Dove Valley May

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dove valley LIV ING

MAY 2026

THE DUFFEY FAMILY Cove r P h o to by L i s a Kn o e b e l P h o to g r a p hy

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JOIN OUR EAGLE FAMILY TODAY!

To Know and Grow, Each Child, Ever Day!

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dove valley LIV ING

Letter to Residents Dearest Dove Valley Neighbors,

Ideas/Submissions Have content ideas or submissions? We are always happy to hear from you! Deadlines for submissions are the 5th of each month. Go to www.bestversionmedia.com and click “Submit Content.” You may also email your thoughts, ideas and photos to: srusenovich@bestversionmedia.com.

HOA Submission information Are you on the association board for your subdivision?

Contact us for information on how you can submit articles, updates, reminders, events and more to the residents. We create customized homeowners association sections at no cost to the HOA or the residents.

Important Phone Numbers Emergency

911

Maricopa County Sheriff (Non-Emergency)

602-876-1011

Daisy Mountain Fire Department HonorHealth Sonoran Crossing Medical Center

623-465-7400 623-683-5000

Anthem Pets Animal Rescue

480-287-3542

Phoenix Police Department (Non-Emergency)

602-262-6151

Cave Creek Post Office

480-595-9598

Daisy Mountain Post Office Carefree Cave Creek Chamber of Commerce

623-551-7950

Thank you for so warmly welcoming us into your homes and allowing us to be part of this wonderful community.

This month, we celebrate mothers and graduates — honoring their love, strength, and the exciting new chapters ahead. We also focus on service and the stories of grit and resilience that continue to inspire us all.

At the heart of everything we do is wellness for your body, mind, soul, and home. As May arrives — a peak time for moving and fresh starts — our experts also share guidance to help you navigate this season of transition with ease and intention.

Ewa Rusenovich PUBLICATION TEAM

EWA RUSENOVICH Publisher erusenovich@bestversionmedia.com

SAM RUSENOVICH Content Coordinator srusenovich@bestversionmedia.com

480-488-3381

Anthem Area Chamber of Commerce

623-322-9127

Desert Foothills Library

480-488-2286

North Valley Regional Library

602-652-3000

Contributing Photographer: Lisa Knoebel, Lisa Knoebel Photography

Designer: Jeanne Komp

Content Submission Deadlines Content submissions due the 5th of each month Any content, resident submissions, guest columns, advertisements and advertorials are not necessarily endorsed by or represent the views of Best Version Media (BVM) or any municipality, homeowners associations, businesses or organizations that this publication serves. BVM is not responsible for the reliability, suitability or timeliness of any content submitted, inclusive of materials generated or composed through artificial intelligence (AI). All content submitted is done so at the sole discretion of the submitting party. © 2026 Best Version Media. All rights reserved.

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Expert Contributors

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To learn more about becoming an Expert Contributor, contact Ewa Rusenovich at erusenovich@bestversionmedia.com

WATER & PLUMBING SOLUTIONS EXPERT David Newham North Valley Water Solutions 623-551-0515 nvwsdave@gmail.com northvalleywatersolutions.com

REAL ESTATE EXPERT Wende Bartolomeo & Michael Brown My American Dream Team Remax Summit Properties 480-433-9949 info@myamericandreamteam.com myamericandreamteam.remax.com

DENTISTRY EXPERT Dr. Milutin Drakulovic Smile Creations Dentistry 623-434-9868 tuscanismiles@yahoo.com smilecreationsaz.com

OUTDOOR DESIGN SERVICES EXPERT Meagen Lenhart Outdoor Design Chick 602-885-6917 meagen@outdoordesignchick.com outdoordesignchick.com

ESTATE PLANNING LAW EXPERT Jim Carroll Anthem Law 623-551-9366 info@anthemlaw.com anthemlaw.com

PEST PREVENTION & PROTECTION EXPERT Mitch Love Pure Desert Organic Pest Control 480-202-1898 mitch@puredesertorganic.com puredesertorganic.com

/ MAY 2026

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GREEN SOLUTIONS

FOR DESERT

PESTS EXPERT CONTRIBUTOR

Are Those Bees JUST VISITING or Moving In Knowing the difference between a temporary swarm and an established hive can save you a lot of stress — and help protect both your home and the bees.

