Chandler, AZ November 2025

Thankful For Friends

Feeling Thankful

In this season of gratitude, we often find ourselves reflecting on the many blessings in our lives. Thanksgiving encourages us to slow down, embrace the present, and appreciate the people and moments that bring us joy.

Gratitude takes many forms. Sometimes it’s quiet, found in the pages of a book written by a man who once carried the weight of war. Other times it’s lifted in a glass, honoring the memory of those who can no longer join us. It’s in the next generation, too—a teenager stepping up to champion literacy across the globe, reminding us that everyone’s voice can create change.

This season, we celebrate the spirit of thankfulness not as a moment in time uttered around a holiday table, but as a way of living.

We are thankful for our families; for you, our readers; for our advertising partners; for experiencing travel adventures; and for all the other life moments and experiences that shape us.

Wishing you and your family a season of gratitude.

Yours,

MICHELLE GLICKSMAN,

EDITOR @CHANDLERCITYLIFESTYLE

November 2025

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 WRITER

Michelle Talsma

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Lindsay Borg, James Patrick

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

Proverbs 3:5-6

Women

Women

Women

Women

Women

I

That’s

city scene

the Chandler Center for the Arts Free Summer Concert.

5:

from The Tox Chandler enjoying the Cocktails For A Cause fundraiser supporting ICAN. 6: Exploring the Con Cariño Siempre exhibit at The Gallery at Chandler Center for the Arts. 7: The Tox Technique in Chandler hosted its first Wake Up Chandler for the Chandler Chamber.

8: Troop #2790 in South Chandler learned how to bandage a paw from Dr. Robson at Ocotillo Animal Clinic. 9: Troop #2790 in South Chandler toured Ocotillo Animal Clinic and learned how to care for animals with Dr. Robson. 10: Troop #2790 in South Chandler learned how to bandage a paw from Dr. Robson at Ocotillo Animal Clinic. 11: Troop #2790 in South Chandler learned how to bandage a paw from Dr. Robson at Ocotillo Animal Clinic. 12: More than 500 students from 15 CUSD elementary schools sang the National Anthem at a Diamondbacks game! 13: More than 500 students from 15 CUSD elementary schools sang the National Anthem at a Diamondbacks game! 14: More than 500 students from 15 CUSD elementary schools sang the National Anthem at a Diamondbacks game!

Chandler Chamber of Commerce Wins Awards

The Chandler Chamber of Commerce is proud to be recognized by the Arizona Chamber of Commerce Executives with two prestigious honors. President and CEO Terri Kimble was named Industry Leader of the Year, and the Chamber received Outstanding Chamber Program of the Year for its Business Retention and Expansion Program, created in partnership with local education and community leaders. These awards highlight the Chamber’s ongoing commitment to innovation, collaboration, and strengthening Chandler’s business community. ChandlerChamber.com

J. Alexander’s Opening This Month

J. Alexander’s, the dining concept known for steaks, fresh seafood, and wood-fired favorites, is opening at 7111 W. Ray Road. The restaurant will feature a polished yet welcoming atmosphere, handcrafted cocktails, an extensive wine list, and a private dining room for special events. It is expected to open mid-month. JAlexanders.com

Photography courtesy J. Alexander’s Scan

Faith Yanez Selected as a Judge for International Beauty Competition

Faith Yanez, LE, licensed esthetician, certified acne specialist, pigmentation and anti-aging expert, Esthetician of the Year 2021, and owner of Chandler's AZ Skin Rehab, has been selected as a judge for The Skin Games 2025–26 “Rhinestone Rodeo,” the beauty industry’s premier international competition celebrating its 10th anniversary. The event will be held in Dallas this upcoming March. As a judge, Yanez will join an elite panel of 70 global experts dedicated to guiding and mentoring beauty professionals.

