Chandler, AZ April 2026

Meaningful Investing

Travel, Home, Community, and More

The Value of Intention

April always carries a certain energy—a sense of renewal, of possibility, of thoughtful forward motion. That spirit inspired this month’s theme: the Investment Issue.

Yes, we explore smart money moves, including whether women should approach investing differently than men. But this issue also goes far beyond portfolios and percentages. It’s about investing in where we live, how we grow, and the experiences that shape our lives.

In real estate, that investment can begin before a home ever hits the market. Local real estate agents Amy and Garrett Lines created LevelUp, a program designed to help sellers make strategic cosmetic improvements that often result in faster sales and stronger offers. It’s a reminder that sometimes small, intentional upgrades can yield meaningful returns.

We also take a look at new home opportunities taking shape right here in Chandler. Keystone Homes continues to expand its footprint with new communities, including Hazelwood, which is a perfect investment in Chandler’s continued growth and livability.

Of course, not all investments are tied to retirement accounts or real estate. Some are experiential. In this issue, we highlight travel destinations that go beyond a comfortable room and complimentary Wi-Fi—places that offer bespoke dining, curated tours, and meaningful extras that transform a getaway into something unforgettable. After all, investing in memories can be just as valuable as investing in markets.

Ultimately, this month is about intention. Whether you’re enhancing your home before a sale, exploring new neighborhoods, refining your financial strategy, or planning your next escape, the common thread is thoughtful decision-making. Chandler continues to be a community worth investing in, and we’re proud to spotlight the people, ideas, and opportunities helping it thrive.

Here’s to making investments that pay dividends in every sense of the word.

Yours,

April 2026

PUBLISHER

Joyce Selk | joyce.selk@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Michelle Glicksman

michelle.glicksman@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANTS

Jessica Bush | jessica.bush@citylifestyle.com

Christina Larson | christina.larson@citylifestyle.com

Skye Wagner | skye.wagner@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Sarah Auffret, Alison Bailin Batz, Kristy Belley, Angela Broockerd, Alison Stanton, Georgann Yara

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Barret Elengold

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle

MICHELLE GLICKSMAN, EDITOR @CHANDLERCITYLIFESTYLE

city scene

1: The 2026 Chandler Sports Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony. Kim Moyers, Frank Narducci, Chase Lucas, John Vincent. 2: The 2026 Chandler Sports Hall of Fame inductees and special recognition award winners were honored. 3: Over 5,000 entries for Zzeeks Pizza Annual Pizza Box Design Contest resulted in a win for Braydon, a fourth grader at Tarwater Elementary. 4: The Ocotillo Women’s League presented an $8,400 donation to the Starbright Foundation after their fundraising fashion show. 5: The Chandler Chamber held a ribbon-cutting for Chandler’s newest locally owned veterinary clinic, Paw Partners. 6: Mayor Kevin Hartke enjoying a magical evening at the 2026 State of the City address. 7: Cub Scout Pack 584 stopped by the mayor’s office for a lesson in city government, leadership, and service.

8: The Chandler Chamber welcomes Dr. Surkunte and her amazing staff at Amped MD to Chandler. 9: Many local businesses enjoyed a networking mixer sponsored by the Amy Jones Group. 10: Local Bitter Creek Band entertains at the Chandler Chamber’s Business After Business at Quart House. 11: Chandler firefighters gathered for their 49th annual banquet, highlighting several outstanding achievements from members of the department. 12: Morgan Benson, McKenna Faith, and Jen Glaab out for the Gilbert Advocacy Center Foundation’s 2026 Hard Hat Gala. 13: Gilbert Advocacy Center Foundation’s 2026 Hard Hat Gala previewed the Advocacy Center site, which is currently under construction. 14: The leadership team and volunteers enjoyed APAP 2026 New York City for an uplifting experience.

SPRING SPECIAL

2026

Spring is a time of renewal. It begins with investing in your well-being, and empowering yourself to look and feel your very best.

If you are feeling fatigued, out of balance, and less than your normally vivacious self, it may be time to have your hormones checked.

Using The SottoPelle® Method—a proprietary bio-identical hormone treatment with pellets—the experts at Tutera Medical would love to help you embrace the prime of your life!

Invest in yourself ... spring for the special!

