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Chandler DECEMBER 2016

ChandlerLifestyle.com

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SWEET HOLIDAY TREATS FESTIVE DIY PROJECTS THE ULTIMATE HOLIDAY WISHLIST

Screening over 100 Films! from over 35 countries...

Film Screening • Workshop • Award Ceremony • Prime Show with Dinner Red Carpet • After Party • Networking • Audience Choice Awards • Q&A

JANUARY 13-15, 2017 www.ChandlerFilmFestival.com/Ticket Early Bird Discount: EARLY20 Student Discount: STUDENT40 Senior Discount: SENIOR40

PARTNERS: AN OFFICIAL EVENT ON

VENUE: SoHo63 - 63 E Boston St, Chandler, AZ 85225

Email: info@chandlerlmfestival.com

Terms Conditions: All three discounts are offered until December ��st, ��. Student Discount is only available with proof of valid Student ID. Any and all tickets purchased for CIFF are NON-REFUNDABLE and may not be exchanged. You may be required to provide proof of purchase identiﬁcation at the event. We reserve the right to refuse anyone who is in violation of endangering other ticketholders and event personnel. Photographs and or audio video recordings taken of any ﬁlm screenings is prohibited. This event will serve alcoholic beverages, purchase and consumption of alcoholic beverages are to be done so responsibly and only by ages �� twenty-one� and older with proof of ID.

Lifestyle Letter

Happy Holidays!

oming from a large, New York Italian family, cherished traditions passed down through generations play a large role in celebrating the holidays—think of a five-hour long “Feast of the Seven Fishes” dinner with the entire family on Christmas Eve that lasts well into the night and classic Pantone and coffee while opening presents in the morning.

However, there are still smaller traditions, ones that have seemed to have faded away with time that I still hold dear when reminded of them. One such tradition literally hit me over the head the other week as I was (finally) dusting off my bookshelf. Tumbling off the shelf was a large, faded yellow hardcover book with a mother and father watching their children sleep in their beds with Christmas lights blurred in the background. I opened the book to the cover page and took a look. Inside, in my mother’s meticulously neat handwriting, was the words “To Danielle, From Santa.” Underneath were a few illegible words written in the shaky, unsure penmanship of a young child coated over with what looked like petrified Bonne Bell lipgloss.

DECEMBER 2016 PUBLISHER

Joyce Selk | Joyce.Selk@LifestylePubs.com EDITOR

Danielle Accovelli | Danielle.Accovelli@LifestylePubs.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Kathleen Blair, Michelle Talsma Everson, Michelle Guerrero, Kory Kilmer, Alison Stanton CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Keath Allen, Bridgette Balmes, Tonia Jonhston, Holly McClelland, Natalie Rockwell, Erik Sanders

CORPORATE TEAM | Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

I opened to the first page and started reading, “Twas’ the night before Christmas…” A flood of memories washed over me as I was transported back to my childhood in Connecticut. My parents had bought me the book when I was little and I can still remember being four years old snuggled in front of the fireplace while my mother read it to me, then as a pudgy five-year-old struggling to get through all the “big words” by myself, then as a six-year-old whizzing through the book with ease as my parents proudly watched on. As I looked through the book, I realized that these are the types of traditions that truly create lasting memories, and I have now safely stowed away the book in my room so that one day, my own young children will be able to read it to me. In the spirit of holiday traditions and memories, I invite you to take a look at two special DIY holiday crafts, some favorite cookie recipes, and, of course, our gift guide.

CHIEF SALES OFFICER

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DIRECTOR OF MARKETING ART DIRECTOR

ADVERTISING MANAGER AD COORDINATORS

| DeLand Shore | Brad Broockerd

| Sara Minor

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

| Nicole Sylvester | Janeane Thompson

| Cyndi Harrington, Chelsi Hornbaker, Megan Seymour, Chad Jensen

LAYOUT DESIGNERS

| Nicolette Martin, Cyndi King, Jessica Sharky, Dana Rudolph

DESIGN SPEICALIST

| Ashleigh Thomson

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT APPLICATION ARCHITECT

Warm wishes for a wonderful holiday season and a Happy New Year!

| Matthew Perry

WEB DEVELOPER

| Melanie Carlisle | Michael O’Connell | Hanna Park

Until Next Month,

Danielle Accovelli, Editor

by Community ™

In the November Issue, the “A Mother’s Love” (Page 24) feature included the incorrect spelling of a name, Stephanie Files. The correct spelling is Stephanie Flies.

