Goodyear Living Local Summer 2025 by IBuildMagazines.com

goodyear LIVING LOCAL

TWO BUSINESSES —

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EDITOR AND PUBLISHER: Nathan Oulman goodyearlivinglocal@gmail.com

GRAPHIC

CELEBRATING GOODYEAR LIVING LOCAL FIRST EDITION

As we introduce the inaugural Goodyear Living Local magazine first edition we can’t help but reflect on how this journey started. We embarked on this adventure with uncertainty, not knowing what to expect when we first started the magazine process. However, your overwhelming response exceeded our hopes and inspired us with your enthusiasm. We are deeply grateful for your support and your roles in making this journey possible.

Your desire to learn about the people and businesses in our beautiful area has made this launch very exciting. As we launch

our first issue, it’s a reminder of how important it is to support your local community and businesses – the fabric of Goodyear –from shopping to dining and everything inbetween.

It’s an honor to share these stories and local businesses with you and hope you enjoy getting to know the heart and soul of Goodyear, Arizona. I hope you enjoy it as much as we enjoyed putting it together. Happy reading!

Nathan Oulman, Publisher

Want to get noticed? Reach out to our marketing department to learn how to get into the next quarterly issue. We will put you in front of 10,000-14,000 people an issue by print and even more with our online version. According to a 2024 study held in the United States, the majority of adults prefer reading print magazines to digital, with 66 percent of respondents favoring printed publications. The study also revealed that over 45 percent of responding U.S. adults spent more than 15 minutes per day reading magazines in either format.

Amy Watson “Stats Plus”

Do not miss out on this incredible opportunity, get in front of your neighbors today!

The Complete Pet Animal Hospital: The Valley’s Gold Standard in Veterinary Care

Looking for exceptional veterinary care near Goodyear? We’ve found one local clinic that outshines them all: The Complete Pet Animal Hospital in nearby Litchfield Park. Under its warm, welcoming roof, this family-owned practice is showing what it truly means to care for beloved pets and their people.

We caught up with owners, Dr. Kaila Cruz (DVM) and her husband, Aaron (Operations Manager) to learn what inspires them, how they do what they do so well, and what sets them apart from everyone else.

From Service to Stewardship

Both Aaron and Kaila have served in the Army National Guard and live by a strong ethos of service. They also share a lifelong love for animals. “I grew up taking in any animal my mom would let me bring home,” Kaila laughs. Though she started out following in the footsteps of the doctors in her family, she pivoted from human medicine to veterinary care during college. “I’d still get to enjoy my love for animals but also the medicine part,” she says.

Born and raised in the Valley, Aaron had always wanted to be in business for himself and his family. “It was always a passion for me to call something my own,” he says. “After giving 14 years to the army and growing their programs, I thought, I’d like to grow my own program and I’d love to do it with my wife.”

They had the perfect combo of expertise; now they just needed a place to make their dream happen.

A Family Practice with Heart

In 2024, the duo purchased a single-doctor vet clinic in Litchfield Park. Today, they’ve built a team of doctors, vet

technicians, and support staff that offer cutting-edge care in a space that feels more like a home than a hospital.

From the beginning, the couple knew that they wanted to create a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Judging from her previous background in the vet field, Kaila noticed a lack of hospitality in the business. “In a lot of places, it’s like walking into a dentist or an urgent care – the walls are white, everything is shiny. It’s clean, but it’s also kind of scary, not only for the pets but for the people too, who are there making tough decisions.” Describing their hospital vibe, Kaila adds, “I always joke with people and tell them, ‘When you’re walking into my clinic it feels like you’re walking into a day spa.’” There’s a sense of lightness and ease there, and visitors feel more like family than clients.

Aaron adds that they prioritize transparency with everyone who walks in the door. “Client interaction and transparency in the consumer industry as a whole is lacking,” he observes. “It is so much more than just about rendering a service for us; it’s about client experience and education. Our appointment slots are 30 minutes compared to the average 15, just to afford extra time for our staff to educate the clients on what they’re doing and why.”

