Starting 2025 On the Right Foot.
So begins a new year and perhaps a reset for your health and fitness. Starting afresh can sometimes mean recovering from the indulgences of the holidays. This can also be the time to reflect on healthy habits, foods, and jumping back into an exercise routine. In order to help you in your journey and some new resolutions, we have provided a one stop resource of everything from head to toe. Literally.
Dr. Matheson gives us his expert advice on healthy teeth and how to keep that dazzling smile. We also have some help in choosing the best walking and running shoes from Fleet Feet. A new year can also be the perfect time to start a new sport, so why not pick up a racket or even a paddle and hit the courts. We have a delicious recipe from the talented Kristin Leonescu who always has something tasty on her Instagram page Half Tomato Half Potato. Plus, we are bringing it back to basics with breathing exercises from Melissa Seil-Butler from Zen Life Healing Center. Oh, and don't forget, exercise is always better with friends, so we also talk to Fit4Mom about the community around their fitness goals.
It just goes to show that being healthy is more than just diet and exercise. You need the right tools and the right support to carry you forward. May 2025 be your best year yet!
FLORENCE DANIELS, EDITOR @QUEENCREEKCITYLIFESTYLE
January 2025
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
Breanna Vega, Kristin Leonescu, Melissa Seil-Butler
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Jenny Kaufman, Ffion Thomas
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley
AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto
LAYOUT DESIGNER Lillian Gibbs
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Serving up pancakes at the Town’s Pancake Breakfast event 2: Visitors at the Vino and Vintage Event. 3: The Hope Foundation hosting an event for children at Pegasus Park with plane rides. 4: Queen Creek residents attending the Pancake Breakfast. 5: Ruck4Freedom runners at the starting line. 6: Parachuting in to the Ruck4 Freedom event. 7: The Vino and Vintage Event.
business monthly
One Medical Opens in Queen Creek
One Medical celebrated their grand opening on November 6th. One Medical is a membership-based primary care practice on a mission to make getting quality care more affordable, accessible, and enjoyable for all through a blend of human-centered design, technology, and an exceptional team.
Grand Opening of School of Rock
The School of Rock celebrated their Grand Opening in Queen Creek. They are a performance-based school for all skill levels, ages, and musical aspirations. They offer programming that includes Rock 101, performance, songwriting, a house band, and an online program.
Moana 2 Screening with Alo Ole Pasefika
Queen Creek's local group, Alo Ole Pasefika, an organization to promote island culture, through language, song, and dance, invited members and supporters to a private screening of Moana 2. Hosted by the founding families (pictured here), the Toaleis, the Naunaus, and the Allens family. During the event they also included photos with Moana, merch, and a raffle.
Photography by Queen Creek Chamber of Commerce
Photography by Queen Creek Chamber of Commerce
Photography by F. Daniels
Just Breathe
Take some time to exercise your breathing.
ARTICLE BY MELISSA SEIL-BUTLER PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNY KAUFMAN
Our breath is our life force and learning how to use our breath as a tool when life gets out of control is a simple effective way to help bring you back to your center. Breathwork or Pranayama is something that you can do anytime to help you get through the hurdles of life.
ALTERNATE NOSTRIL BREATHING OR NADI SHODHANA
You can practice alternate nostril breathing as often as you like. Try using this technique prior to any situation that may cause you a feeling of stress or anxiety. Two rounds is adequate, but ten rounds is ideal.
1. Sit with back straight.
2. Alternate between thumb and ring finger to close your nostrils.
3. Close right nostril with thumb.
4. Inhale through left nostril.
5. Exhale through left nostril.
6. Now release your thumb and close off left nostril with ring finger.
7. Inhale through right nostril.
8. Exhale through right nostril.
9. Then switch sides and repeat cycle.
4-7-8 BREATHING
Adapted from Dr. Andrew Wiel’s work, Melissa has been teaching this for a year. This technique is simple and effective. A quick reset for your day or to clear your mind.
1. Sit with back straight or lying down.
2. Jaw loose and tongue gently pressing behind the top front teeth.
3. Inhale through nose, filling your belly to the count of 4.
4. Hold breath for the count of 7.
5. Exhale fully through the mouth for the count of 8.
Repeat 4 to 8 rounds in one sitting.
BOX BREATHING
A gentle breath technique that freshens your mind and stabilizes any stress.
