Issuu

JUNE 2020

CityLifestyle.com/Chandler

THE MEN OF CHANDLER 2020

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

JUNE 2020 PUBLISHER

Joyce Selk | joyce.selk@lifestylepubs.com EDITOR

Michelle Glicksman | michelle.glicksman@lifestylepubs.com

Celebrating the Men in our Community

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Brittny Strubbe | brittny.strubbe@lifestylepubs.com AD DESIGNER

Kaylee Mitchell LAYOUT DESIGNER

IT’S JUNE, WHICH MEANS THAT IT’S ONCE AGAIN TIME FOR OUR ANNUAL MEN OF CHANDLER ISSUE. Thank you to all those who sent in nominations—we were inundated with descriptions of so many wonderful men. Each year it gets more and more difficult for our selection committee! There are so many amazing men, which is just one more reason why Chandler is so fabulous—it’s made up of residents who strive to be their best, care about others, influence us, and generally

Emily Stout CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Michelle Guerrero, Annemarie O'Donnell CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Lindsay Borg

know what being a good neighbor really means. Once again, we produced this issue with social distancing in place, including our cover photo shoot. It’s amazing how everyone has pulled together in this unique time in history, from working together to make major photo shoots come together to banding together as a community to make our entire community better. Take a peek at our photo collage to see what’s been happening around Chandler, as well as our Around Town section to read about some of the ways our community has stepped up. It warms my heart to see how truly “Chandler Strong” we are.

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

This issue also features renowned photographer Gene Lower, who has taken sev-

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen

eral famous photos (including the one of Pat Tillman that was made into a statue in

REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams

front of State Farm Stadium), Spike Lawrence, who has been instrumental in devel-

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

Michelle Glicksman, Editor

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

ON THE COVER The Men of Chandler 2020

PHOTOGRAPHY BY LINDSAY BORG 4

Chandler Lifestyle | June 2020

CityLifestyle.com/Chandler

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

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I remember my principal coming into my sixth grade classroom to announce the worst economic day since the Great Depression – the 1987 Black Monday stock market crash. Like other historic events (the moon landing, JFK’s assassination, the Challenger disaster, the royal wedding, and 9/11), I will always remember where and what I was doing on that day. I knew at that early age I was destined to join the financial services industry to help people wade through the markets, plan for retirement, and help ensure their family’s comfort during turbulent times. Since Black Monday, no market selloff has come close to this years’ COVID-19 stock market decline. In my office I have a collection of magazine covers highlighting major financial events as a reminder that, when faced with financial crisis, we can overcome adversity to find prosperity. No one knows how long this current crisis will last, but I believe American ingenuity from small businesses will lead the way. Serving on Chandler City Council, I’m encouraged by the community support for local businesses. I have seen firsthand the positive work of the City, Chandler Chamber and community stakeholders in providing resources and guidance to help bring all businesses back to life. It has become apparent, during this pandemic, the economic drivers in Chandler are small businesses. As of 2019, there are 8,662 businesses in Chandler and 8,494 have less than 100 employees. We are already learning that some will not survive the severe impact of the coronavirus. Others will learn to minimize inefficiencies, adapt to new work habits, and plan ahead for challenging times. Support local when you can. Small businesses will lead the recovery of our economy, and a strong economy will be felt in the dollars of your retirement. FORM is an acronym for Family, Occupation, Recreation and Money. Prosperity is the state of thriving. I provide financial guidance for your one life to live and the many FORMs it is taking. I would be honored for the opportunity to support you through any questions, concerns or ideas you would like to discuss regarding your investments or retirement.

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INSIDE THE ISSUE JUNE 2020

FEATURES 18 Drive Confidently Into Monsoon Season Desert Car Care Shares Tips to Handle the Season Safely

24 Meet the Men of Chandler 2020 14 Men Making an Impact on Chandler

34 Developing Chandler Visionary Spike Lawrence has Helped Shape Chandlerâ€™s Landscape

40 Internationally Renowned Photographer Gene Lower From the Arizona Cardinals to Award-

24 34

winning Sports Illustrated Images, He Captures Iconic Moments

18 DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

Around Town

Locals Only

Locally Owned

24 Inspired By 34 City Scene 40 Local Limelight

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AROUND TOWN and props. Days after filming wrapped, Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey announced a stay-at-home order for all citizens in nonessential business fields. For more, visit AntiCoronavirusMovie.com.