Compassion Over Cost

One thing that sets The Complete Pet Animal Hospital apart is its financial flexibility. As a privately owned clinic, they offer care that’s both accessible and humane. If money is a hurdle in a serious situation, “We have very creative ways internally of assisting owners financially,” Aaron says. “If there’s a patient in the building and it’s critical, I will always ask my doctors, ‘Do we have the means, the skill, and capacity to help this patient? What is the

overall prognosis?’ If it’s great…I’m going to figure out a way to help that client financially.”

Kaila agrees: “You could be in our room with the same shirt you’ve been wearing for the last two weeks, or you could show up in a Lamborghini, and we are still going to give you the exact same quality of medicine. We’re not going to change our plan based on your financial need. We will always find a way to make it work.”

In fact, in 2025 alone, they plan to provide nearly $250,000 in discounts, including for veterans, military members, and first responders.

Always There When You Need Them

Availability is another hallmark of their service. Kaila explains, “A lot of clinics in our area aren’t open on Saturday afternoon, or Sundays, or holidays. They won’t take on an extra emergency because their schedule is full,” which, she says, means a lot of sick patients not getting care. “We are willing to set aside the time to address those extra urgent cases.” They are open seven days a week and have a no-turn-away policy for current clients, always leaving space for same-day appointments.

Investing in Growth and Excellence

And this is one team that’s constantly learning and growing to provide patients modern, cutting-edge care. “Coming from the army space where training is key to mission success, we truly believe in training our staff. Everybody, from the technicians, to the doctors, to the assistants, to the receptionist, to myself – we go to continued education probably a couple times a month. We fully believe in personal growth. If a staff wants to go to a continued education class or course or conference, we say ‘yes’!”

Comfort and Care in Life’s Hardest Moments

For those heartbreaking moments all pet owners must face, the clinic provides a heartfelt, personalized farewell. Kaila explains, “At our clinic, we have two specific rooms designed for those end-of-life situations. They both have dim lighting, and calm music. However, we have an Alexa in there, so sometimes people don’t want calm music. They may want AC/DC because they have some funny story about their pet.” The staff ensures that each experience is tailor-made for pet-owners. “We have a little cart that has Hershey’s Kisses because every pet deserves a kiss before they go. We have shavers for fur clippings, and we help the families do pawprints if they want to. We have a silent alert system [to let the staff know when they are ready] so they can spend as much time as they need in that room. As you might imagine, if you’re saying goodbye to your loved one, you wouldn’t want that process to be rushed.”

The Complete Pet Animal Hospital works with an aftercare facility called Aqua Crossings that provides aqua cremation, a water-based process that allows clients to do a lot more with their pets’ remains. Aaron explains, “We’re really good friends with the owner, and it’s a really beautiful process.” Ashes are delivered to families at home — never an added burden.

Importantly, the clinic doesn’t profit from this part of care. Aaron explains, “We strongly believe in not making money off of it. We break even.”

Eyes on the Future

The dynamic duo and their team have a future vision for their clinic: strategic growth. “Can we sustain good quality service while we grow?” Aaron ponders. “That’s our primary purpose more than the growth itself. Within the next three years, God-willing, we will have a larger footprint in the west Valley. I would love to have a 6,000-square-foot hospital that allows for intern and extern doctors. Kaila agrees: “Dr. Schirmer and I love to teach, so we definitely want to take on more vet students, more veterinary technician students, and also potentially some specialists, eventually.”

A Place Set Apart

The Complete Pet Animal Hospital is much more than a veterinary clinic—it’s a community built on compassion, education, and integrity. With a commitment to serving pets and people equally with an unwavering standard of care, Aaron and Kaila and their team have created something truly unique in the Valley. Their clinic sets a new benchmark—not just for pet care, but for how thoroughly a local business can invest in the wellbeing of its neighbors, both two-legged and four.