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Chandler Lifestyle | December 2016

TALK TO US

P.O. Box 12608 Overland Park, KS 66282-3214 Proverbs 3:5-6 Chandler Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of Chandler’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Chandler Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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December 2016

Departments

Good Times

Around Town

Giving Back

Hot Spot

Culinary Creations

34 DIY 36

Food & Wine

Lifestyle Calendar

Parting Thoughts

26 Great Gifting

Something Special for Everyone on Your Holiday Wishlist

30 Sweet Gatherings

Valley Bloggers Share Their Favorite Holiday Cookie Recipes

34 A DIY Holiday

Two make-them-yourself gifts to cherish for years to come

Good Times

Chandler Lifestyle Fall Good Times Event

Friends and business partners all gathered together at dâ€™Vine Gourmet for a fabulous evening of delicious appetizers, drinks and giveaways. Denise and Andrew McCreery did a wonderful job hosting the event, which saw guests leave with over $1,400 in door prizes. EMOTIONS & MEMORIES PHOTOGRAPHYÂ

Chandler Lifestyle | December 2016

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Good Times

d'Vine Gourmet's 13th Anniversary Party

The beloved local shop commemorated the mile stone with a wonderful gathering that included live music, fine wine, beer, food, activities and special door prizes. Chandler is lucky to have such a great community partner! TONIA JOHNSTON PHOTOGRAPHYÂ

Chandler Lifestyle | December 2016

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Good Times

Cheers 2 Chandler Social Networking Event

The group held its second social network event at Chop in Downtown Ocotillo, with great fun and networking with some of Chandler’s finest had by all. BRIDGETTE MARIE PHOTOGRAPHY

Animal Medical Center of Chandler's Open House

The Tricks and Treats-themed afternoon saw pets of all shapes and sizes drag their humans along to this fabulous event, donning their very best costumes and hoping to win the coveted “Best Costume” prize. NATALIE LYNN PHOTOGRAPHY

Chandler Lifestyle | December 2016

December 2016 | Chandler Lifestyle

Good Times

Ginger Monkey's Pre-Opening Event

Before making its public debut, the restaurant held a private event, where partners Doug Collins and Jackson Armstrong served up beer taps, wine, cocktails and some of their delectable “New American” cuisine to party-goers. EMOTIONS & MEMORIES PHOTOGRAPHY

Debbie Gaby's Celebrity Catwalk

The event celebrated its 10th Anniversary with the PURRFECT 10, and yes, it was perfect, with presenting sponsor HonorHealth. Fashions By Dillard’s and local community supporters gathering at the Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Montelucia. MARION RHOADES AND KAY & CO. PHOTOGRAPHY

Jennifer Moser, Debbie Gaby, & Allison DuBois

Susan Casper & Terri Ouellette

Johnjay Van Es & Rich Berra

Catherine Anaya & Christian Latter

Jennifer Moser, Allison DuBois, Debbie Gaby, Jill Kimmel & JoAnn Holland

Mark Tarbell & Letitia Frye

Chandler Lifestyle | December 2016

They still have a story to tell. They are one-of-a-kind. Uniquely special. In every way. While they may be suffering from Alzheimer’s, it does not diminish the special place they hold in people’s hearts. The gifts and contributions they have shared. The story they have to tell. At Chandler Memory Care, our goal is to help them continue their story with a decidedly different approach to caring for those with memory loss. Resident-centered, activity-based programming provides a supportive lifestyle tailored to their specific needs.

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12 Letters Home 19 New York Gypsy All Stars

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Christmas with

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February 2017

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Rhythm of the Dance California Guitar Trio & Montreal Guitar Trio WAR Pump Boys and Dinettes The World Famous Glenn Miller Orchestra

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Colin Mochrie and Brad Sherwood: Two Man Group Golden Dragon Acrobats Art Garfunkel: In Close-Up Frank Ferrante in An Evening with Groucho The Doo Wop Project Piano Battle Hypnotic Brass Ensemble Stormy Weather: The Story of Lena Horne

3pm 7:30pm 7:30pm 7:30pm 3pm 7:30pm 6pm 7:30pm 3pm 7:30pm 3pm 7:30pm 7:30pm

April 2017

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8 Recycled Percussion 7:30pm 9 Classic Albums Live presents David Bowie’s The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars 7pm December 2016 | Chandler Lifestyle

Around Town

AROUND TOWN

REVELATION REAL ESTATE BREAKS GROUND ON NEW BUILDING Revelation Real Estate broke ground on a new building, which will be an upgrade and expansion from Revelation’s current, 8,000-square-foot headquarters in Chandler. It will boast a real estate

operational with 120 employees, and complements similar centers located in Charlotte, N.C. and Indianapolis, Ind. For more information, please visit RepublicServices.com.

ACUCHIRO LLC. OPENS IN CHANDLER

school, a brokerage firm, title company “Magnus Title,” an event

Chandler Chiropractor, Dr. Sithari Edirisooriya, DC has opened

center and a bar and café all in one. Ultimately, Chuck and Angela

her own practice as AcuChiro, LLC. Her specialties are acupunc-

Fazio want this facility to serve as a single, standalone resource

ture, chiropractic,and physical therapy. The new office is located

for the Valley’s real estate professionals as well as members of the

in the Bellagio Plaza Executive Suites at 333 N. Dobson Rd, Suite 5

public looking to book the space for special events or spend leisure

Chandler AZ 85224. Dr. Edirisooriya can be contacted at 480-525-

time in the onsite bar and café. The agency continues to set the gold

1023 or by email acuchiroaz@gmail.com.

standard when it comes to offering top-notch residential properties and employing the Valley’s most award-winning professionals. For more information, please visit WestUSARevelation.com.