ROOT INSURANCE EXPANDS, CREATES HUNDREDS OF JOBS Root Insurance, the nation’s first car insurance company to incorporate individual driving behavior into every rate, is expanding its operations in Chandler with a West Coast claims and customer service center to meet its growing customer base. Over five years, it will create 480 new jobs. Hiring for the location is currently underway. “We evaluated

GILA RIVER HOTELS & CASINOS DONATES $60,000 WORTH OF FOOD

multiple markets on the West Coast before making the decision to meet our growing West Coast customer demand,” says Clara Kridler, Root vice president of

The day before Gila River Hotels & Casinos

people. “The Phoenix Region, and Chandler in particu-

temporary closed, it received a delivery of $60,000

lar, offers the high-quality talent pool and collaborative

worth of perishable food items. The decision?

business environment we need to help our company

To donate them to Gila River Indian Community

thrive. The Arizona Commerce Authority, Greater

(GRIC) elders and families. The Gila team worked

Phoenix Economic Council and City of Chandler have

around the clock on logistics, and then 20 pallets

been invaluable partners for us as we’ve continued

of water and 98 cases of toilet paper were donated

to grow.” Root currently has more than 600 employ-

to GRIC’s office of emergency management, fol-

ees at its headquarters and customer service center

lowed by a donation of $60,000 worth of perish-

in Columbus, Ohio, and more than 850 employees

able food items to members of the Gila River Indian

throughout the U.S. Root chose the Arizona location

Community residing within and outside of the com-

following a comprehensive, multi-state corporate site

munity. PlayAtGila.com

location process that considered other regions and

ANTI-CORONAVIRUS MOVIE FILMED IN CHANDLER

states in the Western United States. JoinRoot.com

Applied Art Productions, an international film company based in Chandler, filmed a feature film about coronavirus titled Anti-Coronavirus Movie, which was also filmed in Chandler. The 70-minute film depicts the story of Bruce, a man who returns from an anniversary trip to Italy carrying the virus, and his journey through dealing with the consequences while trying to keep his family safe. “Because this pandemic is causing a lot of suffering across the world, I felt it was important to bring people an uplifting story of hope and love,” says Mitesh Patel, the film’s story writer, producer and director. “Our incredible cast and crew did an amazing job of bringing that message to life in this movie.” members, completed the movie in just seven days

GADZOOKS ENCHILADAS & SOUP DONATES MEALS TO HOSPITAL WORKERS

while following the CDC’s sanitation and preven-

To help during the pandemic, Gadzooks

tion guidelines. The group acquired all proper

Enchiladas & Soup donated meals to hospital work-

filming permits, employed the use of gloves during

ers. Not only did they donate to 50 staff at Chandler

The team, which consisted of 11 cast and crew

production, and increased cleaning of set locations 10

Chandler Lifestyle | June 2020

hospital, but they also donated 100 meals to nurses and staff at Banner Good Samaritan. A fast-casual Mexican restaurant, Gadzooks opened in Chandler in January and offers build-yourown tacos, enchiladas, and soups. GadzooksAZ.com

SMILE AND EAT CONFIDENTLY

RAINBOW RYDERS OFFERS AN UPLIFTING CONTEST Rainbow

Ryders,

the

nation’s

largest hot air balloon company, is giving back to show its appreciation. In April, it launched a new weekly contest, Rainbow Ryders Hope for New Horizons. On a weekly basis, the contest awards a first responder, medical professional, or anyone in the grocery/pharmacy industry currently on the frontline of the pandemic with balloon ride for two (valued at $450). Community members can nominate deserving local heroes at RainbowRyders.com/celebratingthe-essential/.

HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS CAN WIN $500 SCHOLARSHIPS Arizona Education News Service (AZEdNews), a service of Arizona School Boards Association, teamed up with ADM Group and The Brand Agency to offer students in Arizona public schools a chance to win $500 scholarships through June 30, 2020. This

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includ-

ing vocational schools and trade schools of their choice. To mit

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AZORAL.COM CHANDLERS EXPERT FOR THE MOST ADVANCED ORAL SURGERY CARE

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Chandler

AROUND TOWN “Now more than ever, ADM Group and our

difficult time, we’re committed to helping protect

partners are finding unique ways to support the

and support local health care workers and food

community. During this very challenging time,

banks providing vital services to our communities,”

we wholeheartedly want to assist the mission

says Waymo CEO John Krafcik. “Waymo is proud

to continue educating and supporting Arizona’s

to support Governor Ducey’s Arizona Together

students,” says Ben Barcon, principal of ADM

effort to ensure Arizonans emerge safely from this

Group, Inc.

pandemic.” Governor Doug Ducey established

“We are extremely happy to be partnering with

the AZ Coronavirus Relief Fund to help nonprofit

AZEdNews on this scholarship program and look

organizations that support vulnerable Arizonans,

forward to helping more students each year attain

provide personal protective equipment (PPE) to our

their dreams,” says Chris Macomber, CEO of The

medical professionals, expand technology access

Brand Agency.

for students while schools were closed, and more. Others to donate to the fund include the Ben and Catherine Ivy Foundation, which donated $5 million; the Arizona Cardinals and chairman and president Michael Bidwill donated $1 million; Arizona Public Service (APS) donated $250,000; Southwest Gas donated $65,000; and Blue Cross Blue Shield donated $50,000. To date, the fund has collected more than $6 million. For more about the fund, visit ArizonaTogether.org.

