Moon Valley Tattler May 2024

AN Amazing African Safari

Read ON Page 3

Molly the comfort dog - 8

Last time - 17

MVWC Expands Boundaries - 19

Pictured on the cover: Shannon Perry and daughter Julie Nelson

An Amazing African Safari

SHANNON PERRY AND JULIE NELSON

Shannon Perry, Phoenix, and her daughter, Julie Nelson, Loveland, CO, have a tradition of taking an annual international mother-daughter trip. Last year the two embarked on a safari in South Africa, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Botswana. They saw the Big Five: lion, elephant, rhino, leopard, and Cape Buffalo. They also learned about the small five: antlion, buffalo weaver, elephant shrew, leopard tortoise, and rhinoceros beetle. Seeing a leopard at night and another one resting in a tree was a highlight for Julie who loves all things “cat.” We saw hundreds of zebra (rhymes with Debra in Africa) and impala which are small antelope and the meals of many predators. We have been mispronouncing zebra our whole lives!

Julie was surprised how close they were to the animals. She was used to being told to not go near animals in the U.S., especially ones with babies, yet they drove right up to a pride of lions (the male false charged us!) and elephants. We stayed in wonderful, tented camps, with open-air dining, enjoying local foods. We slept in bedrooms under mosquito nets. No air conditioning but we did have wi-fi in a few places. Most interesting was the “loo with a view,” a restroom that had no back wall but a wonderful vista of the river and the animals.

We saw wonderful, colorful birds. Shannon’s favorite was the violet breasted roller, a very colorful bird of violet and blue feathers that shimmered. Swallow-tailed bee-eaters were another favorite along with the African hoopoe.

Julie loves waterfalls and we had an amazing helicopter flight up and down Victoria Falls. The roar and the mist above the falls are spectacular. Not to be missed.

A wonderful trip with long international flights to and from Africa and short flights with bush pilots to the game parks. The flights to get there and back are very long, but worth the amazing experiences.

Healthy Living Starts From Within

Christian Care Fellowship Square Phoenix offers the perfect setting to immerse yourself in a healthy and purposeful life From customized wellness programs, continuing education, and extensive opportunities to enjoy life-long hobbies, you will enhance your overall well-being and health surrounded by the warmth of companionship

To learn more, call 602-833-7702, or scan to visit our website:

TRAPPED IN MOON VALLEY

It is indeed graduation season; you see all the white chalked windshields with congratulatory comments, facebook filled with photos, and the announcements cards are coming in our mailboxes daily. OH how I remember those days with such fond and vivid memories. Heck I even got engaged on the day of my college graduation,( that is another story someday!!). Think back, the world was our oyster, and we had so many things to do, places to go. Tucked in one of my old dairies I still have a card I received for my high school graduation, below you can read it’s sentiments:

Teen Creed

Don’t let your parents down, they brought you up.

Be humble enough to obey, you may give orders someday.

Choose companions with care, you become what they are

Guard your thoughts, what you think, you are.

Choose only a date, who would make a good mate.

Be master of your habits, or they will master you.

Don’t be s how-off when you drive, drive with safety and arrive.

Don’t let the crowd pressure you, stand for something or you fall for anything.

Author: Unknown

I have looked back at this old and tattered card for almost 35 years, and still find it very relevant in many veins of my life. As well as preaching a few lines over and over to my friends, family and foes. Go ahead and clip it, slide it in a card or wallet, pass it on it is a very simple yet powerful and easy way to go about life : old or young!.

Good luck and congratulations to all the young graduates in Moon Valley, may you go out and stand tall, go far, make us proud and come back and share your worldly talents and treasures.

Dawn Trapp

About Artplay: Founded in 2010, Artplay was formed to serve the needs of all children who deal with emotional issues and need help deciphering their feelings so they can manage them more easily. Many parents ask, “Where was Artplay when I was a kid?” Having a place to become emotionally strong, is so meaningful. Elizabeth Tomko, the founder, created Artplay with a clear intention: A creatively unique and non-clinical place to empower kids. Kidpowerment! Photo above features the new location on 40th Street & Greenway.

