Issuu

SEPTEMBER 2020

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

SEPTEMBER 2020 PUBLISHER

Joyce Selk | joyce.selk@lifestylepubs.com EDITOR

Determination, Style, and Kindness IT WAS SUCH A PLEASURE TO SPEAK WITH JENNIFER SMESTAD THIS MONTH. We spoke on the phone while she was in Nashville, having just returned there from being back home here in Chandler/Gilbert during part of quarantine. As you can read in our story, she shares how growing up here played a huge role

Michelle Glicksman | michelle.glicksman@lifestylepubs.com AD DESIGNER

Miranda Williams LAYOUT DESIGNER

Emily Lisenbee CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Lynette Carrington, Michelle Talsma Everson, Michelle Guerrero

in the person she would become. Her time at Chandler High School helped her on

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

her journey to stardom by helping her face some of her challenges (learn about

David Apeji, Lindsay Borg

her desire to be in student council and her years on the cheer team!). And, it was the people here—her family, her friends, her high school mentor, and more—who helped support her and give her the tools she needed for her career. Of course, determination also plays a role in success—which is a trait you’ll find not only in Jennifer, but in others we profile this month. Elaine Birks-Mitchell and Johnny Mitchell, Jr., were determined to help people in need, so created a company to do so. They launched The Bra Recyclers. When the pandemic began, first-time film director Betty Ramirez realized she needed to make a film about what was happening in our city. In August, her documentary film COVID-19 vs. Arizona—Our Stories debuted. And Richard Brown—a self-taught artist—saw a charcuterie board

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

and thought he could make a better one. So he did, and now he sells them.

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

This issue is also our style issue, so be sure to look at how stylish Richard’s designs are!

REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

We also showcase one of the most important accessories—your smile, and the latest ways to make it stunning. Plus, we checked in with influencer Alex Evjen for some tips on taking the perfect photo. Enjoy this month’s issue, and remember—the most stylish thing you can do is practice kindness. Yours,

Michelle Glicksman, Editor

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

ON THE COVER Country singer Jennifer Smestad

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED 4

Chandler Lifestyle | September 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.

INSIDE THE ISSUE SEPTEMBER 2020

FEATURES 14 Picture Perfect Top Influencer and Chandler Resident Alex Evjen Shares Her Tips on Taking the Perfect Photo

22 The Art of Charcuterie Mingle + Graze Shares How to Create the Perfect Mix

26 Smile Makeovers Aquila Dental’s Top Trends in Cosmetic Dentistry

30 26

30 Jennifer Smestad Meet the Rising Country Star Who is Taking Nashville by Storm

DEPARTMENTS

Lifestyle Letter

Good Times

Around Town

14 DIY 20 Inspired By 22 Food & Wine 26 Healthy Lifestyle 30 Local Limelight 36 Giving Back 38 Culinary Creations 42 Artist’s Palette

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Amy Jones Group's Local Business Mixer The Amy Jones Group meets quarterly at Parlay Kitchen & Cocktails for its Local Business Mixer in Chandler. All local businesses are invited to join virtually or in person to connect, help each other grow their businesses, network, and have the opportunity to be a part of the group's vendor program. The next event will be held this month.

Operation Back to School Chandler The City of Chandler partnered with For Our City-Chandler to host their annual back-to-school drive for Chandler students in need, distributing more than 2,000 backpacks filled with essential school supplies. This year there were four drive-thru locations for students to collect their free backpacks. Students needed to be present (in a vehicle) with their school ID or ID number. PHOTOS ROBIN FINLINSON

Chandler Lifestyle | September 2020

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LATRICIA HARPER WOODS APPOINTED TO MANAGING BOARD OF CHANDLER CULTURAL FOUNDATION Chandler Cultural Foundation, the nonprofit managing board for the Chandler Center of the Arts, has appointed LaTricia Harper Woods as a new member. Woods, founder and president of Mahogany Xan Communications, LLC, a public relations firm, has an extensive 25 year career in strategic planning and implementation of community engagement, public relations, public affairs, marketing, crisis communications, internal communications, and multicultural communications for government agencies, nonprofits, and/or small businesses. She has been a resident of Chandler for 12 years. Woods will serve on the Chandler Cultural