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EEING A BIG cluster of bees hanging out on a tree branch, fence, or even your house can definitely catch you off guard - but it’s often nothing to panic about. In many cases, you’re just looking at a swarm, which is a normal part of how bees reproduce and relocate.

When a colony gets too big, a new queen will leave with a group of worker bees to find a new place to live. While they’re in between homes, they’ll gather in a tight cluster somewhere nearby while scout bees go out and search for the perfect spot. During this time, they’re usually pretty calm and not very aggressive. Most swarms will move on within 24 to 72 hours without any help.

That said, it’s important to keep an eye on what they’re doing. If the bees stick around for more than a few days, or you start noticing a steady pattern of bees flying back and forth, that could mean they’ve found a place to settle. One of the biggest signs of a developing hive is bees consistently flying in and out of a hole - whether that’s in a tree, your roofline, or a wall.

Once bees set up a hive, they’re there to stay unless removed. At that point, the colony can grow quickly and may eventually cause damage or create safety concerns. That’s when it’s a good idea to bring in a professional to handle things the right way.

Knowing the difference between a temporary swarm and an established hive can save you a lot of stress — and help protect both your home and the bees.

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By Ewa Rusenovich PHOTOS BY LISA KNOEBEL PHOTOGRAPHY

The Story Behind BFT Gym

BUILDING STRENGTH in Business and Family W

HAT BEGAN AS exhaustion during long workdays turned into a complete life shift for Ben and Karie Duffey, a decision rooted not just in business, but in family. During the height of COVID, Ben found himself working 16 to 17 hour days, missing valuable time at home. The strain was felt by everyone, especially their kids, who struggled with how often he was away. That moment forced a realization. Too much time was being spent building something for someone else and not enough building a life together.

That turning point sparked a search for something different. Ben, who came from a corporate banking background as an SVP at Wells Fargo, and Karie, a longtime nurse, began exploring business ownership as a path forward. They looked into franchise opportunities, hoping to find something that would allow them to reclaim their time while creating a future their family could be part of. Eventually, their search led them to BFT Gym. The concept stood out immediately. With structured programming and strong brand backing through Xponential Fitness, 6

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it offered the potential they had been looking for, something dynamic and grounded, with the opportunity to build a true brick and mortar presence in their community.

they finally launched, they had already built a foundation of 125 committed members, people who had waited, trusted, and believed in what they were creating.

Getting the gym open proved far more difficult than expected. What they thought would take months stretched into a three-year journey. While selecting a location came together smoothly, construction delays, permitting issues, and constant setbacks tested their patience. Originally aiming for a spring 2023 opening after securing their space in late 2022, they did not officially open their doors until the end of 2025. The process was long, unpredictable, and at times discouraging, but they stayed committed.

Their partnership as business owners is all about balance. Ben describes himself as more introverted, while Karie thrives in connection and communication. Together, they complement each other naturally. While neither came from a group fitness background, the gym environment quickly became a comfortable and energizing space. For Ben, it offered a place to grow into a new role, and for Karie, it aligned seamlessly with her ability to connect with people.

One of the biggest challenges was maintaining momentum. Sales and marketing efforts had to continue even as timelines shifted. Keeping potential members engaged over such an extended period required persistence. Karie took on that challenge, personally reaching out to leads and building relationships before the doors even opened. When

What truly sets their gym apart is the community they have built. For them, it has never been just about workouts. It is about relationships. They approach every member as if they are welcoming them into their home, taking the time to get to know them, their families, and their lives. Living in the neighborhood has only strengthened that bond. They regularly

© Best Version Media run into members around town, reinforcing the idea that BFT Gym is more than a business. It is a shared space where people genuinely care about one another.

Despite all the challenges, their proudest moment is simple. They opened. After years of uncertainty, delays, and hard work, unlocking those doors felt like a victory. It marked not just the beginning of a business, but the realization of a vision they had worked tirelessly to achieve together.