CONGRATULATIONS

to Kathy Hubbard for being recognized as an Outstanding Woman in Business by Phoenix Business Journal!

Kathy is Owner/Co-Founder of Hubbard Family Swim School, a staple in the Moon Valley community.

Artplay Opens a Brand New Location

BY ELIZABETH TOMKO

After 13 years of business, Artplay has decided to branch out in order to offer emotional support to more children. A new location has opened in North Phoenix. This reflects the growing need for helping kids increase their emotional intelligence, so they can feel calm/regulated. The new location is located at 40th Street and Greenway. The original location is on 12th Street and Missouri Avenue.

Artplay sessions are designed to help children ages 4-16 years learn about their emotions by allowing them to explore freely through art and play. This process can empower kids to better articulate how they feel and to develop calming techniques used at home and at school.

At Artplay, staff members undergo training in the “Artplay Way.” This not only ensures they have a higher level of education in Counseling, but it also emphasizes exceptional skills in helping kids in a direct, yet compassionate manner. Additionally, Artplay prioritizes transparency and collaboration by providing feedback after each session, offering valuable insights into your child’s progress. The owner personally handles all intake calls, ensuring a tailored match for your child with the most suitable helper.

Many people express uncertainty about what transpires behind closed doors in other therapies they have tried, but the Artplay philosophy is to keep these metaphorical doors open. This approach allows families to gain understanding and practical insights into supporting their child. We also maintain open lines of communication with your child’s school when necessary, creating a comprehensive and highly effective support system.

One of Artplay’s staffers summed up their invaluable work this way, “I love helping Artplay kids because the lessons they are learning about themselves in our sessions will follow them for many years. So, in working with kids now, I actually get to work with them for a lifetime.”

Learn more by visiting artplayhealing.com.

To schedule a session for your child, call or text 602-329-1347, or email liz@artplayhealing.com

Artplay Locations and Hours:

Midtown Phoenix: 1130 E Missouri Ave, Suite 350, Phoenix, AZ 85014

North Phoenix: 15601 N. 40th Street, Building 130, Phoenix, AZ 85032

Hours (both locations): Monday through Friday from 11am-7pm; Saturdays from 10am-3pm

Building Community Resilience: The Role of Block Captains in Moon Valley

BY DREW HUTCHINSON, PRESIDENT

MOON VALLEY NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION

Just north of downtown Phoenix lies our picturesque neighborhood of Moon Valley, a neighborhood of vigilant neighbors working in harmony. At the core of this collective vigilance are the unsung heroes known as Block Captains, who dedicate themselves to nurturing a safer, more connected neighborhood through the Moon Valley Neighborhood Association (MVNA).

You may be asking yourself, "What is a Block Captain?" This question echoes through the streets of Moon Valley, drawing attention to these essential guardians of the community. A Block Captain serves as the vigilant eyes and ears for a cluster of houses, entrusted with identifying any unusual occurrences that may warrant attention. However, they are not vigilantes; rather, they are conduits of communication, bridging the gap between residents and law enforcement.

The duties of a Block Captain extend far beyond mere observation. They are tasked with building a cohesive network within their block, establishing contact lists, and organizing information to give feedback to the MVNA. Tracking incidents, updating residents about pertinent issues, and promptly reporting concerns to the authorities are all part of their daily routine. Moreover, Block Captains serve as catalysts for community engagement by coordinating annual activities, fostering camaraderie among neighbors.

The impact of the MVNA Block Captain program is felt by fostering open communication and a close-knit community spirit. Block Captains cultivate an environment where neighbors watch out for each other, fostering a safer, more supportive environment for all.

Interested in becoming a Block Captain? If you are an individual eager to embrace this role, you can sign up on the MVNA website, where you will be welcomed by a supportive network ready to guide you through this journey. A simple commitment of time can yield profound results, enhancing the safety and well-being of our Moon Valley community, while forging lasting bonds among neighbors.

We owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to the remarkable individuals who laid the foundation for the thriving community we cherish today. Among these trailblazers, Blanche Lukes stands out as a beacon of dedication and vision.

