LIFE + CULTURE
CELEBRATING LOCAL WOMEN
LOCAL SERVICES
CONNECT BELONG WITH TARA
Behind each of our 200+ City Lifestyle magazines is someone who cares deeply about their community. Someone who connects people, celebrates businesses, and shares the stories that matter most. What if that someone was you?
Or maybe it’s someone you know. If this isn’t the right time for you, but you know someone who could be the perfect fit, we’d love an introduction
I have always felt that Mother's Day is well suited to the month of May. The warm weather coaxing flowers to blossom in force with their variety of colors and scents. Just like Spring, it is the warmth of a mother's love that helps us to bloom. We wanted to acknowledge some of these amazing women in Queen Creek with a special photoshoot and to honor their commitment to their families and their community.
We asked residents of Queen Creek to nominate an astounding mom they knew and the ladies featured here are inspiring examples of strength, resilience, hope, and kindness. Each mother is so deserving of recognition, and I am pleased to introduce a few of them to you within these pages.
Each day there are wonderful women working hard to do their part. We get a glimpse of motherhood in the 1950's from Margaret Ann Ellsworth-Schnepf. We watch community and sisterhood blossom with Mommy Mingle and Connect Belong AZ. Finally, we have added in some self care for your skin, when you have a moment, from Alicia Bishop of Queen Creek Med Spa to help you glow. Mother's Day is an opportunity to say thanks and celebrate the woman in your life that has given you so much.
To the ladies of Queen Creek, thank you!
FLORENCE DANIELS, EDITOR @QUEENCREEKCITYLIFESTYLE
PUBLISHER
Brad Schnepf | brad.schnepf@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Florence Daniels | florence.daniels@citylifestyle.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Kaeden Peterson
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Kimberly Heywood | shademarketingaz@gmail.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Jared Orr, Breanna Vega
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Jenny Kaufman, Tara Dunn, Ashley Blake Photography
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto
LAYOUT DESIGNER Lillian Gibbs
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
3:5-6
New
These
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Rider holding the state flag at the Roots N' Boots event. 2: Two girls attending the rodeo events at Roots N' Boots. 3: Grand opening of the Aquatic Center at Frontier Family Park. 4: Boys greeted by Spiderman at the Grand Opening of the Aquatic and Recreation Center. 5: Attendees participating in the Chosen Warrior Walk for Cancer. 6: Participants posing for the Chosen Warrior Walk at Schnepf Farms. 7: The Easter Bunny greeting families at the Spring into QC event.
The grand opening of Queen Creek's new Recreation & Aquatic Center at Frontier Family Park was held on March 29th. The event included tours, demonstrations, sports challenges, games, cookie decorating and more. This is the town's first aquatic center which will include a family pool, lazy river, water slides, spray pad, and a competition pool with diving boards. Swim programs will begin in May of 2025.
Formerly known as AZPetVet, is a market leader in veterinary care with over 40 years of experience and a network of 22 animal hospitals. They rebranded last month as Lovet Pet Health Care to align with its mission of expanding accessible, convenient, and comprehensive veterinary care. The grand opening event featured Ribbon Chewing Ceremony, where a rescue pup from #Love Pup, a local rescue shelter, chewed through an edible ribbon.
Queen Creek Olive Mill won four Silver awards, the most they have ever won in a single year, for their olive oil at the New York International Olive Oil Competition. Queen Creek Olive Mill won for the following: Delicate Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Arizona Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Balanced Extra Virgin Olive Oil, and their Estate Extra Virgin Olive Oil. Their balanced EVOO won previously in 2017 and 2019, receiving Gold and Silver respectively.
ARTICLE BY FLORENCE DANIELS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KAEDEN PETERSON
In the 1950’s Queen Creek was a community of farmers who lived far away from many conveniences we take for granted. Margaret Ann Ellsworth-Schnepf raised her five children on the farm that she and her husband ran, where their nearest neighbor lived 4 miles away. The kids were, in her words, ‘free range’. As she got on with her daily activities, the children would go off to play for hours. Yet while they lacked the amenities and various activities that keep modern families busy today, back then everyone knew one another and it was a far simpler time.
