N OV E M B E R 2 02 1
Bobby Berk Brings Comfort and Style to Gilbert LI F E + C U LTU R E VO LU N T EER WI T H C U LT IVAT E G O O D N ES S F O O D + B E V E R AG E G E T C O O K I N G WI T H C H EF S C O T T C O NAN T HOME + DESIGN D EC O R AT E YO U R H O L I DAY TAB L E
TOP TEN HOMES SOLD LAST MONTH IN GILBERT 1. 4576 E BREEZE CT.................................$3,500,000 2. 2725 E KINGBIRD DR............................$2,100,000 3. 2665 E HUMMINGBIRD WAY ..............$1,999,000 4. 3124 S QUINN AVE ................................$1,750,000 5. 2744 E PORTOLA VALLEY DR ...........$1,600,000 6. 2710 E CATTLE DR ................................$1,550,000 7. 2472 E ROBIN CT ...................................$1,550,000 8. 3133 E SILO DR .......................................$1,470,000 9. 2613 S VELVENDO DR ..........................$1,460,000 10. 2082 E SANOQUE BLVD ....................$1,300,000
The market is changing. So what does that mean to you? Call me today to discuss all the options available for your family.
480-459-4998 or visit www.thehomesellingteamaz.com
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LIFESTYLE LETTER
NOVEMBER 2021 PUBLISHER
Robin Belley | robin.belley@lifestylepubs.com SALES DIRECTOR
Feeling Grateful
Kristy Belley | kristy.belley@lifestylepubs.com EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Rebecca L. Rhoades | rebecca.rhoades@lifestylepubs.com
THE PAST 18 MONTHS HAVE BEEN CHALLENGING FOR EVERYONE. From
ACCO UNT MANAGER
businesses that shut down to the dearth of social opportunities, we’ve all struggled.
Jen David | jen.david@lifestylepubs.com
That’s why, as we move out of the pandemic, it’s important to reflect on the many
AD DESIGNER
things we’re grateful for: friends, family, health, career. I’m thankful for the opportunity to get to know you and all the wonderful things Gilbert has to offer. If I hadn’t joined the team at Gilbert Lifestyles, I never would have known about the unique philanthropic organization Cultivate Goodness or had the opportunity to speak with its co-founder, Kelly Geisler. Her passion for helping those in need is uplifting. Geisler and her business partner, Carrie Owens, started Cultivate Goodness right before the pandemic struck, so they learned a thing or two about helping folks weather these tough times. Get to know them and their story in “Serving Made Easy.” Perhaps you’ll even be inspired to give of your time and skills.
Evan Deuvall L AYO UT DESIGNER
Jayme Emery CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Lynette Carrington, Lauren Gonzeles, Geri Koeppel, Rebecca L. Rhoades, Heather Sneed CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Rebecca L. Rhoades, Chris Frailey, Zofia Sells Photography, Heather Sneed, Sara Tramp for Bobby Berk/Mark Boisclair
This issue also introduces you to Jess Harter. While you may not know his name, you’re probably familiar with his popular website, Mouth by Southwest. For the past 10-plus years, Harter’s been promoting East Valley food and beverage. His readers look to him for the latest news on restaurant openings and closings, and thanks to him, hungry diners from across the Greater Phoenix area travel to Gilbert
CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore
to check out the burgeoning culinary scene. Looking for that perfect place to enjoy
ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor
a Thanksgiving meal? Harter will have an answer.
OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson
As we close in on the end of another year, stay tuned for some big changes at
REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams
AD MANAGER Chad Jensen
Gilbert Lifestyle. Beginning in January 2022, the magazine you love will be even
WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell
better! We’ll be featuring new branding and a fresh appearance, but don’t worry — we’ll continue to showcase the people, places and businesses that make Gilbert a special place to work, play and live. 514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO
Rebecca L. Rhoades, Editorial Coordinator
ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MASSACHUSETTS | MICHIGAN MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA | NEVADA | NEW JERSEY NORTH CAROLINA | OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON | PENNSYLVANIA SOUTH CAROLINA | TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON
ON THE COVER Bobby Berk PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARA TRAMP FOR BOBBY BERK 4
Gilbert Lifestyle | November 2021
CityLifestyle.com/Gilbert
Proverbs 3:5-6 Gilbert Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Gilbert area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Gilbert Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.
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INSIDE THE ISSUE NOVEMBER 2021
FEATURES 12 Serving Made Easy Gilbert-based Cultivate Goodness brings volunteers together with worthy causes in the community
16 Laid-Back Luxury Celebrity interior designer Bobby Berk takes us inside his latest model home designs in Gilbert
20 Jess Harter: The Mind Behind Mouth By Southwest How one man tapped into a market famished for news about Gilbert/ East Valley eating and drinking
26 The Italian Table Add gusto to your holiday
26 12
gatherings with home recipes from celebrity chef Scott Conant
20
16
DEPARTMENTS 4
Lifestyle Letter
8
Good Times
9
Around Town
12
Giving Back
14
Hot Spot
24 Open House 26 Culinary Creations 30 Lifestyle Calendar
GOOD TIMES 1.
