Queen Creek, AZ April 2026

THE INVESTMENT ISSUE

Investing Wisely

April invites us to think beyond the present moment. Investment is about vision. It is about seeing potential and having the courage to commit to it. As both a young married man and the publisher of this magazine, I have come to appreciate that meaningful investment requires perspective. It asks us to look ahead, to plan thoughtfully, and to make decisions that align with our long-term goals. True growth is rarely immediate. It is built through steady effort and intentional choices.

Queen Creek is a town that understands this. Its growth has been guided by individuals and businesses willing to invest their time, expertise, and resources into something larger than themselves. When we choose to support local professionals, prioritize our well-being, and strengthen our financial foundations, we are shaping the future of our community.

This issue celebrates that forward-thinking spirit. Investment is not simply about return. It is about legacy. I am honored to play a small role in telling the stories of those who are building that legacy right here in Queen Creek.

Jackson York

April 2026

PUBLISHER

Jackson York | jackson.york@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Florence Daniels | florence.daniels@citylifestyle.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Macie Smith | macie.smith@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Michelle Talsma Everson, Tiffany Mraz, Jennifer Revolt, Stacey Siewart

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Hold Fast Visuals, Alexxis Grant, Jenny Kaufmann, Haley Oakes Photography

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto

LAYOUT DESIGNER Lillian Gibbs

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick

3:5-6

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

business monthly

Leading Edge Preschool Celebrates One Year

Leading Edge Preschool celebrated their one year anniversary in Queen Creek. They are a faith-based, year-round program serving children ages 3–5. The program is rooted in play-based learning and hands-on enrichment. Throughout the school year, students are assessed three times annually to monitor academic progress. Parent-teacher conferences ensure families stay informed and involved in their child’s development.

Unison Mortgage Ribbon Cutting

Unison Bank has served Arizona communities since 2006 and traces its roots back to 1965 in Jamestown, North Dakota. They celebrated a ribbon cutting at their Queen Creek location. As a direct portfolio lender and full-service mortgage broker, Unison Mortgage offers flexible, common-sense lending solutions designed to meet clients where they are, supporting everyone from first-time homebuyers to those building a custom forever home.

Habit Burger and Grill Grand Opening

Habit Burger & Grill is opened its newest location at 19980 S Ellsworth Rd. They are known for their flame-grilled Charburgers, signature sandwiches, and other fan favorites. The celebration included giveaways such as a Queen Creek Flavor Passport valued at over $20 toward future visits for the first 500 guests, and the first 100 guests received a custom Habit tote filled with surprises.

Redefining MVP: TIM TEBOW’S LIFE BEYOND FOOTBALL

An exclusive Q&A with City Lifestyle

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

From championship trophies to global humanitarian impact, Tim Tebow’s journey has defied every standard playbook. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Tebow pulls back the curtain on the moments that truly defined him, from a humbling middle school church retreat to the life-altering shift of fatherhood. This isn’t just a look back at a career; it’s an invitation into the heart of a man driven by purpose. Read the highlights below, then join us for the full, unfiltered experience by scanning the QR code at the end.

Q: WE ALL KNOW YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS ON THE FOOTBALL FIELD, BUT TELL US ABOUT THE CURL CONTEST.

A: I was competing for my future high school team (my brother’s team), and I pushed myself way past what was smart. I ended up collapsing and needing medical attention. But what stayed with me wasn’t the pain, it was the lesson. Would I be willing to do something that others aren’t? For much of my life, I strived to bring my best for a game, but I hope that I can say at the end of my life I was willing to do that for things that actually matter.

Q: YOU’VE ACHIEVED SO MUCH IN SPORTS. WHAT WOULD YOU SAY IS YOUR GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT NOW?

A: Becoming a dad. Nothing compares. From the moment I knew my wife was pregnant, I felt a new depth of love for our child, but when you bring your baby home, the responsibility hits you like nothing else. Suddenly, everything you see, every decision you make, you’re asking, “Is this corner too sharp? What happens if she reaches that drawer?” It changes how you see the world and how you see other people.

