GERBER INJURY LAW
The Arizona Personal Injury Law Firm Where Everybody Knows Your Name
At Gerber Injury Law, our commitment to excellence extends far beyond the courtroom. We are not just a law firm; we are a ded icated member of the community we serve. Our passion for justice is paralleled by our deep-rooted commitment to making a positive impact in our local community.
How Can Our Lawyers Help You?
Hiring a Phoenix personal injury lawyer to oversee your case can be the best decision you make after an accident. You cannot tru st an insurance company to handle your claim fairly unless you have a lawyer p rotecting your best interests. Insurance companies are more interested in their bo ttom line than your recovery.
“I Remain Committed To The Highest In Client Service.” – Ken Gerber
Lifestyle Letter
This month, we’re talking about investment. But not just the kind with interest rates. Some investments are loud. They come with paperwork, passwords, and performance charts. Others are quiet. They look like Sunday dinners that turn into three hour conversations. They look like early mornings at the gym when no one is clapping for you. They look like choosing long term peace over short term ego. We’ve been taught to measure value in dollars. But some of the most life-changing returns can’t be tracked on an app. You invest in your family every time you put your phone down. You invest in your friendships when you check in without needing something back. You invest in your future when you choose discipline today. You invest in yourself when you forgive, reset, and try again. And here’s the truth, money grows when you put it somewhere intentional. So do people, so do relationships, and so does character. As you read, I hope you ask yourself a bigger question, What kind of life am I building? Not just, what am I saving but, what am I strengthening, because the most powerful portfolios aren’t only diversified in assets. They’re diversified in love, in resilience, in self-respect, and in time well spent. And those returns? They compound in ways money never could.
SAVANNAH MORELLO, ACCOUNT MANAGER
@SURPRISECITYLIFESTYLE
April 2026
PUBLISHER
Faith Morello | faith.morello@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Savannah Morello | savannah.morello@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Kylie Strawn-Badger
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Danielle Mucillio, Lenning & Associates, Faith Morello, High Caliber
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad
LAYOUT DESIGNER Liz Nixon
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
12545 N 300th Ln. Buckeye, AZ 85396
Located in the Teravalis Masterplan
From the Low $400s 1,880 - 2,712 Sq. Ft.
Buckeye, AZ 85326
From the Low $300s 1,315 - 3,241 Sq. Ft. | 2 - 6 Beds
5651 N. 205th Dr. Buckeye, AZ 85396 Active-Adult Community
From the Low $300s 1,070 - 1,324 Sq. Ft. | 2 Beds
25334 W. La Salle St. Buckeye, AZ 85326 From the Mid $300s
- 2,712 Sq. Ft. | 3 - 4 Beds
22155 N. Dusk Ln Maricopa, AZ 85139
8931 E. Caballero St. Mesa, AZ 85207 From the
7044 E. Bushy Tail Ln. San Tan Valley, AZ 85143
$400s
- 2,683 Sq. Ft. | 2 - 5 Beds
How Exclusive Transportation Services is redefining private transportation standards across Arizona.
We sat down with Desiree and Nicholas Lenning to discuss tax strategy, planning, and smart financial habits.
Our publisher, Faith, shares intentional, everyday ways to stay connected and strengthen relationships at
Meet the family redefining multifamily investing with heart
While markets rise and fall, time invested in family yields lasting returns. Faith prioritizes phonefree dinners, monthly day trips, and one-on-one dates, building trust, connection, and confidence. For her, shared memories are the greatest investment of all.
city scene
Photography by Paradise Honors
1-3: Check presented to Paradise Honors Middle School by Kellogg’s
Kellogg and Fry’s Team Up Supporting Paradise Honors Middle School
Since 2019, Tony the Tiger and Kellogg’s Frosted Flakes have been on a mission to give more kids access to the benefits of sports through Mission Tiger an initiative created to help save middle school sports. The program has impacted schools in all 50 states, partnering with DonorsChoose to support more than 3,000 schools nationwide and helping create over 2 million sports and play experiences for kids.
Photography by Paradise Honors
Dave’s Hot Chicken has one of the greatest origin stories in the restaurant business, with the founders starting Dave’s as a parking lot pop-up restaurant in Hollywood with a portable fryer, and picnic tables from their backyards,” said Bill Phelps, Dave’s Hot Chicken’s CEO. “The company’s nearly unheard of growth rate is a result of the founders vision for this brand, the tremendous leadership team we’ve assembled, and the incredible commitment of some of the most experienced franchisees in the restaurant industry.