2.
3.
Rolling out the Red Carpet The Arizona premiere of movie “Cult Cartel” took place Sunday, Oct. 3 at Scottsdale Resort at McCormick Ranch. The film tells the real-life stories of survivors of the Colorado City human trafficking scandal and stars Don Most, Jud Tylor, Britt George, Craig Matthew, Winsor Harmon, William “Bill” Connor, Tank Jones and real-life Colorado City survivor Young Barlow. Visit moviesmakingadifference.org for more information.
4.
5.
6.
1. Actor Tank Jones and his son, actor Reajon, and family walk the red carpet. | 2. Actor William “Bill” Connor speaks to Gilbert journalist Lynette Carrington. | 3. The silent auction table showcased mini movie posters. | 4. Actor Young Barlow and guest enjoy the evening. | 5. Actor Craig Matthew and Diana Davis, producer and founder of MoviesMakingADifference, discuss the film. | 6. Actor and associate producer Preston Hall addresses the audience.
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Gilbert Lifestyle | November 2021
Before Porcelain Verneers
After Porcelain Verneers
AROUND TOWN vehicles to give three feet of spacing to cyclists. The pair raised $35,000, which was donated to Gilbert’s Parks and Recreation Foundation.
GILBERT RESIDENTS HONORED FOR BICYCLE SAFETY EFFORTS Gilbert resident Evan Stubbart and chamber board member Adam Baugh were recognized by the Gilbert Town Council for their endeavors and donations that helped bring bicycle
FIRED PIE PARTNERS WITH SPECIAL OLYMPICS
awareness and education to the town. After
Now through Dec. 31, locally owned and oper-
Stubbart was hit by a car while riding his bike on
ated fast-casual pizza concept, Fired Pie, will be
Greenfield Road, the two decided to raise aware-
participating in Special Olympics Arizona’s placard
ness about cycling and the law that requires
CONTINUED >
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AROUND TOWN campaign to give back to the state’s largest sports organization for people with intellectual disabilities. Guests are encouraged to make a $5 donation to the nonprofit and, in return, they will have a placard with their name proudly displayed in the store. firedpie.com; specialolympicsarizona.org
ISAGENIX DONATIONS HELP NEARLY 10 MILLION PEOPLE WORLDWIDE Gilbert-based Isagenix International recently released its “Isagenix Social Impact Report,” which shows that the company has made a difference in the lives of nearly 10 million people since it launched in 2002. The supplement and personal care product company, through its 501(c)(3) ISA Foundation, has awarded grants totaling more than $4.4 million to nonprofits that align with its four focus areas: healthy nutrition and support for underserved children, wellness education for all, aid for those affected by natural disasters, and the pursuit of equality. The grants, along with Isagenix donations, have provided more than 30 million meals, funded more than 79,000 education events and served more than 9.5 million children and adults around the world. “We don’t want to be just another company that makes amazing products. We want to be a company that makes amazing products, gives back generously and inspires people to make the world a better place,” said Isagenix chief executive officer Sharron Walsh. “It’s what drives us each and every day.”
Would you like to get in touch with us? We would love to hear from you! Contact us at CityLifestyle.com/ Gilbert using the Get In Touch link and let us know what you think. 10
Gilbert Lifestyle | November 2021
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GIVING BACK
serving made easy GILBERT-BASED CULTIVATE GOODNESS BRINGS VOLUNTEERS TOGETHER WITH WORTHY CAUSES IN THE COMMUNITY
ARTICLE REBECCA L. RHOADES
Kelly Geisler (right) and Carrie Owens prepare to serve food at an area shelter. 12
Gilbert Lifestyle | November 2021
" Our entire focus is loc al community needs. W e want t o build a bet ter, st ronger community." - Kelly G eisler
“THERE ARE SO MANY PEOPLE WHO
shows that someone out there cares for
WOULD DO MORE IF THEY KNEW
them,” Geisler explains.
WHERE TO GO AND WHAT THE NEED
Currently, Cultivate Goodness features
WAS,” EXPLAINS KELLY GEISLER. That
more than 20 service opportunities on its
belief is what propelled the Gilbert resident,
website. These range from creating craft
along with her good friend Carrie Owens, to
kits for underprivileged children to gathering
found a nonprofit dedicated to seeking out
feminine hygiene products for women expe-
areas of need in the community and con-
riencing homelessness to making meals for
necting organizations and facilities with like-
a local domestic violence shelter.
minded people who have a desire to serve.