REPUBLIC SERVICES NEW CUSTOMER RESOURCE CENTER

PRECISION AIR & HEATING ANNOUNCES COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIP Erik Bryan, CEO of the family-owned Precision Air & Heating has announced that the company is offering an annual $1,000 scholarship award for students enrolled full-time in an accredited

Republic Services, Inc. recently unveiled its latest Customer

college or university. Applications for the scholarship are being

Resource Center, the third of three centers designed to enhance

taken now through April 30, 2017. The Precision Air & Heating

the overall service experience for more than 14 million customers

Academic Scholarship is open to students from all areas of aca-

nationwide. The new 72,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art facility is

demic study, but the company is especially encouraging students

home to modern communications capabilities to cater to evolving

interested in a career in any area of business to submit an essay.

customer preferences and needs. The facility in Chandler is currently

For more information, please visit PrecisionAirAndHeating.com. CONTINUED >

Chandler Lifestyle | December 2016

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Around Town

(CON TI N UED)

PITA JUNGLE’S “EMPTY BOWLS” FUNDRAISER For the third year in a row, Pita Jungle will host an “Empty Bowls” event in which guests can purchase hand-crafted clay bowls created by local artisans this coming holiday season to benefit Waste Not, a local 501(c)(3) nonprofit that has been feeding the hungry in the Valley for more than 25 years. All 15 Metro-Phoenix Pita Jungle locations will sell a limited quantity of Empty Bowls through December 15, with 100-percent of proceeds benefitting Waste Not. For more information, please visit PitaJungle.com.

MPULSE COMMUNICATIONS HOSTS FREE SEMINAR Melissa Marie of MPulse Communications conducted a free seminar to a packed house of over 30 business owners on the power of Social Media on September 29th at Social Box Neighborhood Eatery. Her dynamic presentation showed the attendees how Facebook can help a business grow. Raffle prizes were donated by local businesses. The Social Media Strategists at Mpulse Communications can help you build an online presence and create content to help publicize your business. The agency makes sure that you’re represented in all the right conversations and in front of the right audience. For more information, please visit MPulseCommunications.com.

READ ON CHANDLER SERVES THE COMMUNITY Read on Chandler is a collaborative literacy project comprised of community organizations and businesses committed to ensuring that every child in Chandler, birth through five, obtains the necessary literacy skills for school readiness. The organization is focused on improving early childhood literacy through the achievement of the goal that all children entering kindergarten are ready to succeed in school. For more information or to volunteer, contact Joanne Floth at 602-790-9651 or email jfloth@cox.net.

Chandler Lifestyle | December 2016

BERNADETTE LAMAZZA SELECTED FOR LEAD PLAY

State-of-the-Art Facility • Now Featuring Skin Therapies and Spa Services Compassionate, Comprehensive Care • Full Service Hospital

Bernadette LaMazza, local playwright, novelist and children’s author, recently had her play, “Cluelessly Automated,” selected to be the lead play at the Pandora Festival of Plays through the Arizona Women’s Theatre. This is her sixth win at this festival. The Arizona Women's Theatre Company produces contemporary, provocative, thought-provoking plays written by women, and the Pandora Festival of Plays is a great way for women playwrights to have their work performed through a staged read and to receive feedback from the audience. For more information, please visit AZWTC.org.

DOWNTOWN CHANDLER HOLIDAY BANNER CHALLENGE WINNERS ANNOUNCED With over 28 submissions, two high-school artists have been chosen for the inaugural Downtown Chandler Holiday Banner Challenge. Their designs will be displayed along Arizona Avenue, from Chandler Blvd. to Frye Rd., from Nov. 14 to Jan. 13. Cindy Ha and Clara Wallengren, both students at Perry High School, won the challenge with their Happy

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Ugly Holiday Sweater Season and Downtown Chandler Ornament designs, respectively. The two artists each will receive a $50 gift card to a downtown Chandler restaurant, a plaque of their winning design and a $500 scholarship from Downtown Chandler Community Foundation. For more information, please visit DowntownChandler.org.

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Giving Back

CHANDLER COMPADRES ARTICLE KORY KILMER

or one group of men in the East Valley that are passionate about making an impact in the community is an effort they have been devoted to for nearly four decades. Today, with more than 100 active and lifetime members, the Chandler Compadres have certainly struck the right chord, all to the benefit of local kids and families in need. Founded in 1980, the Chandler Compadres at its core is a fundraising organization whose list of beneficiaries include the Boys & Girls Clubs of the East Valley, ICAN Positive Programs for Youth, Chandler Christian Community Center, and the Chandler Education Foundation, among others. Nearly 99% of every dollar that the group raises go directly to charity, with the last percent going mainly to credit card administration costs occurred to process donations and other minimal overhead. Their current membership is made up of successful and civic-minded individuals, which includes leaders across a vast array of industries, including agriculture, engineering, banking, law, advertising, real estate, small business and government. While the Compadres host a handful of events throughout the year, the majority of their fundraising comes via three different avenues. Each spring they host a golf tournament, and in the fall they throw a themed-party titled Rock the Cause for kids. The third way is through the Chandler Compadres Qualifying Charitable Organization (QCO) Tax Credit Program. Anyone who pays state taxes may be eligible for the QCO Tax Credit, which–unlike a deduction–reduces your state income tax bill dollar-for-dollar. For example: if you owe $1,000 in state income tax,