Photography courtesy Faith Yanez

Proactive Workforce Programs Help Chandler Companies and Residents Navigate Change

The City of Chandler understands that unexpected company downsizing or closures can create difficult challenges for those affected. In response, they've taken a proactive approach to workforce development, ensuring support systems are in place before these disruptions occur. The Chandler Career Center launched in 2024 as a forward-thinking resource designed to connect residents with job opportunities, training, and career support. It features a searchable database of Chandler-based jobs, career pathways, upskilling programs, and other resources. ChandlerCareerCenter.com

Chandler native Tasha Cycholl, a partner at Husch Blackwell, was appointed president of its Board of Trustees for Childsplay Theatre's 2025–2026 season. A seasoned attorney and strategic advisor, Cycholl brings deep expertise in insurance regulatory compliance and corporate transactions, along with a lifelong passion for community engagement and the arts. As president, Cycholl will help guide Childsplay through a period of strategic growth and transformation, including leading the search for a new artistic director in spring 2026. ChildsplayAZ.org

Chandler’s Code Enforcement Team Honored by Arizona Code Enforcement Association

The City of Chandler’s Neighborhood Preservation Officer team has been recognized as the 2025 Code Enforcement Department of the Year by the Arizona Code Enforcement Association. The award celebrates the team’s innovative programs, strong community partnerships, and commitment to professional development. Over the past year, Chandler’s team has launched the Code Enforcement Resident Academy and Graffiti Education Outreach Program, expanded ridealong opportunities for the public, supported businesses with extensive sign code education, and more. ChandlerAZ.gov

FROM THE BATTLEFIELD TO BOOKSHELVES

Local Author Explores Survival, Friendship, and the Aftermath of War

ARTICLE BY MICHELLE TALSMA

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAMES PATRICK

Chandler resident Alan Ramias has lived many lives—soldier, journalist, corporate strategist, and now, published author. The Vietnam veteran is channeling decades of memory and observation into stories that reach beyond Arizona and into the shared experience of war, survival, and human resilience.

His latest book, Miss Moon , released in 2025, offers three distinct narratives. The title story, “Miss Moon,” is told by Jerry, a court-martial clerk navigating the moral ambiguities of war. The “10,000 Samurai Swords” story unfolds through an unnamed omniscient narrator, while “Purification” is also omniscient, centering on Charlie, a young soldier haunted by memory and betrayal. Together, the stories and accompanying poems give readers a raw glimpse into the inner life of veterans searching for meaning after the battlefield.

The collection follows Ramias’ debut, The Bridge, published in 2024, which introduced his lyrical blend of fiction and lived history. While The Bridge focuses on the physical and emotional landscapes of Vietnam, Miss Moon digs even deeper into the psychological aftermath—what happens when the war ends but the memories remain.

“Writing has been a constant thread through my life,” Ramias says. “I wanted to be a journalist even as a kid in Wisconsin. I didn’t have the money for college, so I joined the Army in 1966, and they sent me to journalism school. That decision changed everything.”

Trained at Fort Benjamin Harrison in Indiana, Ramias became a combat correspondent in Vietnam in 1967. Assigned to an artillery unit in the Mekong Delta, he filed dispatches for military newspapers like the Army Times.

“I was reporting for soldiers, by soldiers,” he recalls. “We were living it, and we wanted to make sense of it.”

Many of the voices and fragments of experience he encountered during those years resurface in his fiction. The characters in Miss Moon may be fictional, but their dilemmas echo the conversations Ramias once

“I’m writing for both veterans and civilians,” he says. “For veterans, I hope they feel seen. For civilians, I hope it opens a window into what those experiences really mean.”

overheard in tents and on patrols—stories of fear, courage, boredom, and longing for home.

“The book is about more than war,” he explains. “It’s about what happens to people when they’re pushed to their limits, and how they carry that with them long after.”

After returning home, Ramias pursued higher education, earning degrees in English, philosophy, and eventually an MBA. His career path led him into organizational consulting, where he spent decades helping companies understand human behavior in a corporate setting. Yet, the call to storytelling never disappeared.

“Even in my business career, I was still writing short stories on the side,” he says. “It’s only in the last few years that I’ve been able to devote myself fully to fiction.”

His work has drawn comparisons to Tim O’Brien and Karl Marlantes, both known for their unflinching portrayals of Vietnam. But Ramias insists his goal is more intimate.