Amy Jones Group Champions Community Impact

Amy Jones Group continues to lead with heart across the East Valley through intentional outreach and nonprofit support. As sponsors of the Gilbert Advocacy Center Foundation, its team attended the 2026 Hard Hat Gala to preview the new facility currently under construction—a transformational project for families in crisis. Through Community on Purpose, their nonprofit initiative, they amplify and support local organizations while building meaningful connections beyond real estate. AmyJonesGroup.com

Photography Courtesy Amy Jones Group

Tour Chandler’s newest home community, Hazelwood by Keystone Homes, in the highly desirable Chandler Heights area. Keystone Homes is a premier home builder specializing in crafting quality homes with innovative designs tailored to your lifestyle.   They deliver unmatched quality and attention to detail, building welcoming communities.  The sales office and model are open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday. HazelwoodChandler.com

Photography Barret Elengold

Thunderbirds Charities Awards $5,000 Grant to Support Chandler Center

Chandler Center for the Arts has received a $5,000 grant from Thunderbirds Charities to support its Connecting Kids program, a comprehensive suite of youth engagement initiatives that provide meaningful access to the arts for children and teens across the Chandler community. Support from Thunderbirds Charities will help sustain and expand these opportunities, ensuring that students, regardless of their socioeconomic background, can experience live performance, hands-on learning, and creative expression in a professional arts environment. ChandlerCenter.org

Photography Courtesy Chandler Center for the Arts

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Animal Medical Center of Chandler

Councilmember Jennifer Hawkins Appointed to National League of Cities Committee

Chandler Councilmember Jennifer Hawkins has been appointed to the National League of Cities (NLC) Finance, Administration and Intergovernmental Relations Committee. She was elected to a one-year term to provide strategic direction and guidance for the committee’s federal advocacy agenda and policy priorities. NLC convenes leaders from around the U.S., and members play a key role in shaping policy positions as advocates who help policymakers in Washington, D.C. understand the issues and challenges facing local communities like Chandler. ChandlerAZ.gov

Photography Courtesy City of Chandler

Forbes Travel Guide, the only global rating system for luxury hotels, restaurants, spas, and cruise ships, announced the 2026 Star Awards. KAI, the Native American-influenced fine-dining destination at Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass, remains Arizona’s only Forbes Five-Star restaurant to receive this prestigious honor. Aji Spa is also honored with the Forbes Five-Star Award for the seventh time. All honorees are showcased on ForbesTravelGuide.com. KAI is recognized among just 82 Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star restaurants across the world. WildHorsePassResort.com

Photography Courtesy Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass

Visit Chandler Launches Mural Quest

Visit Chandler invites you to explore the city’s growing public art scene with the launch of Chandler Mural Quest, a free, self-guided digital tour. Mural Quest highlights Chandler’s growing collection of murals, created by local artists that tell a story of the community. Discover works across the city while learning more about each piece. Once registered, check in at each mural stop and take a mini quiz. Finish the quest for a chance to win a prize. VisitChandler.com

Photography Courtesy Visit Chandler

Pat Metheny: Side-Eye III

THE INNOVATIVE PROGRAM SHOWS HOW SMALL INVESTMENTS IN HOMES FOR SALE CAN PAY BIG DIVIDENDS IN THE FINAL SALE PRICE

LEVELUP PROGRAM

As an associate broker with Keller Williams Realty East Valley, Amy Lines is devoted to helping her clients get the best possible price when selling their homes.

About four years ago, Lines noticed a dramatic shift in the East Valley real estate market that seemed to take place almost overnight, and that had a tangible impact on how quickly homes were selling.

“For most of my 28-year career, the Valley has been a seller’s market, meaning that most homes will sell, regardless of condition or location,” Lines says. “When there is a shortage of inventory, there’s pretty much a buyer for every house.”

That reality changed quickly and significantly in 2022 when interest rates increased drastically, making homes less affordable for the average buyer.

“With the sudden decrease in buyer demand, we found that not every home that hit the market was actually selling,” Lines says, adding that the number one reason homes were suddenly not attracting buyers any longer was because they were not priced appropriately for their condition. “If a home isn’t selling in the current market, then the homeowners have an option of either reducing their price or improving the condition of the property so that it is more appealing to the buyers who are actively searching for a new home.”

This new real estate landscape, combined with her unwavering commitment to clients, inspired Lines—who runs her business with her husband, Garrett—to create LevelUp, a program that helps sellers make small cosmetic improvements that yield big returns on the market.

“In most cases, we are arranging for the house to be repainted, updating some lighting, or maybe installing new countertops or removing an outdated backsplash—things like that,” Lines says. “It’s certainly not a full renovation, but rather just a ‘refresh’ to help the home show its best in this competitive market.”

Lines notes that homes in Chandler that were built in the early 2000s are prime candidates for her LevelUp Program.

“We know that interior design styles typically last about 10 years before they go through a transformation to a completely different style,” she says. “Many of the homes

“WE HAVE HAD GREAT SUCCESS WITH THIS PROGRAM OVER THE PAST TWO YEARS.”—AMY LINES

that were built in Chandler 20-plus years ago were designed around a Tuscan or Spanish design aesthetic; then about 10 years later, everything switched to either gray and white farmhouse or midcentury modern.”

