Chandler, AZ May 2026

To All of Chandler's Amazing Women ...

May always arrives with a certain energy, one that feels both celebratory and reflective. It’s a natural time to pause and recognize the women who shape our community in ways both visible and quietly transformative. This month, which marks our annual Women’s Issue, we’re proud to spotlight just a few of the many who make Chandler stronger, more connected, and more vibrant.

At the heart of this issue is our newest class of Women of Chandler. Selected through a committee process, these honorees represent a remarkable cross section of leadership, service, and innovation. Their stories are as varied as their backgrounds, but they share a common thread: a deep commitment to lifting others and leaving a lasting impact. It’s an honor to share their journeys and celebrate what they contribute to our city every day.

We also take time to recognize a woman who has had an incredible influence on Chandler’s cultural landscape. After 27 years of dedication, Michelle Mac Lennan is retiring from her role at Chandler Center for the Arts. Her legacy is woven into the very fabric of our city’s arts community, and her passion has helped shape countless experiences for residents and visitors alike. Her story is one of vision, perseverance, and a genuine love for the arts.

This issue also highlights the power of collective giving through a group of women who have come together with a shared mission to give back. Their work is a reminder that meaningful change often begins at the grassroots level, with individuals who simply decide to show up, get involved, and make a difference.

And, because no Women’s Issue would feel complete without a touch of beauty, we’ve included a Q&A with local florist Jacqueline Rodriguez, answering the questions people ask most often—from how to make blooms last longer to choosing the perfect flower arrangement for any occasion.

Together, these stories reflect the many ways women contribute to the heart of Chandler—through leadership, creativity, generosity, and care. We hope this issue inspires you to celebrate the women in your own life and community, not just this month but all year long.

Yours,

May 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

Alison Stanton, Georgann Yara

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Lindsay Borg

MICHELLE GLICKSMAN, EDITOR @CHANDLERCITYLIFESTYLE

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle Learn

Proverbs 3:5-6

city scene

1: Chandler Service Club partnered with Chandler CARE Center to feed local kids over spring break. 2: Mayor Hartke did not miss an opportunity to get into seven classrooms during Read Across America Week. 3: Mayor Hartke did not miss an opportunity to get into seven classrooms during Read Across America Week. 4: Our March issue was celebrated with a Launch Party sponsored by the Amy Jones Group. 5: Prama AI is warmly welcomed into Chandler’s business community by the Chandler Chamber of Commerce. 6: The kids at ICAN learned and celebrated Black History Month with a Black History Speakers Series. 7: Keystone Homes held a pre-grand opening Realtor event at its new Hazelwood Community of single-family homes.

8: Lots of fun as the Tarwater Elementary PTO held a POWER UP STEM Festival! 9: Lots of fun as the Tarwater Elementary PTO held a POWER UP STEM Festival! 10: Myranda North and her daughter, Athena, showcase their generous donation at Phoenix Children’s Hospital’s Beach Ball. 11: SanTan Brewing is honored with the Sustainability in Action Award from Arizona Forward’s Environmental Excellence Awards. 12: Denise McCreery, Sybil Imel, and Shelby Arians having fun at Valley Bloom’s annual fundraiser. 13: Having fun at the Chandler Business Alliance’s annual Comedy Night fundraiser for local charities. 14: So many great laughs at the Chandler Business Alliance’s annual Comedy Night fundraiser for local charities.

Expansion of Hilton Garden Inn Downtown Chandler Unveiled

HCW and Spike Lawrence Ventures recently completed and unveiled an expansion of the Hilton Garden Inn Downtown Chandler. The expansion increases the hotel’s total room count by 68 to 177 and adds 3,200 square feet of flexible meeting and event space with pre-function areas, service stations, and dedicated restrooms, as well as a 2,140-squarefoot outdoor event patio. There's also an expanded 1,225-square-foot fitness center and a 325-square-foot bridal suite. HGIChandler.com

The city of Chandler is committed to building a community that not only supports business growth but also enriches the lives of its residents. This is reflected in a new study from leading personal finance outlet WalletHub, which ranked Chandler the 14th happiest city in America. Their analysts compared more than 180 of the largest cities in the United States across 29 key indicators of happiness. ChandlerAZ.gov; WalletHub.com

Lakeview Dental Proudly Serves Chandler

Lakeview Dental is proud to serve the community with a skilled, compassionate dental team led by Dr. Ghods, DMD, and Dr. Keon Fakhimi, DMD. Dr. Ghods, an Arizona-trained dentist and certified Invisalign provider, brings expertise in cosmetic dentistry and dental implants. Dr. Fakhimi offers comprehensive general dentistry with a strong focus on comfort, ethics, and personalized care. Together, they are committed to helping patients achieve healthy, confident smiles at Lakeview Dental. Currently accepting new patients; 480.447.9570.