Choosing Dove Valley as their location was both intentional and fortunate. Its proximity to their home made it ideal, allowing them to stay closely connected. The surrounding growth, including new developments, apartment complexes, and the nearby TSMC expansion, reinforced that they had chosen the right place at the right time. What they initially saw as a strong location has turned into an even greater opportunity than they imagined.

At the heart of everything they do is family. Karie’s journey as both a mother and a nurse has shaped much of that foundation. Having spent 23 years at St. Joseph’s Hospital, she always knew she wanted to care for others. That calling extended naturally into motherhood. What began as raising one child grew into a blended family of five, a transition she embraced fully. For her, motherhood feels natural, something she cannot imagine life without. Her background in nursing strengthened her ability to be present, attentive, and supportive in her children’s lives.

Their household is lively, busy, and full of personality. Ashlyn, their oldest, is driven, organized, and focused, with goals of becoming a dentist or orthodontist. She is currently attending Arizona State University and has always been someone her family can rely on. Jackson, 18, brings humor and charm, balancing a quiet side with an easygoing personality. Athletic and confident, he

carries a classic all-American spirit. Bryson, 17, is independent and competitive, always looking ahead and eager to explore new experiences, especially when it comes to travel. Lauren, 13, offers a quieter presence, creative and kind, with a love for soccer and art. As the middle child, she tends to go with the flow, bringing a sense of calm to the group. Brinkley, the youngest at 8, is both shy and playful, an observer who warms up in her own time, with a love for gymnastics, cheer and keeping everyone entertained with her sense of humor.

Balancing a business and a family of seven is, in Karie’s words, chaos. There is no perfect routine and no slow days. Some days everything gets done and others feel like a constant race. They have learned to embrace it.

They stay organized, rely on their calendar, and divide responsibilities as needed. It is a constant rhythm of movement, adjustment, and teamwork.

Through it all, their shared goal is clear. They want their children to understand the value of hard work, commitment, and resilience. As a blended family, they emphasize unity, honesty, and having each other’s backs no matter what. Building the gym was not just about creating income. It was about creating a legacy, something their kids could witness, learn from, and carry forward.

Looking ahead, their dreams extend beyond business success. They hope to see their children graduate, find their paths, and become strong, independent individuals, always knowing they have a home base to return to. One day, that home base might even stretch beyond Arizona to a place like Costa Rica, where the entire family can gather, slow down, and enjoy the life they have worked so hard to build together.

In the end, BFT Gym represents more than fitness.

It reflects a family’s decision to choose each other, take risks, and build something meaningful from the ground up.

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F

or Tom Ford, owner of Liberty Plumbing, the “23” symbol is more than just a number. It is a deeply personal tribute rooted in the events of the September 11 attacks and the lives lost that day.

The 23 is worn on the arm of his uniform, where it naturally draws attention and starts conversations.

He created it to honor 9/11 and ensure the memory of that day continues to be shared, not just by him but by his crew as well.

LIBERTY PLUMBING'S

On September 11, 2001, nearly 3,000 people lost their lives when four hijacked planes struck the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and a field in Pennsylvania. Among them were 23 NYPD officers, 37 Port Authority officers, and 343 firefighters from the FDNY who responded without hesitation. “Out of those 23, I knew a couple of the guys,” he says.

“It serves as a reminder of their sacrifice and gives me the chance to talk about them when people ask.”

HONORING THE FALLEN OF 9/11, EVERY DAY

For him and his team, the 23 represents real people, personal loss, and a shared responsibility to remember. As a retired New York City police officer, he took part in rescue and recovery efforts in the aftermath. He has lost coworkers not only on that day but in the years since due to injuries and illnesses connected to Ground Zero exposure.

His wife Tara witnessed the event in real time.

It is something their family will never forget.

By Ewa Rusenovich

The meaning behind the symbol carries even more

VETERANS/FIRST RESPONDERS SECTION IS PROUDLY SPONSORED BY Liberty Plumbing

“23”

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weight during Memorial Day in May, a time set aside to remember those who gave their lives in service to the country. The 23 on their uniforms becomes part of that broader remembrance. The design reflects both patriotism and purpose.