Today’s trend has changed once again to what Lines calls a “modern coastal, organic modern, or modern ranch style,” which features a color palette and materials that are very different than what was being used more than two decades ago.

In a strong seller’s market, Lines says these types of outdated properties would have still sold, and the buyers would have done the updates and renovations themselves after they purchased the property.

“But in a more balanced market, or even a soft seller’s market—like we are experiencing in Chandler right now—many buyers aren’t particularly interested in taking on these projects,” she says. “The current statistic is that only 61 percent of listed homes are successful in finding a buyer. The other 39 percent of listed homes either languish on the market or the owners are forced to come up with a different plan. That’s where LevelUp comes in.”

Rather than asking her already-busy clients to take care of all of the seemingly endless details associated with scheduling renovations, Lines

gladly takes the reins to help coordinate the small changes that will make the most impact in today’s real estate market.

“We handle a lot of the annoying and time-consuming tasks associated with these types of projects, such as selecting materials and getting bids from contractors,” she says. “We try to make it as easy as possible on our clients so that they can relax and focus on packing and preparing for their move, and we can get the home on the market with minimal hassle.”

Through the LevelUp program, Lines also handles managing the projects, as well as providing a targeted marketing plan, staging services, and market expertise.

“ONE HUNDRED PERCENT OF OUR LEVELUP PROPERTIES HAVE CLOSED ESCROW, SO THIS IS TRULY A WIN-WIN FOR OUR CLIENTS AND US. PLUS, THE BUYERS GET AN EVEN BETTER HOME TO MOVE INTO.”—AMY LINES

If the cost of the project is a concern for the home seller, Lines says in some situations, on a case-by-case basis, she and Garrett will pay for the project themselves and be reimbursed when the home sells.

As Lines notes, home sellers who invest in these seemingly small improvements will not only usually have a faster sale, but also their home will sell for a higher price.

While a fresh coat of paint, modern countertops, and a beautiful backsplash might not seem like huge upgrades, prospective

buyers definitely notice and appreciate them, and are more likely to make an offer.

“We have had great success with this program over the past two years,” she says. “One hundred percent of our LevelUp properties have closed escrow, so this is truly a win-win for our clients and us. Plus, the buyers get an even better home to move into.”

LOVING WHERE YOU LIVE

PERSONAL ATTENTION TO DETAIL REMAINS PART OF FAMILY-RUN KEYSTONE HOMES’ IDENTITY AND COMMUNITY INVESTMENT STRATEGY

ARTICLE BY GEORGANN YARA PHOTOGRAPHY

BY

BARRET ELENGOLD - SCOTTSDALE EVENT PHOTOGRAPHY

When Rich Eniem Sr. and his wife founded Keystone Homes in 1989, it was with the intention of building each home as if it were for one of their own family members— one that they’d be proud to call home.

Thirty-seven years later, that spirit is alive in the numerous Keystone communities throughout the Valley, guided by a leadership that brings more than 50 years of combined experience in the homebuilding industry. At the helm, Rich Sr.’s son, Rich Eneim Jr., ensures that the high standards and impeccable craftsmanship that Keystone Homes is known for is maintained—and this investment in quality applies to Keystone Homes and the families that call them home.

“Our buyers tend to stay in these homes for longer than is typical.

Timeless design elements also ensure the communities age gracefully.”

—Rich Jr.

“Our team still hears from our buyers as far back as 10-plus years … we also get repeat and referral buyers in our new communities," says Rich Jr., president of Keystone Homes. “Our buyers tend to stay in these homes for longer than is typical. Timeless design elements also ensure the communities age gracefully.”

Before launching Keystone Homes, Rich Sr. spent 16 years with Knoell Homes, one of the top homebuilders in the Southwest, where he held positions including vice president of production and general manager. The sale of Knoell Homes was the catalyst for the launch of Keystone Homes.

It also provided a blueprint and model for his new company.

“His aim was to take the operational capabilities of a large company but maintain the personal attention to detail and customers, something smaller homebuilding companies can do better,” Rich Jr. says.

The Keystone Homes’ formula includes the incorporation of unique elements and energy-efficient features that work together to provide lasting value. Flexibility of floor plans and special touches reflect buyers’ individual tastes and visions, so they can move into a house that feels like home from the very first day.

New residential communities by Keystone Homes include the dynamic Havenly Communities, with their newest community opening this summer in Gilbert, which is composed of homes for rent, combining the best of single-family homes and apartment living.

Also, a new upscale for-sale community, Hazelwood, makes its debut in Chandler. This gated community features single-level homes with four unique floor plans with options to accommodate multigenerational living, garages that accommodate three or four cars, gathering spaces, a park with a bocce ball court, and other welcoming details distinctive of Keystone Homes.

“We are focused on the design and attention to detail of both the homes and also the community space itself.”—Rich Jr.