1. Sit in an easy cross-legged position with back straight.
2. Inhale to the count of 4.
3. Hold for the count of 4.
4. Exhale for the count of 4.
5. Hold for the count of 4.
6. Repeat at least 10 times.
THE BENEFITS OF DOING CONTROLLED BREATHING
• Regulating the nervous system
• Lowering blood pressure
• Improving breathing
• Strengthening lung muscles
• Clearing mucus from your lungs
• Lowering fear and anxiety www.zenlifehealing.com
Melissa Seil-Butler
LET’S MAKE A MOVE!
Whether you are first-time buyer, ready to search for your DREAM HOME or thinking of selling... CALL ME TODAY!
As your FULL-TIME Realtor®, I specialize in Queen Creek/ San Tan Valley Real Estate! Put my experience, and commitment to work for you!
ASK ME ABOUT:
Seller Concessions?
ABOUT ME...
FHA vs Conventional Loans?
How much is my home worth?
Is it a Seller’s Market?
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!
Tips for keeping your teeth and mouth in good shape.
A REASON TO SMILE
Dr. Alexander Matheson is a Queen Creek native who began his practice, Matheson Dentistry & Implant Center, in 2008. His dental practice provides everything from general cleanings to cosmetic services. Here he provides us with his top tips on how to best care for your teeth.
1. FLOSS
This may come as no surprise, as every dentist seems to have the same mantra of ‘Floss more’. Yet Dr. Matheson says it simply can’t be emphasized enough. ‘The vast majority of problems come from not flossing.’ he says. By regularly flossing we get rid of plaque, decrease inflammation, and prevent cavities and gum disease.
2. USE A FLUORIDE TOOTHPASTE
Dr. Matheson says he can tell when a patient has suddenly switched to a non-fluoride toothpaste as their teeth begin to get more cavities. Fluoride remineralizes the teeth and makes it harder for bacteria.
3. BRUSH YOUR TONGUE
Apparently, our tongues are the dirtiest part of our mouths and bacteria can find excellent hiding places which can cause bad breath.
Dr. Alexander Matheson
Therefore to keep your mouth fresh brush or scrape your tongue daily to dislodge some of that food and bacteria.
4. 6 MONTH CHECK-UP
No matter how well you maintain your teeth don’t miss that 6 month check-up. This is a great opportunity for a thorough cleaning. Over time plaque becomes tartar which is harder to remove with just brushing. In addition, if there are any issues, it is best to catch them early.
5. BRUSH AFTER BREAKFAST
To keep your teeth cleaner for longer, eat breakfast and have coffee before you brush your teeth in the morning. By brushing after breakfast you will help protect your teeth for much of the day. Don’t forget
to follow up right before bed as our saliva, which protects our teeth, slows production as we sleep.
6. CHOOSING YOUR TOOTHBRUSH
Dr. Matheson says you should always opt for an ‘extra soft’ toothbrush over a ‘hard’ one. Toothbrushes that are too hard can actually recede the gum line. He also says that electric toothbrushes tend to be even better.
7. WATCH YOUR DRINKS
Be careful with your drink choices and how much you consume. The more sugary and acidic the more harmful such drinks can be for your teeth. You may want to consider reducing the amount and rinsing with water.
www.mathesondentistry.com
Chickpea and White Bean Salad
A PROTEIN PACKED SALAD WITH FLAVOR AND CRUNCH.
ARTICLE BY KRISTIN LEONESCU | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KAEDEN PETERSON
For Kristin Leonescu, food isn’t just about flavors—it’s about love, connection, and the memories we create around the table. As the heart and soul behind the Instagram page @HalfTomatoHalfPotato, Kristin shares more than recipes; she shares pieces of her life, culture, and the joy that food brings to it all. Through authentic stories, easy-to-follow recipes, small-event catering, and the occasional cameo from her dogs, Kristin has built a community that feels more
like family. Whether you’re looking for inspiration, a new recipe to try, or someone to bring flavor and heart to your next event. Kristin, who is a proud mix of Italian and Irish heritage, brings her unique perspective to her page @HalfTomatoHalfPotato. For our January issue, Kristin has whipped up a healthy salad that is flavorful and filling. This chickpea and white bean salad is a perfect combo of crunchy cucumbers, sweet red bell peppers, and creamy feta, all tossed in a tangy red wine vinaigrette. Ready in just 5 minutes and loaded with 66g of protein, it’s as satisfying as it is delicious.
ingredients
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) white beans (like cannellini or navy beans), drained and rinsed
• 1 large cucumber, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional)
Tangy Red Wine Vinaigrette:
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp @lawrysseasoning garlic salt
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• salt and pepper, to taste
directions
1. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, white beans, cucumber, red bell pepper, and red onion. Add parsley if using.