He incorporated the American flag and placed the 23 on the arm so it would stand out clearly on the uniform. When he and his crew wear it, it becomes a shared symbol of respect, unity, and remembrance. People often ask about the symbol, whether they see it on him or members of his team. Each time, it opens the door to a conversation about 9/11 and the lives lost. Those moments allow both him and his crew to carry the story forward.

That commitment to service continues through support of first responders and organizations like the Gary Sinise Foundation. The foundation provides programs that support veterans, first responders, and their families, reinforcing the same values his team represents every day.

More than anything, his goal is simple. He wants people to remember the sacrifice that was made. The 23 on the uniforms of him and his crew serves as a constant reminder of the lives lost, the heroes who gave everything, and the importance of never forgetting , especially during moments like Memorial Day.

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ARIZONA BEAUTY LOUNGE:

The Mother's Day Reality Check

By Jessica Collier

T

HE MOTHER’S DAY Reality Check You Didn’t Ask For (But Probably Needed). You take care of everything. Schedules. Meals.

Everyone else’s needs. So why are you quietly managing your own body like it’s a problem no one talks about?

Let’s find out.

When you laugh, sneeze, or jump A. You brace yourself or cross your legs B. You think about it “just in case” C. You don’t think about it at all Nighttime routine A. You’re up at least once to pee B. Occasionally interrupted C. You sleep straight through Intimacy feels like A. Uncomfortable, dry, or avoided B. Different than it used to be C. Still feels like you Your daily backup plan A. Liners, dark leggings, or bathroom mapping B. Only when needed C. No backup required UTIs or irritation A. Frequent, frustrating, or always lingering B. Once in a while C. Rare or never That “down there” feeling A. Dry, irritated, or just off B. Slight changes C. Normal

Your score MOSTLY A’S: You’ve adapted your life around symptoms that are not normal. You deserve better than planning your day around your bladder or avoiding intimacy.

MOSTLY B’S: You’re noticing the shift. This is where most women are told to wait. You don’t have to.

MOSTLY C’S: You’re feeling good. Now is the time to stay ahead of changes before they show up.

Here’s the truth This isn’t about pads, lubricants, or powering through. This is pelvic health, tissue health, and hormonal support. Because leaking, dryness, and discomfort are not part of being a mom. They’re signals. And we know exactly what to do with them.

At Arizona Beauty Lounge, we fix what’s been brushed off for too long.

Pelvic floor restoration, tissue support, and real solutions, so your body stops working against you and starts working for you.

If you saw yourself in this, it’s worth a conversation. Reach out to Arizona Beauty Lounge to review your answers and understand what your body is really asking for.

817 219 8661 • thestaccatocactus.com A supportive, encouraging environment where progress feels exciting and achievable.

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© Best Version Media EXPERT CONTRIBUTOR

North Valley Water Solutions

Understanding Whole-Home Water Systems

By David Newham

W

ATER QUALITY IS one of the most overlooked factors affecting a home’s comfort, efficiency, and long-term maintenance. In the Dove Valley area, where water naturally carries high mineral content and sediment picked up through our desert terrain - understanding how whole-home water systems work can help homeowners make informed decisions about protecting their property.

WHAT IS A WHOLE-HOME WATER SYSTEM? A whole-home water system treats the water entering your house at the main line, ensuring every faucet, appliance, and shower receives conditioned water.

Unlike simple pitcher filters or under-sink units that treat water at a single point, whole-home systems address the source. Depending on your needs, this may include softening, filtration, or purification technologies working together.

WHY YOUR HOME NEED TREATMENT

• Mineral scale buildup on fixtures and inside pipes • Reduced lifespan of dishwashers, water heaters, and washing machines • Soap that lathers poorly and leaves residue • Dry-feeling skin and dull hair • Cloudy glassware and spotted shower doors A whole-home system prevents these problems before they start, improving both comfort and efficiency.

