is frosty, about 30 seconds. Strain into prepared glass. *Recipe courtesy bonappetit.com

Asian Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries INGREDIENTS:

1 pound Brussels sprouts, halved • 1 tbsp. canola oil • 2 tbsp. sugar • 2 tbsp. water • ½ cup dried cranberries • 2 tbsp. fish sauce • 1 tsp. Asian chili-garlic sauce • 1 tsp. canola oil DIRECTIONS:

1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Place Brussels sprouts in a 15- x 10-inch jelly-roll pan. Drizzle with one tbsp. of oil, tossing to coat. Arrange sprouts on pan, cut sides down and bake 30 minutes or until tender and browned. 2. Meanwhile, bring sugar and water to a boil in a small saucepan over medium-high heat, stirring constantly to dissolve sugar. 3. Remove from heat. Stir in cranberries and let stand 10 minutes. 4. Whisk together fish sauce, chili-garlic sauce, and one tsp. canola oil in a large bowl. Stir in cranberry mixture. 5. Add roasted Brussels Sprouts to cranberry mixture, and toss to coat. *Recipe courtesy coastalliving.com

VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014

food&wine

RESTAURANT GUIDE

CANTINA LAREDO - AT SANTAN VILLAGE. Serving modern Mexican food in a sophisticated, vibrant atmosphere. The Mexico City-style menu includes grilled ﬁsh, chicken and steaks complimented by signature sauces such as chipotle-wine with portobello mushrooms or sauteéd artichoke hearts and roasted red bell peppers. Enjoy the awardwinning signature margarita, the Casa Rita, made from fresh lime juice and the ﬁnest tequila. Serving lunch, dinner, drinks, Sunday brunch. Full service catering and private event dining available. 2150 E. Williams Field Rd., Gilbert (480) 782-6777. www.Cantinalaredo.com Sun-Thurs: 11am-10pm Fri & Sat: 11am-11pm

CALLING ALL BREAKFAST LOVERS! If you haven’t been to the Henhouse Cafe you are truly missing out. You’ll feel right at home with the friendly atmosphere and shabby chic decor. Our food is purchased locally from farm to table, We even make our own sausage in house. It’s high quality comfort food that will delight your taste buds The menu is bursting with egg items from the griddle to chicken and wafﬂes. The homemade sausage and homemade green chile sauce is so delicious!! We don’t think you can go wrong with anything on the Henhouse Cafe menu. Next time you go out for breakfast, you should deﬁnitely check the Henhouse Cafe out. It’s a great spot for families to start their weekend off right ... with a full and happy belly! 3244 E Guadalupe Rd., Gilbert (480) 219-7379 www.henhouse-cafe.com Mon-Sun: 6:30am-2:00pm

2625 W. Queen Creek Rd., Chandler (480) 821-0009. www.chopchandler.com

THE LIVING ROOM WINE CAFÉ AND LOUNGE has been drawing crowds in Chandler’s Downtown Ocotillo neighborhood since opening in 2009. The Living Room is all about hospitality and staying true to their mantra of love, laugh and lounge. All ages are welcome. The Living Room is truly the modern day version of the Irish Pub and neighborhood unrushed hangout; Its a chill lounge. Experience sharable food, 25 wines and sangrias by the glass, a handpicked list of wines by the bottle, beers and a full line of spirits in soft seating or on one of the cozy patios. In October, the locally owned group is opening the innovative wine concept in DC Ranch Marketplace. 2475 W. Queen Creek Rd., Chandler (480) 855-2848. www.livingroomwinebar.com

CHoP CHANDLER is Chandler’s first locally owned steakhouse and grill. Featuring steak, seafood and the new burger bar menu. Simply prepared seasonal fish and nightly specials are cooked to perfection on the seven-foot mesquite hardwood grill. Salads, fresh vegetables, desserts, vegetarian and lighter fare options also grace the menu. The energetic social atmosphere is amplified around the U-shaped bar. The intimate interior is filled with amber lighting, wood finishes and plush chocolate leather booths. Enjoy an extensive wine list, beers and spirits. Happy hour 4 to 6 pm. ChoP’s private dining area will accommodate parties of 50, is equipped and perfect for business meetings.

VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014

IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR A FAMILY OWNED and Operated Smokehouse and BBQ Restaurant, your search is over. A one of a kind Family friendly enviroment welcomes you to enjoy fully delicious on-site smoked meats and made from scratch signature sides and Desserts. Simply setting the standard for quality BBQ. Fun Place. Serious Bar-b-Que. 1633 S Stapley, Mesa (US60/Stapley) (480) 707-9009 PigglysCatering@Gmail.com

PARADISE BAKERY - AT SANTAN VILLAGE. Is all that shopping making you hungry? Stop by Paradise Bakery & Cafe at San Tan Village shopping center for a wide variety of menu selections including delicious cookies and baked goods, breakfast items, soups, salads and sandwiches. All of our menu items are prepared daily with only the ﬁnest ingredients available, just as you would at home. We are a “hands-on” bakery and cafe concept, which is what sets us apart and keeps our loyal customers coming back, again and again. We look forward to seeing you at Paradise Bakery & Cafe at San Tan Village! 2156 E. Williams Field Rd., Gilbert (480) 889-7080. www.paradisebakery.com Mon-Fri 6am-9pm; Sat 7am-9pm; Sun 7am-8pm Breakfast: Mon-Fri 6-10am; Sat & Sun 7-11am | Free Wi-Fi

HIGH TIDE SEAFOOD BAR AND GRILL understands that great seafood is hard to come by, but Chef Eric Emlet makes it his mission to serve only the best. The fish is flown in daily from the finest purveyor on the West Coast— Santa Monica Seafood. Some of the items on the menu are considered boutique. The salmon is sushi-grade and comes from a tiny purveyor called Skuna Bay off the west coast of Vancouver Island. And don’t forget the oysters! The restaurant has an open quality and the steam pots sit behind a U-shaped bar, so if you wish, you can enjoy a cocktail and watch your gorgeous seafood being prepared. High Tide has a full bar with a premium well, a varied wine list and eight craft beers on tap. 2540 S. Val Vista Dr., Gilbert (480) 821-9950 www.hightideseafoodbar.com Sun-Thurs 11am-9pm Friday and Saturday 11am-12am

Seafood Market & Restaurant SEAFOOD MARKET & RESTAURANT is a family owned establishment which opened in 1991 in Mesa. It is not only a restaurant but a fresh seafood market too, just as the name suggests. Fish & shellﬁsh selections are delivered daily and are always fresh, never thawed. And we only buy the BEST! With an extensive mouth-watering menu to include King Salmon, Scallops, Crab, Lobster & Orange Roughy, there is also delicious chicken, juicy steaks & pasta for guests to enjoy. Seafood Market has won several recognition awards including being honored with a 4 out of 4 star rating. 3406 E. Baseline Rd., Mesa (Val Vista Rd.) (480) 633-1580 www.seafoodmarketrestaurant.com

ROCK LOBSTER IS THE SUSHI ROOM reinvented. Promising fun, energy and the authentic creativity of Teppanyaki. Rock Lobster has 25 menu items and all of The Sushi Room favorites. A huge Sake line-up, Asian beers and spirits add to any occasion. The Teppanyaki room is perfect for special events and celebrations. This is Downtown Ocotillo’s place to party, an exciting night out and affordable for families. Happy hour, daily. Reservations are suggested for the Teppanyaki tables. 2475 W. Queen Creek Rd., Chandler (480) 821-9000. www.rocklobsterrocks.com

taku THIS FAMILY (AND DATE NIGHT!) FRIENDLY, locally owned sushi and Asian fusion restaurant is conveniently located just south of the 202 San Tan on Gilbert Road in the Watermark Center. Valley diners will love the way Otaku’s staff combine an obsession for the freshest ﬁsh and weekly specialty items with a fanatical belief that guests should be welcomed and made to feel welcome. For guests that don’t enjoy sushi, they have a full selection of hot food from a variety of cuisines including Chinese, Thai, Korean and Japanese. Stop in today and discover your local Asian destination. 2430 S. Gilbert Rd. Suite 5, Chandler (480)821-3908 otakusushi.com facebook.com/otakusushi