“I’m writing for both veterans and civilians,” he says. “For veterans, I hope they feel seen. For civilians, I hope it opens a window into what those experiences really mean.”

Now a full-time author, Ramias is already sketching out new projects. Some may revisit Vietnam; others will explore entirely different backdrops, but all will be rooted in memory, resilience, and what drives people to endure.

“I’ve lived a lot of different lives,” he says. “I have a lot more stories to tell.”

Miss Moon and The Bridge are available on Amazon and through Ramiasa.net

RAISING A GLASS, REMEMBERING THE FALLEN

The Story of Four Branches Bourbon

The clink of a glass can carry more than a toast. For the founders of Four Branches Bourbon, every pour is a salute—to fallen comrades, to families left behind, and to the unshakable bond of service. What started as a single barrel made in memory of one man has grown into a mission-driven brand that, in just two years, has raised nearly half a million dollars for veteran and first responder nonprofits.

The company was co-founded by Valley resident Mike Trott, who has lived here for more than a decade. An Air Force veteran who later spent years with the CIA, Trott says his second act in life began with a simple but powerful idea from an old friend.

“Rick Franco, a Marine veteran, told me he felt called to make a barrel of bourbon to honor the comrades he had lost,” Trott says. One of those friends, Greg Wright Jr., was killed on his first CIA mission. “That pain stayed with Rick for nearly 20 years. What began as one barrel in memory of Greg turned into a mission to honor many.”

Trott and Franco joined forces with retired Navy SEAL Harold Underdown and former Army Green Beret RJ Casey. Together they became the “Four Branches,” building a brand that honors their shared service. From the beginning, they agreed the bourbon had to stand for more than what was in the glass.

The company’s tagline, “Serve Honorably. Drink Honorably.,” reflects that commitment.

“We know alcohol can sometimes have a negative impact, especially for veterans and first responders who have lived through highstress situations,” Trott says. “Our goal is to help reshape that narrative. Serve honorably means to act with respect wherever you are. Drink honorably means to raise a glass in remembrance, not in escape.”

That message is central to what the founders call “Beyond the Branches,” their ongoing commitment to giving back. Since its launch, Four Branches has supported veteran and first responder organizations with nearly $500,000 in cash and product donations. Trott says the work ensures that names, stories, and sacrifices are never forgotten.

“Many people believe the dead live on as long as their names are spoken,” he says. “Our mission is to keep saying those names and sharing those stories. We also want to honor the families, siblings, parents, and friends who sacrifice in their own way. They deserve recognition, too.”

Though distilled and aged in Kentucky, Four Branches is proudly championed in Arizona. Locally, it is available at Total Wine, Trevor’s Liquor, and other shops. The bourbon has also appeared at charity events, private tastings, and community fundraisers, where Trott and his partners share the stories behind the label and the lives it honors. For many attendees, it becomes less about the drink and more about the connection—an invitation to join in remembering together.

Trott says his military and CIA experiences continue to guide how he leads—through planning, collaboration, and a daily reminder that “failure is not an option.” Looking ahead, he hopes the bourbon becomes a legacy of gratitude.

“One day, my granddaughter will be able to order a glass of Four Branches and tell the story of how it began,” he says. “That story is about service, memory, and community. Our brand is a way to keep those values alive.”

Learn more at FourBranches.com.

Shade You Can Count On

LOCAL TEEN, Global Impact

A CHANDLER HIGH SCHOOLER TURNS IDEAS INTO ACTION FOR LITERACY

ARTICLE BY MICHELLE TALSMA PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY CATHY (YUXUAN) JIANG

At 15, Chandler high school sophomore Cathy (Yuxuan) Jiang is tackling an issue with worldwide consequences: illiteracy. This year, she was named a 2025 Youth Ambassador for the World Literacy Foundation, joining a group of young leaders from 90 countries who are working to expand access to education across the globe.

“I was inspired to apply because I believe education is a fundamental human right with the power to transform lives,” Jiang says. “But simply wishing for change isn’t enough, which is why I wanted to turn my ideas into action.”