KEY COMPONENTS OF A MODERN SYSTEM Most homeowners benefit from a combination of: • Water softening to remove hardness minerals • Whole-house filtration to reduce sediment and unpleasant tastes or odors • Reverse osmosis (RO) at the kitchen sink for purified drinking water LONG-TERM BENEFITS

Your water is considered “hard,” meaning it contains elevated levels of calcium and magnesium. While safe to drink, hard water creates a variety of issues:

Investing in a system provides cleaner plumbing, longer-lasting appliances, healthier-feeling skin and hair, and noticeably better water throughout the home.

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4235 W Opportunity Way, Suite #102, Anthem, AZ • NorthValleyWaterSolutions.com 10

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NO MORE HARD WATER

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By Ewa Rusenovich

PHOTO BY LISA KNOEBEL PHOTOGRAPHY

Motherhood, Home & Life:

Wende’s Journey F

OR WENDE, MOTHERHOOD has been a journey of love, faith, and discovery - one that has shaped not only her family but also her life in the North Valley. From raising her sons, Ryan (26) and Connor (23), to adding two of her children through the beauty of adoption from China – Jason (23) and Hannah (20) - each child has brought a unique joy and perspective to her world.

“Being a mom humbles you,” Wende reflects. “There’s no instruction book. My faith has always guided me, and it’s brought our family closer together.” She recalls the early days with Ryan, balancing a high-profile job while wanting to be fully present at home as she learned he needed some extra help. “Watching him grow was challenging, overwhelming, and amazing all at once. I just wanted to be with him all the time.”

Connor brought new energy, and together, the boys’ childhoods were filled with quintessential experiences - riding bikes through the neighborhood, fishing, long walks and building forts in the wash. “Growing up here was a dream,” Wende says.

Adopting Hannah and Jason added a new layer to her journey. Traveling to China to bring them home was a faith-filled experience that transformed their family. “First, being a mom teaches you humility. Then, adoption taught me love in a whole new way,” she shares. Every child, Wende notes, is different. “Even in the same home, every child needed something different. Learning to guide without controlling was one of my biggest lessons.”

Some of her most treasured moments in motherhood are simple yet profound – summer adventures, family dinners together at the table, and watching her children thrive. The challenges, she admits, came in letting go - allowing her children to make mistakes, fall, and learn on their own, trusting in their growth rather than trying to control every moment.

Her approach to family life naturally carries into her professional work in real estate. “Respecting each home and the memories within it comes from how I value family,” she says. “Every client’s home is special, and that care guides how I serve them.” Today, Wende’s home remains a gathering place for family and friends.

Even with adult children, she and her husband treasure dinners, game nights, and shared memories. Reflecting on her journey, she offers this advice to other mothers: “Take care of yourself. Motherhood isn’t a one- day job - you need to fill yourself up to give your best.”

Looking at her children today, Wende beams with pride. “I’m so proud of the lives they’re creating and so grateful to be able to watch them all flourish.” In this season of life, she continues to serve her clients with excellence while intentionally including travel, meaningful connections, and cherished time with family. For Wende, one truth remains beautifully constant: while motherhood evolves, its foundation remains the same - it’s always love.

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480-433-9949 | INFO@MYAMERICANDREAMTEAM.COM | MYAMERICANDREAMTEAM.COM 11

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From Hardship to Hope: The Story Behind Give ‘Em a Break Foundation

By Ewa Rusenovich PHOTOS BY LONE RANGERS PHOTOGRAPHY

T

HE ROOTS OF the Give ‘Em a Break Foundation trace back to Ginny Schulz’s early twenties, to a season marked by uncertainty, grit, and quiet determination. Newly a single mother, she found herself starting over with no savings, no credit, and no place to call home.

While she was working and could afford rent, she could not gain the footing needed to begin again. It was her parents who stepped in, covering the first and last month’s rent and providing the stability she could not secure on her own.

Life Happens.

That moment became more than a turning point.

It became the seed of something larger, a belief that sometimes all a person needs is a single act of support to change the trajectory of their life.

From that belief, Give ‘Em a Break quietly took shape nearly two decades ago.

Even to the employed doing everything right.

We offer a hand up, not a handout.

When the unexpected happens.

