The Front Porch

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

Talia Uretksy, Assistant Editor

Al Uretsky, Publisher and Sales Executive 623.398.5541 info@EstrellaPublishing.com

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Welcome to your April edition!

As we step into the blooming days of April, the spirit of community and achievement fills the air in Marley Park. In this issue of The Front Porch magazine, we are delighted to shine a spotlight on the exceptional accomplishments of one of our very own residents, Troi Orton. Troi’s recent admission to EmbryRiddle Aeronautical University is a testament to the dedication and talent within our community. We congratulate Troi on this remarkable achievement and wish him the very best in his future endeavors.

This month, Marley Park is abuzz with exciting events that promise to bring neighbors together and create lasting memories. From the thrilling pop-up skate park that will surely be a hit with the young and youngat-heart, to the Marley Park Minglers Club game night that offers a perfect opportunity to forge new friendships, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Additionally, mark your calendars for the Concert for

a Cause, where we can come together as a community to support a meaningful cause while enjoying live music and good company.

In this issue, we explore the heartwarming initiatives behind the Boyscout Flag Program and the Veterans Commemorative Plaza in Marley Park. These programs pay tribute to the deep-rooted values of service, honor, and remembrance that are cherished within our community. We hope that these opportunities inspire you and remind you of the strength and unity that binds us together in Marley Park.

As we continue to nurture our community bonds, we are thrilled to highlight the various neighborhood clubs that offer avenues for connection, recreation, and shared interests. Whether you are interested in chess, puzzles, book clubs, or fitness activities, there is a club for you to join and engage with like-minded neighbors who share your passions.

As we embark on this new month filled with promise and community spirit, we invite you to immerse yourself in the stories, events, and opportunities that Marley Park has to offer. Together, let us celebrate our achievements, support one another, and continue to build a thriving community that we are proud to call home.

In the words of Jessica Harrelson, “Spring adds new life and new beauty to all that is.” Wishing you a wonderful spring!

See you on The

Front Porch!

Christie Giannetto | Assistant Editor | The Front Porch Magazine

Concert for a Cause

Mark your calendars for a special evening of music and philanthropy on April 13th from 6-9pm at the Heritage Club Lawn.

The Marley Park Philanthropy Club is proud to present a live concert featuring The Last Shot Band, all in support of the Valley View Community Food Bank (VVCFB). Join us with your family and friends, along with your lawn chairs, blankets, and most importantly, unexpired, shelf-stable food donations.

The event promises an unforgettable outdoor experience filled with classic rock hits from legendary artists like Chicago, Marshall Tucker Band, and Aretha Franklin. This charitable initiative aims to make a real difference in our local communities of Surprise, Sun City, El Mirage, and Youngtown. All food donations received will go directly to those in need through the Valley View Community Food Bank. For more details and updates about the event, please visit their website at https://feedingaz.org/.

Before packing your donations, please ensure that the items are not expired. Your generosity and

thoughtfulness will go a long way in helping those who are less fortunate in our community.

If you’re unsure about what to donate, here are some suggested items to kickstart your giving spirit: various soups, chili, tomato sauce & paste, essential items like peanut butter, jelly & jam, pancake syrup, baby necessities such as food, wipes, diapers, and formula, dry essentials like mashed potatoes, pancakes, cornbread, biscuit mixes, breakfast staples like oatmeal, Cream of Wheat, and healthy cereals, nutritious canned fruits and vegetables with reduced sugar content, staples like pasta, brown & white rice, canned & dry beans, high protein sources like canned tuna, chicken, and salmon, refreshing drinks such as 100% fruit juice (canned, plastic, or boxed) and bottled water.

Let’s come together as a community to enjoy great music and make a meaningful impact on the lives of those in need. Your support and contributions will surely make a difference at the Concert for a Cause.

Submitted by Christie Giannetto | Marley Park Homeowner

Veterans Plaza

In a world where we often get caught up in the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it is important to take a moment to pause and reflect on those who have made sacrifices for our country. The Veterans Commemorative Plaza (VCP) provides a unique opportunity to honor and remember the brave men and women who have served in the U.S. military.

