The Front Porch

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As sweltering heat of summer finally fades, we welcome you to the October edition of The Front Porch Magazine. Halloween enthusiasts, rejoice! Our community is bursting with a plethora of thrilling activities to celebrate the spookiest time of the year - from Boo Bash to the Pawstume Parade. So grab your costumes, rally your friends and loved ones, and get ready to immerse yourself in the spirit of Halloween. In addition to the Halloween festivities, October is International Walk to School Month, a global initiative aimed at promoting physical activity and safer routes for children to walk to school.

We would also like to express our heartfelt gratitude to our loyal advertisers who make The Front Porch Magazine possible. Their support allows us to bring you the latest news, stories, and events happening in Marley Park, all while keeping the magazine free for everyone. We encourage you to take a moment to discover the

new businesses that have joined us this month. By supporting them, you are not only helping our community thrive but also ensuring the continued success of this publication. As always, we love hearing from our readers, so please don’t hesitate to share your thoughts, ideas, and suggestions with us. We are constantly striving to make The Front Porch Magazine a valuable resource that reflects the interests and needs of our community. Your feedback is invaluable in helping us achieve this goal.

In the words of W.S. Merwin, “I have been younger in October than in all the months of spring.” I hope this month brings out your inner child! See you on The Front Porch!

Christie Giannetto | Assistant Editor | The Front Porch Magazine

Holiday Fun

Although it’s only October, it’s not too early to get ready to embrace the magic of the holiday season with the highly anticipated 9th annual Photos and Cookies with Santa event at the Marley Park Pool House. This beloved family tradition, organized by Marley Park homeowner Christie Giannetto, promises an enchanting experience for children and adults alike. With the real Santa and Mrs. Santa in attendance, a professional photographer capturing precious moments, and an opportunity to decorate cookies, this event is not to be missed.

The Marley Park Pool House features a beautifully adorned stone fireplace as the backdrop for professional photographs with Santa. Imagine the joy on your children’s faces as they sit on Santa’s lap and share their holiday

wishes, forever captured in stunning photographs.

After the photoshoot, the fun continues with a delightful cookie decorating activity led by Mrs. Santa. Children can showcase their creativity by adorning cookies with colorful icing and festive sprinkles. It’s an opportunity for them to engage in hands-on holiday fun and create delicious treats to savor or share with loved ones. Tickets for this eagerly awaited event will go on sale on November 1st at 10:00 am. Due to its immense popularity, tickets tend to sell out quickly, so it’s advisable to secure your spot as soon as possible.

To purchase tickets or obtain more information, interested individuals can contact Christie Giannetto at Christie@AZLifestyleTeam.com or call 602-740-2313.

On Our Cover

As the summer heat begins to fade, the magical spirit of Halloween descends upon Marley Park, igniting a fierce competition among residents to create the most spine-chilling, awe-inspiring home decorations. Brace yourselves for the annual Marley Park Community Association Halloween Home Decorating Contest—an event that has become a cherished tradition for all who call this neighborhood home.

For Halloween enthusiasts like Kathy Cady, the contest is a chance to unleash their inner ghouls and goblins. Cady’s bewitching masterpiece, captured in a captivating photograph by Carson Cavaletto, graces our cover, providing a tantalizing glimpse into the creativity and dedication that go into crafting a truly mesmerizing Halloween spectacle.

From towering inflatable creatures to meticulously carved jack-o’-lanterns, Marley Park residents go above and beyond to transform their homes into eerie wonderlands. The contest, which kicks off on October 1st, sets off a monthlong frenzy of decorating, as neighbors vie for the coveted titles of Spookiest, Most Creative, and Most Enchanting Displays.

But it’s not just about the accolades. The winners receive well-deserved recognition, complete with a vibrant yard sign that proudly proclaims their triumph over the supernatural, as well as the ultimate prize: bragging rights. The contest has become a fierce source of community pride, fostering a sense of camaraderie and inspiring friendly rivalries that make Marley Park the best place for kids to trick-or-treat as well.