Chandler Restaurant Named Arizona's Best After-Midnight Food Spot

A company named Ace surveyed 3,018 self-identified night owls and asked them to identify the best places in America to eat when everything else is closed. Arizona had three of the best late-night eats in the country— and one was right here in Chandler. Craft pub Good Time Charli's came in No. 6 on the list, offering a comforting list of appetizers until 2 a.m. It joined Moby's in Tucson (No. 51) and Turkish Kebab House, also in Tucson (No. 78).

fragrances, gifts, and accessories to shoppers. The company just opened a new location at Chandler Fashion Center, where it is located on the upper level, next to Helzberg Diamonds. The company's fragrance consultants are trained to provide personalized service and expert advice about today’s most popular fragrances, as well as classic and hard-to-find fragrances. ChandlerFashionCenter.com

The Tox Technique's Chandler Location Celebrates Its One-Year Anniversary

The Tox Technique delivers a signature, results-driven wellness experience rooted in lymphatic health, body sculpting, and detoxification. Its Chandler location celebrates its one-year anniversary, having cultivated a loyal community and earned a reputation for delivering visible, lasting results. Each session is designed to target inflammation and excess fluid retention, optimize circulation, and leave clients feeling lighter, more contoured, and revitalized. The Tox Technique continues to redefine elevated, results-driven wellness. TheToxTechnique.com

Ashley Ohland Corinne Bocchino

Officer, Chandler Police

Growing up, Ashley Ohland set two goals for herself—to play Division 1 college golf and serve in law enforcement. She has achieved them both.

In 2020, she joined the Chandler Police Department, where she now serves as a field training officer. In this role, she trains, mentors, and evaluates new officers as they begin their careers, helping establish the professional standards and expectations of the department through direct coaching and example.

She has also played a key role in community-focused initiatives. For the past three years, she planned and led the Aspire Academy, a program designed to introduce young women to careers in public safety through hands-on experience and mentorship, reflecting a commitment to developing future leaders and strengthening connections between the department and the community.

“Being a Chandler police officer means stepping into moments most people spend their lives trying to avoid. I often show up on someone’s worst day. I provide calm in chaos, compassion in pain, and dignity when someone feels powerless. While the badge carries authority, its greatest power is humanity.”

Firefighter Paramedic, Chandler Fire

Corinne Bocchino feels blessed to have been hired by the Chandler Fire Department in 2021. After a lengthy career in the fitness industry, she felt the need to serve the community in a different way, and began a 14-month training program with the Valley Women’s Firefighter Society. Beyond responding to both fire and medical 911 calls, she contributes to the department during hiring processes, and by mentoring interns, teaching paramedic school and EMS training, whenever asked.

Bocchino has mentored many young women through the Aspire Academy, the joint effort between police and fire that introduces girls to public safety careers.

“Seeing these girls grow in confidence at such a young age and try out a career I didn’t myself try for until the age of 30, is always inspiring and rewarding.”

Something you may not know?

“I’m pretty good at outdoor sports! I enjoy snowboarding and kayaking with my significant other, who is also a firefighter, and his three sons on my off days.”

Dr. Erin Carr-Jordan Lisa Cimino

President/CEO, IDIA USAF Veteran, Community Impact Volunteer

Through her leadership at the Institute for Digital Inclusion Acceleration (IDIA), Dr. Erin Carr-Jordan is transforming access to digital opportunities in Chandler. Through her nonprofit, she ensures anyone can have the technology, skills, and support needed to thrive in today’s digital world through community tech hubs called Hives. IDIA partners with the city, CUSD, AZCEND, and other local nonprofits.

“For me, giving back is not about programs. It is about being present. It is about making sure people in our community are healthy, safe, and able to access education and good jobs without feeling alone in the process,” she says. “When an 80-year-old woman sends her first email, a kiddo starts to read, a parent cries when they got a device that is their own, people get good jobs and worry less, or they learn to clear their email, or earn their GED, or a student gets into college. All of it is why I do this and magically, something new happens every day!”

Moving from the Midwest to Chandler to retire in 2011, Lisa Cimino has continued a lifetime of service through ministry, military service, and community-building.

“Chandler is where I’ve been able to continue the work I love— ministry, military service, and community-building. I didn’t come here to start over; I’m sharing everything I’ve learned over the years with a city I’ve truly grown to love and call home.”

She expresses that commitment through her work with the Chandler-Gilbert YMCA, Chandler Community Fellowship, the USO, and the Air National Guard.

She credits her mother, her faith, and a lifetime of public service with shaping who she is.

“I learned community isn’t something you wait for, it’s something you build.”

Cimino plans to continue that legacy by creating a community outreach model that combines faith, mental wellness, and practical family support.

Something you may not know?

“While I’ve had the honor of performing the National Anthem over 500 times since 2013, I spent seven years volunteering as a chaplain in a behavioral health hospital.”

Susan Crabtree

Interior Designer

Susan Crabtree is an Arizona native whose many family members have lived and worked in Chandler for over 80 years.

“The fact that my parents grew up here and raised their families here gives me a sense of comfort. I also like the sense of small town within a big city vibe that Chandler has.”