Chandler Lifestyle | December 2016

and you donate $800, you may subtract the $800 from your tax bill and pay the state only $200. You can even use your $800 donation as a federal income tax deduction. Many people don’t realize the Arizona State QCO Tax Credit allows donors to direct their hard earned tax dollars to a local, qualifying charity of their choice, at the same time reducing their personal state tax liability. That same reduction may also reduce their federal tax liability. It’s a WIN for them and the charity. FOR EXAMPLE:

In 2016, Joe and Mary Taxpayer, a married couple, donate $800 to a private school tuition organization, $300 to a public school for the extracurricular activities credit and $800 to the Chandler Compadres’ QCO Tax Credit Program. Joe and Mary owe $2,000 in 2016 state income taxes. The tax credits noted above reduce their tax liability by the combined amount of $1,900, and lower their Arizona tax liability to $100.* When you take advantage of the QCO Tax Credit and you have a relationship with a Chandler Compadre, list them as a referring Compadre, otherwise list Jeremy McClymonds as referring Compadre. *Tax circumstances are different for everyone. Please consult your tax advisor. For more information on the Chandler Compadres, including how to get involved or to make a donation, please visit their website at ChandlerCompadres.org.

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December 2016 | Chandler Lifestyle

Hot Spot

Coffee Connections AN INSIDE LOOK AT WHAT’S NOW BREWING IN CHANDLER

ARTICLE KATHLEEN BLAIR | PHOTOGRAPHY ERIK SANDERS AND PRESS COFFEE

BLACK ROCK COFFEE BAR This family owned and operated coffee business had been a wellkept secret until one of the members, Jeff Hernandez, along with Bobby Kaufmann, his friend since the sixth grade, decided to introduce it to Arizona. The business made its debut in 2008 in Portland, Oregon and has now grown to 36 locations in Oregon, Washington, Southern California and Idaho. Black Rock Coffee Bar brews up some tasty coffee in a welcoming atmosphere. The coffee is sourced globally from East Africa, South America and the South Pacific, and roasted in Portland. Their specialty coffee includes three roasts. Steel Bridge, a classic roast and custom blend with full body and a bold taste. Old Town, a medium roast custom blend with a smooth taste, and Pearl, a light roast (from a single origin) with distinct flavors created from premium beans. “Customer service is our first and foremost priority,” states Kaufmann. “Besides preparing quality drinks, the barista’s goal is to build quality relationships by knowing their customer’s name, their children’s names and what they drink. We’re a neighborhood coffee bar that embraces people in the community.”

PRESS – COFFEE ROASTERS

In line with that, a recent community event was held on

Steve Kraus, owner and coffee enthusiast, has mastered the

Opening Day with Childhelp, where they sold backpacks filled

art of roasting and serving up some incredible java. He and his

with school supplies to give to foster children. And, plans are

wife, Tram Mae, opened their first store in North Phoenix, fol-

underway to roll out the Sparrow Club program, a community

lowed by Scottsdale, Sky Harbor Terminal 4, then Tempe, and

service project where students from a local high school are asked

now Chandler. And to ensure the continued growth and success

to participate in adopting a child, who is either ill or has special

of future development, Steve partnered with Jason Kyle in 2015.

needs, raising money to be donated toward their care. BR.Coffee

"My main objective, from the beginning, has been to grow the coffee culture in Phoenix," states Kraus, who has made it his mission to educate his customers and serve excellent coffee from his award-winning Roastery. “Our training, customer service and attention to detail set us apart from others.” Premium coffee starts with premium beans, —grown in South America, Africa and the Pacific Rim—which are roasted and brewed with strict specifications. Knowing how fine to grind the beans, checking the total weight and discerning how hot to serve the milk are just a few details that go into preparing every cup of coffee served with their beautiful latte art. Roasting coffee allows the true coffee flavor to come out. Each crop has its own distinct flavor, and small batches are roasted between 13-15 minutes. Then, the beans rest for seven days to allow them to de-gas. For the best flavor, beans should be used within 14-25 days after purchasing a bag for home consumption. Whether you’re a coffee novice or expert connoisseur, you’ll enjoy the wonderful selection of great tasting coffees, along with breakfast and lunch served daily. PressCoffee.com

Chandler Lifestyle | December 2016

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gifting

Something Special for Everyone on Your Holiday Wishlist ARTICLE MICHELLE TALSMA EVERSON

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December 2016 | Chandler Lifestyle

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December 2016 | Chandler Lifestyle