ZOVIO'S CHANDLER HQ WINS 2020 AZ RED AWARD technology

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CVS Health recently opened a 101,000-squarefoot office in Chandler. Located at 1255 S. Spectrum

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CVS HEALTH ANNOUNCES 500 NEW CHANDLER JOBS Blvd. in the Allred Park Place development, CVS Health will employ approximately 500 workers, including health care advocates, care management

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Zovio's Chandler headquarters recently received

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of the Year. Located near Loop 202 and Cooper

CVS Health completed its acquisition of Aetna

Road, Zovio's 130,000-square-foot facility was

in November 2018. The new office in Chandler will

designed to encourage employee collaboration

provide service for the Aetna One Advocate care

and innovation.

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LAST CHANCE TO SEE 'FOCUS IN: DOROTHEA LANGE’S VIEW OF CHANDLER'

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Photographer Dorothea Lange visited Chandler

design elements. This has resulted in a dynamic

tive officer, founder, and president.

three times in the late 1930s and early 1940s to document the effects of the Dust Bowl and CONTINUED >

Chandler Lifestyle | September 2020

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AROUND TOWN Winners will be announced through a 2020 Trashion Fashion Show video released on Nov. 20. ChandlerAZ.gov/trashionfashion

SHERIDA MCMULLAN JOINS CHANDLER CULTURAL FOUNDATION BOARD Sherida McMullan brings her passion for bringing underrepresented groups into the tech field and a deep understanding of the importance of the arts to develop creative, critical thinkers, to the managPhoto courtesy National Archive and Records Administration, 522527

ing board the Chandler Cultural Foundation. The Board, which oversees the mission and operations of the Chandler Center for the Arts, tapped McMullan particularly for her expertise in creat-

New Deal Programs. She captured photographs

ing strategies to promote talent diversity among

of migrant families, auto camps, and the Farm

female, Black, Latinx and Native American groups.

Security Administration housing in Chandler. The

After a long career at Intel, she recently joined

debut of this six-panel banner exhibit, which is on

Silicon Valley tech powerhouse LYFT, taking the

view through Sept. 27 at Chandler Museum, shows

position of diversity leader for their engineering

the striking images Lange captured and gives a

and rideshare divisions.

glimpse of Chandler in the late 1930s. This showing also features photographs taken by Russell Lee, another government photographer who captured Chandler. ChandlerMuseum.org

CHANDLER SEEKS CONTESTANTS FOR ITS 5TH ANNUAL TRASHION FASHION SHOW Submit your designs for the City's 5th Annual Trashion Fashion Show, a celebration of wearable garments and accessories created from materials that might otherwise end up in the trash. The competition is open to established or aspiring fashion designers ages 10 years and older. Multiple designers can also form a team and enter. Each year, Trashion Fashion Show participants think “outside the recycle bin” to stylish wearables. At least 75% of a garment must be

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made from recyclable or reused materials that would

By directing and guiding a mixture of Sumi ink

transform trash or recyclables into inventive and

otherwise be thrown away or recycled.

and water, Sapira Cheuk creates androgynous

Due to the pandemic, this year’s event eliminates

figures that appear to move weightlessly across a

the in-person fashion show-style runway compe-

stark white backdrop. As the two liquids converge

tition. Instead, participants will record portions of

and repel one another during the painting process,

their design and fabrication process, and submit

the dyadic relationship between them produces

their video and several photos.

sinuous, angulating patterning within the bound-

Entries are due on Fri., Oct. 23, and will be

aries set forth by the artist’s hand. Much like the

accepted in three age categories, with only

evaporated water in the paintings, trauma or great

the first 25 entries per category accepted. A

change can affect an individual long after it has

fourth category, Community Choice, has also

passed. Here, Cheuk explores how individuals cope

been added, and will be voted on by the pub-

with those external forces and what remains after.

lic through the City’s social media accounts.