Standard features that typically come as upgrades with other builders are examples of amenities that distinguish this family-run developer from the pack of competitive residential community builders in the Valley.

“We look for and choose the best locations. We are focused on the design and attention to detail of both the homes and also the community space itself,” Rich Jr. says.

Marina Bevier, new home sales consultant with Keystone Homes, adds, “Each community is designed with public spaces and community amenities unique to the community. Our communities have included amenities such as pools, barbecue and picnic areas, parks, club houses, weight rooms, and even community gardens … all to foster social interaction, encouraging neighbors to connect, and lasting relationships, which strengthen community ties and make a safer, happier community.”

What the locations would organically bring to homeowners once the communities are built is also a factor.

“Usually, we look for highly desirable areas with established amenities, whether views or neighborhoods that are highly desirable. That is something that is harder to find, but when we do, we work with our architects to create something unique to that location and seek to offer a home that fulfills the needs and desires of the people we know are looking for these offerings,” Rich Jr. says.

Longtime partnerships with nationally renowned architects have resulted in accolades for Keystone’s designs, as well as ensuring quality craftsmanship and a common goal of bringing the very best to buyers.

Investing in the Keystone Homes family and team has also proved beneficial.

“Our sales team members have worked with Keystone for a number of years and work to build a rapport with each buyer, and many of those relationships have flourished over the years,” Rich Jr. says. “Our homeowners love our quality, love our design elements, and love the communities we’ve built.”

KeystoneHomesAZ.com

When should I consider in-home care for myself or a loved one?

This quick checklist will help determine whether it’s time to have a conversation to see if in-home care or other care solutions are needed.

you are Aging. miss taking Medications. Assistance needed by others to stay at home – help with transportation, errands, grocery, housecleaning, personal hygiene. Desire to stay at home.

A spouse of someone you are caring for – in-home care as a respite for a loved one.

While nearly all women are highly involved in day-to-day financial tasks, most do not engage in long-term planning. Data still indicates that men are more likely to be seen as the “expert” or take the lead on long-term financing for the family.** It seems like a convenient strategy, as women are more likely to be burdened with the responsibility of children, family, and sometimes even aging parents in their younger years, but if you are a woman, you might want to rethink that strategy.

Women, on average, live longer than men. This means women need their money to last longer, sometimes decades longer. A longer lifespan increases exposure to inflation, stock market cycles, healthcare costs, and long-term care expenses.

Sally Putnam, founder of NOW Financial based in Chandler, specializes in working with women who find themselves “suddenly single,” often due to death or divorce. She works with women who thought their husbands would be there to take care of their long-term financial needs, but may instead find themselves navigating their finances on their own.

“As a woman financial advisor, I’m frequently asked if women’s investing needs are truly different from men’s—or is this just another stereotype?” says Putnam. “The fundamentals of investing are the same for everyone, but the context surrounding women’s financial lives often creates different priorities, risks, and strategies.”

That doesn’t mean financial strategies should put women in a box. Instead, it’s about building a financial plan that reflects the real-life financial struggles many women face. On average, women still earn less than men and are less likely to receive business windfalls during their working years.

Many women also experience career interruptions due to caregiving, raising children, caring for aging parents, or supporting family members. These pauses can negatively impact retirement savings, Social Security benefits, and employer-sponsored plans. That means it is important for women

to have their own financial plan to overcome those inequities in a way that keeps them financially safe during the twilight years of their lives.

For women, investing is often less about “beating the market” and more about sustainability. They need a plan that balances growth with their long-term income needs. Women can often be labeled as “conservative investors,” but that doesn’t mean they are risk-averse. They are often much more risk-aware because they understand the stakes. Successful investing isn’t about taking the most risk—it’s about taking the right amount of risk for your life, goals, and responsibilities.

Sally Putnam often meets with women who find themselves suddenly single because of either death or divorce. Many of these women never thought of asking their husbands about their financial plan for retirement. They are terrified they may not have enough money, and many of them don’t even know who to trust or where to begin.

“The worst thing you can do is not have a plan,” says Putnam. “Without a plan, the fear intensifies.”

Should women invest differently than men? The truth is that women don’t necessarily need different investments, but they do often need different conversations. Conversations that acknowledge longevity, life transitions, caregiving, and independence. The goal isn’t to invest like a man or a woman. The goal is to invest like yourself, with intention, understanding, and a plan built for the life you’re living.

Putnam can be reached at putnam.sally@ nowfinancialaz.com.

** UBS Own Your Worth Report, 2023

Securities offered through Registered Representatives of Cambridge Investment Research, Inc., a broker-dealer, member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services through The AmeriFlex Group®, a Registered Investment Adviser. Cambridge is separately owned and other entities and/or marketing names, products or services referenced here are independent of Cambridge.