Q: YOU’VE SPOKEN OPENLY ABOUT DISAPPOINTMENT, ESPECIALLY AROUND FOOTBALL. HOW DID THAT SEASON OF LIFE SHAPE YOU?

A: I talked a lot about that very thing in my book Shaken . We all go through moments where our faith in our abilities and purpose feels rattled, but I believe it’s often in those storms when God can show us who we could become.

Q: YOU TALK A LOT ABOUT COMPARISON CULTURE. WHY DO YOU BELIEVE COMPARISON HAS BECOME SUCH A TRAP TODAY?

A: Because we’re comparing our real, everyday lives to someone else’s highlight reel. Social media shows people’s “best day,” often filtered and staged, and then we measure our reality against that. There’s a reason filters are so popular—it’s not real. We end up scrolling through images that don’t tell the full story, and without realizing it, comparison starts to steal our joy and our gratitude.

“We’re comparing our real, everyday lives to someone else’s highlight reel... comparison starts to steal our joy.”

Q: YOUR FOUNDATION FOCUSES ON THE “MOST VULNERABLE.” WHERE DID THAT CALLING BEGIN?

A: When I was 15, I met a boy in the Philippines who was treated as a throwaway because he was born with physical differences. That moment changed me. I realized God was calling me to pursue a different kind of MVP, not “Most Valuable Player,” but “Most Vulnerable People.”

Q: FINALLY, WHAT’S ONE THING PEOPLE MIGHT BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?

A: I have some weird coffee habits, which include protein powder, collagen, and cream all mixed together. I love golf dates with my wife. And every night, I bring snacks to bed to share with our dogs. It brings me more joy than it probably should.

This conversation barely scratches the surface. Tim goes deeper into the moments that rattled him, the joys of fatherhood, and one story he has never shared publicly until now. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on Share the Lifestyle Podcast.

PEACHES THAT ARE LOCAL, FRESH, AND HAND PICKED BY YOU.

PEACHY KEEN

ARTICLE BY FLORENCE DANIELS

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALEXXIS GRANT AND JENNY

“IN ADDITION TO PEACH-PICKING, SCHNEPF FARMS EMBRACES EVERYTHING PEACH FLAVORED.”

The desert can yield some surprising fruit, and since the early 1990's, Schnepf Farms has held the 'Peach Season at the Farm' every year. Owner, Mark Schnepf, recalls the area being filled with orchards that stretched all the way to the San Tan Mountains of apricots, plums, and more.

The Peach Season at Schnepf Farms has been a well attended and popular event. Yet the history of the peaches at Schnepf Farms goes all the way back to the 1960's when Mark's dad first began planting and growing peaches. Originally, they shipped the peaches to the East coast, being the earliest available peaches in the country. However, the long trip took its toll on the peaches and ultimately they gave up on the idea. Instead, Mark says they 'flipped the script' and made the peaches available for picking to the local public.

The first peach picking event sold out within two hours. Afterwards, the Schnepfs realized that they needed to organize a more staggered entry. In order to pick your peaches you have to get a timed ticket and register online. The money is refunded upon arrival and you are provided with boxes. Mark says the peaches need to be placed in a single

“THE QUEEN CREEK SOIL IS APPARENTLY AMAZING FOR GROWING PEACHES AND THE CLIMATE IN THE DESERT SPRING IS IDEAL FOR THE FRUIT.”

layer to avoid bruising. The peaches themselves are juicy and filled with flavor, and that is because Mark says they only grow the best varieties that do well in the desert. The Queen Creek soil is apparently amazing for growing peaches and the climate in the desert spring is ideal for the fruit. They offer several varieties such as the Florida Prince, Earligrande, Spring Crest, Schnepf, and white peaches too.

