For more than two decades, The Sorenson Law Firm has called Tempe Home. We’re not just lawyers - we’re parents, neighbors, and active supporters of our community. Whether you’re facing devastating losses from and injury accident or other legal challenges, our family-owned firm is here to fight for you and protect what matters most.
Personal Injur y & Wrongful Death Arbitrations, Mediations, and ADR Business & Commercial Litigation Tempe
As I write this, fall has arrived in full swing—a rush of activities and an almost too-busy autumn schedule. During this season, I find it especially helpful to pause, step back, and reflect on all the things I’m grateful for. This month, with deep gratitude, we honor the men and women who have served our country and continue to serve here in Tempe. Their courage and commitment remind us of the many reasons we give thanks.
If you’re the “Gobble Boss” or “Captain Cranberry” in your home, don’t miss our Thanksgiving hosting hacks designed to keep you organized and stress-free. And as the holidays approach, City Lifestyle is once again launching its annual Christmas Giving Campaign, which supports individuals and families who could use a helping hand this season. If you know someone in need of a little extra hope, nominations are open from November 1 through December 5.
Here at Tempe City Lifestyle, we are especially thankful for the residents and businesses who support countless organizations and help make Tempe such a vibrant community. As we prepare to gather with our loved ones this holiday season, let’s embrace the true spirit of Thanksgiving by reflecting on what makes life truly meaningful and cherishing those blessings. From our family to yours, we wish you a warm and heartfelt Thanksgiving surrounded by those you love!
With Thankfulness,
WENDY BATES, PUBLISHER @TEMPECITYLIFESTYLEMAGAZINE
November 2025
PUBLISHER
Wendy Bates | wendy.bates@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Jett Arredondo | jett.arredondo@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Skye Wagner | skye.wagner@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Jett Arredondo, Alison Stanton, Celena Cisco, Mel Boban
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
1-7: The Tempe Chamber of Commerce recently hosted the 2025 ASU Sun Devil Football Kickoff Luncheon, presented by San Tan Ford. The event took place at the San Tan Ford Club, perched high above Mountain America Stadium. Amid a sea of maroon and gold, the event was filled with energy, excitement, and special guests as Sun Devil Football builds momentum. Fans enjoyed hearing from several players during a lighthearted panel interview moderated by Tim Healey, the voice of the Sun Devils.
Photography by Songbird Productions
8: Dr. Jason Heavens and family celebrate the grand opening of his new practice, MDVIP, in Tempe. 9: Amanda Schneider celebrates the five year anniversary of Amplify Voices with the community at Hundred Mile Brewing. 10: Always Best Care owners, Tom and Janne’ Gutierrez, celebrated four years in Tempe with family, friends, and community partners through a day of giving back at Feed My Starving Children. 11-14: The Tempe Chamber of Commerce Military Affairs Committee hosted its Stars and Stripes Bowling Fundraiser at Main Event.
NEOS MED SPA will host a celebration to give thanks to our wonderful clients and community!
We will be celebrating with Scout & Cellar Wine, Wijaya House, Great Harvest Bread Co. and Drink Me Tea Room.
Thursday, November 20th, 2025 5:00-7:30pm
1730 E. Warner Road STE 3 TEMPE, AZ 85284
Collect & Stamp a Passport Card For Additional Offers
Wine
ARTICLE BY JETT ARREDONDO PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
In this season of gratitude, we pause to honor the men and women who have served our nation and continue to shape our Tempe community. Their courage, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment are reminders of the many reasons we have to give thanks.
Within these pages, we proudly share the voices of our local Veterans. As you read their stories, you’ll find themes of discipline, resilience, accountability, and leadership—values that define the heart of our community and remind us of the strength found in gratitude.
From commanding public safety units to leading community organizations, building local businesses, and enriching education, these Veterans show us that service takes many forms. It continues with the same spirit of commitment—evolving into service to family, to community, and to the next generation.
At the core of each story is a dedication to serving something greater than oneself—a spirit of service that lives on well beyond the military and continues to enrich and uplift our Tempe community today.
WITH GRATITUDE, WE HONOR OUR TEMPE VETERANS—THEIR SACRIFICES, LEADERSHIP, AND UNWAVERING DEVOTION TO COMMUNITY IMPACT.
Owner of Mr. Handyman Tempe, Gilbert and Mesa.
From a young age, I loved working with my hands, but before I ever thought about running a handyman business, I chose to serve my country. Inspired by my best friend’s brother, who served on the Army bomb squad, I knew I wanted to follow a similar path. After high school in 1987, I enlisted in the Air Force, where I trained as an Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technician.