For Jiang, literacy is deeply personal. Her family’s move from China to the United States, and her parents’ successful careers, were made possible through education. She has also seen family members use education to break cycles of poverty.

“Every child should be able to read, dream, and succeed,” she says.

Jiang had already begun putting her passion into practice. Her goal was to raise $400 for the World Literacy Foundation. A Barnes & Noble fundraiser brought her halfway there, and she planned another event with Papa Johns to close the gap.

“I am especially proud of the Barnes & Noble fundraiser,” she says. “It pushed me outside of my comfort zone, helped me grow more confident, and allowed me to spread awareness about literacy.”

Beyond fundraising, she hopes to amplify the cause through social media.

“That’s how many of my peers and I receive news about the world,” she says.

Her leadership extends into multiple service projects. Jiang is the founding president of her school’s Brighten a Day chapter, vice president of the Student Mentorship Club, social media manager of the Future Business Leaders of America, and founder of the Moon Mission Initiative, which partners with UNICEF to support children and refugees.

“To me, being a Youth Ambassador means serving as part of something bigger than myself,” Jiang says. “Teenagers often receive a bad reputation in society, but we can accomplish great things.”

She hopes her example will inspire others to step up.

“The hardest part is starting,” she says. “Put your ideas into action, no matter how small. If you shoot for the moon, you might just land among the stars.”

Learn more at WorldLiteracyFoundation.org

CATHY (YUXUAN) Jiang

Data source: Arizona Regional MLS.

DANCING THROUGH THE DECADES

“The studio has grown into a truly multi-generational space. Dance has changed so much over the past three decades, and Chandler has grown right alongside it.”

Thirty-one years ago, a small ballroom studio opened its doors in Chandler with one simple promise: to enrich lives through the joy of dance. Today, Fred Astaire Dance Studios - Chandler remains a community staple, alive with music, laughter, and movement as it marks more than three decades of helping people find rhythm and connection.

For co-owners Alexander and Oleksandra Zarek, the anniversary is both humbling and energizing.

“It’s such a meaningful milestone,” Oleksandra shares. “Even though Alexander and I only took over a year and a half ago, we feel so honored to carry on the legacy of something that has been part of the Chandler community for 31 years.”

Alexander agrees.

“This isn’t just about the number," he says. "It’s about all the people who have danced through these doors, the friendships that were built, and the lives that were touched. We’re proud to guide the studio into its next chapter while honoring everything that came before us.”

The Chandler location has evolved along with the community. Once considered a pastime for retirees, ballroom dance now draws students of every age and stage of life.

“When the studio first opened, it was seen mostly as something for the retired community,” Oleksandra recalls. “Now we have kids, teens, young professionals, parents, and grandparents. Everyone finds a reason to dance.”

“That’s one of the most exciting changes to witness,” Alexander adds. “The studio has grown into a truly multi-generational space. Dance has changed so much over the past three decades, and Chandler has grown right alongside it.”

That spirit of adaptability, paired with a clear mission, has kept the studio thriving.

“The heart of it is staying true to Fred Astaire’s promise: enriching lives physically, mentally, emotionally, and socially through the power of dance,” Oleksandra says.

Alexander adds, “Beyond lessons, the studio has always been a place where people feel connected and supported. That sense of belonging, combined with excellent teaching, is why this studio has remained strong for 31 years.”

The Zareks are quick to point to their students as the heart of the story.

“People aren’t just coming to learn steps,” Oleksandra explains. “They come looking for confidence, joy, and community. Whether it’s preparing for a competition, dancing at their wedding, or just picking up a new hobby, it’s inspiring to see how dance shapes their lives.”

Over the years, the studio has earned recognition as one of the top studios in Arizona and across the country. Yet the Zareks say it’s the small victories that matter most.

“What moves me most are those personal moments,” Oleksandra says. “Watching a student perform for the very first time, or seeing a couple dance together at their wedding after months of lessons. Those memories are just as meaningful as the trophies.”