The VCP is a special place where individuals can purchase engraved pavers to commemorate veterans or show their support for the plaza. These personalized pavers serve as a lasting tribute to the service and dedication of our military members. Whether you are looking for a meaningful gift for a loved one or simply want to show your appreciation for our veterans, purchasing a paver at the VCP is a wonderful way to do so.

For just $75, you can have a paver inscribed with the name, branch of service, and dates of service of a veteran. This thoughtful gesture not only honors the individual veteran but also contributes to the overall beauty and significance of the plaza. Additionally, pathway pavers are available for purchase by individuals, families, or businesses who wish to support the VCP. These pavers can be customized with the name of the purchaser, creating a sense of community and solidarity among those who value our veterans.

The deadline to order your paver is fast approaching, with orders due by April 5th. The pavers will be installed in the VCP in time for Armed Forces Day on May 18, 2024, providing a fitting tribute to our military members on this important day of remembrance.

For more information on how you can purchase a paver for the Veterans Commemorative Plaza, contact Bill Adams at billandespy@ cox.net or 623.444.9877. You can also visit the VCP website at VCPAZ.com to learn more about this meaningful initiative.

Your support is invaluable in honoring and remembering our veterans. By purchasing a paver for the VCP, you are not only paying tribute to those who have served our country but also ensuring that their sacrifices are never forgotten. Join us in creating a lasting legacy of gratitude and respect for our military members at the Veterans Commemorative Plaza.

Submitted by Christie Giannetto | Marley Park Homeowner

On Our Cover

In a heartwarming display of dedication and perseverance, Troi Orton, a bright young student, recently received the prestigious Space Force Type I scholarship and the Embry-Riddle Presidential scholarship. The news of his selection for these scholarship, which cover all expenses at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, where he will pursue a degree in Aerospace Engineering, has filled him and his family with immense pride and joy.

Troi’s journey to this remarkable achievement has been nothing short of inspiring. His parents, Ying and Jamea Orton, have watched him excel academically for years. However, it was his unwavering determination and hard work that truly set him apart. In preparation for the scholarship, Troi committed himself to a rigorous physical training regimen, shedding 35 pounds and meeting the demanding fitness standards set by the program. What makes his accomplishment even more impressive is that he managed to seamlessly balance his physical training with his academic pursuits, his passion for music, and his volunteer work.

Marley Park residents, Ying and James Orton couldn’t be prouder of their son, not just for his academic achievements but for the incredible work ethic and

drive he has displayed throughout his journey. Troi’s dedication serves as a shining example of what can be achieved through hard work, perseverance, and a clear vision of one’s goals. Upon graduation, he will commission as an officer in the U.S. Space Force, where he will serve a minimum of four years. This opportunity not only allows him to pursue his passion for aerospace engineering but also enables him to contribute to the cutting-edge work of the Space Force, shaping the future of space exploration and defense.

As Troi embarks on this exciting new chapter in his life, his family, friends, and mentors have no doubt that he will continue to shine brightly. His journey so far is a testament to his resilience, determination, and unwavering commitment to his dreams. With his sights set on the stars, Troi Orton is poised to achieve even greater heights, inspiring those around him to reach for their own dreams with passion and perseverance.

Congratulations, Troi! All of us in Marley Park are so proud of you and wish you all the best on your future endeavors.

Submitted by Christie Giannetto | Marley Park Homeowner

Legal Advice

Make A Will Not A Mistake

While there are many forms of estate planning documents available on line, there are just as many ways to make mistakes that could cause problems for you and your loved ones. Original documents are important. Financial institutions want to see original powers of attorney and Wills. When there is only a copy of the Will, the court process to probate can be double the time and cost of probating an original.

Legal terms have specific meaning. If the term “heir” is used, when meaning “descendants,” unintended rights could be given to a spouse or sibling. Powers of attorney should not be contingent on you being incapacitated. Once you are found incapacitated, you lose your legal rights to handle financial decisions. You should not have to lose your rights, when you just need help on the phone or going to the bank.