“Our focus is on the community,” Geisler
Geisler and Owens launched Cultivate
says. “We try to seek out those needs, put
Goodness in February 2020 after Geisler
projects together and bring in the commu-
decided she wanted to do something to
nity members to fulfill them.”
help the community. Up until that point, she
This past summer, Cultivate Goodness
frequently held what she called humanitar-
sponsored a 1 Ton Water Challenge, which
ian luncheons for friends and family, during
raised money to buy water for Midwest Food
which time everyone would focus on a char-
Bank in Gilbert. They were able to raise
itable project, such as creating hygiene kits
enough funds to purchase 85 pallets, or
for kids in foster care or collecting diapers
163,200 bottles, of water. “That’s quite a big
for Valley diaper banks. “They were also
impact,” Geisler exclaims. “When we all put
such good experiences, so I decided that I
in our piece, no matter how small it is, it adds
wanted to take it up a notch,” Geisler recalls.
up to a mountain, and the water challenge
The pair formed the 501(c)(3) just as the
was a good example of that.”
COVID-19 pandemic hit, forcing them to
With the holidays coming up, Cultivate
figure out creative ways to provide sup-
Goodness offers a variety of opportunities for
port from home. Geisler was particularly
groups and businesses. “We want to get peo-
interested in helping out seniors, who were
ple involved, because it’s good for everyone,”
isolated in nursing homes. Making birthday
Geisler says. “It’s good for those who are being
and holiday banners is a simple activity for
served as well as those who are serving.
volunteers that can brighten the day for
If
you’re
an elderly person who cannot or does not
ing
receive visitors. “It’s a little something that
cultivate-goodness.org.
with
interested Cultivate
in
volunteer-
Goodness,
CityLifestyle.com/Gilbert
visit
13
HOT SPOT
RARE BIRD IF YOU'RE SEARCHING FOR A FUN PLACE
IN GILBERT TO VISIT WITH YOUR FRIENDS, HEAD TO THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF BASELINE AND GILBERT ROADS, WHERE YOU’LL FIND PEACOCK WINE BAR. It’s worth checking out. I recently visited Peacock along with some friends. We started our evening with glasses of the bar’s anniversary cocktail made with coconut rum, prickly pear, lemon juice and prosecco. Afterwards, we ordered a bottle of wine and a charcuterie board. Everything hit the mark. But Peacock is more than just a wine bar. It offers art classes and live music, as well as two wine club memberships. Weekends bring $15 bottomless mimosas and $5 Bloody Marys, while weekdays feature Happy Hour specials. I can’t wait to go back and try more of the food and wine choices and enjoy the live entertainment. If you visit Peacock Wine Bar, I’d love to hear about it. Visit me at bubblyhostess.com. Cheers! Peacock Wine Bar is at 1525 North Gilbert Road, C-108; peacockwinebar.com. LIGHT BITES Five charcuterie options, perfect for an appetizer, allow guests to personalize their meals. Choose from six meats, eight cheeses and nine accompaniments. We ordered the Peacock’s Choice, shown on the following page, and the chef selected our ingredients for us. WINE TIME For wine, we went with the recommendation of the bartender and chose Demigod, a dry cabernet sauvignon out of Albuquerque, New Mexicobased Noisy Water Winery. An homage to the mythical Roman demigod Bacchus, it features dark fruit flavors and silky vanilla notes. Demigod pairs excellently with Peacock’s charcuterie and is easy on the wallet at only $38 a bottle.
14
Gilbert Lifestyle | November 2021
PEACOCK WINE BAR
THE BUBBLY HOSTESS SPREADS HER WINGS AT PEACOCK WINE BAR
W
WINE BAR ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY HEATHER SNEED
SPLASH OF COLOR
The interiors are tastefully decorated and showcase
the glorious hues of peacock feathers — soft blues, bold
teals and greens, and rich burgundy and orchid. Seating includes comfortable couches, intimate table settings and, of course, luxe bar stools.
