Published by Estrella Publishing LLC, PO Box 6962, Goodyear AZ 85338. Additional copies and article reproductions can be obtained for a fee by contacting info@EstrellaPublishing.com
Catherine Uretsky, Publisher and Editor Christie Gianetto Assistant Editor
Talia Uretsky, Assistant Editor
Al Uretsky, Publisher and Sales Executive 623.398.5541 info@EstrellaPublishing.com
As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisper, November invites us to reflect on gratitude and community. This month, we celebrate the warmth of our neighborhood as we gather with friends and family for Thanksgiving, a time to express appreciation for the people and moments that enrich our lives. It’s also an opportunity to acknowledge the unique spirit of Marley Park and Homestead at Marley Park, where neighbors become friends and traditions thrive.
This month, we encourage you to explore the various local events happening around Marley Park. There are plenty of opportunities to engage with your neighbors, support local businesses, and enjoy the beautiful fall weather. These events foster camaraderie and strengthen our ties, reminding us that we are part of something larger than ourselves. As we prepare for the holiday season, it’s a wonderful time to give back to our community. Whether it’s donating food, volunteering time, or simply reaching out to those in need, let’s embody the spirit of generosity that this season inspires. Our community thrives on the collective efforts of its residents, and every act of kindness makes a difference.
Finally, I want to express my gratitude to all of you for your support and involvement in The Front Porch. Your stories, contributions, and feedback help us create a vibrant magazine that reflects the spirit of our community. I encourage everyone to share their experiences and ideas for future issues. Together, we can continue to celebrate the unique character of Marley Park and Homestead at Marley Park.
As we gather around tables this Thanksgiving, let’s cherish our connections and create lasting memories with our loved ones. Wishing you all a warm and joyous November filled with gratitude and community spirit! After all, in the words of Melody Beattie, “Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow.”
See you on The Front Porch!
Christie Giannetto Assistant Editor
The Front Porch Magazine
On Our Cover
Whether you’re new to Marley Park or a long-time resident, you’ve likely noticed the charming wooden storks adorning some yards, celebrating the arrival of new babies. These delightful symbols, placed by the Marley Park Community Cares Club, offer a warm welcome as families embrace their newest members.
Since 2014, I have had the privilege of serving as chairperson of the Community Cares Club. Our club consists of nearly 1,000 neighbors who receive email notifications with a sign-up link whenever a new meal train is organized. A heartfelt thank you goes to our
dedicated volunteer, Olav De Vlieger, affectionately known as our “Stork Guy.” He handles the installation and removal of the storks, making it easier for neighbors delivering meals to find their destinations. I also want to recognize Malissa and Ed Macdonald for building and donating the storks years ago, as well as Kandi Day with Crafty Days for giving them a fresh coat of paint recently.
While our storks bring joy, our mission extends beyond that. We coordinate meal deliveries for families welcoming newborns, neighbors recovering from surgeries, and those facing health challenges or loss. If you or someone you know is expecting or in need of support meals, please reach out to me to arrange a meal train or have a stork placed in your yard. I rely on our community to keep me informed about who is expecting or in need, as this is a task I cannot accomplish alone.
If you’re interested in joining the club or would like to be added to our email list, feel free to contact me directly with any questions or to arrange a stork and/or meal train. Thanks to the generosity and involvement of our incredible neighbors, we deliver nearly 100 meals each year to families in need. The club thrives on our community’s kindness, fostering a spirit of care and connection that truly makes Marley Park a wonderful place to live!
Submitted by Christie Giannetto, Marley Park Homeowner
Turkey Trot
Get ready to lace up your sneakers for the muchanticipated Marley Park Turkey Trot! This festive community tradition returns on Saturday, November 23rd, at 8:30 a.m., offering a lively and active way to usher in the holiday season.
The Turkey Trot invites participants of all ages and fitness levels to walk, jog, or run through the scenic streets of Marley Park. Along the route, you’ll take in the charm of the neighborhood’s parks and tree-lined streets, making it a refreshing outdoor experience for everyone. Whether you’re pushing a stroller, keeping pace with a group, or setting your own personal record, the Turkey Trot is all about coming together for a fun and friendly race. And don’t worry— refreshments will be waiting at the finish line to reward your efforts.