Come Halloween night, the streets of Marley Park transform into a wonderland of candyfilled dreams for children and a visual feast for all. Families from near and far drive through the neighborhood, their eyes wide with wonder as

they take in the mesmerizing tableaus that line the streets. It’s a true community event, where laughter and excitement mingle with the ghostly shadows, creating memories that linger long after the last candy wrapper is discarded.

So, dust off your witch’s hat, unleash your inner monster, and join us as we embark on an unforgettable journey through the Halloween wonderland that is Marley Park. Prepare to be spellbound by the creativity, passion, and community spirit that come alive during this spine-tingling celebration. With each passing year, the contest only grows in its macabre magnificence, promising an experience that will send shivers down your spine and warm your heart in equal measure.

Submitted by Christie Giannetto | Marley Park Homeowner

Boo Bash

Get ready for a spooktacular evening of fun and fright at the Marley Park Community Association’s annual Boo Bash! Mark your calendars for Saturday, October 28th, from 5-8 pm at the Marley Park Heritage Club. This year’s theme is the Haunted Mansion, promising an unforgettable Halloween experience for all attendees.

Admission to the Boo Bash is priced at $7 for individuals aged 4 and up. Please note that this event is exclusive to Marley Park Community Association residents only. As tickets are nonrefundable, it’s important to secure your spot early. Ticket sales will be available from October 8th to October 25th. Don’t miss out on this thrilling event, as it typically sells out quickly!

One of the exciting additions to this year’s Boo Bash is the Halloween sensory room. Designed to provide a unique and immersive experience, this room will tantalize your senses and heighten the Halloween spirit. It’s the perfect opportunity to explore a different dimension of fright and delight.

The Boo Bash will also feature game trucks, offering a variety of thrilling interactive games for all ages. Test your skills, challenge your friends, or simply enjoy some friendly competition. And when hunger strikes, fear not! Food trucks will be on-site, serving up a delicious array of treats to satisfy your cravings.

For those who appreciate a little heat, the Chili Cook-Off is not to be missed. Sample mouth-watering chili creations from talented cooks within the community and cast your vote for the best one. It’s an excellent

opportunity to indulge in some hearty comfort food and support local culinary talent. Prepare to be mesmerized as you venture into the Haunted Maze, where you’ll encounter spinechilling surprises and eerie delights at every turn. If you’re feeling adventurous, try your luck on the Wrecking Ball and test your agility and balance.

No Halloween event is complete without delectable sweets. Indulge your sweet tooth with Halloween cookies that are sure to satisfy your cravings for all things spooky and delicious. Don’t forget to come dressed in your most creative and captivating costumes, as the Boo Bash will host costume contests with exciting prizes up for grabs.

The Marley Park Community Association’s annual Boo Bash promises an unforgettable evening of Halloween thrills and excitement. Make sure to secure your tickets early for this highly anticipated event. It’s bound to be a hauntingly good time!

Submitted by Christie Giannetto | Marley Park Homeowner

Chilli Cook-Off

Get your taste buds ready for the hottest event of the fall season - the Chili Cook-Off! Taking place on Saturday, October 28th, during the annual Marley Park Boo Bash, this sizzling competition is sure to spice up your day. Whether you’re a chili connoisseur or simply love good food, mark your calendars, and get ready to indulge in some mouthwatering chili creations.