For eight years, I had the honor of serving on the bomb squad, deploying during Operation Desert Shield to Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Iraq. My career also gave me the chance to support special assignments with the Secret Service, protecting presidents and presidential hopefuls such as George H.W. Bush and Bill Clinton when they visited Texas.
Those experiences demanded discipline, resilience, and precision—and they shaped the way I approach everything in life. Most of all, they taught me gratitude. I’m thankful for the men and women I served alongside, for the opportunities that service gave me, and for the lessons that still guide me today. Now, through Mr. Handyman, I carry that same sense of service and commitment into helping my community—grateful every day for the chance to serve in a different way.
Principal, Ward Traditional Academy
As a former student of Connolly Middle School and now Principal at Ward Traditional Academy, I know how deeply Tempe has shaped me. Growing up in this community gave me a strong foundation, and my time in the U.S. Air Force further defined who I am today. I enlisted and trained in Texas before being stationed at Minot Air Force Base in North Dakota. While serving, I worked in database management for the B-52 aircraft, where I learned the value of teamwork, consistency, and accountability—and that the mission is always greater than oneself. While serving, I also earned my bachelor’s degree in Management Information Systems from Minot State University, an accomplishment that strengthened my discipline and perseverance.
When I left the military, I knew I wanted to dedicate my life to making a positive impact. As a mother and an aunt, I found my calling in education, where I could combine service, leadership, and heart. For nearly 15 years, I have been honored to serve in the Tempe Elementary School District in roles that have allowed me to support students, staff, and families. I am grateful for my support system, our Ward community, and the families who partner with us each day to make student success possible.
President/CEO, Tempe Chamber of Commerce
I served in the U.S. Army with the 705th Support Battalion as part of the Quartermaster Corps. My time in uniform was formative, not because of one single experience, but because of the discipline and atmosphere of service itself. The constant focus on teamwork, accountability, and serving something bigger than yourself reinforced my family values of hard work and service to others. Those lessons continue to guide how I live, lead, and give back to the community today.
My military service instilled in me the belief that service above self should always come first. That commitment has driven much of my work here in Tempe. I helped lead efforts to make Tempe the first Veteran Supportive City in Arizona, worked to establish Valor on 8th—the state’s first housing project for female veterans—and created a Veterans Coordinator position for the city. I also brought Community Salutes to Tempe, an event honoring young people entering the military directly from high school. Each of these efforts reflects the values I carried from service: hard work, accountability, and a commitment to others.
This year, I’m especially thankful for my family’s unwavering support, and for the opportunity to serve alongside such a strong Chamber team. Tempe’s strength has always come from its people and businesses, and when we work together, there’s nothing we can’t accomplish.
Bomb Squad Commander, Tempe Police Department
I joined the US Army in 1996 and completed Basic and Advanced Infantry Training at Fort Benning, Georgia, followed by Airborne School and the Ranger Indoctrination Program. I was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment at Fort Lewis, Washington. While in the unit, I attended and graduated from Ranger School, then returned to the battalion, serving in multiple roles—from rifleman, grenadier, and M249 SAW gunner to Team Leader and Squad Leader.
During my 6.5 years with the 2nd Ranger Battalion, I deployed to Panama, Germany, Korea, Jordan, and Afghanistan. These experiences shaped my approach to leadership and reinforced teamwork, discipline, consistency, and readiness.
After the Army, I moved into law enforcement and now serve as the Bomb Squad Commander for the Tempe Police Department. In this role, I apply lessons learned from my time in the Rangers to protecting lives and supporting the ongoing mission of public safety.
My focus has always been on service—whether abroad or here in Tempe—working to ensure the safety of others and strengthening the community. I am thankful for the opportunity to continue serving in a way that makes a direct impact and grateful to the community that supports our mission every day. Ranger Lead The Way.
Deputy Fire Chief, Tempe Fire Department
I’ve been proud to call Tempe home since 1989. I grew up here, attending Kyrene Middle School and Corona del Sol High School. After graduation, I tried a semester at Mesa Community College, but I quickly realized school wasn’t the right path for me at that time. What I did know was that I wanted to be a firefighter—a Tempe firefighter. While taking an EMT course, my instructor suggested that the U.S. Air Force had an excellent fire department and would be the perfect place to gain experience. Two weeks later, in January of 1996, I enlisted. It was the best advice I ever received and the best decision I’ve ever made.
