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
Spring has officially sprung here in Marley Park, and with it comes a season full of community, celebration, and fresh starts. As the flowers bloom and our parks burst with color, there’s no better time to reconnect with one another and enjoy everything our wonderful neighborhood has to offer.
In this issue, we’re thrilled to introduce you to one of the amazing families who call Marley Park home in our “Meet Your Neighbor” cover story. Their story is a beautiful reminder of the warmth and camaraderie
With Easter just around the corner, we’re gearing up for one of our most beloved events — the annual Easter Eggstravaganza! This festive celebration promises fun for the whole family, and we need your help to make it extra special. Volunteers are needed to help stuff Easter eggs, and if you’re able to lend a hand, you’ll find all the details in this issue.
Thinking about giving your home’s exterior a fresh new look? We’ve included important information about painting guidelines to help keep Marley Park as charming and beautiful as ever.
As we enjoy these gorgeous spring days, now’s the perfect time to explore some of Arizona’s amazing outdoor destinations before the summer heat rolls in. From scenic hikes to day trips, we’ve gathered some great ideas for you to make the most of this season. Lastly, a heartfelt thank you to our wonderful advertisers who make The Front Porch Magazine possible. Their support helps us share stories, events, and news that bring our community closer together. In the words of Robin Williams, “Spring is nature’s way of saying, ‘Let’s party!’” See you on the Front Porch!
Christie Giannetto Assistant Editor The Front Porch Magazine
On Our Cover
If you’ve spent any time in Marley Park, there’s a good chance you’ve felt the warmth and charm that makes this neighborhood so special. That same spirit shines through in Justin and Amanda Ratkovich, who’ve called Marley Park home since 2017.
Arizona natives through and through, Justin and Amanda grew up in the north Peoria and north Phoenix area. After getting married in 2015, they spent a couple of years in California before moving back to the state they’ve always called home. It was Marley Park’s lush greenery — reminiscent of Sacramento, where they lived for a short time — that first drew them to the neighborhood. As newlyweds, they could already picture their future family growing up in this picturesque community.
That vision has become a reality! The Ratkoviches have three beautiful daughters, ages 5, 4, and 6 months. Their two older girls love ballet and tap dance, and the family embraces a creative, hands-on approach to life — including homeschooling their children. Amanda, a talented illustrator, owns two businesses, Lily & Threads as well as Deep Roots and Blooming Shoots, where she creates early educational curriculum, biblical illustrations, and resources. She
also shares her artistic gifts as a watercolor instructor at Copper Hills Center for the Arts. Justin, Associate Pastor at The Garden Church, also runs his own personal training business, Blue Shoes Fitness, offering online training programs designed for parents.
Their love story is just as heartwarming as their life in Marley Park. They met in their senior year of high school in an economics class and quickly became best friends. Through their college years, they stayed connected by writing letters to each other. For three years, they were “just friends” before finally taking a leap of faith and admitting they were in love — a leap that has led to nearly a decade of marriage.
When they’re not busy with work, church, and family life, Amanda loves sewing, quilting, watercolor painting, and making all things sourdough. Justin’s interests include fitness, reading, and language learning. Together, they’ve created a life filled with creativity, faith, and community.
We’re so lucky to have the Ratkovich family as part of our Marley Park neighborhood. If you see them around, be sure to say hello — you just might make some wonderful new friends!
The Great Outdoors
As summer approaches and Arizona’s temperatures start to climb, now is the perfect time to explore all that the Phoenix area has to offer before the heat kicks in. From outdoor adventures to cultural escapes, there are plenty of must-do activities around Phoenix that are best enjoyed in the springtime.
One of the most iconic hikes in Phoenix, Camelback Mountain offers stunning panoramic views of the city and surrounding desert. The Echo Canyon and Cholla Trail provide an invigorating challenge for hikers, and while the temperature can soar in the summer, spring provides the ideal conditions to enjoy this hike. Be sure to start early to beat the midday sun.
Located in Papago Park, the Desert Botanical Garden is home to a vast collection of desert plants. During spring, the garden comes alive with vibrant wildflowers and blooming cacti. It’s a peaceful spot to take a leisurely walk, learn about Arizona’s native flora, and take in the beauty of the desert landscape.
A short two-hour drive north of Phoenix, Sedona offers awe-inspiring red rock formations and a relaxing, small-town atmosphere. Spring is an ideal
time to visit, as the weather is mild, making it perfect for hiking, biking, or simply driving along scenic routes like the Red Rock Scenic Byway. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit local art galleries or try a jeep tour to explore hidden canyons.