Make a difference! Donate today.

Visit www.giveemabreak.org for more information.

Over the years, Ginny’s understanding of resilience has deepened, shaped not only by hardship but by profound loss. Nearly six years ago, she lost her daughter, an experience that reframed everything she thought she knew about strength, grief, and gratitude. What once felt unbearable has, over time, been transformed into a perspective rooted in faith. She speaks of her daughter as a gift, someone she was blessed to love and raise for twenty years. Rather than holding onto anger, she chooses to see that time as something sacred, a chapter defined not by its ending but by its presence. She often reflects on her daughter’s wisdom, a quality that seemed to reach far beyond her years, and on the quiet, lasting impression she left on everyone she encountered. Through loss, Ginny has come to believe that nothing in life is truly ours to keep.

Every relationship, every talent, every moment is given. That belief now guides how she shares her story, allowing her to meet others in their grief with empathy, honesty, and connection.

In 2023, following both her diagnosis with multiple sclerosis and the loss of her daughter, Ginny and her family chose to expand the foundation’s reach. What had once operated quietly grew into a broader mission to serve more families facing unexpected hardship. Since that expansion, the foundation has raised more than $100,000 dollars and supported over 47 families. Its purpose is simple but powerful: to provide a hand up to individuals who are working hard yet find themselves set back by

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circumstances beyond their control. Whether it is rent, utilities, car repairs, or accessibility needs, the foundation steps in during critical moments, helping prevent temporary setbacks from becoming lasting crises.

Living with multiple sclerosis introduced a new layer of challenge, one that reshaped Ginny’s daily life in deeply personal ways. She has always been someone who builds connection through care, through opening her home, preparing meals from scratch, and creating meaningful moments for the people she loves. One of the most difficult adjustments has been letting go of the ability to do those things in the same way. Choosing to cater events rather than cook them herself was not just a logistical change, it was an emotional one. Providing for her family through hands-on effort had long been central to her identity as a mother and redefining that role required both acceptance and grace.

Today, the heart of Give ‘Em a Break remains rooted in lived experience. Many of the individuals and families the foundation serves are single mothers, women doing everything within their power yet still facing impossible choices. Ginny knows that reality intimately.

She shares her story not for recognition, but because it reminds others that they are not alone. That sense of connection, of being seen and supported in moments of vulnerability, is the foundation’s true purpose. It is not just about meeting needs. It is about restoring dignity, offering stability, and reminding people that even in the hardest seasons, a single act of help can change everything.

© Best Version Media BUSINESS PROFILE

SMILE CREATIONS: A Family-Centered Approach to Modern Dentistry

By Beba Drakulovic Nestled in the northern reaches of Phoenix, at 711 E. Carefree Highway, Suite 210, Smile Creations Dental stands as more than just a dental office — it is a reflection of a philosophy rooted in compassion, family values, and modern care. At the heart of this practice is Dr. Milutin Drakulovic (Dr. Milt), a dentist whose life story and professional journey shape the welcoming environment patients experience every day.

Smile Creations Dental specializes in general, family, and cosmetic dentistry, offering services that range from preventative care to advanced procedures like dental implants, Invisalign, and full-mouth rehabilitation. The practice emphasizes gentle, personalized treatment — an approach designed to make patients of all ages feel comfortable and informed.

Patients are not just treated; they are educated.

The team places strong importance on helping individuals understand their oral health and make confident decisions about their care.

This commitment extends to accommodating busy schedules and even prioritizing emergency visits, often offering same-day or next-day appointments.

Dr. Milutin Drakulovic — often known to his patients simply as “Dr. Milt”— brings decades of experience and a deeply personal touch to his work. He earned his undergraduate degree in biology from the University of Windsor and went on to receive his Doctorate of Dental Surgery from the University of Detroit Mercy in 1994.

After practicing for 16 years in Michigan, Dr. Drakulovic relocated to Arizona in 2009, seeking a better environment for his family away from harsh winters. His move marked the beginning of a new chapter—not only professionally, but personally, as he established roots in the Phoenix community.