2. In a small bowl whisk together the dressing ingredients until well combined.
3. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss everything together until evenly coated, then add feta and toss again.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 3 days. Enjoy as a main dish or a side!
Tip: This salad gets even better as it sits, so it’s a great option for meal prepping! Plus, with 66g of protein, it’s as nutritious as it is tasty.
CHICKPEA AND WHITE BEAN SALAD
Kristin Leonescu
ARTICLE BY FLORENCE DANIELS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY FFION THOMAS
Courtside
PICKLEBALL AND TENNIS ARE GAINING IN POPULARITY FOR FITNESS AND FUN.
Damita Curry’s passion is tennis. Her father introduced her to the sport as a child and she has enjoyed it ever since. Damita played in high school, but since then also serves on the Southwest Tennis Foundation Board to promote tennis and make it accessible to all. Damita’s business Serve It Up Travel combines playing as well as socializing and watching professional tournaments. She offers tennis instruction and social events through Queen Creek Recreation for both residents and non-residents. Damita says that tennis is great at any age and has been shown to ‘add ten years to your life’.
Damita and Janonn
'Damita says that tennis is great at any age and has been shown to 'add ten years to your life'.'
Janonn Hasan is a pickleball instructor who began in tennis at the age of 12. She also played for high school and later in college. However, after being introduced to pickleball at a tennis work Christmas party, Janonn has been playing for the last 5 years. She now provides instruction through her company, The Adventure Continues. Janonn does both private and group instruction and also advocates for the many benefits the sport can bring.
In addition to aiding cardiovascular health, pickleball is great for improving muscle and bone too. Janonn says it can even relieve anxiety and your overall mental health. Damita calls tennis her ‘sanctuary’ especially after surviving breast cancer. She says it has been shown to improve behavior, grades, and college attendance.
Both tennis and pickleball have seen an uptick in popularity and interest. Hence the town’s investment in more courts at Mansel Carter Oasis Park. Damita credits the ‘lifelong nature’ of the sport and its ‘adaptability’ for all ages. Both Janonn and Damita not only see how pickleball and tennis can keep you fit but also bring the fun and sense of community around it too. replace with: For more, visit: www.queencreekaz.gov/community/parks-recreation/ activity-registration.
smart SWEETS
The beginning of the year is packed with inspiration and motivation to get back on track after a sweet-filled holiday season. It can feel extreme, and it also can be depleting to cut oneself off from everything indulgent after weeks of eating favorite sweet and savory recipes. For sugar lovers who believe going cold-turkey feels intimidating or overwhelming, nutrition-packed desserts are a great way to stick to healthy food goals without the guilt.
Nutrient-Rich Dessert To The Rescue
ARTICLE BY MEL BOBAN
Frozen PEANUT BUTTER Bites
Danger ahead: this snack is amazing. It’s the easiest of the bunch and also satisfies a sweet tooth craving. This can be whipped together in just 5 minutes and makes just a small amount. Feel free to take creative liberty here with your amounts, but if you make it to this recipe, they are around 90 calories per bite.
1. Cut a banana into 8-10 small slices, around 1/2 inch each.
2. Spread 1/2 tablespoon of peanut butter (or your choice of nut butter) on each banana slice.
3. Drizzle a small amount of melted chocolate chips or caramel over each bite.
4. Freeze for 15-20 minutes and enjoy!
Pro tip: A dash of sea salt flakes on top of these can be *chef’s kiss.*
These are great to keep on hand in the freezer all weeklong. Once they set, add them to a closed container to keep the bananas from browning.
Late night snack cravings are real! When finding yourself rooting through the cabinets for a sweet fix, these protein cookie dough bites are a great way to curb temptation. This recipe yields around 20 small bites, which can be cut into small squares or rolled into dough balls. Each bite is around 105 calories. If you find the dough is a little too dry, add a dash of milk as needed.