In addition to peach-picking, Schnepf Farms embraces everything peach flavored. At their bakery you can purchase peach pie, muffins, and cinnamon rolls. If that hasn't made your mouth water yet they also have a peach bourbon glaze that they add to burgers, peach salsa, jams, and peach flavored drinks at their cafe. Families, couples, and groups can make an entire day out of it, including visiting the farm itself with a petting zoo and train rides too.

Of course, nature will ultimately decide exactly when the peaches are ready for picking and Schnepf Farms will put out an announcement on social media. Generally, the peaches are ready in late April and into May. If you have never gone peach picking at Schnepf Farms before, it is an experience worth trying. Mark says that the orchard is perfumed with the scent of peaches, you select the best peach, and bring home your treasures to enjoy later. However, the time you spend in the orchard teaches you where your food comes from, to appreciate local produce, and the sense of community it inspires.  Schnepf Farms is celebrating their 85th year and in that time their peach season has become one of their signature events. Farm fresh and local fruit is after all what living in Queen Creek has always been about. So enjoy the Spring weather, create some memories, and enjoy a sweet bite of the perfect peach. www.schnepffarms.com

Choosing the Right Car

HOW TO THE GET THE MOST FROM YOUR CAR.

ARTICLE BY TIFFANY MRAZ

PHOTOGRAPHY BY HOLD FAST VISUALS

Who doesn’t remember their first car? Mine was a 1981 Honda Accord in Livorno Beige, though I preferred “French Vanilla”. It was a four-door sedan with rack and pinion power steering and hand crank windows. My mom bought it from the original owner for $2,000. It had low mileage and a detailed journal of every oil change and gallon of gas, along with the math calculating the fuel efficiency after each fill up. At the time, those numbers weren’t nearly as important to me as those on the dial – for both AM and FM radio stations.

AS THE COST AND UPKEEP OF CARS CLIMBS, GOURD SUGGESTS SHIFTING FROM BUYING TO LEASING,

“I BELIEVE IT’S A GREAT WAY TO CONTROL YOUR COSTS.”

Back to the future, and Jason Gourd, General Manager of Earnhardt Chevrolet of Queen Creek tells me, “There’s no such thing as a $2,000 to $3,000 dollar car anymore.” Far from it. Gourd says one of their most popular models, the Chevy Tahoe, will run you as much as one-hundred thousand! That’s calculating interest on a typical 72-84 month loan, amounting to a $1,200 monthly payment. You also have to factor in gas and insurance.

Another financial hit: maintenance costs rise significantly after the typical 3-year warranty, with the average repair setting you back about $1,700, according to Gourd. “A part the size of a pencil may be 65 bucks, but the labor to put it in could be $3,000.”

As the cost and upkeep of cars climbs, Gourd suggests shifting from buying to leasing, “I believe it’s a great way to control your costs.” He says you get the lowest payment, the best tech and, most importantly, the latest safety features. “I’m leasing all my kids their cars,” he says, “I know they’re going to get in a wreck. A 16-year-old is going to get in a wreck.”

The bottom line is affordability. Conventional interest rates are sitting at 5-5.5%, but leasing uses a “money factor”, which Gourd says is currently running under 4%. He points to the Chevy Equinox at $299 a month. “Our phone bill is more than that,” Gourd laughs, “and a cell phone won’t get us to San Diego.”

And there’s nothing better than cranking the radio on a road trip.

ARTICLE BY MICHELLE TALSMA EVERSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY HALEY OAKES PHOTOGRAPHY

“Interrupt harsh self-talk before it spirals. Choose habits that stabilize you rather than temporarily soothe you.”

The Inner Investment

Expert strategies for strengthening your mental well-being.

Spring has a way of turning our attention outward. We reorganize closets, refresh routines, set new goals. But the most important system we live inside every day, our own nervous system, rarely makes the checklist.