Economic Update Series

Destination: Arizona

Join us for an Economic Update on Arizona’s hospitality and tourism industries. Explore the latest trends, market demand, development opportunities, and long-term economic impacts

Wednesday, April 15 | 11:00 am - 1:30 pm

Arizona had $29.7 billion of direct travel spending in 2024

In 2026, Phoenix will open more hotel rooms than almost any other major city (second only to NYC).

Worth the Journey

Some investments hang on walls and others in wallets. Others sit quietly in portfolios, waiting for the market to make a big move.

And then there are the investments that come with a boarding pass.

Yes, travel is an investment—an investment in making memories, building bonds, and self-care.

Smart “investors” know where to spend their money, focusing on destinations that offer more than just a room with free Wi-Fi, choosing locales that provide thoughtful extras from bespoke breakfast platters to full-on outdoor expeditions. These three escapes deliver exactly that, paying dividends long after the flight home.

MAILENA WELLNESS RESORT, LORETO, MEXICO

While Cabo and Cancun are household travel names, Loreto is newer to the scene as it relates to marvelous spots in Mexico. Accessible via a 90-minute American Airlines flight from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, the region is tucked along the Sea of Cortez and home to Loreto Bay National Marine Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site sheltering nearly 40 percent of the world’s marine mammals.

CONTINUED >

It is also home to Mailena Wellness Resort (MailenaWellnessResort.com), Loreto’s first adults-only wellness resort. The 96-room boutique property features a lobby anchored by a living olive tree and architecture that dissolves into sea and sky. Its cenote-inspired Wellness and Longevity Center offers science-backed programming that extends beyond traditional spa treatments, delivering immersive therapies designed to last well beyond checkout.

Mailena sits within the award-winning Danzante Bay resort community, granting access to Villa del Palmar at the Islands of Loreto (VillaDelPalmarLoreto.com) and TPC Danzante Bay (TPCDanzanteBay.com), the only TPC-designated course in Mexico. Guests can also enjoy its five pools, four restaurants, and the expansive 39,000-square-foot Sabila Spa, in addition to Mailena. The financial upside becomes even more apparent when considering what can be arranged directly through the resort, including hotel-led scuba diving, whale watching, sport fishing, island boat tours, hiking, ATV adventures, and much more, eliminating third-party booking fees.

By bundling access and expertise into one reservation, Mailena transforms a beach vacation into a layered investment in experience.

JORDAN VINEYARD & WINERY, SONOMA, CALIFORNIA

In 1972, Tom and Sally Jordan envisioned a Bordeaux-inspired estate in Alexander Valley. The result is the 58,000-square-foot Jordan Vineyards & Winery (JordanWinery.com), where winemaking, culinary artistry, and refined lodging coexist under one Provençal-inspired roof.

The three chateau suites on the property range from 575 to 800 square feet each and feature antiques from the Louis XIII, XV, and XVI periods, French-inspired furnishings, and ample vineyard views. Fireplaces, private balconies, and en suite Jordan wine elevate the stay.

Smart “investors” know where to spend their money, focusing on destinations that offer more than just

a

room with Wi-Fi, choosing locales with extras that include bespoke breakfasts and outdoor expeditions.

What distinguishes the experience further are the inclusions. Guests receive daily breakfast delivered to their suite with French press coffee and estate-foraged tea. Wine tasting and a full vineyard tour are part of the stay, along with courtesy transportation to and from Downtown Healdsburg. An in-house concierge coordinates exclusive culinary and wine experiences, streamlining planning that might otherwise require multiple reservations and added service fees.

Reservations are available exclusively to Jordan Reward Members, yet membership carries no annual fee or minimum purchase. Upon subscribing to emails, guests receive reward points that accumulate with wine purchases. Once sufficient points are collected, suites may be reserved starting at $175 per night, a rare value in Sonoma for accommodations of this caliber, particularly given the estate’s prestige and privacy.

CAMP CASS, PASO ROBLES, CALIFORNIA

Who says summer camp is just for kids?

At Cass Winery and the Geneseo Inn in Paso Robles (CassWines.com/stay), adult summer camp unfolds across 145 vineyard acres. The eight modern suites, constructed from recycled shipping containers and elevated 8 feet

above ground, feature floor-to-ceiling windows, expansive bathrooms, private decks, and electric vehicle chargers. Gourmet breakfast is included daily, along with e-bike rides, bird-watching, stargazing, and a nightly happy hour featuring its wines paired with artisanal cheeses and charcuterie, followed by s'mores around the campfire.

Camp Cass, offered to both Geneseo Inn guests and the local public, delivers additional hands-on adventure. Guests can test their aim with archery and axe throwing, harvest and press olives for tasting, and participate in beekeeping experiences complete with live honey extraction. Outdoor photography workshops, horseback riding, scavenger hunts, and Amazing Race-inspired competitions channel playful nostalgia.