Through Oct. 3. VisionGallery.org

Chandler Lifestyle | September 2020

CityLifestyle.com/Chandler

DIY

PICTURE PERFECT ARTICLE MICHELLE GLICKSMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY TAYLOR HENNING

TOP INFLUENCER AND CHANDLER RESIDENT ALEX EVJEN SHARES HER TIPS ON TAKING THE PERFECT PHOTO 14

Chandler Lifestyle | September 2020

CHANDLER

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ALEX

EVJEN

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“Growing an audience of over 1.1 million back in 2010, I was deemed Business Insider and InStyle Magazine’s Top Pinner,” she shares. “I helped countless brands such as Target, Home Depot, and Coca-Cola produce digital content.” Today, Evjen navigates the creative needs of some of the world’s best travel brands as a creative director for content studio production for Roadtrippers, supporting digital content for brands such as Thor Industries, Airstream, Visit Tucson, and Togo RV. “I create and activate communities of storytellers on the road, enabling efficient and effective production at scale.” She does all this while also raising children—and still finding time to post her polished and simple outfit of the day. She launched her brand and blog, AVE Styles, in 2010. “I write and share about subjects that matter to me. My topics have evolved from style to motherhood to home design to

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divorce to grief to mental wellness,” she says. “My brand is an extension of myself, and over time my priorities have shifted. My brand and business have shifted with me.” It’s been a long road, but one she’s enjoyed. Her advice to others? “If someone is interested in starting a blog

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CONTINUED >

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DIY (CONTINUED)

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Say “happy”

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Chandler Lifestyle | September 2020

+ TIP 3

Lean slightly

forward. This helps your body look more relaxed and even disguises your mid-section a bit. If that’s your problem area then you’ll find this very helpful. Sometimes when we stand up very tall and straight we can, again, look like a frozen statue. The whole goal is to look natural.

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INSPIRED BY

Supporting Wo m e n In Need THE BRA RECYCLERS GIVE WOMEN A BOOST TO HELP RESHAPE THEIR LIVES ARTICLE MICHELLE TALSMA EVERSON PHOTOGRAPHY DAVID APEJI

WHEN TRAGEDY STRIKES—FROM LEAVING A DOMESTIC VIOLENCE SITUATION TO A NATURAL DISASTER—WE OFTEN THINK OF SUPPORTING WOMEN WITH THE BASICS LIKE FOOD, SHELTER, AND HYGIENE PRODUCTS. But, one support system that boosts self-confidence and helps a woman to start over is a bra. “I began asking, ‘What do women need when they go to places like a domestic violence shelter or other programs?’ Of course, they need many things, but bras were brought up time and time again,” says Elaine Birks-Mitchell. “People don’t often think about it.” With this in mind, Birks-Mitchell founded The Bra Recyclers in 2009. “We’re not a nonprofit, but we help more than 100 nonprofits internationally,” she explains. “We are a social enterprise: a business that is created to make more than just revenue, but make a difference in the community, as well.” “We believe if you give a woman a bra and the necessary support, she will reshape her life and those around her,” is the social enterprise’s motto. 20

Chandler Lifestyle | September 2020

Technically, The Bra Recyclers is a textile recycling

“We have a booth there where we’ll size the ladies,

company that specializes in recycling bras. They do this

and they’ll all walk away with two to three well-fitting

by collecting gently used bras from community members

bras,” she says. “We can easily help hundreds of ladies

who donate them or partner retailers. Then, the bras are

in that one day.”

sorted. Some, are taken apart and recycled to make other

For those who wish to help, The Bra Recyclers has an

products. The best though are cleaned and donated to

ambassador program where different locations or organi-

women locally, nationally, and abroad. Bras have been

zations can host bra drives or serve as drop-off locations.

given to everyone from domestic violence victims rebuild-

In addition to continued donations, they also need help

ing their lives in shelters, to human trafficking victims, to

spreading the word about the organization.

the homeless. Bras have also been sent overseas during times of natural disasters.

“We’ve gone far, but we still have a long way to go,” Birks-Mitchell says. “Retailers continue to throw out a lot

“One of the most poignant things I’ve been told is when a homeless woman shared that a bra can protect her from being raped,” Birks-Mitchell recalls. Through this process, The Bra Recyclers helps to reduce the number of reusable textiles going into landfills, and supports vulnerable women. Nonprofit organizations receive these bras by filling out a request form on the company’s website. Birks-Mitchell estimates that her organization has

“ We b elieve if yo u give a wo man a b ra an d th e n ece ss ary sup p o r t , sh e w i l l re sh ap e h er life an d th o se aro un d h er,”

donated or recycled more than three million bras. And, while Birks-Mitchell started The Bra Recyclers, her

of bras, and we need to encourage them to recycle them or

husband, Johnny Mitchell, Jr., helps her in her endeavors.

at least donate them to a local shelter or similar nonprofit.