“When people hear ‘invest in your mental health,’ it can sound abstract,” says Josh Chapman, LPC, with East Valley Family Therapy. “But it’s usually far less dramatic and far more practical than people expect. It’s small, repeated choices that protect your emotional bandwidth.”

In practice, those choices are deceptively simple. Go to bed when you’re tired instead of squeezing in one more task. Say no without drafting a silent apology. Let yourself feel disappointment, frustration or grief without immediately numbing it with noise. Interrupt harsh self-talk before it spirals. Choose habits that stabilize you rather than temporarily soothe you.

Chapman encourages residents to prioritize consistency over intensity.

SLEEP

Start with sleep. “Sleep is emotional regulation,” he says. When rest erodes, patience, resilience and perspective often follow. Stabilizing sleep can improve mood and stress tolerance faster than mindset work alone.

RESETS

Next, build daily nervous system resets. Walks around the neighborhood, stretching between meetings, a few minutes of intentional breathing or stepping away from screens all signal safety to the body. They do not need to be elaborate. They need to be regular.

AVOIDANCE

He also cautions against chronic avoidance. Postponed conversations, unopened emails and unspoken boundaries quietly compound stress. Avoidance offers shortterm relief and long-term anxiety.

LIMITATIONS

For those feeling overwhelmed, one shift can be transformative: stop treating limits like a flaw. “Fatigue isn’t failure. Being overwhelmed isn’t incompetence,” Chapman says. “It’s your nervous system giving accurate data.”

THERAPY

And sometimes, the most powerful investment is therapy itself, not as a last resort, but as proactive care that builds clarity, steadiness and resilience that lasts.

www.eastvalleyfamilytherapy.com

F I G U R ING

VANESSA LUCEY PUTS PEOPLE BEFORE NUMBERS.

ARTICLE BY FLORENCE DANIELS PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALEXXIS GRANT

Vanessa Lucey says that it was a boss of hers that noticed her talent for accounting. ‘He saw it before I did.’ she says, acknowledging the doubts she had for her own abilities. When it comes to finance, Vanessa says that it comes down to two things: basic math and educating yourself on the changing climate of the tax code.

A guiding hand to lead us through what might feel like a tangled web designed to trip us up is something we may not only want but need. Vanessa understands this and has 20 plus years in finance. Vanessa, owner of Lucey Accounting, says that many of her clients come to her with a mix of fear and frustration. Vanessa insists it doesn’t have to be that way. ‘I’m really here to help with lowering your tax bill as much as I can.’

Vanessa says she is continually keeping up to date on the tax code, but she also says that people don’t realize how much can be done through good tax strategies. A common mistake made by those who run businesses or have complex finances is not maintaining careful accounts and missing expenses. Vanessa advises saving and organizing all your paperwork, be aware of the changing tax rules and policies, and make sure you are compliant.

Although taxes for 2025 are upon us, you can start planning your 2026 taxes now. Begin a record of all your spending, keep files of all receipts, and take the time to vet a proper accountant. In the end, Vanessa says she appreciates that people often feel vulnerable when it comes to their finances. ‘I’m a non-judgmental person, more of a therapist, and I talk people through their stress.’ she says. The goal is to get you a refund, rather than owe taxes.

Beating the Summer Slide

A little goes a long way to keep your kids from getting rusty this summer.

ARTICLE BY JENNIFER REVOLT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNY KAUFMAN

It’s the first week back to school in July and you notice right off the bat that your child is not where they were at the end of the school year. Their skills are a little rusty and you’re not sure what changed. It’s what we educators refer to as the “Summer Slide.” When you don’t practice skills over the summer, like math facts or reading, we tend to see fluency dips, math fact speeds slow down, and reading/ writing stamina lessen. In fact, studies point to up to a month of loss in academic core areas. Math tends to get hit harder, at about 25–34% of your child’s yearly gains, according to a study by Atteberry & McEachin.

It’s not all doom and gloom, though. You can help your child avoid some of these losses with small, consistent efforts and routines.