Alongside her husband Jerry, Blanche has been an integral part of the fabric of Moon Valley since its inception. Jerry's tenure as President of the MVNA speaks volumes about their commitment to our neighborhood. However, it is Blanche's unwavering resolve and ingenuity that have left an indelible mark on our community.

In the years before the advent of Google Maps, Blanche took it upon herself to chart the course for our community's Block Captain program. With meticulous care, she painstakingly hand-drew the Block Captain boundaries, laying the groundwork for this amazing program.

Thank you, Blanche, for your enduring legacy of service and your unwavering dedication to the well-being of our beloved Moon Valley. Your impact resonates in every corner of our community, and we are profoundly grateful for your continued support.

For more information on the MVNA and how you can volunteer, please visit our website at www.moonvalley.org. Let's continue to make Moon Valley a special place that people love to visit and for us, a wonderful place to live.

Molly the Comfort Dog

Bet you never met a dog at a funeral home… Well, here I am -- Molly, the “Comfort Dog and Calendar Girl” for Hansen Mortuary. I am a five-year-old goldendoodle (even though I am super white) with hughly long eyelashes. I love my special job – helping people feel better when they are sad. I come to work most every day with my Mom (she owns the place) and every day is good for me. I meet lots of new people and they always love me, pet me, and usually give me a few treats!!! Sometimes they cry and I am okay to sit with them while they scratch my curly white coat to get relaxed…they always end up smiling and often tell me about a special dog they love.

Sometimes kids sit on the floor with me and after doing a few tricks for treats, I roll over for a belly rub! Sometimes families want me to go to the funeral of the person they love and I go if my schedule works. I am friendly to everyone whether they are happy or having a bad day.

Some people say I am ‘spoiled’ but that is silly. You CAN’T spoil a dog. I do have some exceptionally well trained two-legged co-workers. At least three of them have special Molly snack drawers in their work space and the snacks are ALL mine. I will also give people a ‘starved dog look’ when they are eating something interesting and that usually will guilt them into giving me a taste! Please do not tell my Mom!!! Once in awhile she caves in and shares too…

My big sister Lily was the first Comfort Dog here and she was amazing. She taught me how to do some tricks and to meet new people and to play big in the yard. She died a while back and we all will remember and love her forever. We had a special funeral for her. She is buried in our Bridge Cemetery.

I like children and grown people, treats and swimming, running and napping. Most of all, I love to be petted and help people have a better day. I am a good listener and friend. Come visit me sometime at Hansen Desert Hills Mortuary and Cemetery at 6500 E. Bell Road in Scottsdale! I mostly work Monday to Friday and hope to meet you soon…for play of course!!!

Dr. Sandi Howlett is the Grief Specialist for Hansen Mortuary where she facilitates Grief Support Groups and meets clients individually. Her support services are available at no charge to the public. She may be contacted at drsandihowlett@ gmail.com

Message from Mariam Cheshire

This is my last Newsletter. My message: I have now taken the next step toward understanding whence we came, why we are here and what is beyond.

To those I am leaving behind: Please don’t grieve. I look forward to this journey and expect in some form to be with those who left before me. (My vision is told by Florence Dubois, chapter ten, in “Return to Sanctuary – Plague.”)

We all hope that we leave something of value for the next generations and for our world. My eight books, telling of my life and my dreams (https:// amzn.to/36fWoQO) sit on the shelf. My greatest contribution is my son, Fred, his story told in “Worries Won’t Happen – Fred’s Story” and “There’s Nothing I Can’t Do – Fred’s Story.” Hopefully, his offspring, Christopher and Jennifer, followed by Terra, Talia, Tia, Veronica, and Astoria, know that I will be sitting on that white cloud and helping them when they need a loving word.

Fred’s helping hand continues with the Dr. Fred Cheshire Scholarships that are awarded each year (now under the care of niece Kathy). It is my hope that when December rolls around, Fred’s birthday of 12-22 will be remembered each year with a tax-exempt contribution* ending in twenty-two cents, thus helping students at Glendale College in their quest for knowledge and a better life.

Each time you contribute, you are fulfilling Fred’s dream and continuing my work. Thank you – here’s a big hug from me.