Culinary Creations

Sweet Gatherings BLOGGERS FROM AROUND THE VALLEY SHARE THEIR FAVORITE HOLIDAY COOKIE RECIPES ARTICLE ALISON STANTON

Chandler Lifestyle | December 2016

C H O C O L AT E C H I P S A N TA C O O K I E S

SUNBUT TER KISS COOKIES

Recipe Courtesy of Lisa Glowacka;

EastValley.CityMomsBlog.com

INGREDIENTS:

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 cup butter, softened

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 cup SunButter® (I used Natural)

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup sugar

1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened

1/2 cup packed brown sugar

3/4 cup granulated sugar

1 egg

3/4 cup packed brown sugar

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

3/4 teaspoon baking soda

2 large eggs

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

3/4 cup chocolate chips

Additional sugar for rolling

3/4 cup white chocolate chips

36 Hershey’s Kisses® (plain chocolate variety), unwrapped

3/4 cup red and green M&M’s DIRECTIONS: DIRECTIONS:

Heat oven to 375°F.

Preheat oven to 375° F.

In a large bowl, mix cream butter and SunButter

Combine flour, baking soda and salt in small bowl.

Beat butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar and vanilla

Add sugars and cream for 2 to 3 minutes.

extract in large mixer bowl until creamy.

Add egg, beating until combined.

Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each

Stir in flour, baking soda and baking powder until

together until smooth.

addition. Gradually beat in flour mixture. 5.

Stir in chocolate chips, white chocolate chips and M&M’s.

Drop by rounded tablespoon onto ungreased baking sheets.

Bake for 9 to 11 minutes or until golden brown.

Cool on baking sheets for 2 minutes; remove to wire

dough forms. 6.

tional sugar. 7.

On ungreased cookie sheets, place balls about 2 inches apart.

racks to cool completely. Makes about 4 1/2 dozen cookies

Shape dough into 1-inch balls and roll in addi-

Bake 8 to 10 minutes, or until edges are light golden brown.

Immediately press 1 Kiss candy in the center of each cookie.

10. Remove from cookie sheets to cooling rack. CONTINUED >

December 2016 | Chandler Lifestyle

Culinary Creations

(CON TI N U ED)

D A R K C H O C O L AT E C H I P A N D B U T T E R S C O TC H C O O K I E S

C I N N A M O N S TA R S Recipe Courtesy of Theresa Greco;

Recipe Courtesy of Kate Eschbach;

FoodHuntersGuide.com

SongsKateSang.com INGREDIENTS: INGREDIENTS:

2 egg whites

1 cup butter, softened

10.5 oz ground almonds or almond meal

3/4 cup sugar

1 3/4 cups powdered sugar

3/4 cup brown sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla

1 teaspoon cinnamon

2 eggs 2 cups flour 1 teaspoon salt

DIRECTIONS:

Separate the egg whites from the yolk (save yolks for another recipe).

1 teaspoon baking soda 1 cup dark chocolate chips

Beat the whites until hard.

1 cup butterscotch chips

Slowly add the sifted powdered sugar and continue to beat until you have a nice creamy consistency.

DIRECTIONS:

Put 60g (about 5 tablespoons) of the mixture in a separate

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.

Cream together butter and sugars until fluffy, about

Now add the vanilla sugar, cinnamon and almond meal.

4 or 5 minutes, then add vanilla.

Dust your workspace with powdered sugar and roll out the

Add eggs one at a time then add dry ingredients

Bake for 10 minutes.

bowl (this will be your glaze).

dough about a third to half-inch thick. 7.

Cut out the stars and place them on a nonstick baking sheet then glaze.

8. 32

Chandler Lifestyle | December 2016

Bake at 250F for 25 minutes.

Jill Cazares, MBA R E A LT O R

D A R K C H O C O L AT E & P I S TA C H I O C H O C O L AT E C H I P C O O K I E S Recipe Courtesy of Theresa Greco; FoodHuntersGuide.com INGREDIENTS:

1 stick unsalted butter, at room temperature 1/2 cup granulated sugar 1/2 cup packed brown sugar 1 large egg 1 teaspoon Nielsen-Massey Madagascar Bourbon vanilla extract 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/4 teaspoon salt 1 cup dark chocolate chips 1 cup shelled pistachios, coarsely chopped

Real Estate Tips Staging Notes • Go Neutral You may need to paint walls, replace counters, carpet or

appliances and take down those heavy drapes. Use neutral colors only. It helps buyers visualize their own items in your space.

• Define a Purpose Is it a bedroom or office? What would be most important to buyers in your area?

• Rearrange or Remove Furniture Streamline your living spaces. Create more inviting areas by removing items or moving to a different room.

• Add Lighting Lamps and overhead lighting create ambience and

nobody wants dark and dreary. Day or night, always turn on lights and open blinds for showings.

• Accessories Buy new bathroom towels and bedding. Add artwork, greenery, and small pops of color with colorful throw pillows, vases, fresh flowers or other decor.

• Make it Sparkle Make sure to clean every nook and cranny and don’t forget the windows.

DIRECTIONS:

Place rack in the upper third of the oven and preheat oven to 300 degrees F.

Line baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside.