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CityLifestyle.com/Gilbert
15
ARTICLE REBECCA L. RHOADES | PHOTOGRAPHY SARA TRAMP FOR BOBBY BERK/MARK BOISCLAIR
Laid-Back Luxury CELEBRITY INTERIOR DESIGNER BOBBY BERK TAKES US INSIDE HIS LATEST MODEL HOME DESIGNS IN GILBERT AS ONE OF THE “FAB FIVE” ON THE NETFLIX HIT REALITY LIFESTYLE SHOW “QUEER EYE,” BOBBY BERK HAS RISEN TO BONAFIDE “IT” STATUS IN THE INTERIOR DESIGN SPHERE, THANKS TO HIS HIP, YOUTHFUL AESTHETIC THAT’S GEARED TOWARD MILLENNIAL HOMEOWNERS. In 2019, Berk made his mark in Arizona by designing the interiors of six model dwellings for Tri Pointe Homes’ Avance community near South Mountain. Recently, the 40-year-old tastemaker put the finishing touches on three of the four model homes in Tri Pointe’s latest master-planned community: Domaine at Waterston in Gilbert. We caught up with Berk to talk about the three models — Acacia, Oak and Pistache — and get some tips for creating your own desert oasis. 16
Gilbert Lifestyle | November 2021
GILBERT LIFESTYLES: WHAT INFLUENCED YOUR DESIGNS FOR THE THREE MODEL HOMES AT DOMAINE AT WATERSTON? Bobby Berk: Whenever I begin on a new project, the first consideration is always the architecture, which is paramount to informing my design direction. The exterior styles of Domaine at Waterston’s homes were conceived by the collaboration between Bassenian Lagoni Architects and Tri Pointe Homes. They ultimately landed on a modern ranch, a contemporary and a farmhouse style to begin with, so I let those serve as a jumping off point for the concept direction at each interior. The Pistache plan is the modern farmhouse elevation, which I gave a fresh feel by utilizing a lot of white balanced by light oak, accents of moss green and hints of black. These elements were layered with casual linens and natural woven materials to add dimension and texture. The Acacia model is a desert contemporary style that utilizes a soft neutral palette of earthy desert hues, such as rust and sand, grounded by black elements throughout. In order to give it a really young, cool vibe that felt sophisticated but not too fussy, I incorporated sculptural furniture forms and punchy graphic art for a design that is striking with just the right amount of whimsy. Lastly, the Oak model is a modern ranch elevation that we envisioned as a tailored and refined midcentury ranch house. Here, we used high-contrast neutrals that play off warm woods and cool gray elements. Repeating the textural organic materials with tailored detailing gives the design subtle visual interest, and pops of blue and navy offer up some fresh color. GILBERT LIFESTYLES: GILBERT HAS A STRONG HISTORY OF AGRICULTURE. HOW DID YOU BLEND THAT AESTHETIC WITH YOUR OWN PERSONAL STYLE FOR THIS PROJECT. Berk: Gilbert does indeed have an agrarian past, and paying homage to that past was very important to the Arizona team at Tri Pointe Homes. They spent a lot of time with the project site planners, architects and landscape designers incorporating Gilbert’s past into this community. On the site where these homes are constructed,
“In order to incorporate some local
there used to be giant cisterns for storing agricultural
f l a i r, w e t u r n e d t o E t s y t o f i n d
ing incorporate nods to this history and the town’s strong
local artists who created pieces we
water reserves, and the amenity planning and landscapties to water. The lots orient to community greenscape and water features, like those found in neighboring Veterans
could use in the project, such as
Oasis Park. In terms of the interior, we did lean into more
art that showcased maps of Gilbert
tory. The Pistache farmhouse design is one of the places
a n d d e p i c t i o n s o f t h e w a t e r t o w e r. ”
organic elements that incorporate the local vibe and hiswhere that connection is perhaps most evident. CONTINUED >
CityLifestyle.com/Gilbert
17
LAID-BACK LUXURY (CONTINUED)
GILBERT LIFESTYLES: YOU’RE KNOWN FOR SUPPORTING LOCAL ARTISANS AND BUSINESSES. DID YOU INCLUDE ANY LOCAL PIECES IN YOUR DESIGNS? Berk: Whenever I can, I love to support small makers and craftspeople. In order to incorporate some local flair, we turned to Etsy to find local artists who created pieces we could use in the project, such as art that showcased maps of Gilbert and depictions of the water tower. During install week, despite the best laid plans, there are always things that get damaged or go missing. The Crossroads Towne Center, while certainly not a “secret” to locals, was one of the best resources for those last-minute essentials and became a real lifesaver! GILBERT LIFESTYLES: YOU’VE NOW DONE TWO MAJOR PROJECTS WITH THE ARIZONA DIVISION OF TRI POINTE HOMES. HAS THE AREA INFLUENCED YOUR DESIGNS AT ALL? Berk: I’m excited by trends we’re seeing coming out of the region in the worlds of architecture, design and progressive cultural movements. Phoenix has been one of the fastest growing cities in the U.S. for years, and it’s clear why. It’s always such a pleasure spending time and working with our teams there, and I’m really looking forward to more projects in the area soon! GILBERT LIFESTYLES: DID THE PANDEMIC CHANGE THE WAY YOU SEE AND CREATE INTERIORS? Berk: The pandemic made us realize how important our homes (and the spaces within them) really are, and the design world has BOBBY BERK’S TOP 3 DESIGN TIPS
ating environments that bring a sense of calm
and is appropriate for your home. It will serve as
and security, as well as carving out separate
a guide to refer back to when you get conflicted
rooms for work, relaxation and spending time
about making decisions.
together. I think we'll continue to see an evo-
+ Scale is the most important thing to remem-
lution in the distinction between public and
ber when selecting your furniture. Measure twice
private areas of a home, and spaces that have
before you purchase anything.
an uplifting energy that really makes you want
+ Layer contrasting elements to provide emphasis. If everything is tonally the same, details can tend to get lost. 18
taken notice. There’s a renewed focus on cre-
+ Figure out what style speaks most to you
Gilbert Lifestyle | November 2021
to spend time there.