This community event is perfect for both serious runners and casual strollers alike. If you’re searching
for a festive way to get moving and connect with neighbors before Thanksgiving, the Marley Park Turkey Trot is just the ticket. Invite your family, rally your friends, and join in the fun for a morning of fitness, camaraderie, and a little holiday cheer.
For additional details, stay tuned to the Marley Park Facebook page, watch your MPCA emails, or contact MPCA at (623) 466-8820 or mpca.az@fsresidential.com
Submitted by Christie Giannetto, Marley
Park Homeowner
Spaghetti Dinner
On Monday, November 11th, 2024, Boy Scout Troop 194 will host the annual Veterans Day spaghetti dinner at the Marley Park Heritage Club. This heartfelt event honors the courageous men and women who have served in the armed forces while providing a delightful evening for the community. A suggested donation of $5.00 is welcome, with veterans enjoying free admission as a gesture of appreciation for their service.
The dinner will take place at the Marley Park Heritage Club, located at 15210 W Sweetwater Ave, Surprise, AZ 85379, conveniently situated at the northeast corner of Sweetwater Ave and Founders Park Blvd. Festivities will begin at 5:00 PM and continue until 7:00 PM, allowing ample time for everyone to savor a delicious meal.
The highlight of the evening will be the delectable spaghetti dinner, lovingly prepared by the dedicated members of Boy Scout Troop 194. The troop has worked tirelessly to create a warm and inviting atmosphere for veterans and community members alike. The tantalizing aroma of simmering sauce and freshly cooked pasta will promise a delightful culinary experience for all.
In addition to the delicious food, this gathering will provide an opportunity for the community to connect with local veterans, fostering gratitude and appreciation. Attendees can share stories, enjoy a meal, and strengthen bonds within the community. Join us on this special day as we come together to honor our veterans and celebrate the unity and appreciation that will resonate long after the event concludes.
Submitted by Christie Giannetto, Marley Park Homeowner
Holiday Homes
Marley Park, known for its vibrant community spirit, is once again preparing for one of the most anticipated events of the season—the Annual Holiday House Decorating Contest. As the holidays draw near, residents are encouraged to join in the fun and bring their festive visions to life by participating in this beloved tradition.
To enter, homeowners must register their homes by submitting their address to the Marley Park Community Association. You can find more details and registration information at MyMarleyPark.com. This year, the contest will be held from November 21st to December 14th, so there’s plenty of time to get your home ready and enjoy the festivities.
Once all entries are in, the community gets to play a key role in the excitement. Marley Park residents will have the chance to vote for their favorite holiday displays, adding a layer of engagement and community pride. Additionally, a panel of judges will visit each registered home to evaluate the creativity,
effort, and overall festive impact of the decorations, ultimately selecting the winners.
Winners will be recognized with special signs, which they can proudly display in their yards, marking their homes as holiday highlights in the community. If you’re considering participating or need more information, don’t hesitate to reach out to the Marley Park Community Association. Whether you’re a veteran of holiday decorating or trying it for the first time, they are available to help guide you through the process.
The Annual Holiday House Decorating Contest is a cherished tradition that brings neighbors together, spreading joy and cheer throughout Marley Park. So gather your lights, wreaths, and ornaments, and join in making this holiday season one to remember!
Submitted by Christie Giannetto, Marley Park Homeowner
Veteran’s Day Parade
The City of Surprise invites everyone to come together to honor the brave men and women who have served our country at the annual Veterans Day Parade. This beloved community tradition celebrates veterans with a festive procession of floats, marching bands, dancers, and more. Taking place on Monday, November 11, 2024, the parade is a heartfelt tribute to the dedication and sacrifice of those in uniform.
The parade will begin at 10 a.m., with the route set along Bullard Avenue, stretching from Paradise to Tierra Buena lanes. Families and community members are encouraged to arrive early to secure the best viewing spots along the parade route. For those wanting to start their day with a full stomach, breakfast will be available at Surprise Stadium from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. This year, the Surprise Police Department will be serving up a delicious breakfast in the centerfield plaza. The breakfast plate includes three pancakes, two sausage links, and a drink, priced at $10, while a kid’s plate, featuring a smaller portion, costs $5. For those just in need of a drink to warm up, beverages will be available for $3.