KIDS CAN APPLY TO BE THE KID CHIEF 'EXPERIENCE' OFFICER AT CRAYOLA EXPERIENCE The Crayola Experience is looking to fill the colorful position of Kid Chief “Experience” Officer for

POSTPONED OSTRICH FESTIVAL LEADS TO MEALS FOR THOUSANDS

One lucky child will be selected to spend the day testing and providing feedback on current

When the Chandler Chamber Ostrich Festival

and future attractions, exciting marketing events,

was postponed due to COVID-19, many of the food

and seasonal activities, as well as help Crayola

vendors had already purchased and prepared food

Experience with potential new products for the

for the festival.

Crayola Store. They also will be given the opportu-

In an effort to preserve and put that food to good use, many of the food vendors turned their

nity to name a Limited Edition crayon to be sold at the Crayola Store.

disappointment and loss into blessings for others

“Candidates should be creative young leaders

by donating their food to two food banks around

who are not afraid to color outside of the lines,

the Valley.

are bursting with ideas, and are able to represent

The first round of donations went to Chandler's

the Crayola spirit with an engaging personality

AZCEND food bank, where the thousands of

and a lively imagination,” says Victoria Lozano,

pounds of food were turned into 2,317 meals for

senior vice president and general manager of

people in need. The second round went to The

Crayola Experience.

Society of St. Vincent De Paul, and totaled 2,000 lbs. of fresh food.

WAYMO DONATES $100,000 TO HELP WITH THE AZ CORONAVIRUS RELIEF FUND Waymo has contributed $100,000 to the AZ Coronavirus Relief Fund, providing support to organizations working to mitigate the spread of COVID19. “Arizona is a home to Waymo and, during this 12

the Day at its Chandler location.

Chandler Lifestyle | June 2020

In addition to the experience, each CEO will receive an exciting prize package valued at $600. Plus, each CEO’s school will also receive a visit from the Crayola Experience crayon mascot, and every student will receive a free admission ticket to Crayola Experience good for one year. Applications

are

due

June

CrayolaExperience.com/KidCEO.

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CityLifestyle.com/Chandler

LOCALLY OWNED ARTICLE ANNEMARIE O'DONNELL

Drive Confidently Into Monsoon Season DESERT CAR CARE SHARES TIPS TO HANDLE THE SEASON SAFELY

SUMMER IN PHOENIX MEANS HOT WEATHERâ€”AND MONSOONS. Having your car in monsoon-ready condition can help protect not only the car, but keep you safe. Frank Leutz, COO of Desert Car Care of Chandler, shares his tips. 18

Chandler Lifestyle | June 2020

BEFORE THE MONSOONS + When were your wiper blades and battery last replaced? They require more attention in Arizona’s climate than in others, so make sure they are still in good condition. + Use a penny to check the depth of your tire’s tread pattern for excessive wear. Good tread improves traction when the roads are wet. Place the penny headdown. If you can see Lincoln’s entire head, it’s time to replace your tires. + Check for leaks in the rubber moldings, particularly around the windshield. + Make sure headlights, taillights, and brake lights are properly functioning. AFTER THE MONSOONS Leutz also recommends a post-monsoon inspection, where his team looks for water intrusion of the rubber moldings. “The windshield wipers or car horn will function in a phantom way,” he explains. That’s a sign that a leak has creeped into the electrical work in the car. LEUTZ ALSO OFFERS DRIVING TIPS FOR IF YOU GET STUCK DRIVING WHEN A MONSOON—OR A DUST STORM—HITS. + If it’s raining, drive with your head-

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+ Don’t drive through excessive water. “Water damage on vehicles with air intakes positioned low to the ground could cost $8,000 to $10,000 to repair,” Leutz cautions. + If you’re hydroplaning, do not hit the brakes. Ease off the gas pedal and carefully turn your steering wheel in the same direction of your slide.

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LOCALLY OWNED (CONTINUED)

Leutz’s favorite aspects of being in the automotive industry are the connections with people and finding solutions to customers’ unique vehicle challenges.

Frank Leutz

Chandler Lifestyle | June 2020

SAFETY PROGRAMS Desert Car Care advocates safe driving habits. As a panelist for the Arizona Distracted

Driving

Summit,

Leutz

stresses the importance of attentiveness behind the wheel despite advanced safety features in new vehicles. The company also hosts an annual Don’t

Drink

and

Drive

awareness

campaign in honor of Chandler police

Summer IS HERE!

officer David Payne, who tragically lost his life to an impaired driver in 2014. And, Leutz works closely with the DUI Task Force to demonstrate the consequences of driving while intoxicated. A brutally-crashed vehicle is displayed to new drivers of local high schools as a tough, but effective, message. The shop is also deeply devoted to the community in other ways, as well. Teachers

receive

complimentary

oil

changes and a car safety inspection during their annual Back to School event in August.