Soar

Above it All

Take a Breathtaking Hot Air Balloon Ride

Looking for an experience that combines the adventure of flight with the beauty of desert landscapes? A local hot air balloon ride may be just for you! Imagine floating peacefully above the earth, surrounded by soft breezes and breathtaking views–rugged mountains, far-reaching plains, and the local wildlife that inhabits them.There are many opportunities nearby to schedule one of these sky-high journeys, year-round.

The Thrill of Flight

You may begin in the early hours of morning, or just before sunset—those times when the air is clearer and the wind is calmer. Enjoy a sense of anticipation as the burners heat up and the balloon slowly fills, preparing to carry you up and away. Taking off is a feeling like no other—a sense of weightlessness as you glide up into the sky. Soaring above city life’s busyness, you get a sense of unmatched

tranquility and oneness with the nature that surrounds you.

Flights generally last from 45 minutes to an hour, and balloons reach anywhere from 500 and 2,000 feet above the ground. While you’ll be travelling at speeds of five or six miles per hour, there’s little feeling of motion because you’re flying with the wind. Once you touch down, you’ll likely be invited to enjoy a traditional celebration—a special toast to commemorate the trip along with a keepsake certificate to take home.

How, When and Where?

We recommend booking a ride in one of the cooler months— between October and April—when winds are most favorable and temperatures are mild. Pricing may vary, depending on time of day and whether you book a private or shared flight. Here are a few nearby ballooning companies to consider:

Hot Air Expeditions – hotairexpeditions.com – 1-800-831-7610

Rainbow Ryders – rainbowryders.com – 1-800-725-2477

Apex Balloons – phoenixballoonrides.com – 1-877-946-8247

Tour packages generally include a pre-flight lesson, the balloon ride, and post-ride celebration to commemorate the trip. Children under 18 may require a parent to fly with them; expectant mothers and people in poor health may not be able to take the trip. Baskets can accommodate anywhere from two to fourteen people. Comfortable, casual, seasonal clothing is recommended as the temperature will be similar to that on the ground. Plan to allow 3-4 hours for the whole experience. If flights are cancelled due to weather, they can usually be rescheduled or a refund provided.

Whether you’re seeking a new adventure, honoring a special occasion, or looking for a unique way to explore the Sonoran desert, a hot air balloon ride is an experience you won’t soon forget!

Caring for Furry Friends in the Summer Heat Pets in the

Sun

When summer arrives, we go for cold drinks, fans, and shade–but how about those pets of ours? Animals are extra vulnerable in extreme heat because they can’t regulate their body temperatures like their humans can. Whether you have a faithful puppy, a curious cat, or another furry friend, it’s important to know how to switch up your care routine on those extra sunny days.

Shelter and Shade

Providing a shaded area for outdoor pets is vital. They may love frolicking in the sun, but eventually, they’ll need a refreshing retreat to cool off in. A few ideas for creating a hotweather haven: Fill a large planter with topsoil, poke an umbrella into it, and place it in a pet-popular spot in your yard; create an awning by hanging bed sheets or lightweight fabric between pillars, posts, or trees; if you’re handy, build a shade structure with PVC pipe and a tarp; buy a sun sail kit–a flexible triangle of screen-like fabric that blocks the majority of UV rays.

Keep The Water Flowing

Hydration is key in helping pets to enjoy a safe and healthy summertime. Keep fresh, cool water available, and refill it often. Add ice cubes for extra chill on especially hot days. Place bowls in various areas to remind them to drink up.

Take Cooler Walks

Between 11 AM and 3 PM., the summer heat is at its peak. Plan to walk dogs in the early morning or late evening for maximum comfort for everyone! Feel the pavement with your hand to make sure it’s not too hot for paws.

Grooming Matters

Brush pets regularly–especially those with long hair–to avoid excess fur. Don’t shave them, though, unless directed by a vet; they need some protection against overheating and sunburn.

Cool-Down Ideas

Have a cooling mat or damp towels available for pets to lie on. Water misters can also do the trick. While cats may duck into cool corners or spread out on hard floors, dogs may love a paddling pool.

Leave Them Home

Unless you’re headed somewhere that you can bring them inside, avoid taking pets in the car. Auto temperatures can rise quickly, even with windows cracked. (The inside of a car can reach over 170ºF!)