We met Margaret at her old family home which is now the offices for the Queen Creek Chamber of Commerce. She sat by the original fireplace pointing out her childhood bedroom and outside where her mother, Margaret Ellsworth, had planted a
“The children would go for rides on the little tractor and there was a general sense of freedom.”
rose garden. A stone’s throw away was the original church. Now called the Historic Town Hall, it was originally where residents saw each other every Sunday. The church would organize community events, potlucks, picnics, and 4th of July gatherings.
Margaret herself, was born in Mesa and moved to her childhood home in Queen Creek where her father purchased and developed the land for farming as a newlywed in the 1920’s. At 18, Margaret married Darel Schnepf in 1958 and they farmed land off of Ocotillo and Schnepf Road for the next 18 years. Her children, Brad, Russell, Deann, Matt, and Mikel Ann all grew up on the farm. Her memories of that time still stay with her, and she fondly recalls having picnics and bonfires with the other families in the desert. The children would go for rides on the little tractor and there was a general sense of freedom.
Margaret’s eldest son, Brad (our publisher), particularly remembers the fireworks show or baseball games that were organized through the church. Everything was organically done via a community that was tight knit and rooted in the land they farmed. Margaret said that the first pool was built by Grandpa Jack Schnepf in his backyard in the 50’s, to which all the children would drop by and have a spontaneous swim and play.
As a mother of five, Margaret was busy with the farm and the school board. However, by the 1970’s the price of their crops had dropped, water had become expensive, and the farm life too hard to maintain. Margaret and her family moved to Scottsdale with their remaining children. Today, Margaret is a widow and a grandmother and has moved back to Queen Creek. She still loves the sense of community and the kindness of the people. Though it is less agricultural and more suburban, she still sees Queen Creek as a wonderful place to raise a family and create memories.
New to town? Or need some inspiration? Come to Connect Belong AZ.
ARTICLE BY FLORENCE DANIELS PHOTOGRAPHY BY TARA DUNN
Walking into Tara Dunn’s home there is a flurry of activity and the sound of constant chatter. Once a month, a group of women come together here to do one thing... find a connection, whether it be business or supportive in nature. Hence
“This isn’t just about meeting new people—it’s about finding a community that uplifts and supports you...”
the name, Connect Belong AZ. Tara says, ‘It all started with a few of my clients who had recently relocated to Arizona and were searching for a sense of community. Wanting to help, I invited them over to connect, and that simple gathering sparked a deep love for hosting and bringing people together.’ It would seem so simple and yet once Tara began, the get togethers grew in number as word spread. Clearly, there was a need.
Originally from New York, Tara attended ASU, met her husband and established roots in Arizona. She began as an elementary teacher but then transitioned into a branding photographer. It was through this that Tara expanded into related areas. ‘I began helping business owners and entrepreneurs showcase their client experience through photos and videos, while also offering business mentorship. Over time, my work naturally evolved into leading masterminds and mentorship programs—creating
not just imagery, but a true sense of community for entrepreneurs looking to grow and connect.’
The monthly meet ups usually involve a relaxed mingling to start, and eventually strangers are introduced and a conversation is sparked. After a few coffees and light bites, one of the Abundance Mastermind members does a presentation which may include an activity as they provide expertise and insights. The event ends with each woman saying something about who they are and ways they are looking for support.
The mentorship and coaching that Tara provides are designed for both brand new and seasoned business owners. She guides women through beautiful photography and strategies, but she also sees that she can be an encouraging voice in the inevitable ups and downs of your business journey. There are group packages as well as one on one. Tara brings her
experience, her photographer’s eye, and a compassion to her clients in order to support and grow their goals. Most of all, it is evident that Tara thrives on watching her clients succeed, as well as discovering a network of like minded women.