The Chili Cook-Off will be a part of the Boo Bash festivities, making it a perfect event for the whole family. From 2-4pm, participants can drop off their delicious chili creations at the designated location. The best part? It’s absolutely free to enter! So, if you have a secret chili recipe passed down through generations or a new twist on a classic, this is your chance to showcase your culinary skills. Not only is it free to enter, but it’s also free to taste! Boo Bash Attendees will have the opportunity to sample all the mouthwatering chilis and cast their votes for the best one. The competition will be judged by the residents themselves, adding an exciting element of community involvement. To register for the Chili Cook-Off, simply contact MarleyParkOfficial@ gmail.com. Let them know that you’re eager to

participate and they will provide you with all the necessary details. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, everyone is encouraged to join in the fun and show off their chili-making prowess. This event promises to be a treat for all chili lovers. Imagine the tantalizing aromas wafting through the air as you stroll through the booths, sampling various chili recipes. From fiery and spicy to mild and savory, there will be a wide variety of flavors to please every palate. In addition to the Chili Cook-Off, the Boo Bash offers a range of family-friendly activities and entertainment. So, while you’re waiting for the results of the competition, you can enjoy other festivities such as costume contests, pumpkin carving, and live music. It’s a perfect opportunity to gather with friends and neighbors and experience the vibrant community spirit.

So, mark your calendars for Saturday, October 28th, and make your way to the Chili Cook-Off at Marley Park. Whether you’re competing or simply a chili enthusiast, this event is not to be missed. Prepare your taste buds for an explosion of flavors, and get ready to cast your vote for the best chili in town.

Submitted by Christie Giannetto | Marley Park Homeowner

Legal Advice

BENEFICIARY DEED: BETTER THAN PROBATE

If you want one or two adult to receive your home or real estate upon your death, a Beneficiary Deed is an effective, inexpensive way to avoid probate. A Beneficiary Deed is basically a “pay on death designation” for real property.

The Beneficiary Deed is fully revocable. The owner retains control of the property. There is no need to consult the beneficiaries upon sale or be concerned about the beneficiaries’ creditors. This is not the case when the property is owned as joint tenants with right of survivorship.

The Beneficiary Deed is a great tool for people who have all other assets in accounts which have beneficiary designations of some type. The Beneficiary Deed is not a good tool if you

want to leave your real property to more than two people, to minors or to adults with special needs receiving government assistance. In those instances, a trust is the best non-stress way to avoid probate

Sun City and Phoenix offices, Sravenscroft@CavanaghLaw.com or (623) 815-7451; legal practice focused on Wills, trusts, probate and trust administration.

Visit

Sharon Ravenscroft, M. Scott Rowan, Attorneys, Cavanagh Law Firm, PA,

Home Sweet Home

Even though home prices have moderated over the last year, many homeowners still have an incredible amount of equity. But what is equity? In the simplest terms, equity is the difference between the market value of your home and the amount you owe on your mortgage. The National Association of Realtors (NAR) explains how your equity grows over time: “Housing wealth gains are built up through price appreciation and by paying off the mortgage.” The equity you build up over the years can be used to your advantage when you sell your current house and buy your next home. If you no longer have the space you need, it might be time to move into a larger home. Or it’s possible you have too much space and need something smaller. Your equity can be a powerful tool you can use to help make a move in today’s market. That’s because it may be some (if not all) of what you need for your down payment on your next home. How much equity you have may surprise you. As Selma Hepp, Chief Economist for CoreLogic, says: “While equity gains contracted in late 2022 due to home price declines, homeowners on average still have

about $270,000 in equity, nearly $90,000 more than they had at the onset of the pandemic.”

If you’re looking to leverage your equity to boost your buying power in today’s market, having a trusted agent by your side makes a difference. A real estate professional can help you better understand the value of your home, so you’ll get a clearer picture of how much equity you are likely to have. As a recent article from Bankrate says: “Hiring a skilled real estate agent can give you a realistic estimate of home prices in your area and how to price your current home. Using that figure, you can calculate how much equity you have and what your net proceeds will look like, so you can apply that money toward the down payment and closing costs of your new home.”

Having a solid understanding of your equity is key when it comes to making decisions about buying or selling your home. A skilled agent can help you navigate the often-complicated process of selling your house and ensure the transaction goes smoothly.