Get ready, summer is here! JimBob wants to make sure everyone is staying hydrated, wearing sunscreen, and staying cool! Remember as the temperatures rise, the ground is very hot on paw pads, so please use extreme caution when walking your pets during the day! If it is too hot to hold the back of your hand on the ground for at least 3 seconds, it is too hot for your pet.

Leutz also hosts an annual Canned Food Drive, where complimentary oil changes (valued at $65) are offered in exchange for donations of non-perishable foods. “It’s crazy, people in our own backyard aren’t able to eat. They can’t afford food,” he says. His goal is always to collect 600 to 1,000 food items, which are then donated to Chandler food bank AZCEND. Leutz’s favorite aspects of being in the automotive industry are the connections with people and finding solutions to customers' unique vehicle challenges. “We forget we fix cars, honestly,” he

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visit DesertCarCare.com. CityLifestyle.com/Chandler

Chandler Lifestyle | June 2020

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MEET THE MEN OF CHANDLER 2020

INSPIRED BY

Chandler is very lucky Chief Tom Dwiggins never

14 MEN MAKING AN IMPACT ON CHANDLER

outgrew his boyhood excitement for big red trucks,

ARTICLE JOYCE SELK AND MICHELLE GLICKSMAN

bright lights, and screaming sirens!

PHOTOGRAPHY LINDSAY BORG

“I learned the value of empathy from my mother at a very young age and it is what has expanded my view and taught me to value and appreciate what people go through on a daily basis,” he says. “As a leader, this is my foundation and what provides me perspective and clarity when I’m faced with a difficult decision or situation.” The Chief says the most rewarding part of his

Tom Dwiggins

job is serving the men and women of the Chandler Fire Department. “These professionals spend their entire career serving people they have never met in what we call ‘the worst day of their life moments,’ and they do it with pride, compassion, professionalism and love for our community, even if that means the end of their own life. I think it’s appropriate that my life’s work should be to serve them. “My wife is my rock. Twenty-eight years in public safety can be difficult on your soul. She understands me and can help me make sense of things when others can’t. She is the perfect fit for me in an imperfect world. She conveys stability and calmness and gives me balance when I see things that I want to forget but never will, and struggle to understand why life can be so cruel at times.” Something you might not know about the Chief is that he is a three-time Arizona State champion in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. One of his personal goals is to receive his black belt soon, and compete to win the Masters World Championship. As a coach at the Gracie Barra gym in Chandler, the Chief loves developing the future athletes in this sport. Another thing you may not know is he has a twin sister who also lives in Phoenix. 24

Chandler Lifestyle | June 2020

CHIEF, CHANDLER FIRE DEPARTMENT

It’s the 100th anniversary of the Chandler Police Department, and we are lucky Chief Duggan is at the

part of the job description. In this job, there are opportunities everyday to make a difference.”

helm, especially in these very trying times. His resume and

The top priority for the Chief is to “identify, develop, and

experience are impressive, including a master’s degree

promote leaders who will play a significant role shaping

from Arizona State University and graduation from the

our culture and ensuring we meet the challenges of 21st

FBI National Academy. Before joining the Chandler Police

century policing. Our department’s leadership team has

Department in 2014, he had served the Scottsdale Police

been in a constant state of transition over the past few

Department for 27 years. He has also served on many

years due to retirements. My empowerment style of lead-

state and national committees and boards.

ership has proven to be a successful formula in mentoring

Duggan’s father was a police officer in New York City,

the next generation of leaders from within.”

and at an early age he knew he wanted to follow in his

Many have inspired the Chief throughout the years.

father’s footsteps.

“My uncle, Richie, was a customer service manager at

“Was I a kid who wanted to be Chief? No. It’s the greatest honor that can be bestowed on me professionally.” His reward comes from the daily community interaction his position affords him. “I strive to connect often with constituent groups in order to strengthen a variety of community sectors. I feel lucky to work in a profession where giving back is actually

Sean Duggan

Madison Square Garden when I was growing up. I learned a lot from him about customer service and moments of truth; treating each encounter as an opportunity to earn trust and support from the community.”

CHIEF OF POLICE, CITY OF CHANDLER

“I feel lucky to work in a profession where gi v ing back is actuall y par t of the job d e s c r i p t i o n .”