For parade-goers interested in becoming part of the celebration, clubs, organizations, and groups are
invited to participate. Whether you’re a local group or just a group of neighbors with a patriotic spirit, you can join in the fun by submitting an entry form through Surprise Rec by Friday, November 1st. There is no cost to participate, making this an excellent opportunity to show your support for veterans while also representing your community. Whether you choose to walk, drive, or ride in a float, every participant adds to the spirit of this special day.
In the coming days, maps detailing road closures and parking locations will be made available, ensuring that everyone can easily access the event without hassle. Be sure to check the city’s website or social media pages for updates as the event approaches.
Don’t miss this chance to show your gratitude to our veterans while enjoying a memorable community event. Gather your family, invite your friends, and come celebrate together at the City of Surprise Veterans Day Parade.
Submitted by Christie Giannetto, Marley Park Homeowner
Home Sweet Home
As a homeowner planning to sell, your home equity could be one of your greatest assets. Over the past five years, home prices have risen sharply, leading to increased equity for many homeowners. According to Redfin, the typical down payment for U.S. homebuyers is now $67,500, an all-time high that’s nearly 15% more than last year. This increase is driven by homeowners using their equity to make larger down payments on their next home.
Home equity is the difference between your home’s market value and the amount you owe on your mortgage. When you sell, you can apply that equity toward a down payment on your new property. While some loan options allow as little as 3% or even 0% down, many homeowners are choosing to put more money down because of the long-term benefits.
One of the biggest advantages of a larger down payment is borrowing less. This means you’ll pay less in interest over the life of the loan, leading to significant savings over time. A reduced loan amount means you save money in the long run.
Additionally, a bigger down payment can help you secure a lower mortgage rate. Lenders often view
larger down payments as a sign of financial stability, which may lead them to offer you a better rate, further increasing your savings.
A higher down payment can also lower your monthly payments, making your new home more affordable. With a smaller loan, your monthly mortgage payments shrink, leaving more room in your budget for other expenses or savings.
If you’re able to put down 20% or more, you can also avoid Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI), which is required for lower down payments. Skipping PMI reduces your monthly costs and makes homeownership less expensive.
In short, rising home equity is helping homeowners afford larger down payments, which in turn can offer long-term savings and greater financial flexibility. If you’re considering selling, your equity could be the key to making your next home more affordable. Let’s explore how your equity can boost your buying power in today’s market.
Submitted by Christie Giannetto, REALTOR®, ΓEAL Broker
Legal Advice
WHAT A LEGAL WILL NEEDS
The Last Will and Testatement is the document that allows courts to re-title accounts and assets which are in your name (not a trust) and which do not have a beneficiary designation.
If you are leaving assets to adults (not minors), then you can use beneficiary designations and avoid probate. A Will is still a good idea to have as a backup for any account without a beneficiary; either because a beneficiary was not listed or a financial company lost the beneficiary designation.
If your spouse has children which are not also your children, the Will also can assure that your spouse’s half of the community property goes to you. Otherwise, intestate laws apply and your spouse’s children will be entitled to one-half of the community property and one-half of your spouse’s sole and separate property.
Be sure to keep your Original Will because a copy of the Will requires a formal court probate hearing to present evidence that the Original Will was not revoked.
Wills need two witnesses and a specially worded affidavit so the Will can be probated without a hearing. A handwritten Will does not need witnesses or a notary if all of the dispositive provisions are in your handwriting and all pages are originals.
Sharon
Ravenscroft, M. Scott Rowan, Attorneys, The Cavanagh Law Firm, PA, Sun City and Phoenix offices, (623) 815-7451 or Sravenscroft@ CavanaghLaw.com; legal practice focused on Wills, trusts, probate and trust administration. For more information www.sharonravenscroft.com
Puzzle Time
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. Solutions are on our website www.EstrellaPublishing.com