The skills your child needs to work on are based on their academic level. Lower grades should focus on number sense, letter-sounds, and reading fluency. Upper elementary students should focus on math facts (multiplication/division), reading comprehension, and writing. Middle school students’ focus should be longer readings, beginning algebra skills, and organization. This list may jump out at you as overwhelming, but in reality we can break it down into small, achievable steps without compromising the fun, family time, and relaxation that summer brings.

Overall, the idea is to consistently practice skills throughout the week. Focus on 10–30 minutes a day and try to tap into your student’s interests. The aim is to maintain what they have learned rather than accelerate into new material.

Here are a few tangible ideas to help your child succeed:

Reading – Set a daily goal of how many minutes is appropriate for their age. Let them choose the subject, series, and even the method (audiobooks are great to throw into the mix). Ask simple questions like “Tell me your favorite part” or “What do you think will happen next?”

“Overall, the idea is to consistently practice skills throughout the week. Focus on 10–30 minutes a day and try to tap into your student’s interests. The aim is to maintain what they have learned rather than accelerate into new material.” “

Math – Make it fun by involving your student in shopping (creating a budget or adding as you go) or cooking (recipes and measurements). Daily quick practice with flash cards for math facts is a must for elementary-age students.

Writing – Encourage your student to find a pen pal! Who doesn’t love to get letters in the mail?! You can also introduce journaling. Going on a vacation? Have them pick a postcard to send back home detailing their trip.

Remember, perfection is not the goal. Keep it light and engaging and aim for most days. Even outings to a museum, library (check out their summer reading program), or science center count. Summer should be filled with fun, adventure, and a sprinkle of academic enrichment!

WHY NOW IS A STRATEGIC TIME TO INVEST IN QUEEN CREEK REAL ESTATE.

A STEADY INVESTMENT

For homeowners and investors alike, real estate decisions are rarely about headlines. They are about recognizing when a community’s long-term positioning aligns with stable market conditions. The East Valley market is operating close to balance, with pricing showing moderate movement across many segments and interest rates functioning within a more predictable range.

Within that environment, Queen Creek continues to distinguish itself. Ongoing development, expanding infrastructure, and sustained lifestyle demand reinforce its positioning as one of the Southeast Valley’s most strategically located communities.

Recent housing data places the median home price in Queen Creek in the mid$600,000 range, reflecting moderate year-over-year movement rather than sharp swings. For those considering a move-up purchase, second property, or long-term investment, this level of stability provides clarity around valuation and timing.

Stacey Siewart

1. DEVELOPMENT MOMENTUM STILL IN PROGRESS

While some East Valley communities are largely established, Queen Creek continues to experience visible residential and commercial growth. Active construction, new neighborhoods, and expanding retail corridors signal a community still evolving.

For investors, ongoing development is not simply about new rooftops. It reflects long-term planning, confidence from builders and businesses, and continued population interest. Participating in a market during active expansion can offer strategic positioning as the community matures.

2. A MARKET OPERATING NEAR BALANCE

Queen Creek has been one of the faster-growing areas in the Southeast Valley over the past decade. That growth has brought new schools, parks, retail centers, and expanded services that support daily life and long-term property values.

Today’s market conditions reflect moderation rather than extremes. Supply and demand are functioning closer to equilibrium, and negotiation dynamics vary by price range and property condition. For well-prepared buyers, this creates opportunity to approach transactions strategically rather than reactively.

3. REGIONAL INFRASTRUCTURE AND ECONOMIC DRIVERS

Queen Creek benefits from proximity to Phoenix–Mesa Gateway Airport, which continues expanding commercial service and long-term development planning. Increased passenger activity and infrastructure improvements reinforce its role as a growing regional transportation hub.

Ongoing expansion of Arizona State Route 24 has strengthened connectivity across the Southeast Valley, improving access between Queen Creek and surrounding employment centers. Nearby regional destinations such as Legacy Sports Park contribute year-round tourism and economic activity that elevate the broader area’s profile. Sustained regional investment supports long-term residential demand.

