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
Request Your Free Consultation
If you or a loved one has been injured, don’t hesitate to contact our attorneys today!
When you get into an accident, you need professiona ls you trust to see you through to the other side. Insurance companies, cla ims adjusters, and bill collectors may bombard you with phone calls in the aftermath of an accident – all while you are trying to deal with personal injuries and emotional distress. A local lawyer that knows the roads in Surprise is key. Hir ing a Surprise, Arizona trial lawyer can help you successfully resolve your case and obtain the compensation you need to move forward.
At Gerber Injury Law, we have helped clients achieve justice and fair recoveries for their injuries for nearly 30 years. Clients throughout Arizona trust us with their most complex cases.
“You’re more than a client, you’re family.”
-Mgean Gerber
A Creative Heart in Surprise
Dear Readers,
I’m excited to introduce myself to all of you! My name is Ashley Hathaway, and I’m an editorial photographer, artist, writer, Arizona native, and the proud new Editor of Surprise City Lifestyle Magazine. I recently opened my photography studio here in the community, and I’m deeply committed to investing not only in my business but also in the people and stories that make this community so special.
Before transitioning into the creative field, I spent several years as a retail community bank manager, where I developed a strong appreciation for customer service and building relationships. These experiences have shaped my approach to both editorial photography and writing, allowing me to craft meaningful, story-driven visuals that truly capture the essence of the people and businesses I work with.
As a multi-hyphenate, my goal is to provide high-quality visual storytelling that adds value to individuals and organizations. Whether I’m capturing an authentic portrait or writing a creative story about a local business, my work is dedicated to giving back to the community by showcasing its vibrancy and diversity.
As an Arizona native, I’ve always had a deep connection to this state, and I’m honored to now call Surprise home. For me, investing in the community means more than just running a business—it’s about fostering support, growth, and connection. Outside of my professional life, I enjoy spending time with my two rescue dogs, playing Pickleball, and dancing in my local Zumba class, all of which help me stay grounded and connected to the spirit of this amazing community.
I’ve already felt so welcomed by the residents here, and I’m excited to continue getting to know more of you. In this issue, you’ll read about investments that come in many forms, and discover what makes our community so vibrant and diverse.
Thank you for allowing me to be a part of this incredible place. I’m looking forward to all the ways we can grow and support each other.
All my best,
ASHLEY HATHAWAY, EDITORIAL COORDINATOR @SURPRISECITYLIFESTYLE
April 2025
PUBLISHER
Faith Morello | faith.morello@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Ashley Hathaway | ashley.hathaway@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Ashley Hathaway
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
John Acosta, City of Surprise, Arizona Ohana Photography, Ashley Blake Photography
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich
LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
Maverick Golf TOURNAMENT
– 7: Benevilla’s Annual “Dinner in the Desert” at the Barn in Desert Foothills.
8 – 14: The West Valley Mavericks “Shindig” event, supporting amazing charities, including Phoenix Children’s.
Photography by Beverly Shumway, Ohana Photography
Hummus Republic
Hummus Republic is now open at 13964 W Bell Rd, Surprise, AZ! They bring authentic Mediterranean cuisine to the neighborhood, offering fresh bowls, wraps, and plates made with wholesome ingredients and vibrant spices. Inspired by the founders’ Mediterranean roots, the restaurant creates a welcoming space where every meal feels like a family gathering. They also offer catering with hand-crafted hummus, falafel, and shawarma, perfect for any event. Guests can enjoy a healthy, flavorful dining experience.
Scottsdale Jazz Festival
The Scottsdale Jazz Festival returns on April 26, 2025, at the Scottsdale Civic Center, celebrating its 14th year and honoring legendary musician Quincy Jones. This festival features performances from Richard Elliot, Rick Braun, Dan Pinson, and other renowned artists. With a commitment to community and music education, the event showcases diverse jazz genres and enriches Scottsdale’s cultural scene. You can purchase tickets online at www. ScottsdalePerformingArts.org/ events or by phone at 480-499-8587.