Primrose School Of Surprise Now Open
Primrose schools nationwide engage in hands on service, learning experiences throughout the year, nurturing key character development skills. What sets Primrose Schools apart is the compassion and generosity Franchise Owners, students, families and staff demonstrate every day. They are committed to making a meaningful difference in the communities they serve, while positively influencing the next generation of caring, engaged and community minded leaders.
Photography by City Of Surprise
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Photography by City Of Surprise
letter from the
PUBLISHER
When we hear the word investment, most of us think of numbers stocks, savings accounts, and real estate. And while those absolutely matter, I believe investing is so much more than finances. Investing is about what and who we choose to pour ourselves into. It’s about investing in your family, your health, your relationships, and yourself. For some, it’s building a business. For others, it’s creating stability. And for many of us, it’s simply being intentional with the time we’ve been given. In our family, we believe time together is one of the greatest investments we can make. Family dinners, weekend outings, showing up for school events, having real conversations without distractions. They create connection, security, and memories that last a lifetime. This month, I’m excited to share some of the ways I personally invest in my family, the small daily choices and the bigger commitments that help us create a happy, healthy home. Living in the West Valley, we’re witnessing incredible growth all around us. New businesses, new developments and new opportunities. There is certainly no shortage of financial investment happening in our community. But what inspires me most are the people behind that growth. The families, entrepreneurs, and leaders who are investing not just in projects, but in people. In this issue, we’re honored to share stories from two of our partners about how they define and practice investing in their own lives. Their journeys are inspiring and deeply personal, and I think you’ll walk away feeling encouraged to reflect on what investment means to you. As you read this month’s issue, I hope you’re reminded that the most meaningful investments don’t show up on a spreadsheet. They show up in laughter around the dinner table, and in the consistent effort to build a life you’re proud of.
Faith Morello, Publisher
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Inside scoop on all things local.
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DRIVEN WITH PURPOSE
How Exclusive Transportation Services is redefining private transportation standards across Arizona.
ARTICLE BY KYLIE STRAWN-BADGER
PHOTOGRAPHY BY DANIELLE MUCILLIO
In a world driven by apps and instant bookings, Exclusive Transportation Services stands out for a different reason: intention. Founded in 2018 by Carol Prelog, the West Valleybased private transportation company was never meant to be just another ride option. It was built, as Carol says, “to set
“Transportation is the service we provide, but connection is what makes it meaningful."
a higher standard for reliability, professionalism, safety, and care.”
Before launching the company, Carol spent more than 25 years as a manager on a military base on the East Coast, working for the federal government. Her move to Arizona began after meeting her husband at a Starbucks, a leap of faith that brought her west. After relocating, she briefly worked for the State of Arizona but quickly realized it wasn’t the right fit. While figuring out what was next, she signed up to drive for Uber and Lyft.
What surprised her most, she recalls, was how excited people were when she arrived. At the time, rideshare drivers did not consistently make the 15-25-minute drive into Estrella Mountain Ranch.
“When I showed up in a clean black leather Lincoln SUV, the experience felt different,” she explains.
Within months, neighbors began asking to book directly with her rather than through an app.
What started as a part-time idea quickly grew beyond expectations. “We were the first in our immediate area to operate as a fully structured, licensed, ADOT-permitted and commercially insured private transportation company focused specifically on serving our community,” Carol says. It wasn’t just about driving; it was about building something compliant, professional, and dependable that company residents could rely on without hesitation.
That commitment to structure continues to define the company. “What sets us apart is our standards and our consistency in upholding them,” she explains. From the beginning, the company operated as fully licensed and commercially insured, with systems for confirmations, driver introductions, reminders, and flight tracking.
CONTINUED >
Unlike on-demand apps, Exclusive Transportation Services is scheduled-based. When someone books, the ride is confirmed, communication is sent in advance, and “we arrive early,” Carol says.
She is clear about what clients can expect. “When someone reserves with us, they are not gambling on availability.” Clients receive confirmation emails, reminder texts, and a personal introduction about their assigned driver. Vehicles are professionally maintained, and safety is a daily priority. The team handles hundreds of reservations each month, yet Carol emphasizes that “every single reservation represents someone trusting us with something important, a flight, a medical appointment, a celebration, or much more.” That responsibility, she adds, “is never taken lightly.” That trust, she believes, is earned one ride at a time.
At the heart of the business are relationships. “Transportation is the service we provide, but connection is what makes it meaningful,” Carol shares. The team drives clients to surgeries, weddings, vacations, concerts, and milestone celebrations. They also assist with early morning airport departures and late-night returns, offering peace of mind during long travel days. “We operate by a simple standard: treat every client the way you would want someone to treat your own family.”