Culinary programming elevates the experience further with hands-on cooking classes, garden-to-table demonstrations, and Chopped-style competitions where guests craft timed dishes from secret ingredients. Sommelier-led sensory tastings and winemaker-for-a-day programs round out the offerings.

By consolidating lodging, dining, and immersive activities into customizable bundled reservations, Camp Cass turns a weekend away into a coordinated experience that would be far more complex and costly to assemble independently.

STAY CONNECTED TO YOUR COMMUNITY

Teddy Bears From Valley Bloom Soothe Children in Crisis

HELPING THE COMMUNITY

ARTICLE BY SARAH AUFFRET | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

“The impact you have is so profound; I can’t begin to say how much we appreciate your partnership with us.”

— KANIKA HENRY

Teddy bears have magic. That was the message delivered by the Chandler Crisis Response Team to Valley Bloom members, who donate specially designed bears to the team each year for children in crisis.

“A 7-year-old girl was almost catatonic when we got there,” said Josh Saunders, a Response Team volunteer who knelt beside the girl after she experienced a family death. “The moment we gave her the bear, there was an immediate sense of comfort.”

The Crisis Response Team made a presentation to thank Valley Bloom for providing 85 percent of their supplies over the years, from baby formula and blankets to snacks, hygiene supplies, and clothing. Last year, the organization gave them 96 bears with a Chandler Fire logo T-shirt, and this month, they have ordered 150 more. They keep the team’s van stocked by delivering additional supplies each month.

“The impact you have is so profound; I can’t begin to say how much we appreciate your partnership with us,” said Kanika Henry, senior crisis intervention specialist. “Your supplies are so important. People who have a house fire may run out of their house barefoot, barely clothed. Your teddy bears alone have provided comfort to so many children.”

The main calls answered by the team are grief and death-related, she says. Others are victim-based, from traffic accidents to domestic violence. There are assaults, structure fires, and medical emergencies.

Valley Bloom provides “care kits” to nine agencies in the East Valley, serving 4,000 people in crisis each year. The Chandler Medical Center emergency room personnel look forward to a monthly delivery of clothing, including sweatshirts, pants, underwear, and flip-flops. Assault victims must leave their clothing at the hospital for evidence purposes.

The organization, formerly called Assistance League of East Valley, provided new school clothing and uniforms to 7,670 school children in the East Valley last year, as well as assistance to homeless teens and the elderly, 12 college scholarships, and financial assistance for foster teens living at East Valley Institute of Technology.

Funds are raised by the Valley Bloom Thrift Shop, which carries boutique fashions, sportswear, books, household items, toys, children’s clothing, and tools. The hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday. It is located at 2326 N. Alma School, Chandler.

ValleyBloom.org

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“The moment we gave her the bear, there was an immediate sense of comfort.”

— JOSH SAUNDERS

RESTAURANTS: Bonsai

Bottle & Bean Chop

Lucca Coastal Kitchen

Lucca Living Room

The Trophy Room

sip. savor. socialize.

SERVICE BUSINESSES:

Keystone Law Firm

Realty Executives

TomKat Design + Real Estate

Vinium 55

HEALTH AND PAMPERING SERVICES:

East Valley ER-Chandler

Haia Pilates & Yoga

Lazaderm Laser & Aesthetics

Leidan Mitchell Salons

Stephanie Walker Dentistry

EDUCATION:

Casa del Nino Bi-Lingual Montessori School

ARTICLE BY KRISTY BELLEY

The drink that makes you look forward to TAX DAY

INCOME TAX cocktail

INGREDIENTS:

• 1½ oz. Gin

• ¾ oz. Dry Vermouth

• ¾ oz. Sweet Vermouth

• ¾ oz. Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice

• 2 Dashes Angastura Bitters

• Orange Twist

• Glass Type: Coupe

DIRECTIONS:

1. Squeeze your OJ.

2. Add everything to your shaker with ice.

3. Shake.

4. Pour into your coupe.

5. Twist your orange peel again, like you did last summer.

6. Garnish.

7. Enjoy being done with taxes.

8. And a good cocktail.

The Income Tax Cocktail likely popped up during the Prohibition party scene of the 1920s. Its exact origin story remains a bit blurry, but it was definitely a hit in speakeasies. The name? Well, it's like a cheeky nod to the idea that sipping on this cocktail might be more fun than paying actual taxes! Made with gin, sweet vermouth, orange juice, and a dash of bitters, it's like a boozy adventure for your taste buds, with hints of citrus and herbs. Despite its vintage roots, the Income Tax Cocktail still brings the party vibes, transporting you back to the roaring '20s.