Heatstroke Awareness

Just like humans, pets can exhibit signs of heatstroke. Vomiting, excessive panting or drooling, seizures, lethargy, or collapse are things to watch for. If you suspect heatstroke, move them to a cool place immediately, give small sips of water, and call the vet. Dog breeds that are especially vulnerable to heatstroke are pugs, bulldogs, and Shih Tzus.

Making just a few mindful adjustments can pay off big time when it comes to summertime pet care. Happy pets help make happy humans, so take a little time to prepare for a fun and safe season for everyone!

Buc-ees One-Stop Wonderland Coming to Goodyear

If you’ve ever travelled along highways in the south, you’ve undoubtedly run across one of those beloved, all-in-one road trip destinations known as Buc-ees. Much greater than a gas station, Buc-cees is a massive convenience store that offers an array of fun merchandise, fresh food, every snack and drink imaginable, and the kind of rare, squeaky clean restrooms that vacationers dream of. And we have some great news in Goodyear: Buc-ees is coming to town! It’s sure to become one of the most popular local gas stations (plus a whole lot more!) around.

What’s it All About Anyway?

But first, what makes this place so special? Buc-ees was founded in 1982 in Lake Jackson, Texas. It grew quickly into a roadside favorite, providing much more than fuel to locals and road-trippers alike. With huge stores and a unique product offering that includes a variety of home decor, clothing, fresh-made food, local treats, and their own secret concoctions of condiments and sauces, (not to mention the cleanliness and friendly

service they’re known for!), they’ve gained loyal fans nationwide.

A Perfect Location

As Buc-ees has looked to expand into new states, Arizona’s growing population and vacation culture made it a no-brainer: Goodyear, with its location along the I-10 corridor, would be the perfect place to entice both residents and those passing through to frequent the one-stop shop; it’s the ideal destination for people looking for local places to eat, convenience stores, or rest areas.

Buc-ees in Goodyear will provide the usual friendly, spacious atmosphere with plenty of comfortable seating to cool off, take a rest, or enjoy a meal. Spanning approximately 74,000 square-feet, and measuring about 23% larger than a football field, it’ll offer 120 fueling stations for passenger vehicles only. Customers will enjoy iconic favorites like homemade fudge, gourmet beef jerky, Beaver Nuggets (a tasty puffed corn treat), homemade breakfast tacos and fresh barbeque. Products from local artisans and vendors

Much more than a gas station, it’s sure to be a favorite spot for locals and travelers alike!

will also be featured to help represent the local community.

Job and Revenue Jackpot

Situated on the southeast corner of Bullard Avenue and Interstate 10, the new location will be an economic win for the area, providing over 200 new jobs with full benefits, three weeks of paid vacation, starting pay beginning well above minimum wage and a 6% matching 401k.The revenue generated by the new attraction will contribute to the city’s General Fund to support key city services like parks and public safety. Proven to attract both outof-town and local visitors, Buc-ees will also help to make Goodyear a much soughtafter place to work, live and travel.

Coming Soon!

And best of all, we don’t have to wait too long! A grand opening is being planned for late 2025. Spread the word, come get some iconic beaver merch and sample all the eats and treats when those doors open in December! For more info, check out https://buc-ees.com

Hitting

Experience All the Mountains Have to Offer Trailsthe

Tucked away here in Goodyear, there’s a treasure for outdoor enthusiasts to discover: The Estrella Mountain Range. Whether you’re simply a lover of nature or a seasoned hiker, mountain biker or runner, these diverse and rugged mountains offer a wide variety of trails with a combination of unique wildlife, desert beauty, and beautiful vistas.

At lower elevations, you’ll be surrounded by palo verde trees, majestic saguaros, and prickly pear cacti. Up high, you’ll wind through a variety of rocky outcrops and desert plants. You’ll encounter many kinds of habitats, home to a diverse population of animals–desert tortoises, snakes, bobcats, coyotes, hawks, quail, and golden eagles. Plus, a visit in the spring will bring wildflowers bursting with color.