One of the most meaningful parts of the journey has been building the company alongside her son. Carol founded the business in 2018, and in 2020 her son Kyle joined as a driver. By 2023, he stepped into operational leadership, taking on compliance, systems, and client communication. In 2024, Carol took her first vacation in six years, leaving him fully in charge. That milestone, she says, “represented trust, growth, and earned leadership.” In 2026, the company will celebrate eight years in business, a testament to sustainability, structure, and legacy.
Culture matters deeply within the organization. One cherished tradition is the annual Driver Appreciation event, where drivers’ significant others are included in recognition of the support systems behind the work. In 2024, the company expanded the tradition to include a Driver and
“We show up early, we operate with professionalism and integrity, and above all, we earn our clients’ trust on every single ride.”
Client Appreciation event. For Carol, “growth is measured in relationships, not just numbers.”
Her perspective on safety is deeply personal. In 2009, she survived a severe car accident that she should not have lived through. That experience permanently shaped her approach to business. “Proper licensing, insurance, and compliance were non-negotiable when building this company,” she says. “Safety is personal for me.”
Community involvement is woven into the company’s foundation. Carol proudly sponsors RUFF - Rescuing Unfortunate Furry
Friends and serves as an Estrella Ambassador. “Pouring back into the neighborhoods that support us isn’t separate from our business,” she says. “It’s woven into who we are.”
Exclusive Transportation Services was never built to compete on price. It was built to raise the bar. As Carol puts it, “From day one, our focus has been reliability, structure, and doing business the right way.” What defines the company is simple: “We show up early, we operate with professionalism and integrity, and above all, we earn our clients’ trust on every single ride.”
Designed to set you and your puppy up for
Designed to set you and your puppy up for success—on your schedule, in the comfort of success—on your schedule, in the comfort of your home (and A/C!). your home (and A/C!).
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All for just $249 — a $375+ value!
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Smart Money Moves
We sat down with Desiree and Nicholas Lenning to discuss tax strategy, planning, and smart financial habits.
Q: What’s the biggest tax mistake people make?
A: The most common mistake is waiting until tax season to think about taxes. Filing a return is reactive, but meaningful savings come from proactive planning throughout the year. Opportunities to reduce liability adjusting withholdings, increase retirement contributions, time deductions, or make strategic purchases often need to happen before year-end. When tax planning is integrated into an overall financial strategy instead of treated as a once-a-year task, clients typically see stronger outcomes and fewer surprises.
Q: What’s one simple strategy families can start right now?
A: Increasing retirement contributions is one of the most impactful steps families can take. Contributing to a 401(k) or IRA may lower taxable income today while building long-term wealth. Even modest increases, done consistently, can create significant growth over time while strengthening overall financial stability.
Q: What advice do you give business owners?
A: Consistent tracking is essential. Business owners should carefully document mileage, home office expenses, subscriptions, equipment, and professional services. As income grows, reviewing business structure can also be valuable, as certain entity elections may create additional tax efficiencies when aligned with long-term goals.
Q: How important is communication in financial planning?
A: Clear, ongoing communication is critical. Financial goals evolve, income changes, and tax laws shift. Regular conversations ensure strategies stay aligned with both short-term needs and long-term objectives, helping clients feel informed and confident in their decisions.
Q: How can someone begin working with you?
A: The process begins with a conversation. An initial consultation allows the team to understand a client’s financial picture, goals, and current tax strategy. From there, they build a personalized plan that integrates tax preparation, proactive planning, and long-term wealth management.
Investing in What Matters Most
Our publisher, Faith, shares intentional, everyday ways to stay connected and strengthen relationships at home
In a world that constantly talks about financial investments and long-term returns, it is easy to forget one of the most meaningful investments we can ever make: our families. While markets shift, the time we pour into our children shapes their confidence, security, and sense of belonging for years to come.
For our publisher, Faith, investing in family time is not an abstract idea. It is a daily practice.
“Investing in the relationship with your children is something I believe is so important,” she shares. With four daughters and a full household, staying connected requires intention. For their family, one of the most powerful commitments is choosing to disconnect from technology in order to reconnect with each other.
“One way we stay connected is to disconnect,” Faith says. In their home, phones are put away at dinner, whether they are gathered around the kitchen table or sitting at a favorite restaurant.
Dinner becomes more than a meal. It becomes a touchpoint. They talk about their days, what happened at school, upcoming plans, ideas for the weekend, and sometimes even debate which movie will make the cut for Friday night.
