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
February is here, and with it comes a month full of heartwarming connections and community spirit. As we continue to embrace the charm and camaraderie of our neighborhoods, this issue of The Front Porch is filled with stories and features that celebrate what makes Marley Park and Homestead at Marley Park so special.
In this month’s “Meet Your Neighbor” article, we’re thrilled to introduce you to one of our remarkable residents. Their story reminds us all of the unique individuals who make up our vibrant community and the shared values that bring us together. Don’t miss the chance to get inspired by their journey and perhaps find a new friend just around the corner.
February is also American Heart Month, a perfect time to focus on taking care of our most vital organ.
Inside, you’ll find an insightful article on heart health, packed with practical tips and advice to help you and your family maintain a healthy lifestyle. Whether it’s through mindful eating, regular exercise, or stress management, let’s make 2025 the year of a healthier heart for all.
If you’re looking for something delicious to try, you’re in for a treat! This month’s recipe comes straight from the kitchen of one of our talented neighbors. It’s a dish that’s sure to warm you up and bring a smile to the table. Be sure to check it out, and maybe even share your own culinary creations for future issues.
Finally, we’re bringing the fun with Bunco Night! Join us on the second Friday of the month for an evening of laughter, dice, and friendly competition. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a curious newcomer, all are welcome. It’s a great way to meet neighbors and enjoy a night of lighthearted fun.
As always, thank you for being part of this wonderful community and for making Marley Park and Homestead at Marley Park communities we’re all proud to call home. Wishing you a month filled with connection, wellness, and joy.
In the spirit of Valentine’s day and in the words of Mahatma Gandhi, “Where there is love there is life.”
See you on the Front Porch!
Christie Giannetto | Assistant Editor The Front Porch Magazine
On Our Cover
Growing up with visual impairment and HermanskyPudlak syndrome, twin sisters Candice and Crystal Sipe found joy in recreational therapy, a passion that would shape their futures. During hospital stays, Candice engaged in singing, dancing, and movement with her therapists, unaware that both she and Crystal would one day earn degrees in recreational therapy and inspire others through their teaching.
The twins, residents of Marley Park, were named fall 2024 Outstanding Graduates from the School of Community Resources and Development at Arizona State University (ASU), each earning a Bachelor of Science in recreational therapy. Born in India and adopted by American parents, the twins attended Glendale Community College before enrolling at ASU.
Candice recalls how recreational therapy provided positivity and relief from their medical challenges. “I never thought, as a child, that I would see myself as a recreational therapist as an adult,” she said. “We didn’t tell each other,” Crystal added. “We both researched the field independently, thinking the other would choose something different.” In addition to their academic pursuits, the sisters have led a Christian ministry called Angels in Voice for nearly 20 years, performing in churches, independent living centers, and local events. This experience helped them develop confidence and leadership skills.
In 2022, they worked as music teachers at the Foundation for Blind Children, helping children with visual impairments. While they enjoyed teaching, they sought a more financially stable career path.
Upon becoming certified recreational therapists, the sisters plan to start a business offering music, dance, and fitness programs for the visually
impaired community, as well as creating videos and audio recordings. Candice and Crystal attribute their success to their supportive parents. “If it wasn’t for their encouragement, we wouldn’t be doing this today,” said Crystal.
Reflecting on their journeys at ASU, Candice’s “aha” moment came during a comprehensive training program for the visually impaired, where personality tests guided her towards recreational therapy. Crystal’s moment occurred while seeking a career change; personality tests suggested recreational therapy, aligning with her social nature and desire to help others. To current students, Crystal advises perseverance, while Candice emphasizes self-care and seeking help. Their commitment to advocacy and research is personal, as they’ve participated in clinical trials for Hermansky-Pudlak syndrome since 1995. The Sipes’ journey is a testament to resilience and the transformative power of recreational therapy.
March Craft Fair
Get ready for a day filled with creativity and community spirit at the Marley Park Arts and Crafts Fair! Taking place on March 1st, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., this vibrant event will be hosted at the Heritage Club Park Lot. It’s a fantastic opportunity for residents and visitors to come together to enjoy local artistry, explore handmade creations, and support small businesses.