Dr. Drakulovics story begins long before Arizona. His family immigrated from the former

Yugoslavia to Canada in 1973, where he grew up in Windsor, Ontario alongside his siblings. This multicultural background continues to influence his outlook, as he remains bilingual and deeply connected to his heritage.

Dr. Milutin Drakulovic

Family and Cosmetic Dentistry

• Most Major Insurance Accepted

Family remains central to his life. He has been married to his wife, Beba, for 28 years, and together they have two children, Simona and Alex. Outside the office, he enjoys spending time with his family, whether that's hiking in the Arizona desert, golfing, or bikingactivities that reflect his appreciation for both nature and community.

CareCredit Financing

What sets Smile Creations apart is its blend of traditional values and modern dental innovation. Dr. Drakulovic describes his philosophy as that of a “traditional family dentist,” emphasizing trust, communication, and long-term relationships with patients. At the same time, the practice incorporates advanced, pain-conscious techniques and stateof-the-art treatments. This balance creates an environment where patients feel both reassured and confident-they are receiving contemporary care from a provider who genuinely prioritizes their well-being.

Evening Appointments

Smile Creations Dental proudly serves families across North Phoenix and surrounding communities such as Dove Valley, Phoenix, Anthem, Cave Creek, and Desert Hills. The office's mission goes beyond dentistry; it aims to be a trusted part of the community, helping patients maintain not just healthy smiles, but overall confidence and quality of life.

At its core, Smile Creations Dental is a reflection of Dr. Milutin Drakulovic himself: dedicated, family-oriented, and deeply committed to making a difference-one patient at a time. Through a combination of clinical expertise and genuine human connection, the practice continues to embody what modern family dentistry can and should be.

Dedicated PatientDoctor Time Invisalign Clear Aligners

Oral Cancer Screenings In-House Professional Whitening Custom Crowns & Bridges

• CALL TO SCHEDULE

(623) 434-9868 LOCATED IN TUSCANI POINTE 711 E CAREFREE HWY # 210 PHOENIX, AZ 85085

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© Best Version Media Blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor living

PRESTIGE MOVING: Redefining the Moving Experience

By Tyler Robinson, Owner Prestige Moving Co. Moving is often one of the most stressful experiences a homeowner can go through, and not all moving companies approach it the same way. What sets a professional moving company apart isn’t just trucks and labor - it’s the systems, communication, and care behind every move.

At Prestige Moving, the focus is on creating a smooth and predictable experience from start to finish. That begins with fast and clear communication. Homeowners aren’t left waiting for responses or unsure about next steps. Every inquiry is handled with urgency and attention, helping customers feel confident early in the process. From the first call or message, the goal is to provide clarity, not confusion.

Another key difference is consistency. Moves are carefully coordinated with structured processes in place — from accurate estimates to organized scheduling — so there are fewer surprises on moving day. Each step is planned with precision, allowing the team to execute efficiently while adapting to any last-minute changes that may arise. This level of preparation helps reduce stress and keeps everything running on time.

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Customer experience also plays a major role. A successful move isn’t just about transporting items—it’s about trust. Homeowners are placing their belongings, and often major life transitions, in someone else’s hands. That’s why professionalism, respect, and attention to detail matter at every stage. Crews are trained not only to handle items carefully, but to communicate clearly and treat every home with care.

In addition, a strong local presence makes a difference. Building relationships with real estate professionals and staying connected within the community allows for better coordination and a more seamless experience for clients who are buying or selling homes.

Above all, what sets Prestige Moving apart is its commitment to doing things the right way—through communication, organization, and genuine care — resulting in a move that feels managed, supported, and stress-free.

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May 2026 CALENDAR OF EVENTS

EVERY THURSDAY IN MAY!

Karaoke Contests at Azool Bar & Grill

@AZOOL BAR & GRILL Free to sing! 1st, 2nd & 3rd place prizes for winners! Grand prize includes a 2-night weekend getaway!

Time: 7:00pm Cost: FREE to sing! azoolgrill.com EVERY FRIDAY IN MAY!