It All Starts at the Park

Estrella Mountain Regional Park covers over 20,000 acres, and offers a network of trails for all skill levels. It also has a nature center, staffed with helpful volunteers and rangers, a green space with plenty of room for playing ball and picnicking, and horseback riding facilities.

Here are a few trails you may want to try:

The Estrella Mountain Loop

The most strenuous trail, this loop offers a beautiful sampling of the region with a wide variety of ecosystems.

The South Mountain Trail

A little less challenging, this trail ascends more quickly and winds through rocky outcrops and giant boulders. At the summit, you’ll have a gorgeous 360-degree view of the desert that surrounds you.

The Black Rock Trail

This requires a moderate effort, but will reward you with rugged, meandering paths and a summit experience that includes other mountain ranges, valleys, and even a glimpse of urban Phoenix.

The Gila Trail

Recommended for beginners, this shorter trail offers a slower ascent and beautiful views along the way. It’s a great opportunity to spot wildlife too!

Come Prepared

Before hitting the trails, make sure you’ve covered all the essentials! First, let someone know where and when you are going and plan to check in with them. Bring a map and a GPS locator with an SOS function. Wear sun protection, and bring lots of water and snacks for the journey. Make sure your footwear is sturdy as you prepare for uneven, rocky terrain. Plan to arrive in the early morning or late afternoon, when temps are the mildest.

How to Plan a Visit

For more info, find Estrella Mountain Regional Park on www.maricopacountyparks.net.

• Park Address: 14805 W. Vineyard Ave., Goodyear, AZ 85338

• Contact: (602) 506-2930 ext. 6

• Entry Fees: $7.00 per vehicle

• Bathroom facilities: Several

• 4WD necessary? No

Whether it’s your first time on mountain trails, or it’s something you love to do year-round, you can enjoy all that nature has to offer right here in Goodyear.

Goodyear Real Estate at a Glance

Real Estate trends, Lifestyle Perks, and Why It’s a Buyer’s Market

Goodyear is one of the fastest growing cities in the country, for many reasons. With its heavenly climate, healthy living environment, growing job opportunities, and affordable new housing, it has become a sought-after nesting place for people from all walks of life.

A City on the Rise

Our city offers more than 300 days of sunshine annually, creating an adventure-seeking, outdoor-loving community. With miles of trails, sparkling lakes, rugged mountain silhouettes, and desert ecosystems, we have plenty to offer year-round for both visitors and residents.

Being 20-25 minutes from downtown Phoenix allows Goodyear’s residents access to all the dining, cultural, and entertainment perks while still enjoying everyday life in a spacious suburban environment.

In the last decade, major employers have moved in, including Microsoft, Nike, and Amazon, setting up data and logistics centers in the region. This has diversified the local economy and created jobs to draw new residents to the area. The city’s investments in education, healthcare, and infrastructure have helped to make it a place that’s constantly growing and improving every day.

Housing Market Snapshot

Even though housing prices in the US have shifted dramatically, Goodyear has stayed relatively affordable, especially for folks moving in from high-cost areas. Homes offer more space for the money, and there is a wide range of options available: from starter homes to new-builds in planned communities with parks, pools, and golf courses.

As of June 2025, there are nearly 500,000 more sellers than buyers in the U.S. The real estate market is currently considered a buyer’s market, and there are twice as many sellers as buyers in the Valley, which is great news for anyone looking to move in or change locations in Goodyear. There’s less competition, more negotiable prices, and more leverage to request concessions, repairs, or better terms.

Jennifer Polansky, a local realtor, member of the Goodyear Chamber and resident for 20 years has a long history with the market. She’s had the privilege of representing some of the iconic

homes and businesses in the area.“What we’re seeing right now is a balanced market learning toward a buyer’s market,” she says. According to Polansky, many people will say it’s extreme one way or the other when talking about buyers vs. sellers, but it’s actually a spectrum. “I’ve had some homes with several offers that fly off the market, and others that take longer to get under contract.” Regardless, she encourages, “Right now, there are opportunities for buyers to get better deals than ever before.”