BEST INVESTMENT BOOKS TO READ

THESE INVESTMENT BOOKS CAN HELP YOU STAY UP-TO-DATE ON THE LATEST FINANCIAL TRENDS

ARTICLE BY SUSAN LANIER-GRAHAM

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SIMON AND SCHUSTER

Investing in your future is critical yet complicated. While reaching out to qualified professionals is vital—whether you’re building your business, investing in your financial security, or planning for retirement—doing some of your own research is often helpful.

We checked out some of the top investment books that help you better understand how to invest in your future and build wealth.

1 2 3 4 5

ONE UP ON WALL STREET

One Up On Wall Street: How to Use What You Already Know to Make Money in the Market by Peter Lynch with John Rothchild. Peter Lynch explains average investors’ advantages over professionals and how they can use these advantages to achieve financial success.

HOW TO INVEST

How to Invest: Navigating the Brave New World of Personal Investment, part of Economist Books, by Peter Stanyer, Masood Javaid, and Stephe Satchell. A dynamic new guide to personal investment for the era of cryptocurrencies and personal trading platforms.

POWER YOUR PROFITS

Power Your Profits: How to Take Your Business from $10,000 to $10,000,000 by Susie Carder. While not a traditional book on investments,  Power Your Profits helps you discover how to take your business from startup mode to the multi-million-dollar mark.

THE WEALTH DECISION

The Wealth Decision: 10 Simple Steps to Achieve Financial Freedom and Build Generational Wealth by Dominique Broadway. A roadmap for becoming a millionaire and building the foundation of generational wealth from a self-made, first-generation multimillionaire.

HOW TO INVEST

How to Invest: Masters on the Craft by David M. Rubenstein. This book is a master class on investing, featuring conversations with the biggest names in finance. Brought to you by the legendary cofounder of The Carlyle Group, David M. Rubenstein.

Numbers Intimidate.

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Redefining MVP: TIM TEBOW’S LIFE BEYOND FOOTBALL

An exclusive Q&A with City Lifestyle

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

From championship trophies to global humanitarian impact, Tim Tebow’s journey has defied every standard playbook. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Tebow pulls back the curtain on the moments that truly defined him, from a humbling middle school church retreat to the life-altering shift of fatherhood. This isn’t just a look back at a career; it’s an invitation into the heart of a man driven by purpose. Read the highlights below, then join us for the full, unfiltered experience by scanning the QR code at the end.

Q: WE ALL KNOW YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS ON THE FOOTBALL FIELD, BUT TELL US ABOUT THE CURL CONTEST.

A: I was competing for my future high school team (my brother’s team), and I pushed myself way past what was smart. I ended up collapsing and needing medical attention. But what stayed with me wasn’t the pain, it was the lesson. Would I be willing to do something that others aren’t? For much of my life, I strived to bring my best for a game, but I hope that I can say at the end of my life I was willing to do that for things that actually matter.

Q: YOU’VE ACHIEVED SO MUCH IN SPORTS. WHAT WOULD YOU SAY IS YOUR GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT NOW?

A: Becoming a dad. Nothing compares. From the moment I knew my wife was pregnant, I felt a new depth of love for our child, but when you bring your baby home, the responsibility hits you like nothing else. Suddenly, everything you see, every decision you make, you’re asking, “Is this corner too sharp? What happens if she reaches that drawer?” It changes how you see the world and how you see other people.

Q: YOU’VE SPOKEN OPENLY ABOUT DISAPPOINTMENT, ESPECIALLY AROUND FOOTBALL. HOW DID THAT SEASON OF LIFE SHAPE YOU?

A: I talked a lot about that very thing in my book Shaken . We all go through moments where our faith in our abilities and purpose feels rattled, but I believe it’s often in those storms when God can show us who we could become.

Q: YOU TALK A LOT ABOUT COMPARISON CULTURE. WHY DO YOU BELIEVE COMPARISON HAS BECOME SUCH A TRAP TODAY?

A: Because we’re comparing our real, everyday lives to someone else’s highlight reel. Social media shows people’s “best day,” often filtered and staged, and then we measure our reality against that. There’s a reason filters are so popular—it’s not real. We end up scrolling through images that don’t tell the full story, and without realizing it, comparison starts to steal our joy and our gratitude.

“We’re comparing our real, everyday lives to someone else’s highlight reel... comparison starts to steal our joy.”

Q: YOUR FOUNDATION FOCUSES ON THE “MOST VULNERABLE.” WHERE DID THAT CALLING BEGIN?

A: When I was 15, I met a boy in the Philippines who was treated as a throwaway because he was born with physical differences. That moment changed me. I realized God was calling me to pursue a different kind of MVP, not “Most Valuable Player,” but “Most Vulnerable People.”

Q: FINALLY, WHAT’S ONE THING PEOPLE MIGHT BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?