In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat butter and sugars together until pale and fluffy, about 4 minutes.

Add the egg and beat for about 1 minute more.

Add vanilla extract and beat to incorporate.

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda and salt.

Add the flour mixture to the butter mixture. Mix on low speed until just incorporated.

Finally, stir in the chocolate chips and nuts.

Scoop cookie dough by the tablespoonful onto prepared bak-

Jill Cazares, MBA R E A LT O R

LISTING AGENT | BUYER'S AGENT | STAGING SERVICES

480-353-0785 jillcazares@cox .net www.chandlerdreamhomes.com

ing sheets. Leave about 2 inches of room between each cookie. 10. Bake cookies for 18 minutes, or until just golden brown. 11. Remove from oven and allow to cool on pan for 5 minutes before removing to a wire rack to cool completely.

Complimentary Staging When I List Your Home! (Offer Expires 12-31-16. Up to $1000 Value.) December 2016 | Chandler Lifestyle

DIY

A DIY Holiday TWO MAKE-THEM-YOURSELF GIFTS TO CHERISH FOR YEARS TO COME

HANDPRINT FAMILY CHRISTMAS TREE Photo and instructions courtesy of Brooke Roe, owner of Pinspiration, a Valley-based DIY arts and crafts studio. Pinspiration.com

CINNAMON CLAY GINGERBREAD MAN ORNAMENTS Photos and instructions courtesy of Mandy Velasquez, blogger at Miss Mae’s Days. MissMaesDays.com

WHAT YOU NEED:

A canvas

WHAT YOU NEED TO MAKE THE CLAY:

Acrylic paint

1 cup baking soda

Sponge paintbrush

1/2 cup corn starch 3/4 cup water

DIRECTIONS:

1/4 tsp. cinnamon (or more if you’d like)

Use a sponge brush to paint your hand and place it on the canvas to create the tree. If using different size hands, use the bigger hands at the bottom and smaller ones at the top. Draw the star and trunk lightly with a pencil and fill in with paint.

WHAT YOU NEED TO DECORATE THE GINGERBREAD MEN:

Buttons “Googly” eyes

For added fun, use your fingerprints to mimic ornaments and lights,

A variety of small crafting supplies

or glitter and pom-poms for garland.

A straw for poking a hole through the top to thread the ribbon

Add your family name at bottom with the year, or add each family

Ribbon for hanging your ornament

member’s name by each handprint to make it into a family tree. This

A gingerbread man cookie cutter and, highly suggested, “The

can be done with paint, permanent markers or calligraphy markers.

Gingerbread Man” book

ARTICLE MICHELLE TALSMA EVERSON | PHOTOGRAPHY MISS MAE'S DAYS

DIRECTIONS FOR CLAY:

Add baking soda and cornstarch to a small pot. Mix in water and bring to a boil. Remove from heat and stir vigorously to create a play dough like substance. Remove from heat and let cool completely. Roll out the clay onto a clean, dry surface. Use a rolling pin to smooth out your clay. Sprinkle the front and backside of your clay with about 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon (more if you’d like). Fold the clay into a ball and work it in until it is spotted with cinnamon. Roll out the clay again, only this time to about 1/4 inch thickness. Using your gingerbread man cookie cutter, cut into shapes. TIME TO BE CREATIVE:

Be sure to push the decorations down into the clay so that they don’t fall off when it dries, yet be careful to not poke all the way through your gingerbread man. Using a straw, poke a hole through the top of your gingerbread man for threading your ribbon once it’s dried. HOW TO DRY THE GINGERBREAD MEN:

Set oven on low (200 degrees F, for example). Place gingerbread men on a cookie sheet. Put creations in the oven on low heat for a couple of hours. You can also let them dry on the table for 24 hours. Once dried, use ribbon to hang the ornaments, or use them as gifts for family and friends. More detailed instructions, with photos, can be found at MissmaesDays.com/cinnamon-clay-gingerbread-man-ornament. 34

Chandler Lifestyle | December 2016

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Food & Wine

Neighborhood Steakhouse DC STEAKHOUSE PROVES TO BE A CUT ABOVE THE REST

ARTICLE TERESA K. TRAVERSE PHOTOGRAPHY HOLLY MCCLELLAND

ean and Lorie Laplant were both looking to escape their native Midwest’s blustery winters and make the move to Arizona’s sunnier clime when fate struck in the form of a building for lease in the heart of Downtown Chandler. They soon decided it would be the perfect place to open up a steakhouse in Arizona, and in 2010, DC (standing for Downtown Chandler) Steakhouse was born. “Our goal was always to bring good, quality steakhouse fare without having to pay the premium prices. Also, to