Another realtor, DeWitt Lang, also with 20+ years of experience in the area, observes: “Build- to-rent properties have just exploded in the West Valley. That’s good, especially for people who want to be out of an apartment style and want to be in a single family type home. On the seller’s side, sellers of normal resale homes are competing with builders who are offering huge discounts on interest rates and additional seller concessions toward their closing costs.” This is making many sellers offer more concessions – a good time for buyers to be looking. Lang and his wife, Sharon, lead the Lang Group, and are affiliated with Homesmart.

Currently, there are nearly 1,000 homes for sale in Goodyear. The median listing price is near $518,000 and the median sold home price near $480,000, with a cost of $235 per square foot. Homes are spending an average of 67 days on the market before selling (up from 64 days last year).

Looking Ahead

As for the near future? Experts predict a continued buyer’s market, as the Phoenix metro area faces the largest ever gap between sellers and buyers. A slight decline in home prices is expected in the next year, with mortgage rates holding steady around 6%.

Bottom line: it’s a great time to consider changing locations locally or moving to town! Reach out to a local realtor or visit one of the following sites for help making your move: www.jenniferpolansky.com (Jennifer Polansky with Realty One Group) www.thelanggroupaz.com (DeWitt and Sharon Lang with Homesmart)

Travel Made Easy

Inclusive Travel Planning

At Easy Journey Travel, we believe travel should be safe, joyful, and accessible for everyone—regardless of age, mobility, cognitive or sensory needs.

Whether you’re planning a trip with a wheelchair user, a loved one with memory changes, or someone with sensory sensitivities, we specialize in creating inclusive, worry-free experiences for every kind of traveler.

From accessible accommodations and mobility support to sensory-friendly excursions and multigenerational itineraries, we handle all the details—so you can focus on what matters most: making memories together.

Services include

• Fully customized vacation planning for individuals, couples, and families

• Accessible cruises, resorts, tours, and multi-stop trips

• Support for travelers with ADHD, autism, or sensory challenges

• Mobility-friendly accommodations

• Travel planning for individuals with memory loss or cognitive conditions

• Multigenerational trip planning (from toddlers to grandparents)

• Pre-travel coaching and support

Let’s

Meet Your Travel Specialist

Hi, I’m Cindi, founder of Easy Journey Travel. With over 30 years as an occupational therapist, I’ve seen how overwhelming travel can be for individuals with changing mobility, health, cognitive, or sensory needs. That’s why I became a Certified Accessible Travel Planner—to ensure every journey feels safe, comfortable, and joyful.

I specialize in creating inclusive, customized travel experiences for all ages and abilities— whether you’re using a wheelchair, living with memory changes, or planning a multigenerational family adventure. I also offer engaging travel talks and tips at senior centers, community events, and retirement communities to inspire confidence and excitement about exploring the world. founder Easy Journey Travel

Here Comes the School Year

Your Guide to a Smooth Start

An all-in-one school prep guide to help your family start off on the right foot.

School bells will be ringing soon as the summer sun sets and back-to-school transitions begin again. From changing sleep schedules to buying all those supplies, this season can be both overwhelming (for moms and dads) and exciting (for the kiddos). By working as a team and taking a little time to prepare, families can start things off with more calm and confidence.

Practice Routines

Get those school-year routines going a few weeks in advance. Have kids start gradually heading for bed and waking up earlier so their new schedules won’t be so shocking. Practicing morning routines is key: get dressed, eat breakfast, brush teeth and be ready to face the world. It’ll make those first school days way less frantic and much more familiar.

(Try using a visual checklist for the young ‘uns to help them prepare more independently.)

Shop Together

While school shopping is dreaded by many, you can make it a fun family activity this year. Let kids come along for the ride to choose a special first-day outfit or some fun backpack accessories, and maybe even help to check off the supplies on their list. This can make heading back to the classroom feel more exciting and gives them a sense of responsibility and ownership.