Submitted by Christie Giannetto | REALTOR® | ΓEA⅃ Broker

Pawstume Parade

The annual Paw-stume parade is a highly anticipated event for dog owners and lovers in Marley Park. Taking place on October 28th at 9:00 am at the Marley Park gazebo, this funfilled event brings together the community to celebrate Halloween in style with their furry friends.

The event is open to all Marley Park residents who want to dress up their dogs in creative and fun Halloween costumes. From spooky ghosts to cute pumpkins, dogs of all shapes and sizes are welcome to participate in the parade. Owners can get as creative as they want with their costumes, and there are no limits to their imagination.

The parade consists of dogs walking around the park, showing off their costumes to the delight of neighbors and kids. The atmosphere is filled with excitement as everyone admires the creativity and charm of the dogs. It’s a great opportunity for dog owners to showcase their pets’ personalities and to connect with the community.

Prizes are awarded to the best costumes, adding an extra layer of fun and excitement to the event. The judges are always impressed by the level of creativity and originality of the costumes, making it a difficult decision to choose the winners. However, the competition is always friendly, and everyone is there to have a good time.

The Paw-stume parade is also a great opportunity for dog owners to socialize with other pet owners and to make new friends. It’s a fun and relaxed environment where everyone shares a common love for dogs and Halloween. The event is also an excellent opportunity for kids to interact with dogs in a safe and controlled environment, creating positive experiences and memories for both the children and the dogs.

Overall, the annual Paw-stume parade is an event that everyone looks forward to in Marley Park. It’s a time where the community comes together to celebrate Halloween, dogs, and the joy of dressing up. It’s an event that brings laughter, smiles, and happy memories for all who participate. So, if you’re a dog owner in Marley Park, be sure to mark your calendar and join in on the fun this year!

Submitted by Christie Giannetto | Marley Park Homeowner

Walk To School Month

Walking to school has numerous advantages for both children and adults. For children, it promotes a healthy lifestyle and helps them develop good exercise habits from an early age. Walking also enhances cognitive function, allowing students to arrive at school more alert and ready to learn. Additionally, walking with friends or family members fosters social interaction and strengthens relationships.

For adults, walking to school with their children provides an opportunity to bond and have meaningful conversations. It allows parents to actively participate in their child’s daily routine and engage in discussions about school, friends, and other important topics. Walking together also promotes a sense of community as neighbors and families join forces to create a safer and more enjoyable environment for everyone.

International Walk to School Month serves as a reminder of the importance of physical activity and the impact it has on our overall well-being.

By walking to school, we not only improve our own health but also contribute to a greener and more sustainable planet. Walking is a simple yet effective way to reduce our carbon footprint and decrease traffic congestion around schools. It also promotes the use of public spaces and encourages the creation of pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods.

During this month, schools and communities organize various events and programs to support and celebrate walking to school. These initiatives may include pedestrian safety workshops, walking school buses, and community walks. By participating in these activities, students and their families gain a better understanding of pedestrian safety rules, establish healthy habits, and experience the joy of walking together.

If your school does not currently participate in International Walk to School Month, consider taking the initiative to get involved. Reach out to the school administration, parent-teacher association, or local community organizations to discuss the possibility of organizing events or creating walking groups. By championing this cause, you can make a positive impact on the health and well-being of your community.

In conclusion, International Walk to School Month is an excellent opportunity to prioritize physical activity, foster social connections, and contribute to a sustainable future. Whether you walk to school or support the initiative in other ways, remember that every step counts towards a healthier and happier lifestyle. So lace up your shoes, grab your backpack, and join the movement to make walking to school a regular part of our lives.

Submitted by Christie Giannetto | Marley Park Homeowner

Samurai Sudoku

This samurai sudoku puzzle is a great way to engage the brain and help develop logic skills. To solve this Samurai puzzle use standard sudoku rules for every 9x9 grid: each digit from 1 to 9 can only appear once in every row, column and 3x3 box. Good Luck!

Solutions are on our website www.EstrellaPublishing.com