Ultimately, similar to Connect Belong meet ups, Tara’s hope is that women walk away knowing they are not alone. ‘This isn’t just about meeting new people—it’s about finding a community that uplifts and supports you in every season of life and business. Through real conversations and meaningful connections, you’ll leave each gathering feeling inspired... Whether you’re looking for friendship, fresh perspectives, or a place where you can simply be yourself, Connect Belong is here to hold that space for you.’
The response has been positive. Tara says, ‘Many have shared that they finally feel like they’ve found a space where they truly belong, where they can show up as themselves without pressure or pretense.’ The environment at Connect Belong is organic, less transactional which may be the key to its success. As Tara has noted that for some ‘it’s the first time in a long time they’ve felt seen and supported.’ Tara calls Connect Belong a ‘movement’, and one that only seems to grow each month.
www.connectbelong.co
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Military shaped my life. Having been married to a Marine before, during, and now after his time in service, I know FIRST-HAND the emotions that can be involved with any relocation. So many factors play into relocating and no two moves are alike. Having the honor of working for others during this time, along with my own personal experiences, gives me the unique ability to look for concerns and address them before they cause a problem. I love providing guidance and information that wasn’t always available during my own personal moves. Helping families through wherever life moves them has become a true passion of mine and I would love the opportunity to help you along your journey!
SIX INSPIRING WOMEN MAKING AN IMPACT INSIDE AND OUTSIDE THE HOME.
When we decided to launch a search for the amazing moms in Queen Creek, we suspected we might find some special stories. What we in fact discovered were women who were quietly but heroically carrying their families and passionately pursuing community and volunteering their time and talent. We asked Tammy Figueroa of The Figz Team and Susan Johnson, owner of The Cottage Flowers and Gifts, to help us choose just a few of these
wonderful candidates. Tammy and Susan committed to the process with enthusiasm. Getting to know and meet each of these women has been a delight, each surprised and humbled to have been chosen for doing something they would do anyway. Thank you to each of the women who participated and thank you to Tammy and Susan for joining us in celebrating some truly amazing women who might also just be your next door neighbor.
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Lisa Horne is a wife and mother of five, while she homeschools her three youngest children her two eldest attend Combs High School. She is also a published author of the Everything Nut Allergy Cookbook , as well as a food allergy writer for WebMD. Lisa has described her own mother as her greatest inspiration who taught her to go for her goals. In her nomination, Lisa received a glowing recommendation:
‘Lisa… is a mom of five adorable kiddos. She homeschools them, teaching them homesteading skills, playing instruments, community engagement, etc. Her oldest children are high school age and began participating in a few on-campus classes and extra curricular activities... She saw the social value of the kids being a part of in-person classes but saw so much untapped potential within the school systems that she decided to run for Combs School District Governing Board and was elected in 2024. In between all of this, she is dedicated to spreading food allergy awareness.
Her son is anaphylactic... this created such a passion for supporting others with food allergies that she created the website www.foodalergypi.com and the Food Allergy Talk Podcast. She has poured her
heart into supporting her children more than any human I’ve ever met and they are some of the sweetest, most creative, and accomplished kids I’ve ever met!’ - Lindsey Pittman
Lisa’s podcast has received 10,000 downloads in which she interviews doctors and discusses the latest treatments. Her record of volunteering is extensive and she currently serves as Marketing Director for a national non-profit. She has been a resident of Queen Creek since 2022 and enjoys the ‘rural, small town’ feel.