How To Save On Back To School Shopping

To find back-to-school bargains, start by checking for coupons and sales, both online and in store. Consider buying in bulk for non-perishable items like notebooks and pens, and explore student and teacher discounts. Look for sales, especially around the start of August or after the school year begins.

Elaboration:

Coupons and Sales:

Retailers like Walmart and Target often offer back-to-school deals and discounts, so be sure to check their websites and look for coupon codes.

Bulk Buying:

For items like pencils, notebooks, and paper, consider buying in bulk from stores like Costco or Sam’s Club to save on the unit price.

Student and Teacher Discounts:

Take advantage of student discounts offered by various retailers and consider teacher discounts, which may be available at stores like Target.

Timing:

School supplies often go on sale in August and September, with the best deals sometimes available after the school year begins.

Price Matching:

Check with stores like Target, Walmart, and Staples to see if they offer price matching on competitor’s prices.

Online Shopping:

Amazon offers a wide variety of school supplies and often has dedicated back-to-school deal pages.

Consider Generic Brands:

Switching to generic brands for some items can help save money.

Prioritize Long-Lasting Items:

Focus on buying supplies that will last throughout the school year, such as durable backpacks and high-quality pens.

Ask for Discounts:

Don’t be afraid to ask for discounts, especially if you’re purchasing multiple items or considering a bulk purchase.

Negotiate Group Discounts:

If you’re shopping with other parents, see if you can negotiate a group discount from an office supply store.

Check for Sales Tax Holidays:

Some states and cities offer sales tax holidays around back-toschool shopping, which can significantly reduce the cost of supplies

Have a Feelings Fest

Take time to sit down and talk to your kids about how they feel going into the new school year. What are they anxious about? What are they looking forward to? How can you help to ease their transition? Encourage them to set a few goals for the year – maybe they hope to read more, learn a new skill, or make a new friend.

Be Ready For Simple, Healthy Meals

Have kids make a list of their favorite lunch and snack foods, add in your healthy options, and make a trial grocery run. Bring them along to the store and let them help pack lunches when the time comes. Consider creating a weekly plan and preparing the night before so they can grab and go each day. The more involved they are, the more likely they will be to eat what they’ve helped to prepare.

Foster Familiarity

Now is a good time to reconnect with classmates for a Facetime chat or a playdate. If your child is new to the school, visit the campus and schedule a tour if you can. The more familiar they are with people and surroundings, the fewer backto-school jitters they’ll have.

Prioritize Health and Wellness

Make sure vaccines, physicals, and dental visits are up to date. Make space and time for nurturing mental health – limiting screen exposure, encouraging downtime, and inspiring creative play (even for those teenagers!)

Create a Homework Haven

Find a distraction-free spot to designate for schoolwork – ideally, one for each child. Stock it with necessary supplies like paper, pens/pencils, and a charger. Having a consistent workspace helps kids to mentally separate homework and playtime.

(Try To) Be Flexible and Positive

Remember that no school year is without its challenges. The back-to-the-classroom transition can be tough, no matter how prepared you are. Help kids learn that mistakes and struggles are all part of growing. Try to be patient and take steps to adjust routines when something’s not working.

Whether you’ve done it ten times or this is your first rodeo, there’s a lot of gearing up to do this time of year. Remember: You’re learning right along with the kids in this parenting thing, so don’t expect perfection. Celebrate small victories, and give yourself a lot of grace. You deserve it!

Much More Than a Zoo: Adventure Awaits at Wildlife World

Looking for a year-round family-friendly destination with something fun for everyone? Why not try the Wildlife World Zoo? Covering over 215 acres and home to more than 600 species from around the world, it’s Arizona’s largest collection of endangered and exotic animals.

A Little of Everything

You’ll see diverse exhibits that recreate global habitats, and learn about the different animals that have made their homes there. Enjoy free experiences like sea lion, penguin, and exotic bird feedings, as well as the Wildlife Encounter Show, where you’ll learn about the world’s most majestic species. Get up close and personal when you schedule an animal encounter; you can choose a capybara, sea lion, or sloth, and help to feed and care for them.