“We talk about our days, school, things we want to do or we debate on what movie we are going to watch for family movie night. The conversations are endless,” she explains.
ARTICLE BY KYLIE STRAWN-BADGER PHOTOGRAPHY BY FAITH MORELLO
Those conversations build trust. They create space for laughter, disagreement, storytelling, and understanding. In a culture where everyone is constantly connected to something else, choosing to be fully present with each other is a powerful statement.
Beyond daily dinners, Faith and her family intentionally plan experiences together. At least once a month, they commit to a day trip. Sometimes that means exploring something new, like a weekend market or local event. Other times it is revisiting favorite places that already hold meaning.
They love heading out to the White Tanks for fresh air and desert views, pairing lunch with a movie, or taking a drive to explore somewhere new. These outings are not extravagant vacations; they are simple adventures layered into ordinary life. Yet they create shared stories that become part of the family’s foundation.
“We also try to get out of the house and take a day trip at least once a month,” Faith says. That rhythm of togetherness keeps everyone grounded and connected beyond busy schedules.
Friday nights are sacred in their home. Family movie night is a standing tradition filled with snacks, laughter, and inside jokes only siblings share. It is not about the film as much as it is about the feeling. “It’s never short of laughs, snacks and time well spent,” she says.
Perhaps one of the most meaningful ways Faith invests in her daughters is through one-on-one dates. Each girl gets individual time with a parent, tailored to her interests and
personality. “We also take each of our daughters out for one on one dates from time to time. It’s a great way to give them the individual attention they need,” Faith shares.
Those moments remind each child that she is seen, valued, and known beyond the group dynamic of a big family.
When asked what all of this adds up to, Faith answers simply: “The memories, the laughs and everything in between are the best investment for a healthy family.”
In the end, investing in family time is not about grand gestures. It is about consistency and choosing connection again and again. The return is not measured in dollars, but in trust and relationships that last long after the kids are grown.
Buy Smart. Improve Strategically. Operate Responsibly.
At High Caliber Multifamily, our work starts with conversations — sitting down with investors, partners, and neighbors to talk about responsible financial growth. We acquire apartment properties with a conservative approach and a clear plan for long-term ownership. We invest alongside our investors in every opportunity we pursue, focusing on disciplined growth, clear communication, and improving the places people call home.
Let’s start with a conversation about responsible multifamily investing. WWW.HIGHCALIBERMULTIFAMILY.COM | 385-469-1776 B HCMFLLC | F THEASSETMANAGER | SURPRISE, AZ
BUILT ON family values
MEET THE FAMILY REDEFINING MULTIFAMILY INVESTING WITH HEART
ARTICLE BY KYLIE STRAWN-BADGER
PHOTOGRAPHY BY HIGH CALIBER
High Caliber Multifamily is not just another real estate investment company; it is a family-run operation built on shared values, long-term vision, and a deep belief that business should be done with integrity. Founded and led by the Harding family, High Caliber focuses exclusively on multifamily apartment communities, acquiring, managing, improving, and ultimately selling properties with a disciplined, hands-on approach.
At its core, the company exists to build generational wealth not only for itself but for the investors who partner with it. As CEO, Lynn Harding puts it, “We treat your investment with the highest responsibility. Not fulfilling our business plan is not an option.” That mindset of accountability runs through every decision they make.
The inspiration behind High Caliber was rooted in family from the very beginning. Before settling on multifamily investing, the team explored other avenues, including tax liens and fix-and-flip strategies. But those models didn’t align with the long-term impact they envisioned. “We wanted to build a company that would build generational wealth for our family and our investors,” says Tyler Harding, Director of Acquisitions. “We believe that time with family is the best thing in life and want to buy back that time for our investors and us.”
For CFO Cyndee Harding, the name itself carries meaning. “We like the name High Caliber because it denotes integrity, one of our core values. We are strong on communication and keeping investors informed.” Transparency is not a marketing line; it is part of their operating standard.
High Caliber typically works with investors starting at a $50,000 minimum, though certain offerings may require accredited status depending on the project structure. Still, education remains central to their process. Investors are encouraged to understand the risks, returns, and how multifamily investing fits within their broader financial goals.
The investment process begins with a conversation. “We like to meet with the investor to find out their needs, whether they’re looking for quick returns, retirement
building, or college funds, and how we can help them achieve that goal,” Cyndee says. After reviewing offering documents, including the Private Placement Memorandum, investors complete documentation through a secure portal and submit funds via check, wire transfer, or self-directed IRA or 401(k). “It is as easy as jumping on our website and booking a 30-minute discovery call,” Tyler adds.