Music in May

@ANTHEM COMMUNITY PARK Kids dance, neighbors visit, and the park rocks during Music in May in Anthem! Held every Friday night in May, this FREE family-friendly event invites the community to grab a blanket, visit the on-site food trucks, and enjoy the diverse sounds of local Arizona bands.

Time: 7:00-9:00pm Cost: FREE anthemcouncil.com MAY 3

Cinco De Mayo Festival @Downtown Phx / 2nd Ave & Washington Flash dancers, lucha libre, mariachis & authentic dishes from Phoenix’s top food trucks and underground kitchens.

Mix of Culture and family-friendly!

Time: Gates open 12pm Cost: $15 General Admission cincophx.com MAY 5

Cinco de Mayo Fiesta Celebration

@THE BEARDED BARBER Latin Band featuring Selena Covers, Tequila Tasting & Margaritas!

Co-host: Taqueria del Jefe Time: 3:00-10:00pm Cost: $15 Tickets required mybeardedbarber.com/speakeasy MAY 8

Dueling Pianos at Azool Bar & Grill

@AZOOL BAR & GRILL Come enjoy dueling pianos at Azool Bar & Grill!

Time: 8:00pm Cost: Food & Drink for Purchase azoolgrill.com

MAY 9

MAY 16

@OUTLETS NORTH PHOENIX Join us for a monthly gathering for car enthusiasts at Outlets North Phoenix on the second Saturday of every month.

@BETTER PIGGIES RESCUE Join us for Piggy Yoga and enjoy a lighthearted yoga session surrounded by adorable piggies.

Anthem Cars & Coffee

Piggy Yoga at Better Piggies Rescue

Time: 5:00pm Cost: FREE anthemcarsandcoffee.com

Time: 9:00am Cost: Registration Required betterpiggiesrescue.org

MAY 9

MAY 24

Mother's Day Petals & Prosecco Bottomless Prosecco for Mom's & A Bouquet Bar. Families welcome!! Reservations encouraged for parties of any size Time: 3:00-6:00pm Cost: Reservations Encouraged mybeardedbarber.com/speakeasy MAY 11

Youth for Troops - Care Packages for Deployed Troops Packing Event @ANTHEM CIVIC BUILDING Assemble care packages for deployed service members at the Anthem Civic Building. This event is open to all ages and groups.

Time: 5:30-7pm Cost: FREE youthfortroops.org MAY 13

2026 Expo for NonBrick-and-Mortar Businesses: Presented by Carefree Cave Creek Chamber of Commerce @ THE HOLLAND CENTER, 34250 N 60TH ST, SCOTTSDALE, AZ 85266 The 2026 Expo is dedicated exclusively to spotlighting the innovative entrepreneurs who operate online, virtually, mobile, or from a home office. Including digital creators, service professionals, consultants and online retailers, this event is designed specifically to focus on networking and connection with the community.

Time: 5:30-7:30pm Cost: FREE to attend carefreecavecreek.org

Tri Lamb Party Band - Pre-Concert Raffle

by Youth for Troops

@HAROLDS CAVE CREEK CORRAL Help Youth for Troops raise money the hour before the Tri Lamb Party Band at Harold's Cave Creek Corral.

We have a table and sell raffle tickets and the winner is drawn before the concert starts at 7:30 PM. Adults only for this volunteer activity (18+) due to the venue. Please wear YFT shirts or patriotic colors Time: 6:30-7:30pm (Concert to Follow) Volunteer Sign Up: https:// volunteersignup.org/MDPJ7 Ticket Sales: https://tixees.com/ tc-event-category/harolds-cavecreek-corral/ MAY 30

Anthem Cars & Coffee

@OUTLETS NORTH PHOENIX Join us for a monthly gathering for car enthusiasts at Outlets North Phoenix on the last Saturday of every month.

Time: 8:00am Cost: FREE anthemcarsandcoffee.com

At Azool Bar & Grill, there’s something for everyone Karaoke Nights Live Bands Family Friendly Game Room Lunch specials Happy Hour 2–7pm

AzoolGrill.com ONLINE PICK UP

3134 WEST CAREFREE HWY STE 3, PHOENIX, AZ 85086

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