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Chandler

INSPIRED BY (CONTINUED)

Peter Sciacca

ENTREPRENEUR, IMPORTER, DEVELOPER It has been a long, interesting road for Peter Sciacca to get to where he is today. At age 20, he found himself a broke Grand Canyon University student delivering pizzas to make ends meet. When his application for school loans was declined, he was desperate for other income. Being a risk-taker, he moved to Taiwan to teach English. Over the next two decades, he started a business, married, had two amazing boys, and relocated back to the U.S., where he earned both his BS and MBA. The Asian business allowed him to open a retail glass shop, diSciacca, in downtown Chandler, where he was also buying and redeveloping dilapidated properties. Who has influenced Peter? “I am eternally grateful to my father, Peter, who served in WWII and was a cabinet/custom furniture maker. He taught me to cook, have a strong work ethic, showed tough love, and kicked me out at age 17. I never looked back and was determined to make him proud. “My cousin, Frankie, in San Diego, showed me what real passion and development should look like—take risks and pick good partners so you can recover from anything. “My mother, Edith, who prayed over me, for me, and reminded me that God is in charge. “My brother, Stephan, OCD, fiscally conservative—my opposite. “My amazing wife, partner, mother of my children, Sigrid. Smarter, kinder, more patient than me. Say no more.”

Chandler Lifestyle | June 2020

If you know Mark Stewart, you know he is everywhere—

it is important to do good where we can. While I have

literally! As an entrepreneur and a City Councilman, he

a million things going on at once, it is exactly where I

wears many hats. Stewart finds Chandler an amazing

want to be.”

community and does his best to participate in as many

When asked how he finds a life balance, Stewart says,

events as he can, blending it all together with the pur-

“I stay centered in a common purpose. Family comes first

pose of serving.

and it always has. In my family we talk about purpose quite

“I am an entrepreneur and an activator. I see things

often. My family knows that my purpose is to show what

that need to be done and jump right in to do it. I enjoy

good self-governance can look like in action. They are part

it. Most of us have a really small circle of influence and

of this journey with me.”

“I am an entrepreneur a n d a n a c t i v a t o r. I see things that need to be done and jump right in to do it. I enjoy it . Most of us have a really small circle of influence and it is impor tant to do good where we can. “

Mark Stewart OWNER, CONCEPT2COMPLETION CHANDLER CITY COUNCILMAN

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Chandler

INSPIRED BY (CONTINUED)

Gilbert Meraz

When the pandemic hit, Gilbert Meraz made the first Facebook post offering items from his restaurant—toilet paper, eggs, rice, and beans to those in the community with a need. And that is who Gilbert is in a nutshell! “We are big fans of giving food to anyone that could use the help,” he says. “We love to support our local schools. We feed several homeless groups a couple of times a month, and we do two blood drives a year in front of the restaurant.” When Rita’s (named after Gilbert’s mother) opened four years ago, Gilbert wanted something different for his staff outside of the late night,

OWNER, RITA’S BURRITOS

Sunday, and holiday hours that most restaurants have. The decision was made to “flip the script somewhat” and so they are not open at those times, giving employees more family time. “If you told me six years ago that I would own a burrito restaurant in Chandler, Arizona, I would have laughed in your face. It was never my dream to own my own business.”

John Anguiano “I like to think that I am a person that is

Community Partners, For Our City and the

always willing to lend a helping hand and give

City of Chandler. He also serves on the

people a good laugh,” John Anguiano says.

executive board for Newtown Community

And once you meet Anguiano, this sums him up perfectly!

VP, NATIONAL BANK OF ARIZONA

Chandler Lifestyle | June 2020

Development, which helps low-income families find affordable housing.

By focusing on giving back to his commu-

“I still own my very first car—a 1968

nity, “I have always positioned myself, in my

Mustang that my parents bought for me

professional and nonprofit work, to be in a

when I was 15 and a freshman in high school.

place to help people. I find comfort and peace

My father drove the car once I went into the

in helping others, and making a positive and

Marine Corps, and my son drove it while he

impactful difference in our community.”

was in high school. My father passed before

He does so by serving on various

my son was born, so I like to think that it con-

Chandler Unified School District boards,

nects the three of us—a special bond that is

volunteering

captured in an old car.”

for

Downtown

Chandler

D r. C r a i g G i l b e r t Dr. Craig Gilbert is a homebody. He loves to work in his yard and bike along the canals with his family. You might be surprised that this is the same guy responsible for supervising seven junior high schools, six high schools, and two alternative schools totaling over 21,000 students! As one of seven children of a blue collar assemblyman who never missed a day of work, he believes it is important to work hard, stay grounded, and put God and family first. “Education is changing, especially with the recent events, so it is imperative to continue to grow as a leader and support other administrators in the school district to ensure we are prepared for what the future

ASST. SUPERINTENDENT,

brings,” he says. “To know that I play a part in implementing changes to enhance what we are doing for students and staff, creating access and opportunities

CHANDLER UNIFIED

while CUSD grows, is very rewarding.” His words to live by?

SCHOOL DISTRICT

“Be yourself and know what you stand for. Dare to get out of the boat! Opportunities will be presented and you can’t let fear hold you back.”