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J E S S H A RT E R : THE MIND B E H I N D MOU T H BY S OU T H W E S T
HOW ONE MAN TAPPED INTO A MARKET FAMISHED FOR NEWS ABOUT GILBERT/EAST VALLEY EATING AND DRINKING
20
Gilbert Lifestyle | November 2021
ARTICLE GERI KOEPPEL PHOTOGRAPHY REBECCA L. RHOADES
WE ALL HAVE THAT FRIEND WE GO TO FOR TIPS
BUILDING A BUSINESS
ON THE LATEST AND GREATEST PLACES FOR
In the beginning, Harter saw MXSW as a hobby. “If I
DINING AND DRINKING. Jess Harter has become
got 50 or 100 people to read a post, I thought that was
“that guy” for about 1.3 million users of his website,
pretty good,” he recalls. “In a couple of years, a few thou-
Mouth by Southwest.
sand were reading a post. It grew by leaps and bounds.
Centered mainly on East Valley restaurant and bar
Real popular posts, I’d get 50,000, 60,000, 70,000 hits.”
news, MXSW is where to look for openings, closings,
He didn’t do any marketing other than having a social
special events and more. Harter — who lives on the
media presence.
Chandler/Gilbert border — started the site in 2010 after
Harter posts an average of three to four times a day
being laid off from the East Valley Tribune, where he’d
Monday through Friday and homes in on the basic facts
worked since 1987.
such as opening dates and hours. In fact, he doesn’t do
After the Tribune folded, Harter said restaurant own-
reviews at all, which surprises people.
ers and managers within a week or two started calling
“When I started MXSW, Yelp reviews, Google reviews
him to ask where they could send information, so he set
and social media reviews already were everywhere,” he
up a WordPress blog. “It was just something I wanted to
muses. “I didn’t see the value in adding one more opinion
do to help out a couple restaurants,” he explains. Most
to the cacophony. I’ve always intended MXSW to be a
media outlets tended to focus coverage on Scottsdale
news site, not a platform for one person’s opinions.”
and Phoenix, and he noticed a dearth of information about other areas.
Although he used to do in-depth on-site coverage of food festivals and other long posts, he tends to keep
MXSW grew up with, and likely boosted the success
the articles brief these days. He discovered through
of, the food and beverage scene in Gilbert and the East
site analytics that covering what’s coming, what’s
Valley. “The Gilbert restaurant scene when I started in
opening, what’s just opened and what’s closed gets
2010 is very different than today,” Harter recalls. “The
the most traffic.
two explosive areas of growth are downtown and — the
MXSW is now Harter’s full-time job, after growing
last few years — San Tan Village. It’s been too much, too
organically. By late 2011, restaurant owners began
fast for people to keep track of.”
asking Harter if they could advertise, but as of 2012, CONTINUED >
CityLifestyle.com/Gilbert
21
JESS HARTER: THE MIND BEHIND MOUTH BY SOUTHWEST (CONTINUED)
he still only had six ads. “It wasn’t paying my bills
to build MXSW. “Almost all journalists fail when start-
or anything,” he notes. But by 2013, it became clear
ing their own thing,” he says, because they’re not
it could become a viable business. “It became the
skilled in marketing or advertising or have the techni-
go-to place, so if restaurants wanted to advertise
cal expertise to run a website.
locally, it came to mind,” he says. “I don’t cold call restaurants. They call me.”
In addition to food, drink and football, Harter is nuts about pups. He has two pit bull rescues, Emma and
Harter also cites the “explosive growth” of
Ella, which he adopted last year from Gilbert-based
restaurants and bars in Gilbert and other eastern
Love Connection Dog Rescue. He’d always had two
cities as a factor in the success of MXSW. “The Joe
or three dogs his entire life, mainly German short-hair
Johnston influence was huge: the barbecue place,
retrievers or Labrador retrievers for hunting. In 2010,
Joe’s Farm Grill, Agritopia, which will be a big clus-
though, he was at the shelter looking for a similar
ter of stories I’m writing the next year or two,” he
breed and ended up adopting a brindle-striped pit
notes. “It was just a dream of Joe’s back in 2010,
bull named Tigger, whose continually wagging tail
and here in 2021, it’s happening.”
and hopeful look stole his heart. He and Harter’s
Throughout it all, Harter has been a stalwart supporter of the industry and gives restaurants an affordable way to reach his audience. He charges $35 a month for a small ad; $75 for a large one.
other dog, Gunner, went with him everywhere until they passed away in 2019 and 2020, respectively. “They went through more under-construction restaurants in the East Valley than anyone has ever seen,” he laughs. “The dogs would run through half-
FROM FOOTBALL TO FOOD Raised in Fargo, North Dakota, Harter always planned to move from the bitter cold and snow
built kitchens. They loved going to those places." Here are of four dog-friendly bars in Gilbert that Harter recommends.