Looking ahead, the couple sees an even more vibrant future for the studio.

“We want to keep building on this legacy by expanding our team and welcoming more people into our community,” Oleksandra says.

Alexander adds, “We’re also excited to host more in-studio events, social dance nights, and outings. Our goal is to make sure people of all ages always have a place in Chandler where they can dance, connect, and grow.”

As the music plays on and the floor fills with dancers of every generation, Fred Astaire Dance Studios - Chandler’s 31st anniversary becomes more than a milestone. It’s a celebration of the timeless power of dance.

Fred Astaire Dance Studios - Chandler is located at 2390 N. Alma School Road. To learn more, visit FredAstaire.com/chandler

ARTICLE BY JOYCE SELK

Hooked!

I have to admit, I never dreamed of standing on the deck of a boat in Alaska with a rod in hand. My idea of “fishing” was watching Mark cast a line into the “lake” behind our home. But fishing in Alaska was on his bucket list and he has endured many beach vacations just for me.

Dreading the trip a bit, I was able to entice four of our friends to join us so we wouldn’t be alone on the adventure. None of us had done an adventure like this before, and the idea of organizing a fishing trip to Alaska sounded daunting, even though I am a seasoned traveler. I knew someone who had gone to Kodiak Resort last year, so that was a start. The lodge is tucked into the shoreline of Kodiak Island’s Larsen Bay and came highly recommended. But how do we get to a remote island 240 miles southwest of Anchorage? What gear did we need? How do we get the fish home? Is there anything I can do if I don’t want to fish?

The resort is all-inclusive, making it even better. Everything—from flight and transportation recommendations to lodging, meals, heated boats, guided fishing, bait, tackle, and all the equipment needed to catch some fish are included.

When I asked what there was to do if I didn’t fish, I was told, “There is kayaking, hiking and electric bikes, but you have to watch out for bears so you may want to bring a good book and binoculars.”

CONTINUED >

Even the journey felt like part of the adventure. Accessing this slice of wilderness requires planning. But once we arrived, we soon learned all we had to do was show up with a sense of adventure, and our hosts, Erika, Brian, and Heath, provided the rest, leaving us wanting for nothing.

Rooms are designed for comfort and solitude. Upstairs, six spacious bedrooms each offer two queen beds, private baths, and panoramic vistas over the inlet. Downstairs, communal spaces let guests gather in a living room, game room, and dining room. Outside, the huge veranda was heaven, and the unique fire pit was inviting. Gourmet meals are served in the dining room every morning and evening. I don’t like Manhattan clam chowder, but Brian’s was to die for! The island is dry, but guests can bring in their own alcohol to have along with the evening appetizers.

Fishing is the heartbeat of this place. Whether saltwater or freshwater, you’ll be guided to target species such as halibut, king salmon, silver salmon, lingcod, rockfish, cod, and more. The resort is located close enough that you don’t lose half the day in transit to fishing grounds. Our captain, Rich, and deckhand, Dawson (he was even from Phoenix!), managed all tackle, bait, and gear. They both were equal parts teacher, coach, and cheerleader, having patience and a great sense of humor. As soon as we returned to the lodge every

day, the staff professionally cleans, vacuum-seals, and flash-freezes the daily catch, then boxes it for the airline.

In addition to bears (we were disappointed to not see a single one!), the wilderness teems with sea lions, otters, bald eagles, deer, foxes, and a wealth of seabirds. Whale watching (we did see one!) and marine life encounters are also a possibility, depending on season and conditions.

As a novice, you’re not expected to know the difference between trolling and jigging or how to set a hook. That’s where Rich and Dawson came in. There are daily limits by type of fish, and it was fun to tally our catch by writing on the boat’s window as each one was hauled in.

But the best part? Every catch, no matter how small, felt like a victory. And we couldn’t catch them fast enough! As a beginner, just feeling that tug on the line and pulling a fish over the rail was a moment of pure exhilaration!