*For credit card: ( http://mcccdf.org/Cheshire ) For checks: Please indicate Fred Cheshire and __5629 __, send to:_ Maricopa Community College Foundation, 2419 West 14th St., Tempe, AZ 85281

Trish

Trish Hansen Kerr, Br ad Hansen, Tanner Kerr, & Stuart Hansen

On the Road Again! Are you Ready for Vacation?

BY LIBBY BANKS, PLLC, THE LAW OFFICE OF LIBBY BANKS

For many of us, we are finally getting an opportunity to travel again, and we are more than ready! However, are you truly ready for that trip? One item you may have forgotten is making sure you have an updated estate plan in place before you hit the road. Here are some thoughts on getting things done before your trip.

Make sure you have guardians in place for minor children. If you have minor children, it’s crucial to have documents in place appointing guardians, especially if you are traveling without them. Don’t leave this to chance, or worse, to the court to decide. Putting your choice in a legal document assures that the people you want to raise your children will do so. Which do you want your children to hear: “Your parents asked me to take care of you, and that’s exactly what I’m going to do,” OR “We’re not sure where you’re going to end up, but don’t worry, it will all be okay eventually.”

Review and update your existing estate plan. A big mistake I see in estate planning is the “set it and forget it” syndrome. All of us need to review our estate plan from time to time, especially as our families evolve. Certainly, you should review your plan when things change for you or your spouse. But you should also review your plan if your children are older now, married with their own children! Check your plan to see if it still does what you want, and that no one is included that you don’t want to get your assets. If the trustee or executor is no longer able to serve, or no longer capable, you need to change who will serve.

Get a Will, Trust and Powers of Attorney in place if you don’t have them. Clients regularly tell me what peace of mind they have since completing their plan. Let your upcoming vacation serve as the impetus to put a plan in place!

Review your insurance. Check the amount of your life insurance coverage and see if it still meets your family’s needs. Consider getting long-term

care insurance to help pay for the costs of long-term care (and preserve your assets for your family) in the event you and/or your spouse should need it due to illness or injury.

Review titles and beneficiary designations. If you have a revocable living trust and have not changed titles to property and accounts to place them in the name of the trust, now is the time to do so. If you don’t, your family will have to file a probate court proceeding. Also, this is a good time to check beneficiary designations on your insurance and retirement plans to be sure you’ve named the right people. Once you’ve done so, you will know your estate plan will work as you intended.

Secure or review healthcare documents. Everyone over the age of 18 needs certain documents (this is an important reminder for your children who have just become adults). They are: 1) General Durable Power of Attorney, which permits someone to be your agent to handle finances and legal matters if you cannot; 2) Power of Attorney for Heath Care, which gives another person legal authority to make health care decisions (including life and death decisions) for you if you are unable to make them for yourself; 3) HIPPA Authorizations, which give written consent for doctors to discuss your medical situation with others, including family members; and 4) Advanced Directive or Living Will to let your loved ones know what you want (and don’t want) at the end of life.

Organize your accounts and documents. Make sure that if something happens, your documents can be easily found. Then make a list of ALL of your assets and where they can be found, including usernames and passwords. Print a hard copy in case your computer is stolen or crashes, put it in a safe, secure place and let someone you trust know where to find it. Be sure to include on your master list any passwords that might be needed to access your computer and files.

Last, but not least: Have a great time! You are likely going to come back safe and sound, but you’ll have great peace of mind knowing that everything’s in place in case something unexpected happens. I’m always happy to help clients put their estate plan in place before a trip. You can book our no-charge initial consultation by calling the office at 603-375-6752.

GERRY JOHNSON

I’m sure you have all seen the J G Wentworth commercials featuring the operatic Vikings singing on the bus. Their refrain goes something like this, “I have a settlement but I need cash now.” What if you don’t have a settlement, but you “need . . .”.

If you are at least 62 years old and own your own home (even if it is not totally paid for), you may qualify for a HECM (Home Equity Conversion Mortgage), commonly called a Reverse Mortgage, which is the version indemnified by FHA.