of North Dakota to a warm, sunny climate where he could wear shorts in the winter. His dad, a high
O.H.S.O. BREWERY & DISTILLERY
school baseball coach, was an unofficial scout for
Your dog can run and play with other dogs on
the Los Angeles Dodgers, and his family vacationed
a grassy area outside, and the staff put out water
each winter in either Arizona or Florida to see spring
dishes and make dog biscuits.
training games. In his senior year at the University of North Dakota,
HAIR OF THE DOG
Harter started working at his hometown newspa-
This dog-themed wine bar and tap house has no
per in Fargo, answering calls and compiling sports
kitchen (just food trucks), so you can lounge on the
scores. Despite never having taken a journalism class
couch with your furry friend.
— he double-majored in philosophy and English and minored in religious studies — he worked in newspapers until his layoff, including a stint in Colorado before taking the job at the East Valley Tribune. While it’s not a surprise that Harter — a huge
AZ WILDERNESS A relaxed patio for stretching out is popular with pups and their owners, and the outdoor theme attracts rugged types and their canine companions.
football fan who loves the Arizona Cardinals and University of North Dakota Fighting Hawks — spent
22
UNCLE BEAR’S GRILL & TAP AZ
the bulk of his career on the sports desk, he ended
Named after the owner’s dog, Bear, this is a
his career running the weekly Get Out entertainment
canine lover’s dream, where pictures of customers’
supplement at the Tribune. He credits his tenure
pups are posted on the walls and tap handles are
there to teaching him the business acumen needed
shaped like fire hydrants.
Gilbert Lifestyle | November 2021
BRING ABANDONED CHILDREN FROM THE SLUM TO SAFETY AND INTO THE LOVING ARMS OF CARETAKERS THAT WILL EDUCATE, LOVE AND RAISE THEM TO BECOME FUTURE LEADERS IN THEIR GENERATION.
WWW.ANGELHOUSE.ME CityLifestyle.com/Gilbert
23
OPEN HOUSE ARTICLE LAUREN GONZALES PHOTOGRAPHY ZOFIA SELLS PHOTOGRAPHY
a
for t s a e f the
se
nses
LAYER TEXTURES AND COLORS FOR A WARM, INVITING HOLIDAY TABLESCAPE AS WE ENTER INTO THE HOLIDAY SEASON, WE ARE EXCITED TO SHARE SOME TIPS FOR MAKING YOUR DINING TABLE THE PERFECT SPOT FOR GATHERING WITH GREAT COMPANY AND ENJOYING DELICIOUS FOOD. Begin with a versatile woven table runner, and layer plates to add color. We balanced warm and neutral tones in each place setting. Simple patterned napkins rest nicely on the dishes. Glassware encased in woven seagrass brings an organic, textural element to the table and is complemented by the rich wood tones of the serving boards and trays. A cluster of color-blocked candles in 24
Gilbert Lifestyle | November 2021
bold geometric shapes adds visual interest without distracting from the floral arrangements or dishware. For a touch of elegance, we finished off the presentation with metallic accents and tied the place settings to the centerpiece by tucking sprigs of delicate small flowers into the gold napkin rings. Plush throws were placed on our clients’ existing dining chairs for additional comfort. The use of natural materials and varied textures adds depth to the table and creates a warm feeling that will foster the sharing of good food and lively conversation with friends and family. Of course, the colors and textures used in this tablescape don’t have to be limited to the holidays. Warm tones and cozy textiles can be used year-round. Layering what you already have at home with a few new items is a cost-effective and fun way to change your space without breaking the bank. Lauren Gonzales is the owner of Casita & Co. Interior Design.
CityLifestyle.com/Gilbert
25
CULINARY CREATIONS
T he Ita l ia n Ta ble ARTICLE REBECCA L. RHOADES
ANYONE WHO HAS WATCHED THE FOOD NETWORK IS FAMILIAR WITH CHEF SCOTT CONANT. As a longtime judge on the popular competition show “Chopped,” Conant is known for his charming smile, perfectly coiffed hair and outspoken dislike of raw red onions. But TV is only one of the Scottsdale resident’s claims to fame. Conant made his mark on the food world in 2002 when he debuted the much lauded L’Impero in New York City, which received a James Beard Award for Best New Restaurant in 2003. He followed up that success with the openings of Alto and Scarpetta, both also in Manhattan. After moving to Scottsdale, the acclaimed restaurateur opened Mora Italian, a modern take on a neighborhood osteria, in Midtown Phoenix in 2017. In 2020, Conant expanded his Arizona empire with The Americano, an Italian-inspired steakhouse, in Scottsdale. “My style of cooking is European-based,” says the chef who is renowned for his simple pasta dishes that are packed with flavor. One of his most loved is spaghetti al pomodoro — yes, spaghetti with tomato sauce. Recently, Conant released his fourth cookbook, “Peace, Love, and Pasta,” which is filled with recipes he’s acquired during his 35-year-long career. “It’s a little snapshot into my life of food and how I cook at home for my family,” he explains. Readers will find dishes that Conant cooks for his wife and daughters, a section devoted to his favorite toppings and condiments, and recipes that are close to his heart, including his mother’s Sunday sauce. “I tested every recipe at home,” he adds. Now you can, too. Try one of Conant’s easy-to-make dishes, such as the one on the following page, and enrich your next holiday meal.
