Jul 31, 2026 - News
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25 years ago, I was a second grader living in Chandler who thought it was just about the coolest thing ever that I was getting a mall in my backyard.
- And I can prove it to you.
Head to the northeast end of the food court and you'll find a hallway leading to the center's management office.
- The walls are lined with painted tiles designed by Chandler kids for the grand opening.
- The vast majority are either USA or D-Backs related (remember, this was October 2001).
Zoom in: Mine has a funky looking handprint, some polka dots, a smiley face and the message: "God Bless the USA."
The intrigue: These used to hang near the family restrooms on the opposite side of the food court, but were removed a decade-plus ago during a previous remodel.
- I assumed they'd been trashed but was so excited to accidentally stumble upon them during one of my recent mall strolls.