I recently was able to refinance a previously issued Reverse Mortgage for an 89-year-old lady. She lives alone and is very spry. Until this year, she worked in a city Senior Citizen’s Center. That income is no longer coming in and she needs “cash” now. We were able to refinance her current loan, with minimal fees, and provide her with $10,000 at closing and $750 per month for the next 8 years. A real “godsend” for her.

Reverse Mortgages are not for every senior, but they can help out a goodly portion of elder homeowners. There are some misconceptions about them. The real elephant in the room is the question of what if I want to leave an inheritance for my kids. This may sound rude but would your children prefer that you live a very spartan, deprived existence, or would they prefer that you lived a comfortable life, with adequate funds to enjoy yourself. I’ve worked with a couple of borrowers where the heir said, “absolutely no” to a Reverse Mortgage. I quote one who said “this is my money.” If this is the attitude, then it is something the homeowner has to work out with the family.

Conversely, the more common response

is that I would prefer my folks to live comfortably and I will help them out in tough situations. The few thousand dollars that would be inherited isn’t sufficient to deprive the folks during their golden years. More often, the kids don’t even want the home. It can present more of a problem than a blessing. Other common misconceptions are:

The bank owns your home – This is false. A Reverse Mortgage is a mortgage just like a forward mortgage. It eventually has to be paid off. The owner retains title to the home, and when it becomes time to pay off the loan, all equity remains with the owner or the estate.

The homeowner could get forced out of their home – The opposite is the case. A HECM allows the owner to stay in their home as long as they are able. They must pay the property taxes and HO insurance, just like in a regular mortgage.

One can outlive a Reverse Mortgage – This is a non-recourse loan. If the owner lives too long and the advances exceed the equity, any shortfall is made up by the FHA mortgage insurance. Neither the estate nor the heirs are not responsible. Social Security and Medicare could be affected – This is a mortgage, not earned income, thus no taxes and no repercussions on your entitlements. Medicaid could be impacted, because it is “needsbased.”

Reverse Mortgages are expensive – A HECM is a FHA loan. All FHA loans have Up- front Mortgage Insurance Premiums and monthly MI fees which are rolled into the loan. In my opinion, this is not a shortterm loan, but if you can see down the road for a few years, it really bears investigating, especially if “you need cash now.”

Starting at $2,000 Monthly Three Gourmet Meals a Day Plus All Utilities Included

Activities

• Daily Shopping Trips

• Weekly Excursions

• Weekly Happy Hour & Entertainment

• Arts & Crafts

• Educational Classes & Bible Study

• Putting Green & Pickle Ball

Amenities

• Premium Cable & High Speed Internet

• Weekly Housekeeping

• Washer & Dryer per unit

• Transportation

• Landscaped Park with walking paths

• Fitness Gym & Heated Pool

• 24/7 on site staff

We’ve talked repeatedly about the negative health impacts of poor sleep, whether inadequate sleep (not enough hours per night), non-restorative sleep (you wake up repeatedly during the night and/or wake up feeling tired, rather than well-rested), etc. Add migraines to the list, according to new research that evaluated sleep disruptions and migraine-like pain using a mouse model.

Why mice? First, it’s difficult to convince people to risk migraine pain for a study. Second, mice sleep cycles are extremely similar to that of humans, according to the researchers, who found that sleep-deprived mice were more likely to experience migraine-like pain. Findings appear in the research journal Brain Communications

OK, let’s transition back to humans. Anyone who’s suffered a migraine knows it’s something to avoid at all costs. Symptoms include intense pain, particularly on one side of the head; sensitivity to light and sound; nausea; and more. In other words, if getting better sleep is a way to reduce your migraine risk (and the above symptoms), it’s well-worth the effort.

How do you optimize sleep? Here are three great ways courtesy of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:

“Be consistent. Go to bed at the same time each night and get up at the same time each morning, including on the weekends.

Make sure your bedroom is quiet, dark, relaxing, and at a comfortable temperature. Remove electronic devices, such as TVs, computers, and smart phones, from the bedroom.

Avoid large meals, caffeine, and alcohol before bedtime.

Get some exercise. Being physically active during the day can help you fall asleep more easily at night.”