“He helps me to bring my vision to reality,” she says.

A good bra can make such a difference in a woman’s life. It

In addition to donations, The Bra Recyclers work to be

can help to provide confidence and a new start.”

involved in the local community. Birks-Mitchell shares

To donate bras, community members can mail them

that, for example, they have provided bras and fitting

or visit BraRecycling.com to find a nearby local drop-

services at the Your Best Day Ever event, hosted by the

off location. Mailing directions can be found on the

H.E.M.P. Legacy Foundation.

website, as well.

CityLifestyle.com/Chandler

FOOD & WINE

+ Tr u f f l e C h i p s

+ Charcuterie Board

These Himalayan sea salt ket-

This board was gifted by Cutting Edge Woods,

tle chips are heavily sprinkled

a Chandler-based company. It’s their favorite

with truffle dust. Their spiced

because of its quality and craftsmanship.

nuts are also made with their secret spice blend.

+ Local Crackers They prefer Hayden Flour Mills and Urban Oven crackers. They choose flavors such as classic white and olive oil for their simple base, which doesn’t interfere with the cheese flavors.

ARTICLE MICHELLE GUERRERO PHOTOGRAPHY LINDSAY BORG

The Ar t of Charcuterie

MINGLE + GRAZE SHARES HOW TO CREATE THE PERFECT MIX

Chandler Lifestyle | September 2020

fam Moeeni-Alarcon Mah

+ Responsibly-Sourced Salami and Prosciutto They choose charcuterie meats for their freshness and quality, such as Olli salami, Fra’mani Mortadella, and prosciutto from California. The Beeler’s ham is from Iowa.

MINGLE + GRAZE IS A CULMINATION OF THE HARD WORK AND PASSION OF SHOP OWNERS MAHFAM MOEENI-ALARCON, CHEF AND CHEESE SPECIALIST, AND HER HUSBAND, CRISTOBAL ALARCON, CHEF AND BEVERAGE SPECIALIST. Their interests have always revolved around food and people. “We want the community to come together over a

+ Cheeses Moeeni-Alarcon recommends using cow, goat, and sheep milk cheeses to add a variety of flavors. Using soft, semifirm and hard cheeses adds a nice mix of textures.

beautiful cheese board or a culturally influenced sandwich. I’m Persian and my husband is Chilean, so we sprinkle our culture in our menu,” says Moeeni-Alarcon. The couple specializes in charcuterie boards and fine cheeses, which they sell by the wedge. The menu includes an array of artisan sandwiches and tacos, and everything is made with locally sourced ingredients when available. Beginning this month, they’ll also offer an eclectic, boutique wine list. The couple’s storefront opened in 2019, but they’ve been creating cheeseboards in the Valley since 2017. “We care for our community and we want to be a staple in Chandler for years to come. We want to be the first place people think of when they want to throw a party at their home or if they are looking to have a grazing table showpiece. Besides being the Valley’s first to create grazing tables

+Fruit Garnish Use

fresh,

for large events, we are known for having the best prices in

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Their favorites are grapes and strawberries.

occasion

they use kiwi, blueberries, oranges and cherries.

town for catering cheese boards,” says Moeeni-Alarcon. The shop is decorated with unique art, and mismatched chairs. They seat 24, but can cater for more than 500 people. “Our shop is quaint. We are tiny and mighty,” MoeeniAlarcon says. For more information, visit MingleAndGraze.com.

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Chandler Lifestyle | September 2020

THE MOST POPULAR TRENDS IN COSMETIC DENTISTRY SEEN AT AQUILA DENTAL ARE YOUNG PATIENTS WANT-

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ING BIGGER, WHITER, AND WIDER SMILES, AND WANTING MAKEOVERS IN THE BLEACH-SHADE OF TEETH. “I think social media and posting pictures that really pop has influenced this, and that’s not necessarily a bad thing. In the hands of an expert cosmetic dentist and ceramic artist, these super white results can still look natural,” says Dr. Richard Higgs, the owner of Aquila Dental. The term “smile makeover” may sound dramatic, but Higgs defines it as any treatment that improves a patient’s smile. They’re even possible on a modest budget. He often recommends whitening, bonding, and smile shaping. “When a patient asks me about a smile makeover, I know my job is going to be to ask some questions and then listen. The meaning is as individual as the person who desires the service,” says Higgs. TEETH WHITENING Teeth whitening is still at the top of the popularity list. Higgs recommends everything from home strips and whitening toothpaste to professional bleaching gel. He shares that the most effective options