Inspired by her parents and their volunteer work, she was taught the impact one person can have serving local charities and is currently on the board of the Chandler Museum. She also follows in the footsteps of her grandmother, Kay, by serving with the Chandler Service Club for the past nine years.

As the mother of two boys, Crabtree understands the need for a home to be as functional as it is beautiful, and she founded Puerta Bella Interior Design in 2002.

“A family’s home should tell their story and be a reflection of what’s important to them.”

Something you may not know?

“My grandmother, Mona Ruiz, was the first female police officer in Chandler, and her profound impact on the community inspires me every day!”

Jacque Dobson

CFO, Off-Five

Jacque Dobson’s commitment to Chandler reflects both deep roots and meaningful impact. Her nominator writes, “She builds connections within the community and embodies the kindness and small-town spirit that makes this city special. She does not simply live in Chandler, she invests in its future!”

Her dedication to youth has been especially impactful through her work with ICAN as a volunteer, mentor, and board member, championing opportunities for young people, expanding community partnerships, and strengthening fundraising efforts.

“I plan to stay with the Dream Team for ICAN as I love to do fundraising for great causes.”

For five years, she coached basketball teams for the Boys & Girls Clubs and was involved in fundraising for Pop Warner Youth Football. She is currently helping launch a mentorship initiative designed to guide students from high school through college. Her passion for education, access, and longterm success for youth is unwavering. Like her mom and dad, Dobson served in the Army and Army National Guard, so veteran causes are also important to her.

Ines Honne

Principal, CUSD

Ines Honne has spent 30 years in education, 25 years of which were in the Chandler Unified School District (CUSD), and has served the community in many roles, particularly in the Title 1 sector.

“As someone who learned English as a second language, I am deeply passionate about supporting multilingual learners and their families, so they feel seen, valued, and empowered in our schools.”

She works to build strong partnerships with local businesses, nonprofits, and community organizations to support the students and families.

Her nominator writes, “Her passion for education shines in every interaction. She greets students with warmth, encourages them to embrace challenges (and lets them know they are not alone in them), and inspires them to reach their full potential. Under her guidance, Hartford has become a place of curiosity, creativity, and confidence.”

Something you may not know?

“I was also born with pigeon toes and spent my first few years in therapy, wearing braces and special shoes, teaching me perseverance, gratitude, and compassion.”

Ruthie

Infante-Maya

Neighborhood Coordinator, LIVE LOVE

A dedicated advocate for social justice and equality, Ruthie Infante-Maya has worked tirelessly to improve the quality of life for all Chandler residents, particularly those in the highcrime Armstrong neighborhood, empowering marginalized groups, bridging cultural divides, and advocating for equitable access to resources.

When her family moved to Chandler from the city to escape domestic violence and crime, she soon began volunteering at the Salvation Army. Having been recipients of assistance themselves numerous times, she found the experience of serving very fulfilling.

“By uniting people and offering support, we can alleviate the stress and challenges faced by many.”

Last year, she received the prestigious MLK Spirit of Unity Award. Her leadership in housing advocacy, community organizing, and policy initiatives reflects Dr. King’s vision of justice and unity. Her compassion and commitment to building understanding across language and cultural barriers exemplify the transformative power of what she is able to accomplish. Chandler is a more inclusive and thriving community through her unwavering dedication.

Something you may not know? She has 12 sisters!

Julie Lazzara, Ph.D.

Shelley Mayes

Psychology Professor, Grand Canyon University Chief Nurse & Operating Officer, Banner Health

After the passing of her son, Dr. Julie Lazzara channeled the tremendous loss of her child by founding a nonprofit, Landon’s Legacy Foundation. The mission is to support individuals facing disabilities and rare diseases through advocacy, caregiver education, and creating inclusive spaces. They also provide scholarships to students going into related fields through the Chandler Education Foundation and Maricopa Community College’s Foundation.

When asked who inspired her to make a difference in her community, Lazzara wrote, “My son, Landon, was my greatest teacher. Despite being non-verbal and facing the immense challenges of epilepsy, his joy was contagious. He taught me that community is a safety net we build for one another. After he passed, I realized that while we couldn’t change the tragedy of losing him, we could make positive changes for families like ours by providing resources, training, and other support.”

The true reward for her is the feeling that her son is still doing good through this work, even though his time on earth was short.

Throughout her 25 years of diverse nursing experience, Shelley Mayes has been an inspiring leader who leads change with vision and purpose and puts community service at the forefront.

“Her dedication to advancing nursing practices and her ability to inspire others to embrace change has made a lasting impact on the healthcare landscape in Chandler and beyond,” writes her nominator.

Growing up in a single-parent home, this small-town girl paid her own way through nursing school, receiving the highest honors, and rose to be a healthcare executive, demonstrating that education, along with determination and perseverance, can truly transform lives—“a fact that often surprises those who only knew me in my early years.”