A: I have some weird coffee habits, which include protein powder, collagen, and cream all mixed together. I love golf dates with my wife. And every night, I bring snacks to bed to share with our dogs. It brings me more joy than it probably should.

This conversation barely scratches the surface. Tim goes deeper into the moments that rattled him, the joys of fatherhood, and one story he has never shared publicly until now. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on Share the Lifestyle Podcast.

APRIL 1ST THROUGH SUMMER 2027

Being Eddie Basha

Chandler Museum

Eddie Basha was many things to many people: businessman, friend, education advocate, champion of the arts, and so much more. This exhibition immerses visitors in the pivotal periods throughout his life, as well as the principles he lived by. Learn how he shaped lasting legacies in education, business, the arts, and many diverse communities. ChandlerAZ.gov

APRIL 1ST THROUGH APRIL 18TH

(Be) Longing

The Gallery at Chandler Center for the Arts

This exhibition explores cultural identity, nostalgia, and belonging through the eyes of four Japanese-born artists who now call Arizona home. From resin to clay to paint, they attempt to reconcile their two identities through art. Their works are modern, yet deeply rooted in traditional Japanese aesthetics, drawing inspiration from folklore, religious rituals, Zen philosophy, and historical art forms like Fusuma-e and Mingei craft. VisionGallery.org

APRIL 3RD

Family Easter Celebration

Dr. A.J. Chandler Park | 5:30 PM

No bunny does Easter like Chandler's Family Easter Celebration. Hop along the 24 Karrot Trail to collect eggs and goodies. Find a "Golden Karrot" and win an egg-citing prize. Make sure to bring your basket. Trails are open to children up to 9 years of age. There will also be crafts, amusements, live performances, and egg-citement for all. ChandlerAZ.gov

For You and Your Family

APRIL 9TH - 12TH

Chandler Jazz Festival

Dr. A.J. Chandler Park

In celebration of Jazz Appreciation Month, the annual Chandler Jazz Festival hosts a stellar lineup of local talent. Genres range from traditional and fusion rhythm to smooth jazz. The free, family-friendly festival features more than 40 hours of live performances. Bring blankets and lawn chairs to the outdoor concert. ChandlerAZ.gov

APRIL 11TH

Chandler Discovery Library at Cadence Chandler

Cadence Chandler | 1:30 PM

Enjoy the Chandler Discovery Library on the second Saturday of each month from 1:30 to 3 p.m. This mobile library branch offers a "lucky day" book collection, free Wi-Fi, Culture Passes, a small seed library, hands-on activities, and more. The event is open to the public, so stop by to explore library services, discover new reads, and connect with their community. CadenceChandler.com

APRIL 11TH

You're Bacon Me Crazy! Brunch Crawl

The Uncommon, 1 E. Boston St. | 9:00 AM

Downtown Chandler's beloved You’re Bacon Me Crazy! brunch crawl is back. Roll out of bed in your comfiest pajamas and explore Downtown Chandler’s top restaurants. Enjoy $6 food samples, $5 drinks, or both for $10. There are Early Bird tickets (9 a.m. to 2 p.m.) and Snoozer tickets (10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.). Purchase at DowntownChandler.org

Kohler Bathroom Design

Partner with the KOHLER® Signature Store design consultants to find innovative products, colors, materials, and finishes to bring your design dreams to life.

4513 N Scottsdale Rd Ste 116 Scottsdale, AZ 85251 | 480-397-2021

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APRIL 11TH 18th Annual Chandler

Family Bike Ride

Chandler Park & Ride, Hamilton Street and Germann Road | 7:30 AM

In celebration of Valley Bike Month, join Mayor Kevin Hartke and the Chandler community for a fun and scenic ride along the Paseo Trail. This 7.8-mile ride is perfect for cyclists of all ages and skill levels and features this year’s superhero-inspired theme, Ride to Save the World. The event highlights how everyday bike trips help protect the planet. ChandlerAZ.gov

APRIL 18TH

5th Annual Pacific Islands Festival

Dr. A.J. Chandler Park | 10:00 AM

Learn about the different islands that make up the South Pacific Islands in a fun and interactive way. There will be dance performances, musical acts, and cultural practitioners who will show you how to husk a coconut or dance with fire. Plus, merchandise booths, and, of course, food! DowntownChandler.org

APRIL 24TH

Discover Chandler Municipal Airport: Free Public Tour

Chandler Municipal Airport

Experience a free one-hour guided tour of Chandler Municipal Airport, where you can go behind the scenes and learn more about airport operations and the airport’s role in the nation’s aviation system. The tour includes a presentation from the airport’s manager, followed by an airfield overview and a stop at the heliport. Space is limited (14 guests per tour). Advance registration required. ChandlerAZ.gov