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of the two for the most effective and sustained whitening. “When a patient desires their version of perfection, porcelain veneers are typically the go-to treatment, but the treatment is not cookie-cutter. The number of veneers is entirely dependent on helping the patient come to absolute certainty what it is they want. My task is to show the patient the

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possibilities and help them get the treatment that meets—and hopefully exceeds—their goals and expectations,” says Higgs.

WWW.BACKFITHEALTH.COM

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Chandler

HEALTHY LIFESTYLE (CONTINUED)

“I’M INSPIRED BY MY TEAM AND HOW COMMITTED THEY ARE TO TAKING WONDERFUL CARE OF OUR PATIENTS.”

One of Aquila Dental's smile makeovers.

Chandler Lifestyle | September 2020

COSMETIC RECONTOURING Cosmetic recontouring is also popular to improve the shape and symmetry of teeth. Super white veneers are gaining status as well, but Higgs discourages against choosing a treatment strictly on trends. “This treatment [veneers] isn’t necessarily for everyone. I don’t like to treat patients solely on what’s popular, but on what we can do together to help them smile with complete confidence,” explains Higgs. SMILE VIRTUAL CONSULTATIONS Aquila Dental offers free Smile Virtual

Our expansion is finally complete!

Consultations. The three questions asked the most are: Who can I trust? What are the possibilities? How much will it cost? “Our office is very modern and clean and our procedures for infection control, and patient and team protection, are cutting-edge,” he says. “I’m inspired by my team and how committed they are to taking wonderful care of our patients. They set the bar, so I feel like I need to show at least their level of commitment to hopefully inspire them right back.” One of the things Higgs loves most about dentistry is when he helps a patient find

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confidence in their smile. “It doesn’t get much better than helping someone who comes in lacking self-confidence due to a smile they don’t love, and we’re able to give them the smile of their dreams. Being a part of that is simply awesome!” he says. He also finds joy in helping people overcome fear so they can get the care they need and realize that next time, they don’t need to be afraid. “There isn’t a lot I haven’t seen or done in my 27-plus years of practice, and yet I’m always learning. If there is a better way, I’ll find it. I’m passionate about exceeding people’s expectations.”

Andrea Stickland, DVM

Kristy Sorenson, DVM

Laura Diltz, DVM

Chelsie Daniel, BVM&S MRCVS

Aquila Dental recently celebrated its 15th anniversary at its current Chandler location. They offer a wide range of services from simple cleanings and fillings, to more complex treatments including cosmetic makeovers and full mouth reconstruction. Smile Virtual Consults are available on

W. Chandler Heights Rd., Ste. 3 Chandler, AZ 85248

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Located on the NW corner of Arizona Ave and Chandler Heights Rd in the CVS Pharmacy complex, across the street from the post office.

their website AquilaDental.com. CityLifestyle.com/Chandler

LOCAL LIMELIGHT

JENNIFER MEET THE RISING COUNTRY STAR WHO IS TAKING NASHVILLE BY STORM ARTICLE MICHELLE GLICKSMAN PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

SMESTAD

Chandler Lifestyle | September 2020

“I RE ALIZED THAT I WA S AC TUALLY HELPING OTHER PEOPLE , AND IT WA S RE ALLY COOL TO BE ABLE TO INSPIRE OTHERS, AND TO GIVE HOPE TO OTHERS WHO ARE GOING THROUGH THE S A M E O R S I M I L AR C H AL L E N G E S .” “I’M A DESERT GIRL. I love sunshine. I was always outside playing with my neighbor, with my sister, and swimming,” shares Jennifer Smestad, a Chandler High School graduate, recalling her childhood growing up on the border of Chandler/Gilbert. “[My parents’ house is] on a manmade lake, so I’d go on a boat ride and play games. I just love Arizona, and I just can’t say enough great things about Arizona. I miss Arizona.” I speak with Smestad from her home in Nashville. She’s returned there after spending two months at home with her parents in Arizona during quarantine. And as much as she loves Arizona and loved being home, Nashville pulls at her singer/ songwriter’s heart. Smestad moved there four years ago to follow her dreams of being a country singer, and now she is taking Nashville by storm. A BORN SINGER—UNTIL THE SHYNESS TOOK OVER Smestad has been singing “pretty much my whole life,” she says. “At 3 years old, my mom put me and my sister in a singing and dancing group. My sister was 5. We sang together a lot growing up, and it really stuck with me.” She participated in vocal lessons and a few recitals—until she turned 10. That year, she was diagnosed with Tourette CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Chandler