The fair offers a special Kids Space, where young entrepreneurs can participate as vendors and sell their creations for just $5. This is a wonderful chance for children to showcase their talents, learn about business, and contribute to the event’s creative atmosphere. Adults are also encouraged to join the fun. Marley Park residents can enjoy the fair for $15, while nonresidents are welcome for $30, subject to availability.
The Arts and Crafts Fair is open to the public, making it a perfect destination for anyone looking to shop for unique, handcrafted items. Stroll through the vendor booths to discover a wide array of art, crafts, and other creative treasures. Whether you’re searching for the perfect gift or something special for yourself, you’re sure to find something to love.
Are you an artist, crafter, or vendor interested in showcasing your work? Registration is open, and you can sign up to participate by visiting www.MyMarleyPark. com. This is an excellent chance to share your talent with the community and connect with new customers. For any questions or additional information, reach out to Kara Lowry at Kara. Lowry@FSResidential. com. She’ll be happy to assist with vendor inquiries, event details, or general concerns.
Don’t miss out on this exciting day of art, crafts, and fun! Mark your calendar, gather your family and friends, and join us at the Marley Park Arts and Crafts Fair for an unforgettable experience. Celebrate creativity, community, and the joy of handmade treasures in the heart of Marley Park!
Wine Tasting
Celebrate the season of love with an unforgettable evening of wine, food, and community at the Valentine’s Wine Tasting Party, hosted by the Marley Park Minglers Club. This exclusive event is the perfect opportunity to mingle with neighbors and friends while enjoying a delightful selection of wines and appetizers. The event will take place on Saturday, February 15th, from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m., at the Secrest Residence, located at 12614 N 145th Dr, Surprise, AZ.
To make the evening even more special, each guest is asked to bring one bottle of white or red wine to the Secrest residence before the party. Be sure to label your bottle with your name to ensure everyone knows who brought each selection. Additionally, please bring a small appetizer to share with the group—a great way to complement the wines and spark conversation. For those who prefer beverages other than wine, feel
Bunco
Mark your calendars! Bunco night happens on the second Friday of every month, starting at 6:00 p.m. at the Marley Park Heritage Club, located at 15210 W Sweetwater Ave. The event offers the perfect way to wrap up your week and kick off your weekend with good vibes and company. Bunco is a simple dice game played in rounds. No experience is necessary; the rules are easy to learn, making it accessible for everyone. Each participant contributes a $5 buy-in, which goes toward prizes. The game is coed, so bring your friends, partner, or spouse. The more, the merrier! Be ready to mix, mingle, and meet new people as players rotate tables throughout the night.
In the spirit of sharing and creating a welcoming atmosphere, attendees are asked to bring a small appetizer to share. Whether it’s a plate of deviled eggs, a charcuterie board, or your favorite dip, snacks are an integral part of the Bunco night experience. The shared food table becomes a hub for lively conversation and delicious bites between rounds.
free to bring your own drink of choice. This ensures everyone can raise a glass and join in the fun!
Kindly RSVP by February 12th to 714-904-6412 to secure your spot at this community gathering. The event is open to Marley Park residents and their guests, making it a fantastic way to meet new people and strengthen neighborhood bonds. The Valentine’s Wine Tasting Party is more than just an evening of indulgence; it’s a celebration of friendship and community spirit. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or just looking to enjoy a fun night out, this event promises to be a highlight of the season. Don’t miss out—reserve your place today and get ready for a night to remember!
Submitted by Christie Giannetto Marley Park Homeowner
Please note that Bunco night at the Marley Park Heritage Club is primarily for Marley Park residents. However, up to 15% of participants may be nonresidents, so residents are welcome to invite friends and neighbors from other communities. This inclusive policy ensures that everyone can enjoy the fun and camaraderie that Bunco night offers.