SOCAL FISH TACO COMPANY – IN DOWNTOWN GILBERT. The coastal Californiainspired food café has given Gilbert’s Heritage District surf vibe. From the East Valley family which established Mesa’s Seafood Market three decades ago, SoCal Fish Taco Company is a beachcomber’s take on today’s gastropub, serving premium microbrews and quick, zesty, affordable food in unfussy under-roof and underthe-stars patio settings. Fish tacos, wraps, fresh salads, crab cakes, large shrimp, raw oysters and chowder in a bread bowl: This is food you buy on the beach or from taco stands near the beach in El Segundo, Marina del Rey, Manhattan Beach and Coronado Island. This is food that brings thoughts of the waves, billowing blue sky and feet-in-thesand summer memories. 219. N. Gilbert Rd., Gilbert (480) 80-SOCAL (76225). www.socalﬁshtacos.com Mon-Sat: 11am-9pm, Closed Sundays

VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014

datebook

GREAT DATES COMPILED BY BREANNE DEMORE

Theresa Caputo Live! The Experience WEDNESDAY, NOV. 5

Becoming famous on her reality TV show, “Long Island Medium,” Caputo is now a published author and has been touring with her live show. Expect to hear stories from her most memorable readings, advice on what she’s learned about death from her experiences and live readings. Comerica Theatre, 400 W. Washington St., Phoenix, (602) 379-2800, comericatheatre.com

Chandler Chuck Wagon Cook-Off FRIDAY, NOV. 7 THROUGH SUNDAY, NOV. 9

This free look at historic cooking methods and authentic 1880s chuck wagons is a great event for buckaroos of every age. Chuck wagons from around the Southwest compete to cook the best meals fit for cowboys on the trail. Enjoy delicious chuck wagon meals amidst a campfire glow, live music and exciting tales of Western history. Tumbleweed Ranch at Tumbleweed Park, 2250 S. McQueen Rd., Chandler, (480) 782-2751, chandleraz.gov

Rock the Block SATURDAY, NOV. 8

This free block party invites the East Valley to experience Downtown Chandler like never before. Two live performance stages, featured vendors, delicious food and a large beer garden will make this a fun, community event for the whole family. Downtown Chandler, 3 S. Arizona Ave., Chandler, (480) 855-3539, chandlerblockparty.com 62

VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014

Arizona Wine Growers Festival at The Farm SATURDAY, NOV. 15

Thirty of Arizona’s top wine growers will showcase their tastiest wines at this interactive event. Enjoy wine tastings, a picnic lunch, educational seminars and live music in our wonderful fall weather at this gorgeous venue. The Farm at South Mountain, 6106 S. 32nd St., Phoenix, (602) 276-6360, thefarmatsouthmountain.com

Phoenix Tequila Fest SATURDAY, NOV. 15 THROUGH SUNDAY, NOV. 16

The Black Keys MONDAY, NOV. 10

Known for their bluesy, garage band sound and occasional rockstar egos, The Black Keys have rocked American airwaves since forming their duo in 2001 with such hits as “Tighten Up,” “Howlin’ for You” and “Lonely Boy.” US Airways Center, 201 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix, (602) 379-2000, livenation.com

With tastings of the world’s finest tequilas, explanations from experts about how tequila is made, samplings from some of the Valley’s favorite Mexican restaurants and a Margarita Challenge for local bartenders, this festival is sure to be a great time for all agave lovers. US Airways Center, 201 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix, (480) 558-1133, phoenixtequilafest.com

KC and the Sunshine Band SUNDAY, NOV. 16

Be honest. Lately, you’ve been dying to both shake your booty as well as get down tonight. It’s okay—we’re all right there with you. Luckily, KC and the Sunshine Band are here to satisfy that craving with their hits “Get Down Tonight,” “That’s the Way (I Like It),” “I’m Your Boogie Man” and “(Shake, Shake, Shake) Shake Your Booty.” Talking Stick Resort, 9800 E. Indian Bend Rd., Scottsdale, (480) 850-7777, talkingstickresort.com