From signing a Purchase and Sale Agreement to closing typically takes about three months. High Caliber purchases properties that are cash-flow positive from day one, often allowing investors to begin seeing returns within the first year. The average hold period ranges from five to seven years, depending on the asset and market conditions.
Yet returns are only part of the equation. “We strongly believe in turning a complex into a community,” says Loric Harding, Director of Operations. “Changing the apartment from somewhere you just sleep at night into an actual community somewhere you enjoy living.” The team hosts regular on-site events, invests in upgrades like playgrounds and dog parks, and builds strong relationships with on-site staff.
Their philosophy extends beyond the property itself. They prioritize local vendors and tradesmen, keeping investment dollars circulating within the communities they serve.
What sets High Caliber apart is their disciplined and conservative approach. “Not every deal is a good deal,” Cyndee emphasizes. “We are very conservative when looking at a property, making sure we are able to meet the returns we’ve discussed with investors.” The family personally invests in every deal. “We wouldn’t ever ask someone to invest in a property we are not willing to invest in ourselves.”
That shared stake creates alignment. “We invest in every deal alongside you, so your success is our success,” Tyler says. The team regularly visits properties, engages with management teams, and inspects interiors and exteriors to ensure standards are upheld. With over 20 years of accounting experience, Cyndee approaches each asset like the small business it is, balancing revenue growth with disciplined expense management.
When asked what advice they offer investors, Tyler’s answer is simple: “A confused mind says no.” They encourage investors to ask questions and consult with their CPA or financial advisor to ensure multifamily investing aligns with long-term goals.
At the end of the day, High Caliber Multifamily is built on trust, discipline, and family collaboration. As Loric sums it up, “We will only do a deal that we would and will invest in.” For the Harding family, that principle defines everything they do.
APRIL 2026
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
APRIL 3RD
Eggstravaganza
15960 N Bullard Ave, Surprise | 5:00 PM
Join us for an evening of family fun, festive activities, and exciting egg hunts! Enjoy face painting, market vendors, kids zone, petting zoo, food trucks and so much more! Bring your baskets, gather your family and friends, and come enjoy a fun-filled spring evening in Surprise!
APRIL 4TH
Caliscreaming
Surprise Stadium | 15850 N Bullard Ave, Surprise | 4:00 PM
This isn’t just a car show it’s a high-octane celebration that brings car enthusiasts and the community together for an unforgettable day of thrills, excitement, and nonstop action! Enjoy over car limbo and dad games as well as 10+ vendors. This is more than an event it’s the ultimate celebration of automotive passion and community spirit in AZ.
APRIL 11TH
KidFest
Friendship Park | 12327 W McDowell Rd, Avondale | 9:00 AM
KidFest is an event recognized by the National Association for the Education of Young Children celebrating, young children, their teachers, and families. This event is hosted during the Nationally Recognized Week of the Young Child, a effort to focus attention on the needs of young children and their families and recognize early childhood programs and that meet those needs.
Kohler Bathroom Design
Partner with the KOHLER® Signature Store design consultants to find innovative products, colors, materials, and finishes to bring your design dreams to life.
4513 N Scottsdale Rd Ste 116 Scottsdale, AZ 85251 | 480-397-2021
CONTINUED
APRIL
18TH
Foodie Fest
Mark Coronado Park | 15850 N Bullard Ave, Surprise | 4:00 PM
Foodie Fest West is BACK bringing you the ultimate event for all of the foodies out there. Indulge in a variety of mouthwatering dishes from local vendors and food trucks. Plus enjoy fun activities for the whole family! Explore various food trucks and vendors while also enjoying axe throwing, pony rides, caricature artist and so much more!
APRIL 25TH
Taste Of Surprise & Art Festival
1580 N Bullard Ave,Surprise | 6:00 PM
The Taste of Surprise & Art Festival is a vibrant community event that brings together local cuisine, art, and live entertainment to celebrate the unique flavor and creativity of the West Valley. Hosted by the Rotary Club of Surprise and Sun City West, the event offers attendees the chance to enjoy delicious food, and explore stunning artwork from local artists!
APRIL 25TH
Water Lantern Festival
Surprise Community Park | 16089 N Bullard Ave | 5:00 PM
The Water Lantern Festival is an incredible experience where you, your friends and family, will create a magical memory together. It can be a very emotional experience, writing down some of your hope and dreams, or a letter to a loved one, and then sending it out into the water.
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