Torchy’s Tacos
Torchy’s Tacos, founded by Mike Rypka, began with a food trailer and a red Vespa. Now with over 130 locations, Torchy’s serves high-quality, ethically sourced tacos while supporting causes like cancer research and childhood enrichment. Committed to sustainability, the restaurant uses renewable resources. The new Prasada location is opening soon, is dogfriendly, features a full bar, and offers scratch-made churros. Join the loyal Taco Junkies and enjoy innovative tacos in a community-focused space.
letter from the PUBLISHER
As we approach April, I want to share my love and gratitude to all of our amazing readers. I love hearing from all of you each month about the impact our stories have had, and even more so when I get to meet you out and about in the community. Over the next few months, we will have some exciting stories coming from those right here in our community, and we would love your help. If you don’t already, please follow us on social media so you can stay in the know and be part of the story.
Our April issue is packed with great stories and tips on investments. Investments come in so many different forms—retirement, college funds, stocks, self-investment, business, life insurance, and the list goes on. We have included wonderful information from those right here in our community who help us when we need them.
I am no financial advisor—if I were, we’d all be investing in heels! So I highly recommend leaving it to the professionals. However, as a busy wife and mother, I can speak on investing in your family and yourself. Take time to plan a family night out and challenge your kids to a game of bowling or air hockey. Invest in time spent with your significant other and plan a date night on the town. And if you need reminding (I’m guilty of this), invest in yourself. Pick up a new book to learn something you’ve always wanted to know, take a cooking class to master a dish you’ve always wanted to try, or even something as simple as getting a massage to relax and rejuvenate, so you can feel like your best self—this is an investment that’s well worth it.
Faith Morello Publisher
Lenning
ARTICLE BY ASHLEY HATHAWAY
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN
ACOSTA
Building Financial Confidence and Success with a Family-Centered Approach
& Associates
Lenning & Associates is a financial planning firm committed to providing tailored, goal-oriented strategies that help clients achieve long-term financial success. The firm offers a wide array of services, including investment options such as stocks, bonds, IRAs, and annuities, alongside retirement, tax, estate, and college planning. Additionally, they provide accounting services like bookkeeping, payroll, business setup, QuickBooks support, and specialized tax services for individuals, businesses, estates, and nonprofits.
What truly sets Lenning & Associates apart is its family-centered approach, which emphasizes trust, empathy, and building meaningful, lasting relationships with clients. At the heart of this approach are the strong family values upheld by founder Nicholas Lenning and his wife Desiree, whose contributions have been critical to the firm’s success.
In an industry often dominated by numbers and cold calculations, Lenning & Associates stands out by prioritizing personal relationships, community involvement, and a deep understanding of the financial challenges clients face. For Nicholas, financial planning is more than just a career—it’s a passion that is deeply rooted in his own journey, which shapes how he serves his clients today. Outside of work, Nicholas is passionate about golf and cars, hobbies that reflect his appreciation for precision, strategy, and the pursuit of excellence—values that he brings into his professional life.
From the start, Nicholas and his wife Desiree embraced a family-oriented approach that has become a driving force behind their success.
“Family support isn’t just a role, it is our biggest factor in success,” Nicholas says. Desiree has played a pivotal role in building the business, balancing motherhood with representing the firm at networking
events, connecting with potential clients, and embodying the care and dedication that defines their values. Nicholas reflects, “I will always give a lot of credit to my wife who helped me build this business while maintaining her most important role as mother of our child.” This partnership lies at the heart of Lenning & Associates, ensuring that clients feel supported and understood as they would by family.
The presence of their baby girl, born just a month before they opened their office, helped humanize the firm and forge personal connections with clients. As Nicholas shares, “As an owner and father, raising both our child and our business, it’s easy to show our clients that
The dynamic team of Lenning & Associates
“AS AN OWNER AND FATHER, RAISING BOTH OUR CHILD AND OUR BUSINESS, IT’S EASY TO SHOW OUR CLIENTS THAT FAMILY—AND THE FUTURE OF OUR FAMILIES—ARE WHAT KEEPS US GOING.”
— NICHOLAS LENNING, FOUNDER OF LENNING & ASSOCIATES
Nicholas & Desiree, Founders of Lenning & Associates
family—and the future of our families—are what keeps us going.” Their daughter, often greeting clients with a bashful smile, further strengthened the firm’s warm, family-centered atmosphere.