Mayes currently serves on the board of directors for the Chandler Chamber of Commerce and Atlas Healthcare Surgical Center Chandler. She has also presented research and evidence-based practice projects locally and nationally.

“Working with patients and staff, I have been a part of many meaningful moments—both in triumph and sorrow.”

Jenny Miller

Peggy Schlesinger

Program Support Liason, Chandler Gilbert Arc Retired, Intel

Jenny Miller has deep roots in Chandler, having grown up in the community that continues to shape her today.

Miller’s journey hasn’t been linear.

“There was a season when I lost my way. During that time, I took from this city instead of giving to it. The same streets that raised me became the backdrop of my rock bottom. It is where I found recovery, rebuilding a life grounded in faith, accountability, and service.”

She has since grown professionally, building a career with Chandler Gilbert Arc, a private, nonprofit organization dedicated to accompanying people with intellectual and developmental disabilities as they build meaningful, self-directed lives in their communities. Miller was also selected for the Chandler Chamber Foundation Leadership Institute and has been appointed to the Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities.

“Chandler is not just where I live. It is where I grew up, where I stumbled, where I healed, where I am raising my children. and where I now serve.”

Something you may not know?

“I unapologetically love the color purple.”

Southside Village was the first Chandler neighborhood to apply for Historical Neighborhood status, and Peggy Schelsinger worked closely with the City of Chandler Historic Preservation Organization to define the process for obtaining this designation. She was instrumental in getting this original Chandler Black and Latinx community designated as the First Historical Neighborhood in Chandler, which had been a 20-year effort.

Schlesinger has also served as secretary to Chandler4Change since its inception and has been an elected member of the Spiritual Assembly of the Baha’is of Chandler for over 20 years, a global religion founded in 19th-century Persia promoting equality, world peace, and the elimination of prejudice. Her involvement in local committees, charities, and causes over the years is too numerous to mention.

“Unity in diversity is what we should all progress toward for a more peaceful existence. I like to reach out to people who are different from me because they are much more interesting than the people who are just like me.”

Wendy Bruno Thomson Vicki VandenHeuvel

Founder, TTG Healthcare Advisors

“My parents instilled in my siblings and me that community involvement was a core responsibility and obligation. I saw, firsthand, the impact of their involvement and the power of their legacy.”

In addition to building a successful Chandler-based business, Bruno Thomson co-founded a nonprofit with her parents and siblings, called the Find Sunshine Foundation. Through the foundation, they’ve assisted families who were financially impacted by unexpected death or illness, single parents, youth athletes, and students who demonstrate commitment but need resources to accomplish their purpose.

She has served on several community boards, including the Chandler Education Foundation, Positive Paths, and ASU HeaLab, while also supporting many organizations like Chandler Service Club, Chandler Museum, and Desert Cancer Foundation. She’s an advocate for the Chandler Unified School District and its staff and educators.

Her nominator writes, “Wendy is such a positive role model for women. She raised her children, built a strong company, and remains steadfast in her involvement in the Chandler community and commitment to helping others.”

What’s on her bucket list?

“Assisting a dozen students to attend and graduate college in some fashion.”

RN, Chandler Regional

Vicki VandenHeuvel has cared for Chandler babies and their families for over 37 years. But for the last 20 years, she has cared for families experiencing perinatal loss, miscarriage, stillbirth, and early neonatal loss. She works closely with Heaven’s Hummingbirds, a Dignity Health East Valley Foundation nonprofit that offers a bridge between hospital and home.

“Little did I know that our God would have such a beautiful, purpose-filled earthly life job for me!”

The process of healing broken hearts truly takes a village to make a bereavement program flourish, but many in our community encircle her to help heal the broken-hearted. People, churches, schools, the city, local charities, and too many community groups to mention make angel gowns, memory boxes, painted rocks, teddy bears, or wreaths to comfort families.

“I pull many people in to hold my hand as I hold others.”

Her nominator writes, “I always say she should be called St. Vicki! She works tirelessly at Chandler Hospital with people going through the hardest days of their lives.”

Susan Whitaker La’Von Woods

Retired, Volunteer

Susan Whitaker has always been involved in volunteering. She seems to be everywhere, helping the Chandler Elks Lodge, Chandler Center of the Arts, Maricopa County Animal Control, and Maricopa County Elections, just to name a few. She is also very active with the Chandler Chamber of Commerce, but anything involving dogs or veterans are her favorite causes, along with being a great-aunt to her three nephews.

An Arizona native, after serving in the Army and then the Army Reserves, she returned to Chandler with her husband to be near family in 1995.

She remembers a moment when she realized her efforts were truly making a difference.

“The Chandler Elks Veterans Committee received a grant, and we were able to buy new furniture for a group of veterans who had just moved into new housing. A female veteran who had four children shared with me that it was the first time she and her children had a table big enough for all of them to sit together for meals. They now had things of their own.”

Retired, Volunteer

La’Von Woods is truly a cornerstone of Chandler, coming from one of the city’s original families.