LOCAL LIMELIGHT (CONTINUED)

syndrome, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and Social Anxiety. “I was so afraid to be in front of anyone, especially because I didn’t want them to find out I was different,” she says. “It was very severe for years.” Too shy and anxious to be in front of people, she stopped performing—even though she dreamed of one day moving to Nashville and being a country star. In fact, until partway through high school, no one except her closest friends even knew she could sing. “I wanted to join student council,” she says. “But to join you had to give a speech to your entire class, which was about 800 people. I wanted it so badly though, and I knew I’d regret it if I wasn’t in student council. So, I switched the lyrics to a popular song at the time and I sang about why I should be in it.” From that moment on, all of her classmates not only knew that she could sing, but that she had immense talent. And yes, she was chosen to join student council! Smestad counts her time at Chandler High as a highlight in her life. The Smestad family.

Chandler Lifestyle | September 2020

“I was an honors student, on student council, and on the cheer team,” she says. “I loved Chandler High

School and I can’t say enough good things about it. The teachers are great and the campus is great. I have the best memories.”

I CAN’T BELIEVE THIS, MY DREAMS ARE COMING TRUE!

COMING OUT OF HER SHELL In addition to her decision to perform in high school, Smestad tried Chinese acupuncture with Dr. Jing Liu in Scottsdale, as well as herbs, to help her conditions. “They changed my life,” she says. “I really believe that between that, the support of my family, and my mom— who had a huge prayer group praying for me constantly— it changed my life.” After high school Smestad attended Grand Canyon University. During that time, she sang the national anthem at Arizona Diamondbacks games and various Spring Training games. She was also on the worship team at her church, and joined a cover band. “So I was kinda doin’ singing, randomly, everywhere!”

to give hope to others who are going through the same or similar challenges.”

COMPETING IN THE MISS AMERICA COMPETITION “So I was singing the national anthem around so I was

LAUNCHING A MUSIC CAREER Soon, Smestad made the move to Nashville.

getting more used to being in public, but still, I promised

Although she had begun writing songs at age

myself I would never do public speaking in college. And

10—“looking back, they were hilarious, and awful!”—in

then, my friend was Miss Arizona 2011, and I went to watch

Nashville, she tried her hand at co-writing.

her at Miss America to support her. On the way back, I

“I had never done that before. It’s so different and I

said to my parents and my sister, ‘I think I want to do this.’

actually didn’t even want to be a songwriter when I

They were like, ‘What? What do you mean? You’ve never

moved to town; I just wanted to be an artist. I thought I’d

done a pageant in your life, this is so random!’”

just cut other songs that other writer’s wrote,” she shares.

She followed through, competing in a local pageant— and was named first runner-up. So she competed in another—and again was named first runner-up. Her next pageant, she won. And nine months after that, she was crowned Miss Arizona.

But she tried it out and fell in love with the process. “It helped me grow and know who I am as an artist.” In October of 2019, Smestad released a song called “Find Me Here,” about her sister, who had lost twins in a miscarriage. “I ended up writing and thought I’d just give it to her,

After winning the Miss Arizona title, she went

but then I felt called to release it,” she shares. “It was a

on to compete in the Miss America Competition in

huge passion project for me and one of the most mean-

Atlantic City.

ingful songs to me.”

Finding the platform she wanted to support through-

She wanted to follow that up with other songs that

out pageant life was easy—Tourette syndrome aware-

were also meaningful to her, so in February of 2020, she

ness and advocacy.

released “Half The Man,” a song she wrote for her dad.

“I realized that I was actually helping other people, and it was really cool to be able to inspire others, and

She uploaded “Half The Man” to TikTok—where it took off.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Chandler 33

LOCAL LIMELIGHT (CONTINUED) Smestad and her sister as young children.