Ensley Morgan is the mother of two small girls who kindly donated her beautiful floral backdrops for this special photoshoot. After her husband lost his job, they took the jump to start the East Valley Flower Walls business, providing photo worthy decorative walls in various colors and styles for special events. She learned the process from her cousin who runs a similar business back in California. Ensley brings her creativity and her passion for events to a wedding, baby shower, or corporate event to brighten any space. All the while, she continues to be a dedicated mom to her daughters. @eastvalleyflowerwalls
Karen Shield’s nomination makes her a clear inspiration:
‘Karen is the mother of two. Her daughter has special needs and requires significant support to oversee her complex care needs. Karen does it all on her own- she’s been widowed for 7 years. She is an exceptional woman who brings joy to everyone at the Ranch as our facilities manager… she brings that passion to serving other special needs families at the Manes and Miracles Ranch, which makes her uniquely compassionate and bonded with the other… families here. Karen is the definition of grit in motion!’ - Lindsey Pittman
Lisa Keffer is a mother of four, including twins Liam and Kayde who are scooting champions. In addition to supporting their athletics and homeschooling her boys, Lisa is also dedicated to the memory of her late husband and other fallen firefighters and first responders. She has recently accepted becoming one of the 2025 speaker cohort for the Gary Sinise Foundation, which seeks to represent and reach out to other families who have lost loved ones in the line of duty. Lisa says she is continually inspired by her children’s ‘resiliency, vulnerability, and courage for life.’ You can follow them @thekeffertwins.
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‘Alacey serves on the board as the concessions manager for Queen Creek Heat Softball…She volunteers upwards of 30 hours per week. In her time with the organization, Alacey has trained and mentored numerous local teenagers, many of whom are gaining their first job experience. Her efforts have raised more than $50,000 for Queen Creek Heat Little League. Alacey’s three daughters have all grown up in the program, and she remains an integral part of its success. She consistently goes above and beyond, often without recognition, and her contributions are invaluable.’ - Kari Kaapana-Hansen
Nicole is the mom of three (almost four!) and nominated by her aunt Tricha:
‘Niki’s mom was my sister and I loved her so much (we lost her two years ago unexpectedly)…she struggled with some… issues…and was not the perfect role model. Niki and her husband are raising three little boys with a little girl on the way! She gives her boys so much love, support and patience and I am so proud of her. She does all of this while working hard to make Sweet Creek a success… and has also written two children’s books.’ - Tricha Diehl
As mothers, we often put everyone else’s needs before our own. This Mother’s Day, it’s time to focus on self-care and skin health. Queen Creek Med Spa offers various treatments to help you have the radiant, healthy skin you deserve. Here’s your guide to understanding the perfect treatments for your skin concerns:
Try the Diamond Glow treatment, a gentle yet effective exfoliating procedure. This is perfect for busy moms as it provides immediate results with no downtime. It simultaneously removes dead skin while infusing nourishing serums. Like many other women who have tried this treatment, it will leave your skin hydrated and glowing.
Consider Jet Plasma therapy for a non-invasive skin-tightening solution. You can even opt for Microneedling with Exosomes to boost collagen production or choose Microneedling with PRP for natural skin rejuvenation. QC Med Spa will select appropriate Chemical Peels based on your specific concerns.
Book an Acne-Specific Facial for persistent breakouts. This treatment is perfect for both moms and teens struggling with acne. It includes deep cleansing and personalized treatment plans and helps prevent future breakouts while treating current concerns.
If any of this sounds like the solution you need, the women at QC Med Spa are ready to help you. Schedule a consultation to discuss your specific skin concerns with their experts. You will receive a customized treatment plan and be well on your way to healthier, more radiant skin.
Remember: Taking care of your skin isn’t just about looking good; it’s about feeling confident and practicing essential self-care. This Mother’s Day, give yourself the gift of healthy, glowing skin. www.qcmedicalspa.com
ARTICLE BY JARED ORR PHOTOGRAPHY BY ASHLEY BLAKE PHOTOGRAPHY
Natalie Mallett combines motherhood, work, and community.
Natalie Mallett is a licensed professional counselor, specializing in maternal mental health, she is also a mom of 2 little girls. Natalie felt what most mothers do, and that is often the challenge of balancing work and children. It made her wonder if there were other moms out there who wanted or even needed the kind of support and service where a mom could have a few concentrated hours to focus but not necessarily be separated from her young children. So from her basement in her Queen Creek home, Natalie did an open house in September 2024 and invited some moms.