Fishing at Kodiak Resort didn’t turn me into a master angler overnight. But it did something better—it taught me that fishing isn’t about perfect technique or record-breaking catches. It’s about the thrill of that first tug, the stories shared with strangers-turned-friends, and the way Alaska makes even a novice feel like they belong on the water. And now we get to enjoy the 75 pounds of fish we brought back along with the fabulous memories shared with friends!

"Fishing at Kodiak Resort didn’t turn me into a master angler overnight. But it

did something better—it taught me that fishing

isn’t

about perfect technique or record-breaking catches.

IF YOU GO: KODIAK RESORT, LARSEN BAY

GETTING THERE

• Fly into Anchorage, then connect to Kodiak by commercial flight.

• From Kodiak, take a floatplane or small charter (about 45 minutes) to Larsen Bay.

BEST TIMES TO VISIT

• Peak fishing runs are June through September.

• Salmon species rotate by season, while halibut are caught all summer.

WHAT’S INCLUDED

• All fishing gear, tackle, bait, and rain gear, including waterproof boots.

• Professional guides, fish cleaning, vacuum-sealing, and flash-freezing.

• Lodging in spacious waterfront rooms with private baths.

• Hearty meals featuring fresh Alaska seafood.

TIPS FOR NOVICES

• Purchase your fishing license ahead of time online for at least the first day.

• Bring a warm hat and gloves as it can be chilly, even in summer.

• Layer up: It usually warms up by the afternoon.

• Plan to pay for extra luggage for the boxes of fish you will be bringing back.

• Leave the makeup, curling irons, and dress-up clothes at home!

H O P E

Begins with YOU A SEASON TO SEE THE UNSEEN

The holidays have a way of calling us back to what matters most—faith, family, compassion, and the quiet but powerful act of giving. As lights go up and calendars fill, there are still many who sit in silence, carrying burdens too heavy to bear alone. But what if this season, you could be the spark that changes everything for someone else?

The founders of City Lifestyle, through their private foundation, are once again launching its annual Christmas Giving Campaign—a heartfelt effort to seek out and support individuals and families who have quietly fallen through the cracks. The mission is simple: to bring light, dignity, and hope to those who need it most.

Since its beginning just four years ago, this initiative has grown from a humble idea into a life-changing movement. Last Christmas alone, more than 200 families across the country received unexpected support—financial relief, but also something even more powerful.

“We don’t just send checks,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “We send a message: You are seen. You are loved. And you are not forgotten.”

Together with City Lifestyle President Matthew Perry, Steven has helped shape this into a tradition that goes far beyond charity. “This is about community,” Matthew adds. “We believe we’ve been blessed, so now we get to be a blessing.”

Every story begins with a nomination. Often, it’s a neighbor, coworker, friend, or teacher—someone who’s been quietly carrying too much for too long. One past recipient, after receiving unexpected support during a time of deep personal struggle, wrote:

SCAN TO NOMINATE

“We send a message: You are seen. You are loved. And you are not forgotten.”

“Beyond the very practical solution of receiving funds to fix my car, this thing you guys worked together to do is bigger than that. I carry the Christmas card you sent in my purse. When things get really hard, I pull it out and remember what it felt like to be seen. That card represents hope— that change for the better is possible. I’m not sure how many people get to carry hope around in their purse. But I do.”

Another wrote in after her husband was diagnosed with aggressive brain cancer and unable to work:

“This support has blessed our family not only financially, but emotionally and spiritually as we trust God to meet our needs throughout this difficult time. Thank you to our anonymous friend and to your foundation. What a joy and gift to be part of God’s family!”

Each year brings countless stories like these—real lives touched by simple acts of kindness. Some use the funds to pay overdue bills, others to afford groceries, medication, or repairs. But no matter the circumstance, the impact is the same: hope is restored.

This season, you have the opportunity to be part of that. The campaign is now open to nominations—completely confidential and prayerfully considered. Whether it’s someone battling illness, facing unemployment, or just in need of a helping hand, you can bring them a moment of grace that will ripple far beyond Christmas morning.

“Knowing my mom was chosen filled my heart with indescribable joy,” said another past recipient. “Your generosity doesn’t just brighten her life; it inspires hope and faith in all of us. It enables her to stay in her home and get back on her feet.”