26
Gilbert Lifestyle | November 2021
Chef Scott Conant cooks for his daughters in his Scottsdale home.
ADD GUSTO TO YOUR HOLIDAY GATHERINGS WITH HOME RECIPES FROM CELEBRITY CHEF SCOTT CONANT
“Peace, Love, and Pasta” Chef Scott Conant offers his most personal cookbook yet: “Peace, Love, and Pasta: Simple and Elegant Recipes from a Chef’s Home Kitchen” (Abrams; September 2021). Focusing on the foods Conant grew up with and the meals he makes for his loved ones today, this collection of recipes compiles simple, fresh and flavorful Italian fare for you to bring to your family’s table. These dishes are built on the art of cooking for love, a fascination with flavors and ingredients, and the simple pleasures of taste and conviviality. Available at all major booksellers. $35
CONTINUED >
CityLifestyle.com/Gilbert
27
CULINARY CREATIONS (CONTINUED)
CAST-IRON SKILLET CHICKEN WITH FINGERLING POTATOES Serves 4 to 6 + 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil + 3 pounds bone-in skin-on chicken, cut into pieces and patted dry with a paper towel
+ 2 tablespoons kosher salt + 1 tablespoon black pepper + 2 pounds fingerling potatoes, chopped into 2-inch oblique cuts (so there are two angled sides)
+ 1½ cups Basil Chimichurri (see sub-recipe) + Special equipment: An instant-read thermometer (optional) Heat olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet set over medium-high heat. Season chicken with the salt and pepper on both sides and place chicken pieces skin side down in the skillet. Add potatoes, filling pan until the pan’s surface area is completely covered with chicken and potatoes. Cover and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, until chicken has released its juices and everything is golden. Flip chicken, cover again, and cook for another 10 minutes, or until the thickest part of the chicken reaches 165°F. Remove chicken from heat, top with dollops of chimichurri, and serve immediately.
BASIL Chimichurri Makes 1½ cups + 1 cup fresh basil, roughly chopped + 1 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, roughly chopped + ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped + 1 cup extra-virgin olive oil + 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar + 2 teaspoons kosher salt Add all ingredients to a bowl and stir with a fork to combine. The chimichurri is best served immediately while the herbs are still fresh, but it can be stored, covered, in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. 28
Gilbert Lifestyle | November 2021
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THROUGH NOV 20 OVER
40 YEARS COMBINED EXPERIENCE
NOVEMBER
LIFESTYLE CALENDAR
8TH ANNUAL GILBERT VISUAL ART LEAGUE MEMBER SHOW HD South — Home of the Gilbert
Historical Museum, 10 S. Gilbert Road
Stop by Gallery 4 and be amazed by all the local talent on display. This annual show features art in a variety
$6060
of mediums, including photogra-
phy, mixed media and oil paintings. Some pieces are for sale. Gallery 4
$
SEASONAL SEASONAL FACT CHECK FACT CHECK SERVICE SERVICE
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HVAC480.276.4658 SYSTEM
480)276-4658 WWW.FACTHVAC.COM
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admission is free with paid museum admission. hdsouth.org
11 FREE ENTREE FOR VETERANS
Fired Pie San Tan Village, 2224 E. Williams Field Road
Fired Pie will be offering a free entrée to all vets who show their ID or are in uniform on Veterans Day, Nov. 11. The company also offers a 10% discount year-round to veterans. This deal is valid for one per person only. firedpie.com
11 THE BELLAMY BROTHERS
Higley Center for the Performing Arts, 4132 E. Pecos Road
The
Bellamy
Brothers
are
an
American pop and country music
Founded in 2018, Fact
Founded increated 2018, HVAC was FACT HVAC to bring service and transparency back to was created the HVAC industry. to bring service and
30
transparency back to
Gilbert Lifestyle | November 2021
duo consisting of brothers David Milton Bellamy and Homer Howard Bellamy,
from
Darby,
Florida.
Starting in the late 1970s, the Bellamy Brothers found success with their crossover hits “Let Your Love Flow” and “If I Said You Had A Beautiful Body Would You Hold It Against Me.” Tickets are $49.50-$75. higleycenter.org
14 THE TASTE AT SANTAN VILLAGE SanTan Village Parkway and East
Williams Field Road, Main entrance near Grimaldi’s Pizza
This evening of food, drinks and fun is provided by some of your favorite SanTan Village and Gilbert restaurants. Guest can enjoy seasonal food bites, celebrity chef demos, wine and bourbon tastings, music, raffle prizes and more. A portion of the proceeds benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters. Tickets available at shopsantanvillage.com.