The firm’s family-oriented culture extends to how it works with clients. Lenning & Associates doesn’t just focus on meeting immediate financial needs; it is deeply committed to long-term planning. Nicholas’s own experience working in blue-collar fields, where he witnessed the challenges of navigating financial systems, inspired him to create a space where individuals from all walks of life feel heard. The firm’s focus on understanding clients’ unique goals—whether related to family, community, or personal values—drives their financial strategies. “We are eager to learn about our clients’ family, community, faith, hobbies, and interests so we can find the inspirational root of their financial goals,” Nicholas explains, ensuring that each client receives personalized care and a financial strategy that reflects their individual needs and aspirations.
This commitment to understanding each client on a deeper level has fostered lasting relationships built on trust and empathy. “We handle every client like our own,” Nicholas says, a philosophy that has allowed the firm to build strong, enduring connections. This approach not only benefits clients but also creates a supportive work environment, where the team at Lenning & Associates works together to help clients achieve financial security.
In addition to their work with clients, the powerhouse duo is dedicated to giving back to the community. Nicholas and Desiree are passionate about supporting local families, small businesses,
and charities, as seen in initiatives like “A Day of Giving,” which helps local families during the holidays. Philanthropy is not just a core value but also integrated into the firm’s financial planning services, with clients encouraged to incorporate charitable giving into their long-term strategies. This empowers clients to make a meaningful impact on causes they care about while also benefiting from the tax advantages associated with charitable contributions.
As Lenning & Associates looks to the future, its long-term vision remains focused on growth, community, and legacy. Nicholas’s personal goals for his family—happiness, health, and comfort—mirror the goals of the firm, which is dedicated to helping clients achieve the financial confidence and freedom they deserve. As the firm continues to expand in the West Valley, its commitment to family values and serving clients with integrity and empathy remains at the core of everything they do.
For more information about Lenning & Associates and the services they offer, visit their website www. lenningaz.com or follow them on Facebook at www. facebook.com/LenningAssociates
Administrative Assistant, Bridget Lopez.
empowering financial security
A Conversation with Diana Turner: Founder of Morrison Financials and Expert in Comprehensive Financial Planning
In today’s ever-changing financial landscape, guidance is key to achieving financial success. Diana Turner, founder of Morrison Financials, has made it her mission to help individuals and families navigate their financial futures with confidence. After a life-changing experience, she entered the world of financial planning to ensure others wouldn’t face the same hardships.
Diana has spent her entire adult life in the financial field. With a Bachelor’s in Business Administration, she initially helped companies turn profits. However, after taking 15 years off to raise her five children, life threw her a curveball—her husband passed away unexpectedly. During this challenging time, she discovered that despite having a financial advisor, they had made critical errors in their financial plan. “Not only did my husband die with the wrong life insurance, our advisor did not advise us based on what we qualified for,” she shares.
This experience sparked a realization that many families were in similar situations. Determined to help others avoid the same pitfalls, Diana became fully securities licensed and earned her life insurance license, dedicating herself to helping people secure their financial futures.
At Morrison Financials, Diana and her team offer a range of services, including budgeting, debt stacking, life insurance,
ARTICLE BY ASHLEY HATHAWAY
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ASHLEY BLAKE PHOTOGRAPHY
annuities, and retirement planning. “We start as low as $25 a month,” she says, emphasizing that financial planning should be accessible to everyone. Her goal is to help people at all financial stages—whether just starting out or nearing retirement—achieve long-term financial security.
The firm offers a holistic approach, taking into account each client’s unique goals and financial situation. This personalized strategy ensures that clients can work toward their objectives with a tailored plan.
One of the main challenges clients face is understanding the importance of early planning. Diana works with clients of all ages, helping them plan for both short- and long-term financial needs. Many older clients find themselves underprepared for retirement due to a lack of guidance earlier in life. “Social security, pensions, and 401(k)s are no longer enough,” she says.
Another challenge is dealing with market volatility. Diana keeps clients focused on their long-term goals, helping them remain calm during periods of market uncertainty. “People get emotional when the market moves, and they just need someone to keep them grounded,” she explains.