For a cultural experience, head to the Heard Museum in downtown Phoenix. This museum is dedicated to Native American art and culture, showcasing the rich history and artistry of the region’s indigenous peoples. The museum’s spring exhibitions often feature stunning artwork and fascinating historical displays.
A bit further out, Prescott offers charming historic streets and cool, fresh air in the spring. Stroll through the quaint town square, visit the Sharlot Hall Museum, or explore the surrounding Prescott National Forest.
Whether you’re hiking, sightseeing, or soaking up culture, there’s no shortage of activities to enjoy in Arizona before the summer heat sets in.
Submitted by Christie Giannetto Marley Park Homeowner
Concert 4 A Cause
Music, community, and kindness come together on Friday, April 25th, at the Marley Park Heritage Club back lawn for a special event you won’t want to miss! From 6 to 8 p.m., residents and guests are invited to enjoy a free live concert featuring The Sunland Players Band, a talented group performing a mix of Top 40 hits and favorites from the ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s. Whether you prefer tapping your feet, singing along, or dancing on the grass, this event promises something for everyone.
This lively evening is more than just a concert—it’s an opportunity to give back to the community. The event is hosted by the Marley Park Philanthropy Club, and attendees are encouraged to bring unexpired, shelf-stable food donations to support the Valley View Community Food Bank. Every can, box, or bag of food collected will help provide meals to families in need.
Gather your family, friends, neighbors, and even visiting guests, and bring lawn chairs or blankets to settle in for a relaxed and entertaining night under the open sky. The atmosphere will be filled with good music, great company, and a shared spirit of generosity.
Marley Park is known for its strong sense of community, and events like these are a testament to the neighborhood’s commitment to connection and compassion. Whether you’re new to the area or a longtime resident, this concert is a wonderful way to meet new friends, catch up with neighbors, and experience the warmth of community giving. Supporting the Valley View Community Food Bank is a meaningful way to make a difference while enjoying a fantastic night out. Even a small donation can go a long way in helping those struggling with food insecurity. So, mark your calendars, gather your loved ones, and don’t forget your donations. Let’s make this evening of music and giving one to remember. See you on the lawn!
Submitted by Christie Giannetto Marley Park Resident
Hop To It
Spring is in the air, and Marley Park is gearing up for one of its most beloved traditions — the Easter Eggstravaganza! But before the big day arrives, we need your help to make the magic happen. On Friday, April 12th at 9:00 a.m., residents are invited to join the Easter Egg Stuffing Party in the Heritage Club Multipurpose Room.
This is a wonderful opportunity to connect with neighbors, share some laughs, and help prepare for an event that brings so much joy to the community. Volunteers will help stuff Easter eggs with delicious treats and surprises that will delight children during
the Eggstravaganza. Whether you’re a long-time resident or new to Marley Park, this is the perfect chance to get involved and make a difference. Of course, no good deed should go unrewarded! Coffee and donuts will be provided while supplies last — so come early, grab a treat, and enjoy the festive atmosphere. It’s a morning filled with fun, friendship, and community spirit.
If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact Kara Lowry at Kara. Lowry@fsresidential.com. Let’s work together to make this year’s Easter celebration unforgettable.
Painting Tips
Marley Park is a beautiful and distinctive community, and as it matures, maintaining the exterior appearance of homes remains essential. Homeowners are responsible for keeping their properties in good condition, and a fresh coat of paint not only enhances curb appeal but also provides lasting protection against the elements. If your home hasn’t been painted in the last 7 to 10 years, it may be time for an update. The intense desert heat and year-round sun exposure gradually wear down exterior materials, including paint, making regular maintenance crucial.
Marley Park’s unique character is reflected in its diverse architectural styles, and as such, the community does not have pre-selected paint schemes. To preserve this vision, the original developer provided “paint tips” to guide homeowners in selecting appropriate colors for repainting.
Please note that the Association does not have records of original paint colors. If you’re unsure of your home’s original palette, you may need to do additional research. Any new exterior paint color schemes must be submitted to the MPCA Design Review Committee for review and approval before any work begins. When choosing colors, be sure to follow the guidelines for your home’s architectural style. For example, if the style includes a three-color scheme, the same number of colors must be applied during repainting.