Don Rickles FRIDAY, NOV. 21

Gaining a following for his quick on-stage heckler retorts, Don Rickles was just beginning his career as a stand-up comedian when he saw Frank Sinatra in his audience at a Miami Beach nightclub. A smart remark landed a lifelong friendship with Sinatra, a reputation for his insult comedy and, eventually, an incredibly successful career as an actor and comedian. Wild Horse Pass Casino, 5040 W. Wild Horse Pass Blvd., Chandler, (520) 796-7777, wingilariver.com/wild-horse-pass

Walking with Dinosaurs: The Arena Spectacular WEDNESDAY, NOV. 19 THROUGH MONDAY, NOV. 23

Travel back in time—to about 80 million year ago—and experience the creatures who ruled the world. Combining the latest advancements in technology with the latest paleontology research, this show truly brings dinosaurs to life and is a memorable experience for the whole family. US Airways Center, 201 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix, (602) 379-2000, livenation.com

Jay Leno SATURDAY, NOV. 29

With only the occasional controversy (ahem, Conan), Leno successfully hosted “The Tonight Show” for 22 years before passing it on to Jimmy Fallon in 2014. Known for his protruding chin, his mild mannered comedy and his love of cars and denim shirts, Leno visits to perform his stand up routine right here in the Valley. Talking Stick Resort, 9800 E. Indian Bend Rd., Scottsdale, (480) 850-7777, talkingstickresort.com VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014

last word

FINAL THOUGHTS

BECOMING

Mom

BY CHRISTINA CALDWELL

I’m turning into my mother. If I would have told past, teenager me that I was slowly evolving into the goofy woman that was making my dinner in the kitchen, I would have cringed. She laughs at oddball things, completely lacks the “shame” region of the brain and in general acts like a mega dork. Teenage me was way too cool for that. I was convinced I’d never be like her. She was a homemaker. I was going to be a scholar, so I immersed myself in my bookish pursuits, reading Thoreau and Emerson, contemplating the true meaning of life. In college, I listened to Elliott Smith and Belle and Sebastian and was, like, really deep. I wouldn’t give up those college years for anything. I discovered certain sides of myself I didn’t know were in me, being a middle-class white girl who grew up in Gilbert. I thought getting a burger in one 64

VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014

Gilbert strip mall was nothing like getting authentic Thai in another Tempe strip mall, and therefore I was more cultured. And I probably am, but there are certainly people who are infinitely worldlier than I. Back then, becoming my mother was a nightmare and not the dream. As much as I loved her, I didn’t want to be her, but life has a funny way of making you come around. My uncle—her brother—recently died. Though it was a very busy day at work when it happened, I knew I had to be with my mom. After receiving the news, I finished getting ready for work and took off down the road. It hit me, I pulled over, texted my boss and drove right to my mom’s house. And I’m glad I went to her. She needed me, and it felt good to be needed. I’ve rarely seen her weak, but that day, she was weak— but an outsider would never know it. There was only one crying outburst. She was stoic, offering to make me a sandwich when I

offered her one first; repeating “It’s gonna be OK” to me over and over, reassuring herself more than she was reassuring me. It was in that moment of weakness that I saw myself in her—not for the first time, but more clearly than I’ve ever seen it. She refused to show she was weak. That characteristic seemed oddly familiar. As my eyes begin to mature, it’s easier to see my mom’s eyes looking back at me in the mirror and how expressly obvious it is that I’m her daughter. I laugh at oddball things. “Shame” is just another word for not being yourself these days. Being a dork is cool. I find myself having the same mannerisms; saying the same things in the exact same way she would. And I know that, as recent events reminded me, she won’t be around forever. But looking in the mirror, that’s hard to believe. She made her mark on me. I am her daughter. I am she. And that makes it easier to love myself. VLM