Smestad quickly found herself fielding offers from record labels, and eventually signed with RECORDS/ Sony Music Nashville. Today, Smestad has emerged as one of Nashville’s most impressive young artists. She’s smart and thoughtful, with a playful, sassy side that quickly endears her to audiences. She’s busy promoting “Half The Man” (if you watch the video for it you’ll catch clips of her as a child, as well as of her family!), and she’s getting ready for the song to soon be played on the radio. She’s also working on songs for her next EP. “It all happened very quickly. Every now and then I’ll have time to relax and think about [all that’s happened] and I’m like, ‘Oh my gosh, what’s happening? I can’t believe this, my dreams are coming true!’ and I’ll randomly freak out over it, in the best way.”

Chandler Lifestyle | September 2020

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GIVING BACK

Te l l i n g Our Stories ARTICLE LYNETTE CARRINGTON PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

FIRST-TIME FILM DIRECTOR TACKLES COVID-19 SOLUTIONS IN DOCUMENTARY FILM CHANDLER RESIDENT BETTY RAMIREZ HAS BEEN STAYING BUSY THE LAST SEVERAL MONTHS WITH A PASSION PROJECT THAT SUITS HER PERFECTLY. When COVID-19 hit Arizona in early 2020, she was concerned enough to want to explore its effects on the community through an insightful documentary film. Ramirez has long been involved in community affairs. As she developed the idea for her directorial debut on new documentary film COVID-19 vs. Arizona—Our Stories, she sought to involve the input 36

Chandler Lifestyle | September 2020

of prominent leaders, especially those in Chandler. The film was produced in conjunction with the assistance of Chandler International Film Festival, where Ramirez serves as vice president on the board of directors. Her approach to making the documentary film was simple. “I like to hear people’s concerns and their unique stories,” she says. “I believe COVID-19 impacted the lives of so many people, and nothing like this has ever happened before. I wanted to show how it affected their lives and the positive things that could come out of it.” During a time when most film production is on hold, Ramirez saw a unique filmmaking opportunity. She asked for the participation of Chandler and Arizona leaders. She says, “Everybody that I reached out to was interested, especially after I told them why I was doing it and that it was to raise money for the nonprofit Chandler International Film Festival.” Interview subjects in the documentary include Chandler Mayor Kevin Hartke, Pinal County Sheriff Mark Lamb, Maricopa County Attorney Allister Adel, radio host Billy Harfosh, and many other high-profile people. Ramirez says, “I wanted people to hear the voices of our community leaders, business owners and young people, and how COVID-19 has affected their lives and the lives of the people around them. “Since we did the interviews in May during the time that things in Arizona reopened briefly, we really didn’t have any problems with things being closed,” she says. “The main challenge was to be able to schedule all the interviews during a two-week period and have everybody able to make time in their busy schedules.” The film was shot primarily at the Hilton Garden Inn Downtown Chandler and the Residence Inn by Marriott in South Chandler. “Directing my first film, I learned so many things,” says Ramirez. “The most intriguing thing I learned is how every single person had a unique story to tell about their experience and how they were coping with the situation.” While making the film, Ramirez also had the help of some Arizona film and media veterans—Mitesh Patel, who served as producer; director of photography Bernie Tarin; assistant director Melody King; media personality Lynette Carrington; and sound technician Joe Becker. The first-time director hopes that the public learns from the film. “I’d like for people to learn that we’re human beings and we make mistakes, but we want to do the best for each other,” she says. “The only way out of this situation is to work together and learn from each other. It’s up to us if we want to do good things or bad things, or if we want to help each other or tear each other apart and be divided.” COVID-19 vs. Arizona—Our Stories had its world premiere on Aug. 1, and is available online at https://vimeo.com/ondemand/ciff. All proceeds from the film go to the nonprofit Chandler International Film Festival. The annual film festival will take place online and in-person Jan. 21-24, 2021 in Chandler. The film festival prominently features BIPOC and women filmmakers from around the globe. ChandlerFilmFestival.com

CityLifestyle.com/Chandler

CULINARY CREATIONS

E A T

KEEP YOUR PLATE IN STYLE WITH THESE FOODS THAT WILL HELP YOU LOOK + FEEL GOOD

ARTICLE HAYLEY HYER

P R E T T Y 38

Chandler Lifestyle | September 2020

VITAMIN A IS ESSENTIAL TO PROTECTING THE CORNEAS OF OUR EYES. By taking care of your corneas, you can extend the health of your eyesight and reduce vision loss with age. An easy way to remember what to eat for healthy eyes is to look for orange foods. Carrots, sweet potatoes, pumpkin, and butternut squash are all high in vitamin A.