Bunco is more than just a game; it’s a community. It’s a chance to connect, share laughs, and maybe even spark new friendships. The dice rolls and score tallies are exciting, but it’s the shared moments and conversations that make the evening memorable. Whether you’re in it for the prizes, the snacks, or the company, Bunco night promises an evening of joy and connection. So, gather your dice-rolling enthusiasm, bring your favorite appetizer, and come ready for a fun-filled night. See you at 6:00 p.m. on the second Friday of the month!
Submitted by Christie Giannetto
Marley Park Homeowner
Spring Training
Baseball fans, mark your calendars! On February 25th at 1:00 PM, the Kansas City Royals will face off against the Texas Rangers in a highly anticipated Spring Training game at Surprise Stadium. Don’t miss this thrilling opportunity to catch Major League Baseball action right in your backyard!
Marley Park residents are in for a treat! The first 400 residents to register will receive free lawn tickets to this exciting game. To claim your tickets, visit www. MyMarleyPark.com and register starting February 3rd at 9:00 a.m. This offer is exclusive to members of the Marley Park Community Association, with a limit of four tickets per household. For those looking to bring additional guests, discounted lawn seats can be purchased for just $5 each using the code “Marley.” Keep in mind that tickets are available on a firstcome, first-served basis, and anyone aged 2 and older will require a ticket. Once registered, tickets will be available for pick-up at the Will Call booth on game day, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
This isn’t just a chance to enjoy a fantastic day of baseball, it’s also an opportunity to support a great cause. All proceeds from the game will be donated to the Surprise Sundancers, a dedicated non-profit organization with over 750 members. The Sundancers provide invaluable volunteer services at Surprise Stadium and throughout the community. Funds raised will go toward scholarships for deserving students in Surprise and the Northwest Valley, making a meaningful impact on local education.
Spring Training games are the perfect way to enjoy beautiful Arizona weather, connect with neighbors, and cheer on your favorite teams. With free tickets, discounted options, and the chance to give back to the community, this event promises to be a highlight of the season. Secure your tickets early and get ready to enjoy an unforgettable day of baseball at Surprise Stadium. We’ll see you there!
Submitted by Christie Giannetto Marley Park Homeowner
Winter Health
Winter Respiratory and Stomach Viruses: What You Need to Know and How to Stay Healthy
As respiratory and gastrointestinal infections continue to affect communities across the United States, understanding how to prevent and manage these common viruses is crucial. Three notable viral infections - Norovirus, Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), and Influenza - each present distinct challenges to public health.
Norovirus, often called the “stomach flu,” is highly contagious and causes severe gastrointestinal symptoms. The virus spreads through contaminated food, surfaces, or close contact with infected individuals. RSV primarily affects the respiratory system and can be particularly dangerous for infants, older adults, and immunocompromised individuals. Influenza, a seasonal respiratory illness, can range from mild to severe and spreads primarily through respiratory droplets.
Prevention strategies for all three viruses share common elements. Frequent handwashing with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds is crucial, especially before handling food and after using the bathroom. For Norovirus specifically, alcohol-based hand sanitizers are less effective, making thorough
handwashing essential. To prevent RSV and flu transmission, avoid touching your face, maintain physical distance from sick individuals, and consider wearing a mask in crowded indoor spaces during peak seasons.
If you contract any of these viruses, proper management is key. For Norovirus, focus on preventing dehydration by drinking plenty of clear fluids to replace those lost through vomiting and diarrhea. Small, frequent sips are better tolerated than large amounts at once. With RSV and flu, rest is crucial, and over-the-counter medications can help manage symptoms like fever and congestion. Create a humid environment using a humidifier to ease respiratory symptoms.
Maintaining a clean environment is essential for preventing virus spread. Regularly disinfect commonly touched surfaces like doorknobs, light switches, and electronic devices. For Norovirus specifically, use bleach-based cleaners as other disinfectants may not be effective. When caring for someone who is sick, wear disposable gloves and wash contaminated items thoroughly.