Health care powers of attorney should cover mental health and medical health care. Avoid court intervention by having a complete health care power of attorney. With a trust, probate can only be avoided if assets are titled to the trust or made payable to a

trust. Without a trust, probate can be avoided by utilizing beneficiary designations on accounts and a Beneficiary Deed for real estate.

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 visit www.sharonravenscroft.com

Home Sweet Home

Thinking about selling your house and wondering if now’s a good time to do it? Here’s what you need to know. Even though the number of homes for sale has been growing this year, there still aren’t enough homes on the market for all the buyers who want to buy. So, what does that mean for you? To keep it simple, it means it’s still a seller’s market. Here’s how it works: A neutral market is when supply and demand is balanced. Basically, there are enough homes to meet buyer demand based on the current sales pace, and home prices hold fairly steady.

A buyer’s market is when there are more homes for sale than there are buyers. When that happens, buyers have more negotiation power because sellers are willing to make compromises to close the deal. In a buyer’s market, sellers may have to do price cuts to reignite interest in their home, and prices may go down. But we haven’t seen this for years since there are so few homes available to buy.

In a seller’s market, it’s just the opposite. When the supply of homes for sale is as low as it is right now, it’s much harder for buyers to find homes to purchase.

That creates increased competition among purchasers which can lead to more bidding wars. And if buyers know they may be entering a bidding war, they’re going to do their best to submit a very attractive offer upfront. This could drive the final sale price of your house up.

What Does This Mean for You?

The market is still working in your favor. If you lean on an agent for advice on how to get your house list ready and how to price it competitively, it should get a lot of attention from eager buyers. That means you’ll likely get multiple offers and see your house sell quickly and for top dollar. As a recent article from Ramsey Solutions explains: “A seller’s market is when demand for homes is higher than the supply of homes. And that’s still the case right now. If you’re planning to sell your house, you can expect to sell it fairly quickly for close to your asking price—as long as your asking price is realistic for the current market.”

Submitted by Christie Giannetto | REALTOR® | REAL 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

Difficulty: Easy Monday, 11th March 2024

Pop Up Skate Park

Attention all thrill-seekers and skateboarding enthusiasts! Get ready to shred and show off your skills at the upcoming pop-up skateboard park event in Marley Park. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, this event promises an exhilarating experience for all.

Mark your calendars for Saturday, April 6th, from 10 am to 1 pm, as the Heritage Club parking lot located at 15210 W Sweetwater Ave, at the northeast corner of Sweetwater Ave and Founders Park Blvd, transforms into a skater’s paradise. The event will feature a variety of exciting obstacles and ramps for you to conquer, including a mini ramp halfpipe, two quarter pipes, a grind rail, and a launch ramp.

What makes this event even better? It’s free for all Marley Park Community Association residents. So, grab your skateboard, gear up, and join us for a morning filled with adrenaline-pumping fun and friendly competition.

Safety is a top priority at the pop-up skatepark, and all participants are required to wear a helmet, elbow pads, and knee pads. So, make sure you come prepared to

enjoy the event safely and responsibly.

Whether you’re perfecting your kickflips, mastering your grinds, or simply enjoying the vibrant skateboarding community, this event is the perfect opportunity to connect with fellow skaters, showcase your skills, and have a blast in a supportive and inclusive environment.

For those who are new to skateboarding or looking to improve their skills, don’t worry! The pop-up skatepark welcomes skaters of all levels, providing a welcoming space for beginners to learn from more experienced riders and hone their abilities in a fun and encouraging atmosphere.

So, dust off your skateboard, grab your safety gear, and head over to the Heritage Club parking lot on Saturday, April 6th, for an unforgettable skateboarding experience. Whether you’re dropping in for the first time or showing off your latest tricks, the pop-up skatepark in Marley Park promises an exciting day of shredding, camaraderie, and unforgettable memories.

Submitted by Christie Giannetto | Marley Park Homeowner