Chandler Lifestyle | December 2016

bring a place for family gatherings and for parties; to go to a little more upscale than your average chains,” says Lorie. “There really isn’t a steakhouse in Chandler that’s a mom-and-pop place, such as we are.” The menu features steaks, chops, ribs and chicken, and all entrees are served with a salad and a potato. Another standout feature? This beloved Chandler haunt is also known as a great gathering place—about six or more families or groups will head to the spot every weekend like clockwork. Couples also come to the steakhouse to celebrate their anniversaries, much to the delight of Lorie. “Everybody has a niche: ours is dimly lit and romantic,” she says. Historical would be another word to describe the restaurant, which is housed in a more than 100-year-old building. The Laplants preserved the spot’s original tin ceiling. Its walls are an antiquated maroon and sage green, and Lorie, a muralist, has painted historic scenes on them. But don’t think historic means stuffy. DC Steakhouse has just one dress code stipulation: no tank tops on men. Everything else is welcome, and that’s intentional. DC STEAKHOUSE

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December 2016 | Chandler Lifestyle

Lifestyle Calendar

December DECEMBER 1 - 31 ODYSEA IN THE DESERT HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES SCOTTSDALE Watch as the holidays come to life in unique and extraordinary ways throughout Odysea in the Desert with a host of festive activities. “Scuba Claus” is coming to town at the aquarium and Santa and his elves will visit the frozen playground at Polar Play. OdyseaAquarium.com

DECEMBER 3 60TH ANNUAL TUMBLEWEED TREE LIGHTING CELEBRATION CHANDLER Ring in the holiday season in Downtown Chandler during this beloved community tradition. Stand in awe as the glowing Parade of Lights glides down the streets and the Tumbleweed Tree, trimmed in decorations, lights up the night sky, all while enjoying live performances, holiday crafts and a visit from Santa. ChandlerAZ.gov

DECEMBER 8 7TH ANNUAL CHANDLER ROTARY GOLF CLASSIC CHANDLER Don’t miss out on this truly unique Southwest golf experience held at the Whirlwind Golf Club at Wild Horse Pass benefitting Wings for Warriors and Chandler High School JROTC, among others. Participants will receive a green fee and attend an awards dinner featuring great raffle prizes. Chandler-Rotary.org

DECEMBER 8 & 9 DECEMBER 1 - 15

POLAR EXPRESS CHANDLER

CHAMBERLAIN ORTHODONTICS

Take a page from Tumbleweed Recreation Center’s book as they

GIVING TREE

bring this beloved holiday story to life. Come dressed in your PJs and

CHANDLER

enjoy a cozy evening of storytelling, crafts, hot cocoa and a special

This year, Chamberlain Orthodontics is partnering with the 100

gift from Santa Claus. ChandlerAZ.gov

Club Of Arizona to have a Giving Tree in their offices, which will be adorned with ornaments listing items needed, so when you are run-

DECEMBER 9-11, 16-18, 20-23 & 26-31

ning around town, please stop by and pick out an ornament from the

LAS NOCHES DE LAS LUMINARIAS

tree. SmileStraight.com

PHOENIX Festive, delightful and intimate are just a few of the words used to describe this enchanting holiday experience at Desert Botanical

Chandler Lifestyle | December 2016

Garden where guests stroll among thousands of white twinkle lights and hand-lit Luminaria bags as the harmonious sounds of the ever-popular Simply Three trio play in the Sonoran Desert scape. DBG.org

DECEMBER 15 HOLIDAY CRAFT & COOKIE DECORATING CHANDLER Donâ€™t forget to leave Santa cookies this year! Gather with friends and family at the Chandler Community Center for a sweet evening full of holiday cookie decorating, card making and a special visit from a certain jolly man in a red suit. ChandlerAZ.gov

DECEMBER 16 UGLY HOLIDAY SWEATER ART WALK CHANDLER Don your ugliest holiday sweater and meet in Downtown Chandler for this monthly event, where over 35 local artists will display and sell their works in a variety of mediums while live music plays in the background, providing the perfect place for last-minute holiday shopping. DowntownChandler.org

DECEMBER 22 HOLIDAY BAZAAR CHANDLER Stop by the weekly Chandler Farmers Market to check out some spectacular, one-of-kind holiday gifts from local craft vendors while listening to lively tunes by Sydney Sprague before heading down to take a complimentary picture with Santa. DowntownChandler.org

DECEMBER 22 FAMILY FLICKS CHANDLER Celebrate the season with this free, family-friendly event at Dr. A.J. Chandler Park. Enjoy a special screening of the movie Elf while snacking on popcorn, sipping on hot cocoa and visiting with the elves walking around before stopping by to see Santa. DowntownChandler.org

December 2016 | Chandler Lifestyle

business directory AD AGENCY

FOOD & BEVERAGE

AUTOMOTIVE

HOME BUILDERS & REMODELERS

Jamm 7 Multimedia (480) 398-0662 jamm7.com

Earnhardt Ford (480) 893-0000 earnhardtford.com Huffs Automotive (480) 726-8900 huffsautomotive.com Scottsdale RV (480) 946-0707 scottsdalerv.com

DENTISTS & ORTHODONTICS

Chamberlain Orthodontics (480) 448-2480 smilestraight.com Novelly Dentistry (480) 892-6868 drnovelly.com

DERMATOLOGISTS

Desert Sky Dermatology and Surgical Center (480) 855-0085 desertskyderm.com East Valley Dermatology Center (480) 821-8888 evderm.com