My time in the Air Force became the foundation of my adult life. The training, discipline, and lessons I learned have stayed with me and shaped the firefighter, father, and community member I am today. One of my proudest moments was watching my son follow in my footsteps by attending the United States Air Force Academy.
In January 2000, I returned to Tempe to begin the fire academy, and I’ve now been serving this city as a firefighter for 26 years. I’m beyond thankful for my military experience—and for the young men and women who continue to make the same commitment to serve our country today.
General Manager, Ken McDonald Golf Course
As an Army Veteran, I completed basic training at Fort Jackson and advanced individual training at Fort Bliss as a 14E Patriot Missile Operator before deploying to the Middle East from 2009 to 2010. Those years taught me discipline, resilience, and the importance of giving back— values that continue to guide my life today.
What started as a job as a Beverage Cart Attendant at Ken McDonald Golf Course ten years ago has grown into a career—and today, I’m proud to serve as General Manager with a passion for building community. I’ve launched programs that bring families together, from seasonal celebrations to free youth clinics and field trips introducing students to STEAM learning. I also started initiatives like ‘Cans for Canines’ and an annual pet supply drive supporting Lost Our Home Pet Rescue.
I’m proud to support inclusion by donating course time to schools and the Special Olympics, and I stay involved with the Tempe Chamber of Commerce and Tempe Leadership Class 41. I’m thankful that I still get to serve—this time, in my own community. My story is one of gratitude in action: service beyond the uniform.
CONTINUED >
President, Accurate Air Conditioning, Inc.
I served in the United States Air Force from 1971 to 1974, an experience that instilled in me the values of honor, dedication, and integrity. Those lessons have stayed with me throughout my personal life and professional career.
When I returned home, I joined my family’s business, Accurate Air, which has been serving the Valley since 1965. Over the past 50 years, I’ve had the privilege of helping build a company committed to honesty, quality, and care for our customers. As President, I’ve tried to lead with professionalism and a servant’s heart—always keeping the needs of others first. Along the way, I’ve been fortunate to mentor employees, support community programs, and do my best to go the extra mile for both customers and colleagues.
Looking back, I see my journey as one of service— first to my country, then to my family, business, and community. I’m grateful for the opportunities I’ve had and for the people who have walked alongside me. The values I learned in the military continue to guide me, and I hope my example inspires others to lead with integrity and heart.
Interim Headmaster, Tempe Preparatory Academy
A week before my high school graduation, I told myself I would never set foot in an educational institution again. Instead, I enlisted in the U.S. Army and soon deployed to Afghanistan. In the high mountains of the Hindu Kush, I was struck by the remnants of past empires that had once fought for control of the same valleys. That experience awakened a curiosity to learn from history’s echoes and ultimately led me to pursue a degree in ancient letters and cultures at Arizona State University.
What began as a rejection of learning became a passion shaped by service. The discipline, resilience, and perspective I gained in the military gave me a deep appreciation for the power of education. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of teaching Latin, Greek, biology, history, and English language arts—cultivating a love of learning in hundreds of young minds.
Today, I am honored to serve as Headmaster at Tempe Preparatory Academy, a classical charter school dedicated to providing a world-class education for all students. Tempe has given me the opportunity to blend my military service with my calling as an educator, and for that I am deeply grateful.
The holidays have a way of calling us back to what matters most—faith, family, compassion, and the quiet but powerful act of giving. As lights go up and calendars fill, there are still many who sit in silence, carrying burdens too heavy to bear alone. But what if this season, you could be the spark that changes everything for someone else?
The founders of City Lifestyle, through their private foundation, are once again launching its annual Christmas Giving Campaign—a heartfelt effort to seek out and support individuals and families who have quietly fallen through the cracks. The mission is simple: to bring light, dignity, and hope to those who need it most.
Since its beginning just four years ago, this initiative has grown from a humble idea into a life-changing movement. Last Christmas alone, more than 200 families across the country received unexpected support—financial relief, but also something even more powerful.
“We don’t just send checks,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “We send a message: You are seen. You are loved. And you are not forgotten.”
Together with City Lifestyle President Matthew Perry, Steven has helped shape this into a tradition that goes far beyond charity. “This is about community,” Matthew adds. “We believe we’ve been blessed, so now we get to be a blessing.”
Every story begins with a nomination. Often, it’s a neighbor, coworker, friend, or teacher—someone who’s been quietly carrying too much for too long. One past recipient, after receiving unexpected support during a time of deep personal struggle, wrote:
SCAN TO NOMINATE
“We send a message: You are seen. You are loved. And you are not forgotten.”