Eat, Play, Enjoy

You’ll not only find animals there, you’ll find fun, food and adventure! The whole family can enjoy the zoo’s many rides including the train, roller coaster, log flume, safari tram, flying scooters, carousel, and zip line. Take a break and choose from several dining options, from cozy cafes to wideopen picnic areas.

Underwater Wonders

And it’s much more than a zoo! Wildlife World is also home to an expansive aquarium with a unique variety of marine life from both oceans and freshwater systems. Don’t miss the shark exhibit, an underwater tunnel where you’ll watch lots of fascinating creatures swim right beside you. You may want to touch a stingray as well, as you learn more about marine life conservation.

Conserving, Protecting, Preserving

In fact, Wildlife World Zoo is dedicated to ongoing conservation efforts in every area. They are committed to helping protect natural habitats and preserve endangered species. Visitors will learn about at-risk species and the challenges they face, as well as the things that are being done to protect them.

This destination is a captivating combination of fun-filled learning and hands-on experience, and promises to be unforgettable for both children and adults.

Interested in a visit? Here are a few details:

• Open 365 days a year

• Prices: Adult (13+): $52.00 | Child (3 – 12): $29.00 | 2 and Under: Free

For more info, visit www.wildlifeworld.com or call 623-935-9453.

Pulled Chicken Sloppy Joes (Sloppy Chickens)

Ingredients

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

½ large yellow onion, diced

1 tablespoon brown sugar, or to taste

2 teaspoons kosher salt, or to taste

1 teaspoon ground black pepper

1 pinch cayenne pepper, or to taste

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs

¾ cup ketchup

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

1 tablespoon hot sauce, or to taste

1 cup water

2 tablespoons thinly sliced green onions

½ cup diced jalapeño pepper

4 medium hamburger buns - split, toasted and buttered

Step 1:

Add vegetable oil to a saucepan, and then add (in this order) garlic, yellow onion, brown sugar, kosher salt, black pepper, cayenne, chicken thighs, ketchup, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce.

Step 2:

Place over high heat and wait until you can hear the garlic sizzling in the bottom of the pan, about 30 seconds. Let garlic sizzle for about 30 seconds before adding the water. Stir everything together and wait for the mixture to boil.

Step 3:

Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, uncovered, until the chicken falls apart, about 1 1/2 hours.

Step 4:

Stir in the green onions and peppers and cook until the peppers just turn tender, 3 to 5 minutes more. Taste for seasoning.

Step 5:

Remove from heat and serve on toasted hamburger buns.

You can use any kind of salt you like, chicken broth instead of water, and any green pepper instead of the jalapeño.

For a wetter, saucier Sloppy Joe that you eat with a fork, simply cook the chicken covered so the sauce doesn’t reduce as much, and/ or add more water or broth at the end to adjust the texture.

Lee Hardin

Producing Branch Manager/ SVP Mortgage Lending

NMLS: 707780

lee.hardin@rate.com (208) 946-0850 (208) 714-0958

Looking for a Mortgage Loan? Call Today!

AZ - 1000900, CA - CA-DFPI707780, ID - MLO-21376, IL - 031.0048735, KY - MC891976, OR - Licensed, WA - MLO-707780

Lee is passionate about helping improve the lives of his clients through home ownership! He has been doing mortgages for 20 years and has helped thousands of clients achieve their goals. Lee prides himself on giving personalized service to all of his clients and works to find the best solution for their lending needs.

Whether you are a first-time home buyer, buying another investment property, looking to lower your mortgage payment or wanting to get access some of the equity in your home with a cash-out refinance Lee will help you every step of the way. Lee takes pride in thoroughly educating his customers throughout the mortgage transaction, so they fully understand their options and feel comfortable with their chosen loan program.

His goal in any transaction is to have a firm understanding and clear communication from start to finish and this is one of the reasons he has so many return clients. Please reach out anytime using the contact information located on this page and use this website as a resource as you start your home financing journey.