Garrett Brolsma Garrett Brolsma has always wanted to

challenging times, including when his

help others. He and his sister were raised by

daughter, Sula Grace (now 2), was born

a single mother, and he saw the hardships

with a rare heart condition that required

she struggled with. That later inspired him to

two open-heart surgeries.

work for the YMCA to help support as many families as he could. Brolsma says determination is his stron-

DISTRICT EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, VALLEY OF THE SUN YMCA

At the YMCA, Brolsma leads the day-today operations, staff team, advisory board and annual fundraising campaigns.

gest trait—and he used that to help turn-

Outside of work, he volunteers with

around failing YMCAs in both Texas and

For Our City Chandler, is on the board of

Florida, before heading to the Valley of the

Chandler Rotary, and contributes to the

Sun several years ago.

mission of the Family Advisory Council for

That determination has also helped when

his

family

has

gone

Phoenix Children’s Hospital.

through

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Chandler

INSPIRED BY (CONTINUED)

Zeferino B a n d a J r. After serving eight years in the Air Force, Zeferino Banda Jr. worked full-time in high-tech, simultaneously earning a master’s degree, his Certified Safety Professional designation, and helping raise his young family. After years of working for corporations, he decided to branch out on his own. He launched Banda Group International, LLC, which provides environmental health and safety services. Today the Chandler company employs over 100 people, and has offices in New Mexico and Tennessee. He comes from a large Hispanic family, and says his

OWNER, BANDA GROUP INTERNATIONAL, LLC

parents were his inspiration. “Because of the work ethic they both instilled in me, their faith in God, and their love of family, they provided all of us a great foundation,” he says. He gives back by serving on the board at Homeward Bound, and on the advisory committee for ICAN, where he served on the board for three years. Through his company, he also supports nonprofits in New Mexico and Tennessee.

Ted Huntington Ted Huntington’s career path was shaped by his childhood experiences and the peo-

He is married to his wife, Maria, and

health and substance abuse challenges in

they have four biological adult children,

his family, that led to him into the foster care

one grandson, and a number of spiritual

system for a period in his life.

adult children from a result of pastoring at

coaches, etc. that provided me support tools

BREAKTHROUGH AND COMMUNITY PROGRAMS MANAGER, ICAN/CCYSA 30

Chandler Lifestyle | June 2020

with hope, resiliency, and success tools.

ple who supported him. There were mental

“It was faith, family, friends, teachers,

CEO, EMPOWERING

teens, parents, and community members

and compassion,” he says. Huntington has made a career of helping

Sunshine Acres Children’s Home in Mesa. Huntington also serves on Governor Doug Ducey’s Youth Prevention Sub-Committee, and the Chandler I Am Project.

people. He’s worked as a police officer and

Additionally, he and his wife recently

a pastor, while leading multiple task forces

launched Empowering Breakthrough, a new

and coalitions. He serves as the commu-

business/ministry, of which he is CEO.

nity programs manager for ICAN: Positive

“I believe our true character is demonstrated

Programs for Youth, where he empowers

by how we live and others experience us. That is what I would like to be known for,” he says.

Edward (Ed ) Salanga Ed Salanga always tries to lead by example. “For my team, I don’t want to ever ask someone to do something that I haven’t done, or wouldn’t be willing to do,” he says. In addition to his positions at Quarles & Brady, he has also served as both a member and co-chair of various committees within the American Bar Association’s Section of Litigation. In 2012, Salanga was elected president of the City of Chandler Industrial Development Authority, and today serves as a director. He is also a past-director of the Northern Arizona Advisory Board of the American Lung Association of the Southwest, a member of the Leadership Council on Legal Diversity Fellows Program, and has been honored with the Top Pro Bono Attorney award by the Arizona Foundation for

PARTNER AND NATIONAL CHAIR OF THE

Legal Services and Education.

LITIGATION & DISPUTE RESOLUTION

ished his medical training in the U.S. and became a

GROUP, QUARLES & BRADY LLP

He calls his father—a Filipino immigrant who finleader within his organization (the Cleveland Clinic), where he practiced medicine for nearly 40 years—his inspiration and role model.

David Specht “He is everywhere in Chandler, from

workshops, presenting workshops at schools,

Chandler Chamber events, he has appeared

and speaking with students during career

in City Recreation videos, and even was part

days. He also volunteers at Camp Tatiyee, a

of the Mayor’s city address,” wrote David

camp for those with cognitive and/or physical

Specht’s nominator.

disabilities, in Show Low each summer.

Indeed, he is. In 2014 he opened

Financially,

last

year,

ImprovMANIA

PRODUCER,

ImprovMANIA Comedy Club, and in 2018,

donated over $15,000 worth of tickets to

IMPROVMANIA COMEDY

launched Chandler Youth Theatre under the

nonprofits for fundraising. Plus, Chandler

ImprovMANIA umbrella (it became its own

Youth Theatre has a scholarship program.

CLUB AND VICE

nonprofit in 2019). In addition to performing

One fun fact? Specht never participated

PRESIDENT, CHANDLER

himself (he played Dr. A.J. Chandler during

in theatre or comedy until he was an adult,

last year’s ChandLore event) and running

saying he had been too shy.