If you’re struggling with sleep, experiencing migraines – or both, talk to your doctor for more information and assistance.

Volunteering with Civitan is more than an

Volunteers (youth ages 13 - 17) are essential to Civitanthey foster enthusiasm,

Rookie Mom:

Hey, Mama – It’s OK If You…

BY BRIGHID CONSTABLE

Happy Mother’s Day to all of my amazing, wonderful, fantastic – amazderastic –moms out there!

If you’re anything like me, this year might have been quite a ride for you: My free-spirited daughter turned 7 (her math homework is harder than mine from what I remember at that age), and my 20-month-old (yikes – already?!) is hitting those milestones every day.

Even more awesome slash HARD, I am now a SAHM (stay-at-home mom) taking care of my toddler son so I can facilitate his nurturing and education directly.

It's a lovely life, but it’s NONSTOP. ALL KIDS. ALL THE TIME.

But enough about me. Let’s just get to a judgment-free, guilt-free zone of why you can do nothing wrong, mama.

Especially on Mother’s Day.

Hey, It’s OK If You…

1. Let the laundry turn into Mt. Kilimanjaro. It’s clean even if it’s not folded.

2. Refuse to change the diaper genie and just shove those diapers further and further down until your partner realizes it needs to be changed.

3. Offer to put your older kid down (and act like it's harder) even though you both know the baby takes like 90 minutes to get to sleep. (Hey, that’s an Adam Sandler movie.)

4. Your downtime after putting your kids down is just sleep. Even though you really wanted to finish that Brooklyn 99 episode.

5. You have a secret Amazon wish list of all the things you want, but can’t buy, but keep adding to it every day.

6. Sign up for a gym membership mainly for the daycare aspect of it. You might workout, who knows? But the massage chair is always there calling you.

7. Listen to The Lonely Island and Seth Meyers' explicit podcast while you try to put your baby to sleep while driving around the neighborhood.

8. Buying Oreos on sale at Costco and pretending it’s just for the kids’ dessert.

9. Eating said Oreos in the middle of the night when the baby cries for milk as you nurse him back to sleep.

10. On that note, letting your older child have Flaming Hot Cheetos even though you know it’s so, so, soooooo bad for them.

11. Tell yourself that you’re going to do something creative and inspiring like write a children’s book when the closest you get to that is reading those books to your children.

12. Wine doesn’t do it for you anymore. It gives me a headache, too.

13. Your Instagram feed is just copious videos and images of your feral children. This is the only time they’ll be this age. Show it off.

14. You know your kid didn’t brush their teeth, but you're late for drop-off and say you trust them.

15. You tell your family exactly what you want for Mother’s Day: pancakes from Mike's Big Breakfast, a mani/pedi from Polish Room, and one of those outfits you saved in your Amazon wishlist.

BY LEON OF TRY ME BIKE SHOP

If when you ride your bike there is a squeaky noise its probably the chain. Plus if the bike is harder to pedal. Oil the chain it’s time. Chains wear out 10 times faster without a little oil. Dry and rusty is not good. Chains stretch in time no lube makes this happen faster. A worn out chain will wear the sprockets causing slipping and skipping when pedaling. Tri flow is a good lube there are many others. 3 in one oil is mineral based should not be used it will gum up like glue.

Oil for a smooth and quiet bike ride.

Tips for an Effortless Remodel

BY TOM SERTICH KIRK DEVELOPMENT COMPANY

Embarking on a remodel project can be an exciting yet daunting endeavor. Whether you're renovating your kitchen, upgrading your bathroom, or transforming your living space, achieving a seamless remodel requires careful planning and execution. To help streamline the process and ensure a successful outcome, consider these tips for an effortless remodel.

1. Hire an Experienced Contractor:

One of the most crucial steps in any remodel is selecting the right contractor for the job. Look for a contractor with extensive experience in the type of remodel you're undertaking. A skilled professional will not only bring expertise to the project but also offer valuable insights and guidance throughout the process.