14 AMERICAN BALLET THEATRE STUDIO COMPANY
Madison Center for the Arts, 5601 North 16th Street, Phoenix
American Ballet Theatre has earned a reputation for both the diversity and quality of its touring productions. ABT has toured the most of any ballet company and is excited to bring their performance to Phoenix. Tickets begin at $55 and are available at themadison.org.
19-20 GILBERT MUSIC DAYS FESTIVAL
Gilbert Regional Park, 3005 E. Queen Creek Road
This two-day festival features music, food, drinks, inflatables and lots of family fun. Headlining acts are Piano Man Generations on Day 1 and Georgia Chrome on Day 2. Tickets are $5 in advance/$10 at the gate. CONTINUED >
CityLifestyle.com/Gilbert
31
NOVEMBER
LIFESTYLE CALENDAR
19 COLLIN RAYE
Higley Center for the Performing Arts, 4132 E. Pecos Road
With 24 Top 10 records and 16 No. 1
hits, the 10-time CMA and ACM male vocalist of the year nominee remains
one of the great voices of our time. Raye continues to wow crowds with his hits, including “Love, Me,” “In
This Life,” “My Kind of Girl,” “That’s
Spreading Holiday Cheer with..
Free Massage Gift Cards
My Story,” “One Boy, One Girl”
and more. Tickets are $49.50-$75. higleycenter.org
20 GILBERT DAYS PARADE
Come show your town pride! The Gilbert Days parade has a long tradition of being the premier event
for Gilbert Days. Local schools, businesses, nonprofit organizations
(480) 597-9497
and special-interest groups provide music,
floats
and
entertainment
along the route, which begins at 8:30 a.m. at Higley High School and trav-
GIFT 5 OF YOUR FRIENDS & FAMILY WITH A 30 MINUTE MASSAGE GIFT CARD, ON US. WE WILL SEND OUT YOUR GIFTS JUST IN TIME FOR CHRISTMAS!
els along Gilbert Road to the Gilbert Public Schools District parking lot.
20 PURPLE PASSION CAR SHOW
New Hope Community Church, 1280 E. Guadalupe Road
Check out cool rides while raising funds for Alzheimer’s disease with the Arizona East Valley Mustang Club. In addition to show cars, there will be awards, live music, raffles, food trucks, vendors and kid-
OFFER AVAILABLE AT ALL LIFEQUEST LOCATIONS THROUGHOUT NOVEMBER 2021
WWW.LIFEQUESTARIZONA.COM 32
Gilbert Lifestyle | November 2021
friendly activities. This event is free to the public. All proceeds benefit the Alzheimer’s Association. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. CONTINUED >
Dr. Samantha Vu & Dr. Shadow Asgari
“Everyone Deserves A Beautiful & Affordable Smile”
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Life is short. Love what you do.
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TWO OFFICES IN THE SOUTHEAST VALLEY Chandler: 4015 S. Arizona Ave. #7 Gilbert: 3336 E. Chandler Heights Rd, Bldg 2, #111 CityLifestyle.com/Gilbert
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Evolve Counseling & Behavioral Health Services
25 GILBERT TURKEY TROT
NOVEMBER
LIFESTYLE CALENDAR
SanTan Village, 2218 E. Williams Field Rd.
Get those feathers ready, fill up
those water bottles, and start prac-
ticing your gobbles. It’s trotting
time! Races include a 1-mile Fun
Run and 5K run. Proceeds support AZBrainFood and Families Fighting Blindness. For more information, visit gilbertturkeytrot.com.
Get the most out of
Your Life Our Mission We help our clients break through the obstacles that seem to be holding them back in life. Life is too short to be unhappy, unsure, or unfulfilled. Let us help you learn and develop better ways to handle the issues that are standing in the way of your goals.
DEC 2-5 SANTA’S CIRCUS
Madison Center for the Arts, 5601 North 16th Street, Phoenix
This
brand
new,
Christmas-themed
spectacular
circus
comes
to Arizona for the first time. Meet
and greet your favorite Christmas characters and write your own letter to Santa with the help of Mrs. Claus. Celebrate the wonder and joy of the holidays, with lasting memories of fun, laughter and special fam-
ily time. Tickets begin at $55 and are available at themadison.org.
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Our Providers specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, relationships, grief & loss, life transitions, personal improvement, and ADHD treatment.
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34
Would you like to get in touch with
480.590.3915 | evolvecounselingaz.com
us? We would love to hear from you!
1206 E. Warner Rd. Suite 115 · Gilbert, AZ 85296
Gilbert using the Get In Touch link
Gilbert Lifestyle | November 2021
Contact us at CityLifestyle.com/ and let us know what you think.
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WHERE
DESIGN HAPPENS
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