“Beyond the very practical solution of receiving funds to fix my car, this thing you guys worked together to do is bigger than that. I carry the Christmas card you sent in my purse. When things get really hard, I pull it out and remember what it felt like to be seen. That card represents hope— that change for the better is possible. I’m not sure how many people get to carry hope around in their purse. But I do.”
Another wrote in after her husband was diagnosed with aggressive brain cancer and unable to work:
“This support has blessed our family not only financially, but emotionally and spiritually as we trust God to meet our needs throughout this difficult time. Thank you to our anonymous friend and to your foundation. What a joy and gift to be part of God’s family!”
Each year brings countless stories like these—real lives touched by simple acts of kindness. Some use the funds to pay overdue bills, others to afford groceries, medication, or repairs. But no matter the circumstance, the impact is the same: hope is restored.
This season, you have the opportunity to be part of that. The campaign is now open to nominations—completely confidential and prayerfully considered. Whether it’s someone battling illness, facing unemployment, or just in need of a helping hand, you can bring them a moment of grace that will ripple far beyond Christmas morning.
“Knowing my mom was chosen filled my heart with indescribable joy,” said another past recipient. “Your generosity doesn’t just brighten her life; it inspires hope and faith in all of us. It enables her to stay in her home and get back on her feet.”
Nominations are open from November 1st to December 5th, 2025. To submit someone you know, simply scan the QR code or visit @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the nomination form in the bio.
This holiday season, let’s give more than gifts. Let’s give each other the gift of being seen. Because sometimes, the smallest gesture becomes someone’s greatest miracle.
To nominate someone in need, visit: KingdomBuildingFoundation.org or scan the QR code.
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ARTICLE BY ALISON STANTON
Let’s face it: hosting Thanksgiving dinner can be stressful.
Between grocery shopping, house cleaning, cooking and baking, it’s no wonder the day devoted to giving thanks can feel a tad daunting.
Here’s some very welcome good news: whether this is your first holiday hosting rodeo or you’ve stuffed many a turkey over the years, you can knock out most of the Thanksgiving meal prep work in advance – some of it two weeks before the big day.
To make this year’s Thanksgiving meal easier and more enjoyable, consider the following timeline of tips.
2 WEEKS BEFORE
• Print out the recipes you plan to use – this will be much easier than constantly tapping your phone to prevent the screen from going dark or scrolling when your hands are covered with flour or onions.
• Using your menu and printed out recipes as a guide, compose a complete shopping list.
• Double check your supply of herbs and spices to see what you have on hand –even the ones you are pretty sure you have enough of, like salt and pepper (this tip comes from personal experience!).
• Shop for all non-perishable and frozen food items. Basically, if it doesn’t need to be stored in the fridge, or if it doesn’t have a short shelf life, it’s going in the cart.
• Plan three easy and tasty dinners for the days leading up to Thanksgiving and purchase those ingredients during your shopping trip. Or plan at least one night of takeout. CONTINUED >
• Clean your home completely, enlisting family members to help. Then, as the big day approaches, you can touch up as needed.
• Finish your grocery shopping for fresh vegetables like potatoes, onions and carrots and other items not purchased earlier.
• Go through your fridge and toss any old, expired condiments, leftovers and mysterious food items that no one is eating. This will free up valuable real estate for your various dishes.
• Wash and chop all veggies and place the prepped produce into plastic baggies or airtight food storage containers. If some recipes call for “minced onion” and others require “chopped onion,” label the bags accordingly.
• Set the table, and include the empty serving dishes. This will help you figure out ahead of time where the larger dishes can go (and if they will all fit!) Add Post-It notes to the empty dishes to remind you what will go in what. Use a clean sheet to cover everything and keep it all dust-free until Thursday. You can also do this for a buffet.
• Gather all needed serving spoons and other serving pieces.
• Pre-measure herbs and spices for your recipes and store them in labeled small plastic bags with the name of the dish they are for and what’s in the baggies. You can also do the same for any flour, sugar or other non-perishable ingredients you’ll use in your dishes.
• Do a quick clean and tidy around the home; for instance, run the vacuum and shine up the bathrooms.
• If you haven’t already done so, bake your pies, or, at the very least, prepare your pie dough. Wrap the dough in plastic and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble and bake the pies.
• Make the mashed potatoes. Bonus tip: on Thanksgiving, put the potatoes into a slow cooker and heat them up using the “warm” setting.