Ingredients
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1/4 cup peanut butter (or alternate nut or sunflower butter)
• 1 cup almond flour
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• Chocolate chips as desired
Pro tip: Use mini chocolate chips and for a dash of savory add sea salt flakes on top. Once combined, store the bites in the refrigerator in a covered container to keep them moist.
Protein COOKIE DOUGH Bites
The Path to Healing
Naturopathic care seeks out root causes and not just treating symptoms.
Dr. Kris Berkner did not go to the doctors very often as she was growing up. Her family came from a farming background where they cooked meals from scratch and only ever sought medical care if an ailment couldn’t be cured with home remedies. However, medicine was always something that interested her, but she didn’t come to it straight away. Dr. Berkner began as Queen Creek’s first massage therapist, working for about 7 years before she decided to get a degree in Naturopathic medicine.
So what exactly is Naturopathic care and what distinguishes it from traditional medicine? Dr. Berkner says that the Naturopathic approach looks at the patient as a whole. A variety of factors such as nutrition and lifestyle are considered and solutions can range from tinctures, acupuncture, homeopathy, and more. In contrast, traditional western medicine seeks to manage symptoms through prescribing pharmaceutical drugs. Dr. Berkner says her goal is to discover the root cause instead, bring the body into balance, and encourage the body’s natural ability to
ARTICLE BY FLORENCE DANIELS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNY KAUFMAN
heal. Thereby avoiding costly synthetic drugs that could possibly be doing more harm than good.
Although the Naturopathic approach tends to use natural or ancient practices to treat patients, Dr. Berkner is licensed in primary care and can still write prescriptions if needed. However, Dr. Berkner argues that health should be a priority and you have to ‘work’ to make lasting changes. Most of the patients that have come to her have felt that western medicine has failed them in some way and are ready to make that kind of commitment.
The first appointment is typically an hour long and is an in-depth look at the patient’s circumstances and habits. From there, a plan for moving forward is agreed upon, and follow ups will either require tweaks or adjustments to treat issues as they progress. Dr. Berkner says a patient needs to be ready to take some ownership of their health, while she tries to meet them where they are.
Her practice, along with the town of Queen Creek, has grown in 14 years as more people seek alternatives like Naturopathic care. Her
office provides many treatments like acupuncture, IV therapy, microneedling, HRT and more in house as well. There are even tinctures that are plant-based and locally sourced. Every patient receives an individualized care plan and recommendations based on their needs. ‘My goal is to give them a plan to make changes without overwhelming them.’ says Dr. Berkner.
The Naturopathic path is all about setting long term goals for your health. Rather than thinking about the next month or the next year, Dr. Berkner says you need to invest in your health and ask where do you want to be in 10 or 20 years. Therefore you make the lifestyle and nutritional choices that will get you to a future that is more active and enjoyable. Dr. Berkner says, ‘The hope is to see less of you.’
This might sound counterintuitive but Naturopathic care is about getting patients healthy not keeping them sick or medicated. A life where more time is spent living it than inside a doctor’s office sounds like a worthy pursuit indeed.
www.queencreeknaturopathic.com
Dr. Kris Berkner
ARTICLE BY BREANNA VEGA PHOTOGRAPHY BY KAEDEN PETERSON
Your goals can only get you so far, but community can push you all the way.
Fitness and
Friendship
Motherhood can be daunting, which is why surrounding yourself with a community of support becomes crucial. Many women begin to realize the importance of tending to their own mental and physical well being to keep up with the demands of parenting. However, for many moms they may wonder how to find the time or even find it difficult to arrange child care just to go to the gym. Fit4Mom addresses many of those challenges by combining fitness and connection all while bringing your children along.
Fit4Mom has a little something for every mom and has been a part of our town for over a decade. For owner Danielle Rios, she first started as a member enjoying group classes that also helped to ease her anxiety. This movement-based business for each mom’s ultimate fitness goals, hopes to reach as many women in the area as they can. One of their unique offerings is their stroller stride program where mom can bring baby while exercising. They also have community nights out as well, and in the process sprinkle in a little variety throughout for both mind and body.
Long time member Rebecca states, “Fit4Mom has changed my life. It has truly given me the village I’ve always wanted. It gave my daughter and I a space to meet other like-minded women who wanted to strive to live a healthy lifestyle with the hustle and bustle of being a mom. The workouts were as intense or low pressure as we both needed, and we’ve made a wonderful village of friends. Now welcoming our second baby the support and love we have felt is indescribable.”