Natalie had created a space for women to come with a lap top and a baby on her hip while meeting other moms and socializing their preschool aged children. The response was what Natalie had hoped, and before long she had set up Mommy Mingle. Women can bring their children for three hour slots at a time, where they will be just feet away as you get some calm and quite to focus on work.
Inside is a main lounge with two community offices, one private, and a playroom for preschoolers aged 1-5. Moms can come in, grab a coffee, watch their child from a live feed from a desk while they get on with work, some accounts, or even catch up with other moms.
ARTICLE BY FLORENCE DANIELS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNY KAUFMAN
While the moms work, the children are in a classroom of five with their teacher Cassie Crismon, who is currently working on her bachelor’s in childhood education. She provides a weekly lesson plan that is shared with the moms and includes art and sensory activities, along with their numbers and letters for that week. Mommy Mingle is a middle ground for those moms who want to be close to their kids but also give them some stimulation and friendships while they get to focus on work and make some friendships too.
Natalie understood that motherhood, with all the joys and wonders that come with it, can also be lonely. Every mom needs some community and in addition to a few hours of calm to focus on building a side business or working remotely, members can also enjoy monthly meet ups that can include crafts, wellness
workshops, yoga, and more. Their workshops have included everything from CPR training to talking with a pelvic floor therapist. Ultimately the female centric nature of Mommy Mingle provides the care for children without forgetting the care for mom too.
Natalie’s background in maternal mental health positions her very well to anticipate and respond to the mothers who have joined her co-working and childcare space. Not
only that, but it is clear that she has cultivated an atmosphere where mothers not only enjoy coming with their children, but even look forward to it.
Many of the moms who gathered spoke of ‘building your village’ and creating trust as well as validation. For many of the women here, Mommy Mingle has been more than just a few hours of ‘me time’. Instead, they have found a shared experience and support network that works with the demands of motherhood rather than compete with it.
www.mymommymingle.com
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Flowers have a rich history of symbolic meanings.
As far back as the 19th century, they were used to convey secret messages. Stories throughout history recount how flowers were used to send hidden messages between people. French publishers began producing flower dictionaries that cataloged the many floral codes that had been gathered over time. Some of these meanings were linked to the flower’s root name, often derived from mythology, while others were drawn from the flowers themselves. The colors, medicinal properties, and even the superstitions
associated with these flowers all contributed to the creation of this secret language.
In addition to their symbolic significance, flowers bring natural beauty to any interior, enhancing spaces with their color, texture, and mood-boosting qualities. Floral arrangements not only create a cozy atmosphere but also infuse a room with personality, elevating the overall ambiance. There are multiple ways to creatively integrate florals into your home, and whether using fresh or artificial flowers, creative displays can make quite the statement piece.
“Not only will the flowers’ fragrance fill the air, but the citrus notes from the fruit will add a refreshing scent.”
Add an extra burst of color and texture to your floral arrangement by layering fruit around the edges of your vase. To achieve this, place a smaller vase inside a larger one, ensuring the flowers stay contained in the inner vase to preserve their shape. Fill the surrounding space with water and then arrange sliced fruit along the vase’s outer sides. For a fresh touch, add ice cubes to keep the fruit looking vibrant longer and to hold them in place. Not only will the flowers’ fragrance fill the air, but the citrus notes from the fruit will add a refreshing scent.
For a dramatic effect, try creating a hanging floral display. Floral cones are available for this style, or you can craft your own for a more personalized, organic look. The contrast between longstemmed white flowers and a dark wall creates a striking visual impact.
No matter how you choose to display them, flowers are a wonderful addition to any room. They boost mood, improve air quality, spark creativity, and bring a decorative charm to any space.