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, inability to keep liquids down for 24 hours, or signs of dehydration. For high-risk individuals, including young children, elderly adults, pregnant women, or those with underlying health conditions, early medical consultation is recommended.
info@sadd.org
CPR Training
February is a month that brings love to the forefront, celebrated with chocolates, roses, and images of hearts. While we focus on gifting and showing affection to our loved ones, it’s a great opportunity to reflect on the heart beyond just symbolism. Heart disease is one of the leading health challenges affecting millions of Americans, either directly or through loved ones who suffer from it. February, recognized as Heart Health Awareness Month, serves as a reminder to prioritize heart health and take steps toward prevention.
One of the simplest ways to show support for heart health is by wearing the color red. On February 7, 2025, National Wear Red Day encourages individuals across the country to wear red clothing and accessories. This visible show of solidarity helps raise awareness about cardiovascular disease and its impact on lives. It’s a small but powerful gesture that brings attention to a serious health issue.
In addition to wearing red, there are several important actions we can take to improve heart health. One of the first steps is to schedule an appointment with a doctor. Regular checkups allow healthcare providers to assess individual risk factors for cardiovascular disease. By understanding personal risk, we can make
informed decisions about food plans, exercise routines, and lifestyle choices. Working with a doctor also helps find the ways to best incorporate any changes unique to our own situations.
Another key aspect of heart health is being aware of cardiovascular events. Being able to recognize the warning signs of heart attacks and strokes can help us react quickly in an emergency and potentially save lives. Having this knowledge is a crucial step toward safeguarding ourselves, family, and friends we care about.
Taking a CPR class is also an invaluable way to support heart health. CPR training can equip individuals with the skills needed to provide life-saving help during a medical emergency. Many organizations offer CPR courses both in-person and online, with weekday or weekend schedule options, making it accessible to anyone looking to learn this life-saving technique.
As we celebrate love this February, let’s not forget to extend that care to our hearts by making informed choices, seeking medical advice, and participating in initiatives like National Wear Red Day. By being proactive, we can reduce the impact of heart disease and hopefully have many more Valentine’s Day celebrations with those we love.
Submitted by Sarah Wells Marley Park Resident
Home Sweet Home
As we move through the first quarter of 2025, the real estate market is marked by uncertainty. However, this isn’t inherently positive or negative, it simply means trends need time and data to emerge. A predictable seasonal factor is the expiration of listings in December, often creating an “improved market” for January sellers. As the Cromford Report notes: “With many sellers taking homes off the market for the holidays, it would be unusual if the market had not improved for the remaining sellers during the 50th week of the year. A 5% improvement between November and December is typical.” Adding to this, we’re coming off a long election period. Historically, elections have a minimal direct impact on real estate. While perceptions may suggest market shifts post-election, mortgage rates—driven by inflation, economic growth, and fiscal policy—are the primary influence. Predicting the effects of a new administration remains speculative.
In Phoenix, the market favors sellers more often than buyers. November briefly dipped into a buyer’s market, a rare occurrence in the past 25 years. However, the luxury and mainstream markets behave differently. Luxury activity rises, fueled by strong stock and crypto performance, while the mid-market struggles
with mortgage rates above 6%. Demand hit a low in September but has slightly recovered, while supply continues to grow. The Cromford Report observes: “Buyers have benefited from more choice, and sellers are suffering increased competition. Most zip codes in Greater Phoenix remain in a frigid market, with the lowest contract ratio since January 2015.”
Pricing trends vary. The luxury sector sees growth, while the mainstream market faces potential declines, particularly in outlying areas. Pricing typically lags market shifts, so significant changes may take months. The persistence of a buyer’s market depends on mortgage rates. A drop to around 6% could spur demand and end the buyer’s advantage. Rates above 6.5% may increase the downward pressure on prices.
Regardless of market conditions, I remain dedicated to selling homes. With nearly 20 years of experience navigating all types of markets, I’m confident in my ability to help you succeed. Markets don’t intimidate me, and they shouldn’t intimidate you. Whatever 2025 holds, I’ll keep you informed every step of the way.
Submitted by Christie Giannetto | REALTOR® | ΓEAL Broker
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