“My great-grandfather was the first Black man to live in Chandler.”

She has played an instrumental role in preserving and celebrating the cultural heritage of Chandler by honoring the legacy and contributions of African Americans to the community. Her work ensures that important stories and histories continue to be recognized and remembered.

Woods volunteers wherever there is a need she can fill and has been a driving force for change in our community by actively working in cooperation with the City of Chandler, producing the Black History and Juneteenth celebrations. She also worked with city officials to get the historical designation for the South Village neighborhood. Through her church, Mt. Olive Missionary Baptist, her influence has shaped generations of youth and families.

Her nominator writes, “She has worked tirelessly in her lifelong commitment to service, leadership, and community impact, meeting both spiritual and practical needs.”

Photographed in Downtown Ocotilllo

A MAGICAL Safe Space

RETIRING CHANDLER CENTER FOR THE ARTS CULTURAL ARTS MANAGER AND GENERAL MANAGER MICHELLE MAC LENNAN’S PASSION FOR THEATER LEAVES A LEGACY

ARTICLE BY GEORGANN YARA PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY CHANDLER CENTER FOR THE ARTS

Over three decades, Chandler Center for the Arts has grown into a destination hub that draws guests to year-round worldclass events, a driver of educational opportunities for all ages, and an economic powerhouse with more than $10 million in assets that enable the nonprofit to reinvest in an impressive portfolio.

And for 27 years, Michelle Mac Lennan, cultural arts manager and general manager, has been a key part of this transformation.

As Mac Lennan prepares to retire in September, she acknowledges that her successful career in nearly every aspect of theater is not just professional. It’s very deeply personal.

“I could have made more money if I’d taken other jobs that came across my horizon, but I wanted to be in a space of beauty, artists, and creatives,” Mac Lennan says. “I’ve always followed my heart.”

This passion has led to the championing of audience development of Black, Hispanic, and intergenerational artists and events, collaborations with the Chandler Unified School District, more than 800 events annually with record numbers of sold-out performances, and an endowment increase of more than $7.7 million under her leadership.

And it all started when Mac Lennan’s sister took her to see  Annie at the Orpheum Theatre when she was 9.

“I fell in love. I felt this is what I wanted to do with my life,” Mac Lennan recalls. “I felt it was my life story … maybe someone would take me away, too.”

Born in Montana, Mac Lennan moved to Phoenix when she was 2, after her parents divorced. Her mother was a homemaker who had been in a wealthy yet not-good marriage, and she suddenly became a waitress at the country club she was once a member of.

Mac Lennan found herself being raised by a single mom, not living with her five older siblings, and in a different economic world. However, thanks to her mother’s love for the arts and making sure her children had it in their lives, Mac Lennan found stability.

“She was a gem and light in the world,” Mac Lennan says of her mother, who passed away three years ago at the age of 89. “Theater was a real safe space. It was magic. I loved everything about it. I built the family I didn’t have at home.”

Mac Lennan started acting while in grade school and continued to take the stage through high school.

her first job with the Chandler Center for the Arts as patron services coordinator in 1999.

She paused her education to raise her oldest of her two sons, now 35 and 19. But her passion, skill, and work ethic enabled Mac Lennan to rise through the theater ranks.

Mac Lennan moved to Tempe, where she assisted with the opening of the Tempe Center for the Arts in 2005. But she returned to make Chandler her home again in 2011. She also returned to the Chandler Center for the Arts, where she held several positions before becoming general manager in 2014, and five years later, cultural arts manager.

“I love Chandler. It’s where I chose to build my career.”

A mentor spotted her talent and enthusiasm for the craft and knew college was not financially realistic. She facilitated an internship at the renowned Interlochen Center for the Arts in Michigan, which offered a taste of higher education. This is where Mac Lennan fell in love with lighting and scenic design in a setting that was much different than Arizona.

This experience proved valuable when Mac Lennan returned to the Valley. While attending Phoenix College, she was hired to be its theater house manager when she was 18. She would go on to work for Arizona State University as a lighting technician, getting promoted along the way. This led to

“I love Chandler. It’s where I chose to build my career,” Mac Lennan says. “This was the perfect place for me.”

Mac Lennan will be an active behind-the-scenes presence during the center’s temporary closure for renovations this summer, helping with the administrative transition and overseeing the improvements she spearheaded.

After that, she will remain a Chandler resident but spend summers in Michigan, where she will head an artist-in-residence program at a farm. This will be a continued opportunity to pay her fortunes forward, and one she embraces.

“This is bittersweet. I’ve spent 27 years of my life here, but I feel I am leaving at the right time. I feel my life has been in service of that and I want to give back as much as I can,” Mac Lennan says. “I want to move into a new space of mentoring and lifting artists because I’ve had so many great mentors … mentors in my life when I needed it most.”