Nominations are open from November 1st to December 5th, 2025. To submit someone you know, simply scan the QR code or visit @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the nomination form in the bio.

This holiday season, let’s give more than gifts. Let’s give each other the gift of being seen. Because sometimes, the smallest gesture becomes someone’s greatest miracle.

To nominate someone in need, visit: KingdomBuildingFoundation.org or scan the QR code.

Kohler

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NOVEMBER 1ST THROUGH JANUARY 18TH

The Newest Americans

Chandler Museum

This traveling exhibit offers a unique look at U.S. citizenship and the immigration process. It features 29 portraits by Sam Comen and interviews by Michael Estrin, capturing the experiences of immigrants from 23 countries of origin, including Mexico, Rwanda, China, Russia, and Syria, and promoting discussion on America’s legacy as a nation of immigrants.

ChandlerMuseum.org

NOVEMBER 2ND

Día de los

Muertos Celebration

Chandler Center for the Arts | 3:00 PM

This traditional and immersive cultural community event honors and remembers loved ones through a beautiful community altar, live music, traditional dance, and art activities. The event is presented in partnership with the Cultural Coalition, featuring acclaimed mask and puppet maker Zarco Guerrero. Admission is free. Following the community festivities, enjoy a performance by singer-songwriter Edna Vazquez (ticket purchase required). ChandlerCenter.org

NOVEMBER 8TH

Community Give Back Event

2425 S. Stearman, Chandler, AZ 85286 | 9:00 AM

This event, which is free to attend and runs from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., features a classic car show, bouncy houses and activities for kids, vendors, food trucks, music, and more. Guests are encouraged to give back to the community in two ways—by bringing canned goods to support Chandler nonprofit Matthew's Crossing's food bank or by donating blood at Vitalant's mobile unit.

NOVEMBER 14TH

Animal Medical Center of Chandler's Open House

Animal Medical Center of Chandler | 5:30 PM

Join Animal Medical Center of Chan dler for an open house featuring vet erinary supply vendors; snacks and drinks; raffle tickets and prizes; and a tour of the hospital with stations set up such as dental, radiology, sur gery, and laser to show what goes on when a pet goes into the back of the hospital. There will also be a fallthemed photo booth for pets and guests.  AMCOFC.com

NOVEMBER 14TH

Tarwater STEM Festival

Tarwater Elementary School

The Tarwater STEM Festival will be held Nov. 14 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. The event is free for all ages.

NOVEMBER 15TH

Art Social: Needle-Felted Ornaments

Vision Gallery | 10:00 AM

Let your imagination go wild as you explore the wonderful world of wool by creating your own felted ornament. You will learn the basics of 3D needle felting, working with various shapes to create hanging pieces of art. There are numerous shape options. Threehour class; no prior experience needed. $35 class fee. The class is for adults 18 and older. VisionGallery.org

CONTINUED

NOVEMBER 15TH - FEBRUARY 7TH

Rice is M ẹ : Anh-Thuy Nguyen

The Gallery at CCA

Rice is an essential component to most Asian cuisines. It also holds a plethora of meanings and symbolisms in various Asian cultures. Artist AnhThuy Nguyen utilizes rice as a metaphor for herself as she grapples with the reality that her culture and wisdom are being lost from generation to generation. Here, she reconciles her feelings of loss, resilience, and hope for the future. VisionGallery.org

NOVEMBER 22ND

Sanborn Fall Festival

Sanborn Elementary | 5:00 PM

Mark your calendar! This annual, family-friendly event features live music, games, inflatables, contests, a toddler zone, craft activities by the Vision Gallery and Chandler Museum, food trucks, and more.

NOVEMBER 22ND

Indian Frybread & Arts Festival

Rawhide

The Indian Frybread & Arts Festival is a celebration of Indigenous culture and community where you can explore unique crafts and art from talented artisans, indulge in mouthwatering frybread and other traditional foods, and enjoy live music, dance performances, and carnival rides.  WildHorsePass.com/ frybread-festival

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