CONTINUED >

H E A LT H Y EYES

/// CARROTS / / / S W E E T P OTATO E S /// PUMPKIN /// BUTTERNUT SQUASH

CityLifestyle.com/Chandler

CULINARY CREATIONS (CONTINUED)

SWEET P OTATO SCRAMBLE (FOR ONE)

M I X INGREDIENTS

+ 2 eggs + A dash of flax milk + Cumin + Salt + pepper + ½ sweet potato, cubed + ¼ green onion, chopped + ¼ cup spinach + Handful of broccoli florets + Ghee butter or avocado oil for cooking

TOPPING IDEAS

+ Cooked salmon + Hot sauce + Chia seeds or flax seeds + Fresh parsley

DIRECTIONS 01 Whisk together your eggs, milk, and spices. 02 Prepare a skillet over medium heat with your ghee butter or avocado oil. Cook the sweet potato, green onion, and broccoli for 5-8 minutes. Add the spinach and cook for 1 more minute. 03 Pour your egg mixture into the skillet and scramble together until the eggs are your desired texture, roughly 3 minutes. 04 Immediately add your cooked salmon, seeds, parsley, or hot sauce and enjoy while it’s still hot!

I T 40

Chandler Lifestyle | September 2020

U P

/// FLAX SEED /// WALNUTS /// CHIA SEEDS /// FISH

H E A LT H Y SKIN

Did you know that vitamin A is also imperative for skin health? So while you’re caring for your corneas, you’re also boosting your outer glow. If you want to kick it up a notch, be intentional about eating plenty of foods with omega-3 fatty acids to reduce acne and inflammation and help your skin produce its own collagen. For your healthy fats, go for flax seed, walnuts, chia seeds, and fish.

H E A LT H Y HAIR SALMON /// EGGS /// For soft, flowing tresses, make sure you’re getting an equal amount of B vitamins in your diet. We naturally get plenty of B-6 because it’s in most grains, but it’s easier to end up with a biotin or B-12 deficiency if you don’t pay attention. Focus on foods like salmon, eggs, spinach, and broccoli for a healthy balance of B vitamins for your hair.

SPINACH /// BROCCOLI /// CityLifestyle.com/Chandler

ARTIST’S PALETTE

Richard BROWN CHANDLER CHARCUTERIE BOARD ARTIST

ARTICLE MICHELLE GUERRERO PHOTOGRAPHY LINDSAY BORG

WOOD richard brown

RICHARD BROWN IS A SELF-TAUGHT ARTIST WHO MAKES LIVE EDGE CHARCUTERIE BOARDS FROM HIS CHANDLER HOME. He prefers using mesquite, rosewood, acacia and olive woods. “They are all hard woods and have beautiful grains and natural patterns.” he explains. “What makes them sell, besides the grain and beauty, are the finishes that take days for me to apply.” The boards range from 18” to 50” in width, depending on the wood he’s using or can find. He thoroughly sands them, and adds coats of polyurethane to bring out the color and natural grains. That also helps with durability. “I find great satisfaction in each board as I work on it and see the beauty as I apply each step,” he says. “I find it a very rewarding and fulfilling pastime.” Brown is a retired mortgage banker who moved to the Valley from Montana. He and his wife, Judy, have been Chandler residents for more than 20 years, and raised their family here. He began making charcuterie boards more than a year ago after seeing one his daughter purchased at a local retailer. He thought he could improve on the design, so he did. His boards are sold mostly to individuals. They can also be found at d’Vine Gourmet in the Promenade at Fulton Ranch. Sometimes he makes trays and smaller pieces from the wood he uses for the charcuterie boards. “I get great pleasure in giving my boards as gifts and seeing the responses from the recipients,” he says. Place an order by contacting Judy at judybrown101@cox.net or call 480.821.4710. 42

Chandler Lifestyle | September 2020

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