THE RIPPLE EFFECT OF GIVING

THE LOCAL CHAPTER OF A PHILANTHROPIC ORGANIZATION DONATES TO NUMEROUS CHARITIES

ARTICLE BY ALISON STANTON PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY 100+ WOMEN WHO CARE VALLEY OF THE SUN

Thanks to the kindness and generosity of the approximately 400 women who are members of the 100+ Women Who Care Valley of the Sun chapter, many local charities are getting the financial support that they need and deserve. Chief Community Builder Kim Tarnopolski co-founded the chapter in late 2014—along with Jacqueline Destremps, Stephanie Millner, and Jenn Kaye— as a way to give busy women an easy way to make a tangible difference in their communities.

“I’ve always believed people want to give; they just need a way that fits into their lives,” Tarnopolski says. “When I discovered the ‘100 Who Care’ model of philanthropy, it immediately clicked. It was simple, efficient, and incredibly powerful—bringing women together for one hour to create a meaningful, immediate impact on charities.”

The chapter has three sister groups: East Valley, Ahwatukee, and Scottsdale. Chandler members are usually part of the East Valley group, but are welcome to join any of the three.

The model for the 100+ Women Who Care Valley of the Sun chapter is intentionally simple, Tarnopolski notes, which is one reason it is so powerful.

“Each sister group meets for one hour each quarter. Our members nominate charitable organizations that have touched their lives,” she says. “We vet each nomination to ensure it meets our criteria, and once approved, it goes into the selection pool. Each quarter, three are randomly drawn, and it’s our members who stand up and present those charities to the group.”

After the presentations, the group votes to support one charity, and every member donates $100 directly to the organization with the most votes.

“Together, we’re able to put $10,000-plus directly into the charity recipient’s hands immediately,” Tarnopolski says. “It’s a simple concept, but it creates a ripple effect that goes far beyond the donation. Our members also become advocates, volunteers, board members, and connectors. Every quarter, multiple charities gain exposure, awareness, and access to a powerful network of women who care deeply and take action.”

In 2025, a number of Chandler-area charities were chosen as recipients for the East Valley group’s donations. These included Love Society, Cece’s Hope

Center, Midwest Food Bank of Arizona, and Casting for Recovery—Arizona Chapter. During the first quarter of 2026, the East Valley group supported the Maricopa Community Colleges Foundation.

As Tarnopolski notes, the 100+ Women Who Care Valley of the Sun chapter proves how powerful collective giving can be.

“Individually, $100 is meaningful. Together, it becomes $10,000-plus in a single hour by directly supporting local nonprofits and amplifying their work,” she says. “The core of our model is financial impact. We are donating money—not raising it—and 100% of those contributions go directly to the selected charities.”

Tarnopolski welcomes other East Valley women who would like to make a real difference to join the chapter and see firsthand how impactful the ripple effect can be.

“There’s something incredibly powerful about seeing a room full of women learn about a cause, feel connected to it, and then take immediate action, knowing that in just one hour they’ve changed the trajectory of a local organization,” she says.

To learn more or register for an event, visit 100WWCValleyOfTheSun.org .

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ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMY SALVAGNO

Elevated Cocktails for Brunch Beyond &

3 Fun Cocktails That Are Sure To Impress

Whether you prefer to dine reclining pillow-side in pajamas or beside a beautifully dressed table, you’ll appreciate an elegant, elevated cocktail to make your brunch menu extra special. So while you’re indulging in a few extra pieces of bacon, savoring bites of flaky quiche and luxuriating over berry and whipped cream-topped pancakes, you’ll be sure to impress with one of these three morning-friendly mixes.

Gin Jam &

A simple ingredient drink unites the botanical complexity of gin with the rich sweetness of your favorite jam.

Ingredients:

• 2 ounces gin

• 1 ounce lemon juice

• 1/2 ounce simple syrup

• 1 teaspoon raspberry (or your favorite) jam

• Spoonful of jam for garnish

Instructions:

1. Add the gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and jam to your mixing glass.

2. Add ice and shake for 10 seconds.

3. Strain into a double old-fashioned glass over crushed ice.

4. Top with a spoonful of jam and stir it in while you sip.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups orange juice

• 1/2 cup tequila

• 1/4 cup lime juice

• Lime wedge, for rimming glasses

• Coarse salt, for rimming glasses

• 1 bottle champagne or Prosecco

• Orange and lime slices for serving

Instructions:

1. In a pitcher, combine orange juice, tequila and lime juice and stir to combine.

2. Line glass rims with lime and dip in salt. Pour in orange juice mixture and top off with champagne.

3. Add sliced oranges and limes to glasses and serve.

Margarita Mimosas

Sweet and tart combined with classic champagne bubbles make for the perfect brunch accompaniment.

Instructions:

1. Infuse vodka: Tear five basil leaves into small pieces and place into a small glass jar with vodka. Seal tightly and shake, refrigerate, then infuse for at least six hours, shaking the jar occasionally.

2. Make basil sugar: In a small food processor, combine sugar and remaining basil. Pulse until basil is chopped into small, uniform pieces and sugar is pale green.