YOUTH THEATRE

his business, he also gives back. He’s busy mentoring youth groups by teaching improv

“That surprises most folks, but I think it’s inspiring.”

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Chandler

INSPIRED BY (CONTINUED)

Brandon Bagley OWNER, ALPHAGRAPHICS CHANDLER|GILBERT|SCOTTSDALE “I’ve always felt that the more time spent doing things outside my business (volunteering for ICAN or serving in leadership roles within AlphaGraphics Corporate), the more energetic and inspired I am when I return to my business,” says Brandon Bagley. Bagley opened AlphaGraphics because he loved the idea of helping other companies grow and establishing relationships. He enjoys being a part of the community, and has been a financial contributor as well as on the board at ICAN: Positive Programs for Youth for the past 10 years. He is also involved with the Chandler Compadres, and a sponsor of the Chandler Education Foundation. He launched an AlphaGives campaign, where he sent out a request for nonprofits to submit for grants, awarding about $10,000 total to six local organizations. Bagley, who has been honored with many awards including Alpha Graphics’ first-ever Community Impact Award and ICAN’s Henry Salinas Society Hero Award, says, “I’d like to believe that my friends/clients would say that I’m always willing to help in any way that I can.”

Mike Bianco CEO, AVAIR When the COVID-19 pandemic reached the United States and Arizona issued a stay-at-home order, Mike Bianco, CEO of AvAir, handed each of his employees a $500 bonus to spend at small and local businesses in the community. Bianco was the first employee of AvAir, which was launched in 2000 by his brother-in-law. Today, it has 2,400 customers in 118 countries. The most rewarding part of what he does, he says, is seeing his team happy. “Whether we host a group workout or provide lunch from a local food truck, they’re always excited to spend time together and enjoy each other’s company. The happier they are, the more I want to do for them,” he says. He also volunteers with the community, and is a member of The Thunderbirds. He and his wife, Candace, are also involved in People Acting Now Discover Answers (PANDA). Bianco is a strong believer in the laws of attraction and manifesting and lives by the quote from Albert Einstein, “Imagination is everything. It is the preview of life’s coming attractions.” 32

Chandler Lifestyle | June 2020

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CITY SCENE

Developing Chandler

ARTICLE MICHELLE GLICKSMAN PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

“I GREW UP NEAR HERE, AND I’VE ALWAYS BEEN

Lawrence, along with joint venture partner Rick

FASCINATED WITH REAL ESTATE,” SAYS SPIKE

Huffman of HCW, LLC, responded—and the rest, as

LAWRENCE,

they say, is history.

FOUNDER

SPIKE

LAWRENCE

VENTURES. “I’ve watched Downtown Chandler’s growth from nearby and had always wanted to be a part of it.” Not only has he been a part of it, but he’s been a driving force in helping shape the community.

The vision was New Square, a modern, sustainable, multi-use commercial/class A office development in the heart of Downtown, on the corner of Chicago Street and Arizona Avenue, for which they broke ground in 2018.

Lawrence has been building in Chandler since 1998,

Today, rising from what was once a dirt lot, is now

and his contributions have included developing The Falls

a combination of hotel, restaurants, retail shops, and

at Ocotillo, D’vine Bistro, Downtown Ocotillo and Warner

office space.

Executive Center; bringing Holiday Inn to Ocotillo; master

Phase 1 was recently completed and includes a

planning Downtown Ocotillo and The Waters at Ocotillo;

50,000-square-foot office building; 10,000-square-foot

co-founding The Living Room Wine Bar and Cafe, The

restaurant building; and a Hilton Garden Inn, which has

Sushi Room and ChoP Steakhouse; and more.

110 rooms, as well as a restaurant offering breakfast, lunch

Three years ago, he took on a new project.

and dinner.

At the time, the City of Chandler had put out an RFP

Already, Lawrence says, they’ve signed 10-year leases

to develop an area of Historic Downtown Chandler.

to Great Western Bank, which will locate a regional CONTINUED >

VISIONARY SPIKE LAWRENCE HAS HELPED SHAPE CHANDLER’S LANDSCAPE

Spike Lawrence. Photo by Pablo Robles, Times Publications Photographer 34

Chandler Lifestyle | June 2020

CityLifestyle.com/Chandler 35

CITY SCENE (CONTINUED)

Chandler Lifestyle | June 2020

office there, and WellSky, a global healthcare software solutions company; and DC Steakhouse has relocated to a bigger space from its current location. “We also signed two more restaurants, and another office space,” he says. “In the office building we also signed a local sports agency that represents mostly NFL players. We signed a famous restaurant from Nashville, Tennessee called The Stillery, and a famous ramen noodle place called JINYA Ramen Bar, which has locations in places such as New York and Los Angeles (this will be the first location in Arizona).” One of his favorite aspects of New Square is the event square that is located in the middle of the development. It has an artificial turf lawn, a stage, palms line the area on both sides, and lights twinkle overhead. “We can have concerts of up to 700-800 people,” he says. “It’s a neat amenity and I think it’s one of the reasons why Chandler selected us.” Both office and retail space are still available to lease, and Lawrence says they are working to ensure the tenants are the right fit. Now that Phase 1 of New Square is opening, Lawrence says Phase 2, which will feature a six-story, mixed-use building, is scheduled to break ground before the end of 2020. “I like the mixed-use nature of [New Square], and being a part of what Downtown Chandler has become,” he says of the CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Chandler