The best time to start planning for retirement, according to Diana, is the moment someone starts earning a paycheck. “Understanding how money works is key,” she advises. Many people wait until there’s money left over at the end of the month to save. However, this often leads to insufficient savings. Instead, Diana advocates for paying yourself first and living off the rest. “Time in the market is how you make your money work for you,” she says.
Additionally, she recommends meeting with a financial advisor who has your best interests at heart. Building a strong relationship with an advisor ensures you understand the plan and stay on track.
When it comes to estate planning, Diana takes time to understand her clients’ goals. Many overlook basic tools like creating a will or securing proper life insurance. “I often see clients saving for their kids but neglecting to invest in their own future,” she notes. A comprehensive estate plan should account for both individual and familial needs.
For those just starting to invest or build wealth, Diana offers simple advice: “Don’t be afraid to start. Knowledge is power!” She compares working with a financial advisor to having a personal trainer—they help clients reach their goals faster.
To learn more about how Morrison Financials can help you, visit www.moreinvests.com or email financials.morrison@gmail.com
Tracey Jankowski, Business Development Manager, West Valley.
Monica May-Dunn, CEO of Arizona Escrow & Financial
ARIZONA Escrow, & Financial
Arizona Escrow & Financial (AEF) is Arizona’s largest independent escrow company, specializing in commercial brokers, business brokers, and attorneys. Known for its broad range of services in business sales, commercial real estate, and custom transactions, AEF is expanding to meet the growing demand in the West Valley, home to cities like Goodyear, Surprise, and Glendale.
The West Valley is experiencing rapid growth, creating new opportunities for real estate and business transactions. CEO Monica May-Dunn emphasized, “Our commercial escrow services ensure secure, seamless transactions for business sales, real estate acquisitions, and legal settlements.” With more businesses moving to the area, AEF’s expertise is critical for navigating this evolving market.
Tracy Jankowski, Business Development Manager for the West Valley, noted that businesses from California and other states are relocating to the region, further driving demand for escrow services. “We’re building relationships with local business owners, brokers, and attorneys,” Tracy explained, highlighting the company’s community-focused approach, which sets it apart from competitors.
Expanding Horizons: Leading the Charge in West Valley Growth
ARTICLE BY ASHLEY HATHAWAY
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ASHLEY BLAKE PHOTOGRAPHY
For business owners, especially those with highvalue assets, AEF offers customized solutions, such as holding accounts for business sales and mobile notary services for convenience. Tracy explained that many West Valley business owners are transitioning out of farming or selling their businesses. “These transitions can be complex, and we guide clients through the process securely and efficiently.”
Technology plays a key role in enhancing AEF’s customer experience. Monica highlighted the firm’s integration of real-time transaction tracking and advanced cybersecurity to protect clients’ sensitive data. “With dedicated security ensuring transaction protection, we’re confident our clients are secure,” she said. AEF continually updates its software to stay at the forefront of digital escrow services.
AEF’s commitment to Arizona extends beyond escrow. Monica and Tracy are actively involved in organizations like CCIM, RMA, and NAWBO, which support business growth in the state. The company also supports charitable organizations such as the American Heart Association and Arizona Helping Hands. “Investing in our community builds trust and strengthens the foundation for businesses to thrive,” Monica said.
Tracy, with strong ties to the West Valley, is excited about AEF’s expanding presence in the region. “The West Valley’s growth presents so much potential—it’s thrilling to be part of a company making a difference here,” she said. Her background in residential real estate helps AEF form strong bonds with commercial clients and create synergies between both sectors.
Looking ahead, Monica emphasized that AEF’s focus will be on growth, particularly in commercial and industrial real estate. “Flexibility and creative financing solutions will be crucial as we adapt to a changing market,” she said. With strong leadership, technological innovation, and a focus on community engagement, AEF is poised to remain a key player in Arizona’s economy.
“Our commercial escrow services ensure secure, seamless transactions for business sales, real estate acquisitions, and legal settlements.”
FAMILY TIME is the Best Investment
These simple, yet intentional ideas can make the best memories.