3. Strain vodka into a glass measuring cup, squeezing basil leaves to release any remaining liquid.

4. Rim glasses: Pour basil sugar onto a small, shallow plate. Fill another shallow plate with water until a quarter-inch deep. Dip the rim of each glass first in water, then in basil sugar.

5. Assemble cocktail: Divide basil vodka between glasses, then add half-cup lemonade to each. Fill glasses with ice cubes and top with seltzer. Garnish with lemon slices.

Ingredients:

• 9 large basil leaves, divided

• 4 ounces vodka

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

• 1 cup lemonade

• Ice

• Seltzer

• Lemon slices, for garnish

Spiked Lemonade

This refreshing twist on a springtime favorite is enhanced with the sweetness of basil and turns the spirit a vibrant green.

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

HOUSE OF BLUME OWNER JACQUELINE RODRIGUEZ SHARES TIPS FOR PERFECT FLOWERS

Jacqueline Rodriguez

FLOWER POWER

PHOTOGRAPHY BY LINDSAY BORG

“FOR THIRSTY FLOWERS THAT ARE DROOPING, LIKE HYDRANGEAS, SUBMERGE THE ENTIRE BLOOM IN COOL WATER FOR 20 TO 30 MINUTES TO HELP REHYDRATE IT.”

HOW CAN WE MAKE A BOUQUET LAST?

A few simple steps can make a big difference.

Trim the stems as soon as you bring your flowers home—about an inch off the bottom at a slight angle using sharp scissors or clippers. This helps the stems absorb water more easily and prevents them from sealing at the base.

Use a clean vase filled with fresh, cool water. Bacteria is the main reason flowers fade quickly, so washing your vase first is key. If your bouquet comes with flower food, use it—it provides nutrients and helps keep bacteria at bay. If not, change the water daily.

Remove any leaves below the water line, since they rot quickly and create bacteria. Keep your flowers out of direct sunlight, away from heat sources, and away from fruit, which releases ethylene gas that speeds up aging.

Every couple of days, change the water, clean the vase, if needed, and give the stems another quick trim.

HOW DO I KEEP THE STEMS STRAIGHT OR WHERE I WANT THEM IN A VASE?

There are a few easy tricks that really work.

Start with stem length and strength. Taller, heavier blooms

need shorter stems for support. If flowers are flopping, trim them a bit shorter so the vase helps hold them upright.

A vase with a narrower neck naturally keeps stems closer together and more upright. If you’re using a wider vase, create a simple grid across the top with clear floral or painter’s tape to guide placement and keep stems in place.

Layer greenery or sturdier stems first to create a base, then place more delicate flowers into that structure.

Re-trim the stems every day or two, if needed.

CAN YOU REVIVE DROOPING FLOWERS?

Some flowers naturally wilt faster, but drooping flowers can often be revived. Wilting usually means the stems aren’t taking in enough water. Trim about an inch off the stems at an angle, then place them in fresh, cool water, with no leaves below the water line.

If a flower is already breaking down—browning petals, slimy stems, or a strong odor—it’s likely past saving. Remove it so it doesn’t affect the rest.

ARTICLE BY KALI KASORZYK

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

BECKY HILLYARD

From Side Hustle to Style Empire

The power of taste, trust, and the courage to “just start.”

She didn’t have a business plan, a media budget, or even a name anyone could pronounce. What Becky Hillyard had was taste, a young family, and the instinct to just start. Today, her lifestyle brand Cella Jane commands an audience the size of Vogue’s , she’s nine collections strong with Splendid, and she’s built it all while raising three kids — refusing to sacrifice one for the other. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Becky shares what it really takes to build a brand, a career, and a life you love. Read the highlights below, then scan the QR code for the full conversation.

Q: WHEN DID YOU KNOW CELLA JANE WAS MORE THAN A HOBBY?

A: Two moments. Women started emailing me saying they bought something I recommended and felt amazing — asking me to help them find a dress for a wedding. That felt incredible. Then I looked at my affiliate numbers for one month and realized I could cover our mortgage. I thought, I can actually do this. I never set out to build a business. I started it because I genuinely loved it.

Q: WHAT WAS THE BIGGEST RISK YOU EVER TOOK WITH THE BRAND?

A: Designing my own collection. It’s easy to point at items on a website and say I love these. But to create something from scratch, put your name on it, and wait to see if people connect with it — that’s terrifying. I had an incredible partner in Splendid, and women loved the pieces. It was the biggest risk and the biggest accomplishment.

Q: HOW HAS INFLUENCER MARKETING CHANGED SINCE YOU STARTED?

A: When I started, brands didn’t know whether to take it seriously. Now it’s a legitimate line item in their marketing budgets — sometimes bigger than TV. Because what we’ve built is trust. People trust a real recommendation from someone they follow far more than a commercial. There’s no question about it now.

Q: YOU’RE A MOM OF THREE RUNNING A FULL BRAND. WHAT DOES YOUR DAY ACTUALLY LOOK LIKE?