2. Make Selections Upfront:

Avoid delays and last-minute changes by making all design and material selections upfront. This includes everything from paint colors and flooring options to fixtures and appliances. By finalizing your choices before construction begins, you'll help keep the project on track and minimize unexpected surprises.

3. Maintain Good Communication:

Effective communication between you and your contractor is essential for a smooth remodel. Keep the lines of communication open and be proactive in addressing any concerns or questions that arise.

4. Don't Get Frustrated:

Remodeling can be a time-consuming process, and it's not uncommon to encounter unexpected challenges along the way.

Rather than getting frustrated, maintain a positive attitude and trust in the expertise of your contractor. Keep in mind that the end result will be worth the effort and inconvenience.

5. Establish a Clear Agreement:

Before work begins, make sure you have a clear, well-written agreement that outlines the scope of work, and budget. This contract should detail all aspects of the remodel, including specific materials, labor costs, and payment schedules. Having a comprehensive agreement in place will help prevent misunderstandings and disputes down the line.

6. Prepare the Work Area:

To facilitate a smooth remodel, it's essential to prepare the work area beforehand. Remove all personal items from the space being renovated and clear any obstacles that could impede progress. This will not only streamline the construction process but also help protect your belongings from damage.

7. Hire a Licensed Contractor:

Last but certainly not least, ensure that you hire a licensed contractor for your remodel project. Working with a licensed professional provides assurance that they have the necessary skills and qualifications to complete the job safely and effectively.

By following these tips, you can set the stage for an effortless remodel that transforms your space into the home of your dreams. For a free in home estimate call Kirk Development at 602 944-3658.

Meet The Wallace & Ladmo Show’s Dan Horn at this free event

Come join us for this free event.  Dan Horn, an award winning entertainer will bring his puppet cast to life at the Sunnyslope Historical Society.  Dan officially joined The Wallace & Ladmo Show in the spring of 1981 and was a cast member and writer on the popular Arizona TV show for more than 8 years.  Whimsical, quirky, and even a tad irreverent at times.  Dan’s contributions to the Kiddie show that had nearly aas many adults watching to fit right in with the show’s established style.  Dan welcomes fans and those who have never watched before, to the world of Wallace and Ladmo.  He will be selling and signing his best selling books at this event as well. Cash only.

Arrive early for the seating is limited.  Lite refreshments will be served.  Donations appreciated.

WHEN:  Saturday, May 11th at 11am

WHO:  Dan Horn, Ventriloquist from the Wallace & Ladmo Show

WHERE:  Sunnyslope Historical Society, 737 E. Hatcher, Phoenix, AZ. 85020

BY JENA RITCHIE, MOON VALLEY CHIROPRACTIC

The great state of Arizona continues to lead the world as a top destination for Golfers. Our local Waste Management Open consistently ranks among the most attended Golf events on the planet. We are lucky here in Moon Valley to be able to enjoy a temperate year-round climate complete with great golfing opportunities. In recognition of Golf Day on May 8th, here are five useful tips for enjoying the sport.

1. Master your mindset. Golf is a game of strategy, endurance, and motivation. It is wise to commit a percentage of your energy toward creating an outlook that supports your best performance. Attuning your mental capacity with your body mechanics will allow you to honor yourself physically while simultaneously enhancing your execution on the course.

2. Prime your physical body for your best day of play. It is tempting to sleep in on the weekend, rolling out of bed at the last minute before rushing off to the course. You will improve your game by preparing your body with a boost of circulation before teeing off. Get your blood pulsing and muscles awakened by marching in place, moving your arms, and especially by twisting through your core. Injuries are less likely to occur when your body is warmed up and ready for action.

3. Tune into your movement mechanics and golf gear. Just as your waist size fluctuates over time and you adjust your clothing purchases; accordingly, be willing to make the same types of adjustments with your equipment. Factors like swing strength and speed may naturally change with age so be sure your clubs are a match for your current capacity. Pay attention to your swing technique and be willing to evolve and learn new strategies to master your body and the game.