Using a frog to display flowers creates a minimalist yet elegant look that highlights the individuality of each bloom. It helps the stems stay in place. To set it up, place the frog on your chosen display base, whether it’s a vase, bowl, platter, or any container you prefer. Then, simply insert the flower stems by gently pressing them into the prongs. Tip: Flowers with sturdy stems and a lighter top work best in a frog, as delicate blooms tend to lose their shape more quickly.
• 6-8 large lemons
• 4-6 cups of water
• Raw honey
• Ice cubes
• Fresh lavender (10-12 sprigs)
Sip and savor the flavors of Spring.
Step 1. Juice 6-8 lemons to get about 1 ½ cup of lemon juice.
Step 2. Muddle 6-8 sprigs of farm fresh lavender in the lemon juice.
Step 3. Let steep for the next hour, occasionally agitating the lavender lemon juice. After an hour, strain and combine with 4-6 cups of water in a pitcher.
Step 4. Sweeten with ½-1 cup of raw honey. Stir well and add ice cubes and a few fresh sprigs of lavender for garnish.
ARTICLE BY BREANNA VEGA
MAY 9TH
Vintage & Vino Spring Mother’s Day Market
Horseshoe Park and Equestrian Centre | 11:00 AM
Shop Over 100 Local Vendors – Clothing, jewelry, home décor & more. Live music, bucket mimosas & wine tasting – Sip, shop & soak it all in. Delicious eats and sweets. Photo Backdrops Special Food/Drink Packages for Mom. Friday: 11 AM – 8 PM, Saturday: 9 AM – 4 PM. www.sipandshoparizona.com
MAY 9TH
Comic Concert by Voices of the Valley Choir & Orchestra
Combs Performing Arts Center | 7:30 PM
Enjoy the season finale show with your “friendly neighborhood” choir and orchestra. This won’t just be a show--it will be a full-scale “fan fusion”-style event with costumes, vendors, and exclusive merch. The show will feature the iconic music from wildly popular franchises Studio Ghibli, Star Wars, Marvel, Lord of the Rings, Pokemon, Harry Potter, Naruto, and more. www.cpac.jocombs.org
MAY 10TH
Sweet Creek Spring Fling
Sweet Creek Boutique | 9:00 AM
The 3rd annual Spring Fling at Sweet Creek Boutique will be held May 10th from 9am-5pm and May 11th from 9am-3pm. Shop over 50 plus local small businesses while getting something special for mom. There is a $3 entry fee which includes 5 raffle tickets. Children 12 and under are free. www.sweetcreekboutiqueaz.com
MAY 10TH
Moms & Mimosas
Arizona Athletic Grounds | 10:00 AM
Enjoy over 150 different shopping vendors, live music, mimosa bars, photo booth, food trucks, and more. Tickets are $5 per person plus $5 to park. Doors open at 10am until 4pm and entirely indoors. www.azgrounds.com
MAY 10TH
Sidewalk Coffee and Bagel | 5:00 PM
Join Sidewalk Coffee and Bagel for a delightful tea party with your kids to celebrate Mother’s Day! Enjoy delicious treats and a variety of teas while dressed in your finest tea party attire. Relax and celebrate as we take care of all the details. www.sidewalkcoffeeco.com
MAY 16TH
Horseshoe Park & Equestrian Centre | 12:00 PM
Monster Truck Wars is a National touring live entertainment company, specializing in Monster Trucks, Truck/Tractor Pulling, Mud Racing etc. Across two days, well known performers, such as Outlaw and Sheriff will be there. The charismatic performers always keep the fans involved, and on the edge of their seat during the events. Kids 2 and under are free. www.monstertrucks.fun
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Our full-service aesthetics and wellness clinic is your sanctuary for self-care.
Here, we specialize in empowering women through personalized treatments that nurture your natural appearance and your well-being. From advanced skin rejuvenation to holistic wellness services, our expert team is here to support your journey to f eeling confident, refreshed, and truly you - inside and out!