A: I try to get up at five and not hit snooze — that first hour before the house wakes up is the most productive, most peaceful hour of my day. Then it’s all hands on deck with the kids and school drop-off. After that I work — planning content, connecting with my team, editing. After pickup, the day shifts completely and it’s all about them. I’ve learned to protect both halves fiercely, because both matter.

Q: WHAT WOULD YOU TELL SOMEONE WHO WANTS TO BUILD SOMETHING OF THEIR OWN BUT KEEPS WAITING?

A: Don’t wait. Don’t wait for the perfect camera, the right strategy, or enough followers. We find every excuse to stay comfortable. Just start, be consistent, and be authentically yourself. The right people will find you — and they’ll stay.

This conversation is just the beginning. Becky goes deeper on the risks that almost stopped her, the design process behind her latest Splendid collection, and what she’d tell her 2012 self today. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on the Share the Lifestyle podcast.

“Trust is the only metric that actually compounds.”

— Becky Hillyard

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY PATTI NOBLE

SPRINGTIME cheer

Whether you're catching up with your closest friends on a sunny spring afternoon or savoring a well-spent day with your mom, sister or aunt, there's something special about gathering over a pitcher of crisp, refreshing white sangria. This bright, flavorful, fruit-filled cocktail is the perfect companion for laughter, stories, meaningful conversation, and making memories with the ones who know you best. Cheers to friendship and a glass half full!

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 (750-milliliter) bottle dry rosé wine, or white wine*

• 1 cup vodka**

• 1 cup sliced or chunked strawberries

• 2 medium limes, sliced into thin wheels, more for garnish

• 2 medium lemons or oranges sliced into thin wheels

• 1 1/2 cups sparkling water, chilled

• Raspberries or Blackberries

CELEBRATE THE SEASON WITH A VIBRANT WHITE SANGRIA

DIRECTIONS:

1. In a pitcher, add the wine, vodka, strawberries, and citrus fruit slices. Stir well to combine.

2. Cover and refrigerate overnight.

3. Pour into glasses (over ice, if desired), ensuring each glass gets strawberry and citrus slices, top with sparking water or seltzer.

4. Garnish with a lemon or lime wheel, and berries.

5. Enjoy with friends.

*Suggested wines: Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, and Viognier.

**Add extra flavor by using an infused vodka.

MAY 1ST THROUGH SEPTEMBER 27TH

Radio That Rocked the Valley

Chandler Museum

Take a journey through Phoenix's radio history. This exhibition is presented in collaboration with the House of Broadcasting, Inc., a local nonprofit dedicated to preserving and celebrating the rich history of radio in Arizona. Using radio technology and memorabilia, the exhibition honors Arizona’s broadcasting industry and its many creative talents, including Pat McMahon (The Wallace and Ladmo Show), Al McCoy (announcer for the Phoenix Suns), and many more. ChandlerMuseum.org

MAY 1ST, 8TH, 15TH

CinePark May Movie Series

Tumbleweed Park

Enjoy a family movie night under the stars at Tumbleweed Park. May 1: How to Train Your Dragon; May 8: Lilo & Stitch; May 15: Mufasa. Feel free to bring a blanket or lawn chairs to sit on. Crafts and activities begin at 6:30 p.m., and the movie begins promptly at 8 p.m. ChandlerAZ.gov

MAY 9TH

Pat Metheny: Side-Eye III+

Chandler Center for the Arts | 7:30

One of the most accomplished instrumentalists of the last half-century, Pat Metheny is a lyrical and versatile jazz guitar player. He has scored 39 Grammy nominations and 20 wins in 12 different categories. With Side-Eye III, Metheny invites up-and-coming talent who have particularly caught his interest to tour with him, giving them the platform to be discovered. ChandlerCenter.org

Data source: Arizona Regional MLS.

MAY 9TH

Water You Doing Day & Dive-In Movie

Nozomi Aquatic Center | 6:00 PM

Kick off National Water Safety Month with Chandler Aquatics, Chandler Fire, and Chandler Police. Take part in interactive games and experiences to help adults and children strengthen their water safety skills. Then, grab your pool noodle or clear inflatable for a Dive-In Movie presenting Lilo & Stitch (live-action). Also, a water safety vendor fair and giveaways, including a pool fence. ChandlerAZ.gov

MAY 15TH - 24TH

2026 Spring Arizona Restaurant Week

Around Arizona

This popular biannual event showcases the best dining opportunities around the state, each offering three prix fixe options. More than 240 restaurants participate, from five-star fine-dining establishments to under-the-radar, independently owned locales. Menus are priced at $33, $44, or $55 per person, plus tax and gratuity. In some cases, this price is per couple. Takeout versions of ARW menus may also be available. ArizonaRestaurantWeek.com

MAY 18TH

Discover Chandler Municipal Airport

Chandler Municipal Airport

Enjoy free guided tours of Chandler Municipal Airport. This unique opportunity allows those interested to 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. Advance registration is required. Various times. ChandlerAZ.gov