The theme that runs throughout is the value of “motherhood together”. Moms can join with little ones as young as new borns. They include classes for infants, where the mothers work out while engaging with baby. Or you can opt for classes with children of stroller age, incorporating them into the workouts. They also provide individual classes for when mom needs to get away. Overall the sense of coming together to improve their health while creating new friendships gleams brightly. To enjoy the investment of community in motherhood and movement visit
www.queencreekfit4mom.com
ARTICLE BY FLORENCE DANIELS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNY KAUFMAN
Best Foot Forward
YOUR FITNESS GOALS START WITH THE RIGHT FOOTWEAR.
Owners of Fleet Feet, Tom and Nikki DeBole, in Queen Creek understand that in order to achieve good fitness you need proper support. The right footwear is therefore crucial whether you hike, walk, run, or simply running errands. Fleet Feet does personalized fitting with fit ID which does 3D measurements of your feet. There is a lot to consider when shopping for the right shoes, so here are some of the options depending on what your hard working feet might need.
1. Women’s Saucony Endorphin Speed 4 | A lightweight and cushioned shoe built with ‘speedroll’ to propel you forward during your run. | 2. Women’s New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4 | Great for long runs, this shoe has cushioning that provides an extra bounce while being feather-light. | 3. Women’s Brooks Ghost 16 | This versatile shoe is great for running, walking, or daily activities. It is both soft with extra support with no blisters from repeated rubbing. | 4. Men’s New Balance Fuel Cell Rebel v4 | This running shoe has the comfort and bounce perfect for long runs. | 5. Men’s Altra Lone Peak 8| Ideal for trail runs to keep you nimble and surefooted. | 6. Men’s Saucony Guide 17 | These stability running shoes keep you running smoothly with plenty of arch support. | www.fleetfeet.com/s/queencreek
Don’t forget
At Skinfinity Medspa we offer a full array of services for both Aesthetics and Wellness, enabling our professionals to help you achieve all your personal goals.
We personally want to invite you to come experience the Skinfinity difference, where we cultivate an uplifting environment for all, to come relax, unwind, and become the best version of yourself. Our team of professionals are highly skilled with over 55 years of collective training and experience, allowing us to offer the absolute best treatment plan and outcome possible for each individual we treat.
JANUARY 4TH
Sangria Social
Queen Creek Olive Mill | 10:00 AM
Explore a selection of seasonal sangria flavors beneath the olive trees at Queen Creek Olive Mill. The event lasts all day and you can choose from a single glass, a carafe, or a flight to sample a few flavors. www.queencreekolivemill.com
JANUARY 9TH
Beehive: The 60’s Musical
Queen Creek Performing Arts Center | 7:00 PM
A loving, rockin’ celebration of the 1960s and the powerful female voices whose music stands the test of time. The show takes you on a songfilled journey told from the perspective of six women coming of age during this unforgettable time, taking us from their first Beehive Dance through a decade of change. Performances are the 9th-11th. www.qcpac.com
JANUARY 9TH
QCRC’s Group
Run and Social
Old Ellsworth Brewing Company | 6:30 PM
The run kicks off at 6:30 pm from the brewery steps for a 3-4 -mile route along the Queen Creek Wash, an easy run for all ages and abilities. Hang out afterward for raffles, icy treats, and camaraderie! Bring a good pair of shoes, a headlamp, and hydration. www.queencreekrunningcompany.com
WE BRING YOUR IDEAS TO LIFE
CONTINUED
JANUARY 11TH
Free Workshop: Citrus Clinic
Queen Creek Library | 9:00 AM
Cultivating backyard fruit in the desert can be challenging. However, with knowledge and proper care, home gardeners can successfully grow citrus. Join us at this free class to learn the ins and outs of care from a local expert. This workshop is open to all Town of Queen Creek water customers. Seating is limited and registration is required. www.queencreekaz.gov
Enjoy the weather at the Family Market at Schnepf Farms held from 9am-2pm on January 11th and 25th. They will feature several vendors including local artisans and food. www.queencreekfamilymarket.com
This event is free for spectators and will be held from the 22nd - 25th. Watch this exciting competition and unique sport from the stands.
Every year starts with a smile, Make yours unforgettable.