EAT DINNER TOGETHER AS A FAMILY.
This meaningful time around the table is where connections happen. Let everyone share good moments from the day or something they struggled with. Create a jar of conversation starters, exchange giggles and cook up something delicious.
CREATE SURPRISES
Everyone likes to feel special – and surprised. The littlest things make the biggest impact: A backyard picnic; a sleepover in an indoor fort; an after-school ice cream treat; a bathroom spa day.
CREATE FAMILY TRADITIONS
Build weekly or monthly traditions –movie nights with popcorn, board game marathons, a gratitude jar, evening bike rides, living room dance parties, even a family book club to discover old favorites and new reads.
EXPRESS LOVE AND GRATITUDE
In busy seasons, it’s easy to forget to let a loved one feel appreciated and thought of. Tuck a hand-written note in a lunch box or give an unexpected hug; spend time sharing what you’re thankful for about them.
KEEP GENERATIONS LINKED
Consider Sunday meals with grandparents or weekly phone calls if distance separates. Invite them to share their childhood stories and treasured memories. Start a yearly family scrapbook filled with favorite photographs and vacation souvenirs.
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
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
APRIL 3RD
LIVE at Asante
Surprise Community Park
Asante Library | 16755 W Vereda Solana Dr.Surprise, AZ 85387 | 8:00 PM
LIVE at Asante is a free, casual outdoor performance series at Asante Library, featuring live music, arts activities, and food trucks. Perfect for all ages, it’s a fun evening for friends and family. RSVP at surpriseaz.gov/ ArtsSignUp . Performers include High Horse, a country band, and singer-songwriter Eden Cislo.
APRIL 4TH
T.E.A.M. 4
Kids Autism Awareness Car Show
Surprise Stadium | 15850 N. Bullard Ave. Surprise AZ, 85374 | 4:00 PM
The 5th Annual Autism Awareness Car Show is back! The event features vintage cars, food trucks, and fun activities for kids like bounce houses, face painting, crafts, and games. Hosted by T.E.A.M. 4 Kids Pediatric Therapy in partnership with T4K Cares, a nonprofit supporting children’s therapy services for families in need.
APRIL 4TH
Wickenburg West Fest
164 E. Apache St. Wickenburg, AZ 85390 | 5:00 PM
Come together with neighbors at the Wickenburg West Fest to celebrate the charm of this historic western town. Enjoy a variety of activities, including a thrilling cowboy reenactment shootout, live music by Last Train to Juarez, a dummy roping competition, food trucks, autograph signings from renowned ropers, and much more! This free event promises fun for the entire family!
ARIZONA | NEW MEXICO | COLORADO | UTAH
APRIL 12TH
Water Lantern Festival
Surprise Community Park
16089 N. Bullard Avenue, Surprise, AZ 85374 | 4:00 PM
Experience the Water Lantern Festival at Surprise Community Park. Create lasting memories with friends and family by writing hopes, dreams, or letters to loved ones on lanterns, then sending them into the water. This emotional and beautiful event will leave you with unforgettable moments. Tickets and more details are available at https://www.waterlanternfestival.com/events/phoenix-surprise. Don’t miss out on this unique, heartwarming experience!
APRIL 19TH
Foodie Fest West
Mark Coronado Park | 15960 North Bullard Avenue Surprise, AZ 85374 | 4:00 PM
Foodie Fest West is back at Mark Coronado Park in Surprise, AZ! Enjoy delicious dishes from food trucks and vendors, along with fun activities like axe throwing, shopping, a kids zone, paint & sip, flower bar, and more. Free parking, pet-friendly, and kids 10 & under get in free! Tickets are $5.
APRIL 20TH
Easterfest at Sahuaro Ranch Park
Saguaro Ranch Park | 9802 59th Avenue Glendale, AZ 85302 | 1:00 PM
Spring has sprung! Enjoy seasonal art displays, live performances, workshops, and a special show at Easterfest 2025! Meet the Easter Bunny, explore a labyrinth, and participate in the Easter egg decorating contest. Fun games, arts and crafts, and more for all ages. A perfect family day of creativity and community fun!