4. LIFESTYLE APPEAL AND HOUSING DIVERSITY

Market fundamentals matter, but lifestyle continues to drive demand. Queen Creek offers access to outdoor recreation, including San Tan Mountain Regional Park, along with nearby offroad and camping areas that attract families and professionals seeking space and community.

The housing market offers meaningful diversity, from newer construction to larger estate properties and acreage. This flexibility allows homeowners to expand, reposition, or invest within the same community as their needs evolve.

LOOKING AHEAD

Queen Creek is not a speculative story. It is a steadily developing community with expanding infrastructure, active construction, and sustained buyer interest.

For homeowners evaluating their next move, whether upgrading, diversifying, or investing long-term, the combination of market balance, visible development, and regional growth makes now a strategic moment to be invested in Queen Creek real estate.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Stacey Siewert is the owner of San Tan Mortgage and a local mortgage professional serving Queen Creek and the East Valley. With 11 years of mortgage experience and more than 25 years in real estate and finance, she specializes in helping homeowners and investors make informed, strategic real estate decisions.

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APRIL 2026

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

APRIL 1ST

Tavolo Dinner: Inspired by the Rea Family Cook Book

Queen Creek Olive Mill | 6:30 PM

Join for a five-course Italian table feast honoring the Rea Family Cook Book at Queen Creek Olive Mill. A five-course table feast to celebrate the rich traditions of Italian cuisine.  For this edition of the Tavolo Dinner series join for an evening at the Mill to celebrate the Rea Family Cook Book and the fabulous cuisine of Italy. www.queencreekolivemill.com

APRIL 11TH

Pecan Lake

Farmers Market

Queen Creek Botanical Gardens 7:00 AM

A fun-filled day of fresh produce, local goods, and community vibes. This farmer’s market is an ideal way to support small businesses and enjoy the best that our area has to offer. Whether you’re a foodie, a craft enthusiast, or just looking for a good time, this event is for you. www.qcgardens.org

APRIL 11TH

3rd Annual Heels for Wheels 5K - 1M

Desert Mountain Park | 7:30 AM

Help Arizona residents build a better and brighter future while they journey life with Spina Bifida Spina Bifida is the most common permanently disabling birth condition. Proceeds for this event go to assist with costs of bike repair/replacement and the cost of placing a bike. For more information go to www.SBAAZ.org

San Tan Valley's Trusted Local Jeweler

CONTINUED

APRIL 11TH

Queen Creek Family Market

Schnepf Farms | 9:00 AM

Enjoy the day discovering local vendors of handmade goods, home décor, boutique clothing, jewelry, tasty eats, and more. Free admission & parking. After shopping, grab a treat at the Schnepf Farms Bakery & Café, hop on the farm train, or swing by the petting zoo to say hi to some furry friends.  www.queencreekfamilymarket.com

APRIL 11TH

The Car Meat

Ruggiero’s Ace Hardware | 9:30 AM

The Car Meat at Ruggiero’s Ace Hardware runs the second Saturday, September through May, 9:30 AM–12:00 PM. The Car Meat is a family-friendly cars and coffee meet and car show. Guests enjoy complimentary food from the grill. Cars line up side by side for easy walk-arounds and photos. For more information, check out Ruggiero’s organizer spotlight and Blog post. https://www.ruggierosace.com

APRIL 23RD

Alice in

Wonderland Jr.

Queen Creek Performing Arts Center | 7:00 PM

Travel down the rabbit hole and join the ever-curious Alice in her madcap adventures in Wonderland. Alice chases the White Rabbit, races the Dodo Bird, gets tied up with the Tweedles, raps with a bubble-blowing Caterpillar, and beats the Queen of Hearts at her own game. A classic must see. Performances: 7pm on 23rd, 24th, 25th. 2pm on 25th. www.qcpac.com

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