In the coming weeks, the Association will begin conducting community inspections and sending paint reminders to homeowners as needed. Thank you for helping to maintain the beauty and integrity of Marley Park.
Eggstravaganza
Get Ready, Marley Park!
The annual Easter Eggstravaganza is just around the corner, promising a morning filled with festive fun and unforgettable memories. Mark your calendars for Saturday, April 19th, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and head over to Founder Park for this beloved community celebration.
This year’s event is packed with exciting activities for kids and adults alike. The highlight of the day is, of course, the Easter Egg Hunt — a delightful adventure where children can scour the park for colorful eggs and sweet surprises. Don’t forget your baskets!
Be sure to grab a photo with the one and only Easter Bunny, who’ll be hopping around and ready for smiles and snapshots. Adding to the whimsical atmosphere, a talented balloon artist and face painters will be on hand to transform little faces into vibrant works of art and create imaginative balloon creations.
The fun doesn’t stop there! Kids will love the pony rides and the ever-popular petting zoo. This year’s petting zoo features a special guest — a charming surprise you won’t want to miss.
Feeling hungry after all that excitement? Cousins Coffee and Urban Waffle House food trucks will be onsite, offering delicious treats and refreshing beverages available for purchase.
The Easter Eggstravaganza is a free event, exclusively for Marley Park Community Association (MPCA) residents. Don’t forget to bring your MPCA resident ID for entry.
Gather your family, invite your neighbors, and join us for a day of laughter, fun, and community spirit. We can’t wait to see you there!
Submitted by Christie Giannetto Marley Park Homeowner
Perfect Parks
Bumble Bee Park is one of the cutest and friendliest parks I’ve ever been to! It’s tucked away on 150th Drive, right between Georgia and Alexandria Way. The whole playground is bee-themed, with bright yellow equipment that makes it feel super cheerful. It’s perfect for little kids under five, with small slides, two tiny rock walls to climb, and a soft, padded surface underneath to keep everyone safe while playing.
One of my favorite things in any park is a swing set, and this one has two swings designed just for younger kids. They have special seats with leg holes, so little ones don’t slip out. There’s also a sand pit that’s great for digging and building sandcastles. And if you like bouncy rides, you’ll love the two yellow bee-shaped riders on springs—they’re fun to hop on!
Besides the playground, Bumble Bee Park has a huge, open grassy field that stretches across the park. It’s
perfect for running, playing soccer, or even having a picnic. Some of the trees are still growing, but there are also big, shady ones along the edges where you can cool off from the sun.
Overall, Bumble Bee Park is such a fun and happy place, especially for younger kids. If you haven’t been there yet, you should totally check it out!
Submitted by Hannah Age 12
Marley Park Resident
Home Sweet Home
Selling a house involves many moving parts, and the last thing you want is for a deal to fall apart over unexpected repairs discovered during the buyer’s inspection. That’s why it’s smart to anticipate potential issues before buyers even step through the door. One way to do that is with a pre-listing inspection — a professional home inspection you schedule before putting your house on the market. Just like the inspection a buyer will do after making an offer, this process identifies any issues that could impact the sale, like structural problems, outdated HVAC systems, or other essential repairs.
A pre-listing inspection can be especially helpful if you want to avoid surprises later. While it’s not always necessary — especially if your home is relatively new and you’ve been the only owner — it can be invaluable for older homes, helping you address potential problems before they become deal-breakers. The key is deciding whether the benefits outweigh the costs. Spending a few hundred dollars now could save you time, money, and stress later.
In today’s market, buyers are more cautious about their spending and want reassurance that the home they’re buying is worth the investment. A pre-listing
inspection gives you time to make repairs on your schedule rather than rushing while under contract. It also helps avoid last-minute negotiations or price reductions caused by unexpected issues. Plus, when your home is in its best possible condition, it’s more likely to sell quickly and with fewer concessions from you.
Before moving forward, talk to your real estate agent. They’ll help you decide whether a pre-listing inspection makes sense for your home and the local market. If you choose to proceed, your agent can guide you in prioritizing repairs and understanding any disclosure requirements. Some states require you to disclose issues you choose not to fix, and your agent’s expertise will help you navigate those decisions.
While a pre-listing inspection isn’t required, it can be a powerful tool in today’s market. Knowing your home’s condition ahead of time lets you take control of the process and make informed decisions. By addressing potential issues early, you’ll be better positioned for a smooth, successful sale. Let’s connect to see if this step makes sense for you.
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