CITY SCENE (CONTINUED)

project. “We like adding New Square to the already vibrant Downtown.” And for the young Lawrence who grew up fascinated with real estate and who got his real estate license right after graduating from Corona del Sol High School (he then went to Arizona State University, got his Series 7 license, raised money for a real estate company, partnered with a friend right after college and began rehabbing properties and selling them), he has certainly made his mark on a city that he loves. “I love Chandler,” he shares. “It’s leadership is forward-thinking and visionary. It brings the right jobs and builds the right schools, which attracts the right families. I can’t emphasize enough my appreciation for the business mindset. They’re pro-business and visionary.”

We Appreciate You Supporting Local. Thank You, Chandler,

For Supporting Us During These Challenging Times!

Chandler Lifestyle | June 2020

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LOCAL LIMELIGHT

ARTICLE MICHELLE GUERRERO PHOTOGRAPHY GENE LOWER/SLINGSHOT PHOTOGRAPHY Gene Lower, ready to photograph a game

INTERNATIONALLY RENOWNED PHOTOGRAPHER GENE LOWER 40

Chandler Lifestyle | June 2020

Pat Tillman

BEFORE GENE LOWER WAS PHOTOGRAPHING SUPER BOWLS AND CONCERTS, AND LONG BEFORE HE BECAME A SONY ARTISAN OF IMAGERY AND STELLA PRO LIGHTS AMBASSADOR, HE WAS A KID WHO DREAMED OF BEING A PROFESSIONAL ATHLETE. He played lacrosse, and the newspaper published so many pictures of him his friends teased he was paying someone. One of those photos boosted his status as a player and inspired his photography career. “I started thinking about all the photos in my lacrosse career and how it would be fun to help create these moments for other people,” says Lower. “I still have that photo today.” He’s been an Arizona Cardinals’ photographer for 20 years, and photographed the iconic image of Pat Tillman that was sculpted into the statue located in front of State Farm Stadium. One of Lower’s favorite images was published in Sports Illustrated and won Sports Photo of the Year. Titled God Plays Through, it is of a golfer in a storm with four lighting strikes in the background. His sports experience as a youth poured into his life as an adult.

FROM THE ARIZONA CARDINALS TO AWARD-WINNING SPORTS ILLUSTRATED IMAGES, HE CAPTURES ICONIC MOMENTS

He’s confident and knew he was good from day one. “I always wanted to be the best. I wasn’t the strongest or the fastest, but I wanted to succeed. I worked nonstop on my game as an athlete. When you’re through improving, you’re through. I apply this to my photography. I still don’t think I’m the best, but in the moment, I believe I am. If I’m next to you, I’m getting the shot,” he says. About a year ago, a dad asked Lower for tips to shoot his son’s games. Lower enjoyed teaching so much that he started offering classes. He has lived in Chandler for 18 years and can often be found Downtown pointing out great places for senior photos or teaching moms how to take better photos of their kids. “I like to help future photographers,” he explains. “My company is called Slingshot Photography. If you get hit with a rock or a pebble CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Chandler

LOCAL LIMELIGHT (CONTINUED)

it stuns you for a second. I want people to walk by a photo and say, ‘Wow!’ It should move people. If it’s really good, it will stop them in their tracks.” Recently, Lower was inspired by events surrounding COVID-19 and social distancing. He started #truckstopinfrared, where he photographs people in their driveways from his car window in infrared. Lower’s images include a drummer playing, a preacher, a referee, high school seniors, and an artist who created a three-dimensional chalk drawing of a bridge over water. His goal is to publish a book documenting this historical time. “Everyone is missing something in their lives. I am! Everyone is looking at the world in a different light. The photos are reflecting our new vision,” says Lower. “I don’t consider myself a sports photographer but more of a historian. Infrared allows us to see light that is invisible to the human eye. My photos are a direct reflection of this new vision.” Lower also enjoys hiking and capturing nature. He took his family to the Salt River. “We were surrounded by wild horses. My 13-year-old son said this was the coolest thing he ever experienced. Those are the moments that I live for and the reason I do workshops and lessons. You have to do more. You have to inspire,” says Lower. Lower posts learning opportunities on Meetup.com, Instagram at @slingshotphoto, and Facebook at @slingshot. Direct messages are welcomed, and he’ll create workshops by request. Visit GetMyShot.com.

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Chandler Lifestyle | June 2020

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