• Prepare the gravy. If you have a second slow cooker, it too can be warmed up this way on Thanksgiving. This will also help free up pots, pans and burners on the stove!
• Set up a separate drink station where guests can help themselves or someone can serve them away from the kitchen. Stock it with glasses of different sizes, napkins, bottle and can openers and straws.
From football watch parties to Friendsgiving celebrations, our catering brings everyone together this season — deliciously and stress-free.
Enjoy Chick-fil-A at home through Chick-fil-A Catering, or 3rd Party Delivery.
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ARTICLE BY CELENA CISCO
S PROV I DE W A R M A N D C O Z Y S C E N T S
Fall essential oil combinations provide a warm and cozy scent while also protecting from sickness prevalent in the colder season. Follow these oil combinations to create your own seasonal scent.
DIRECTIONS :
Combine the following essential oils with a base oil (coconut oil).
INGREDIENTS:
• Cinnamon: Antibacterial; Antiviral
• Clove: Antibacterial; Antiseptic
• Lemon: Uplifts; Kills Bacteria Reduces Inflammation
• Oregano: Antimicrobial; Antioxidant
• Eucalyptus: Decongestant; Provides Healing
HOW TO USE:
Apply to wrists or feet. Do not use it on your face.
DIRECTIONS:
Combine the following essential oils.
INGREDIENTS:
• Orange: Reduces Stress; Antimicrobial
• Eucalyptus: Decongestant; Provides Healing
• Cinnamon: Antibacterial; Antiviral
• Black Pepper: Supports the Nervous System
• Clove: Antibacterial; Antiviral
• Rosemary: Reduces Stress; Helps with Respiratory Fatigue
HOW TO USE:
Fill the diffuser with water and apply the desired amount of drops.
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ARTICLE BY MEL BOBAN
ADVICE EDITORIAL: ALTERNATE GIFT IDEAS FOR THE HOLIDAY SEASON
The holiday season is officially on, and gifting is top of mind. We’re all used to scrolling online, browsing the malls or hitting the local boutiques, but sometimes it’s fun and unexpected to switch it up. If looking to surprise and delight recipients this year and to bring a new tradition to the season, offbeat gifting can be a great way to turn a new leaf on stale routines.
1) PRE-HOLIDAY SURPRISE.
For those traveling, send gifts early, such as cheeses, fruit or pies.
2) FUTURE FUN.
Browse winter or spring events; snag tickets to enjoy with recipients.
3) GENEROSITY.
Donations make heartfelt, thoughtful ideas.
4) TRAVEL.
Gift a loved one with a trip.
5) TIME.
Is a recipient busy, overloaded and overworked? Treat them to a whole home cleaning before or after the holiday.
6) LOVE OF LEARNING.
If a loved one is planning international travel, grab them a gift card for a language learning app.
7) THOUGHTFUL MESSAGES.
Ask friends and family to record loving messages on cellphones; combine recordings using a video app for meaningful holiday greeting.
8) BON APPÉTIT.
Sign up special someone for cooking class regarding favorite cuisine, or cuisine they struggle to make.
9) RECIPE BOOK.
Gather traditional family recipes and create printed books for guests as priceless keepsakes.
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NOVEMBER 1ST-22ND
The Westin Tempe | 11 E. 7th Street
Embark on a sensory journey where cinema and cuisine collide. At Fork n’ Film, guests enjoy a multi-course meal perfectly timed to the movie on screen— each dish arriving the moment it appears. This one-of-a-kind experience lets you taste the story as it unfolds, transforming a night at the movies into an unforgettable culinary adventure. Visit: tempe.forknfilm.com/locations/ tempe for tickets and details.
NOVEMBER 7TH-9TH
Sun Devil Fitness Complex | 400 E. Apache Blvd.
Get ready to push your limits at the Desert City Classic—a three-day fitness festival at ASU’s Sun Devil Fitness Complex. Athletes of all levels unite to compete, connect, and celebrate strength. Experience high-energy competition, supportive community, and unforgettable moments at this premier fitness event. Visit: desertcityclassic.com for more details.
NOVEMBER 11TH
Downtown Tempe | 1200 S. Forest Ave.
With over 50 years of tradition, the Tempe Veterans Day Parade honors all who served. Beginning at 10 a.m. at ASU Gammage, the parade travels north on Mill Avenue, ending at Tempe Beach Park. Enjoy school bands, scouts, community groups, veterans, and more. Join in the patriotic fun of this hometown tradition!