EDUCATION

East Valley School of Music (480) 290-1480 evsm.net

ENTERTAINMENT & RECREATION

Chandler Center For The Arts (480) 782-2683 chandlercenter.org Pollack Tempe Cinemas (480) 888-0888 pollacktempecinemas.com 40

Chandler Lifestyle | December 2016

Thai Chili 2 Go (480) 566-8066

Calatlantic Homes AZ (888) 627-5208 Standardpacifichomes.com

HOME DESIGN & FURNISHINGS The Dump thedump.com

HOME SERVICES

Shamrock Roofing (480) 888-6648 shamrockroofingservices.com

KITCHEN & BATH

JK Cabinets (480) 219-9580 jkkitchencabinets2you.com

MASSAGE

Hand and Stone Chandler (480) 665-5600 handandstonechandler.com

MEDICAL CLINICS & FACILITIES Barrow Brain and Spine (602) 406-3181 barrowbrainandspine.com Cielo Aesthetics & Wellness (480) 494-5173 cieloaesthetics.com

MISC MEDICAL

Ocotillo Foot and Ankle (480) 895-0276 ocotillofootankle.com

PET CARE

Animal Medical Center of Chandler (480) 339-0406 amcofc.com

PHOTOGRAPHY

Holly McClelland Photography (480) 213-0412 Natalie Lynn Photography (480) 603-6883 natalie-lynn.com Tonia Johnston (480) 677-5622 toniajohnstonphotography.com

REAL ESTATE

Celeste LaRocque Wolfe (480) 717-7204 Jill Cazares (480) 353-0785 chandlerdreamhomes.com Revelation Realty (480) 722-9800

RESTAURANTS, FOOD & BEVERAGE Cuisine & Wine Bistro (480) 275-6700 D'vine Gourmet (480) 275-5320 dvinegourmet.com Otaku (480) 821-3908 otakusushi.com

SALONS & SPAS Amazing Lash Studio Chandler (480) 467-4425 amazinglashstudio.com

SENIOR LIVING & SERVICES Chandler Memory Care (480) 718-9055 avenirseniorliving.com

Visit Us Online! What’s on our Website? PAST ISSUES CURRENT ARTICLES BUSINESS DIRECTORY CONTEST REGISTRATION

Visit us at CHANDLERLIFESTYLE.COM

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December 2016 | Chandler Lifestyle

Parting Thoughts

MACKENZIE RYANNE SPADE GIVES BACK TO THE COMMUNITY ARTICLE AS TOLD TO MICHELLE GUERRERO | PHOTOGRAPHY HOLLY MCCLELLAND

t’s amazing what youth can achieve when encouraged. Mackenzie Ryanne Spade, a 17-year-old Chandler resident, was told that anything is possible. She believed it. She was taught the value of giving back to one’s community and how volunteering makes a difference in the lives of both the giver and receiver. As a result, she volunteered often, and in the process made significant life-changing discoveries. While volunteering in a Tarwater Elementary Kindergarten classroom, she was asked to help some kids with letter names and sounds, and discovered she didn’t know them. This realization led her to a dyslexia diagnosis at the beginning of her Junior Year of high school. “The way my dyslexia works is that I memorize how everything is said and spelled,” says Spade. While school was always an uphill battle, she tested one-point shy of the required score to receive extra help in the classroom and struggled in silence for years. When she recently hosted a luncheon for Treasure House to fulfill her Flower Girl Hands of Service project, she was doing more than just raising money for a great cause. “It was also about me overcoming everything I have gone through and proving to myself that I am capable of anything,” says Spade. Her cousin Liam, who’s nearly two-years-old, has Down Syndrome. He inspired her to choose Treasure House for her project. “I get to help watch him three days a week, and it has changed my life for the better. I know that, just like me, he will be able to do anything that he puts his heart and mind to, and that places like Treasure House will help him accomplish his goals.” 42

Chandler Lifestyle | December 2016

Spade began volunteering when she was 10-years-old, and has had her helping hands in many programs since, such as ICAN, Lucky Paws, Sharing Down Syndrome and Feed My Starving Children. She also volunteers at the King of Glory Lutheran Church and for the Chandler Service Club Flower Girls. Her diagnosis has pushed her and has given her the tools to overcome her challenges. In addition to her many volunteer ventures, Spade is also a senior at Hamilton High School and has a job. She gladly trades art and dance for math and science. She loves her Human Biology class and wants to go to college to become an Ultrasound Technician. While she’s involved in many programs, Spade recognizes that it’s the little things that make a difference and encourages people to help in any way they can, anywhere they can. “Volunteering doesn't have to be through corporations,” says Spade. “Volunteering is just a fancy word for helping others and treating them the way you would want to be treated.” She recommends doing simple things like carrying someone’s groceries to their car, or mowing a neighbor’s lawn. She takes it one step further, saying a simple smile or compliment can make a world of difference to someone. “Be kind to everyone,” says Spade. Simple, yet wise words to live by this holiday season.

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CHANDLER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

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