4. Focus energy on upgrading your fitness levels between golf outings. Core strength is critical for good spinal health as well as golf performance. For your best game, it is essential to consistently care for the muscles through your abdomen and back that align to assist the spine, as you swing and bend. Core stabilizing exercises like planks, pushups, crunches, and even Pilates can be particularly effective at any age. Cross-training or intentional time spent in alternative activities like walking, running, and swimming helps support

overall fitness which will enhance your game performance and recovery efforts.

5. Manage injuries responsibly to maximize your time in the game. Setbacks happen even among the most highly conditioned athletes. Repetitive motions create extra stress and duress on body parts. Sometimes the most predictable patterns of movement can unexpectedly cease in unexpected moments and situations. Simple interventions like rest and ice are beneficial for back pain and hastening recovery. However, injuries that are chronic or more severe in nature may fail to respond to these steps and thus will warrant an evaluation by a Doctor of Chiropractic. Dr. Jamey Reichow of Moon Valley Chiropractic is both an avid golfer, as well as committed to alleviating your back pain through scientifically proven, nonsurgical methods. An initial exam is a quick, effortless way to help identify your underlying subluxations and target biomechanics that could be significantly improved through professional guidance.

Science Daily reports research findings originally published by the American Heart Association in an abstract titled “Golfing regularly could be a hole-in-one for older adults’ health.” The study claimed that “playing golf at least once per month improves health and lowers the risk of death among older adults.” In summary, golf provides a low-impact, enjoyable activity that offers social connection and keeps the mind and body engaged. If you find yourself experiencing pain or difficulties with your golf game, Moon Valley Chiropractic is eager to help you get back on course. Please call our office at 602-298-0292 to schedule your appointment. Happy Golfing, Moon Valley!

Last Time

MOON VALLEY MAGIC

BY DEBBIE ERBSTOESSER

When was the last time my youngest pooped in his diaper? When was the last time my middle one, stopped calling me Mommy and wanting to cuddle? When was the last time our oldest came home for the summer because he’d moved out forever? When did they stop playing dress up? When will it be the last time we all spend Christmas together? Like many moms I journaled all the firsts, but I never knew the last time was the last and therefore didn’t record those.

Having three children close in age made me desperate to be done with diapers. I’d been doing them for over 7 years straight, no break. I longed to carry a purse again. The diaper bag became my purse and they were cumbersome and ugly! I’m a recycling freak, so I did cloth diapers. They lasted a good long time, but as they wore out with our third son, I’d throw away the poopy ones, until Jaden was in disposables. They take 450 years to decompose, so I felt terrible using them.

home after his freshman year, only I didn’t know then that it was the last time he’d live with us.

I put a ‘dress up trunk’ in the toy closet, filled it with costumes and made super-hero capes. Playing dress up, even with their friends, was great creativity and imagination. We didn’t have video games. Eventually they grew out of the costumes, and slowly transitioned away from wearing capes, but when the high school had ‘spirit days’ they were in their element and knew exactly what to do!

Being a mom has been the greatest blessing of my life. Each time they leave I say a prayer for their safety. Everything I ask for in my morning prayers, I repeat as they drive away. I know they won’t always be able to spend Christmas with us, I’m not delusional, but I dread when it’s the last time.

The boys were all here this weekend to say good-bye to our oldest dog. It’s been a long year of thinking ‘this is it’ so they kept coming home to say their farewells, but this was definitely the last time.

Our middle son was a clinger we nicknamed Cuddlebug I loved to feel his arms around my neck and kiss those chubby cheeks. At some point Joel stopped calling me Mommy and wanting to be cuddled. We had our youngest one, so I didn’t notice right away, but then he stopped wanting to be touched at all. It was heartbreaking. Luckily now, he’s back to giving great hugs!

When our oldest son went off to college I cried a LOT and I’m not sure I could’ve managed without his younger brothers holding me up. I’d gone back to work and welcomed the distraction teaching gave me. With Jon gone, the other two got their own rooms, so it made sense that Jon wouldn’t come back. He had no room to return to that was all his own. So, he never moved back

When we said good-bye to my in-laws as we embarked on our cross country trip from California to Pennsylvania so Gary could start medical school, we didn’t know that was the last time we’d ever see his mom again. Eleven years later when we said goodbye to his dad and then my mom 21 years after that, we did. We don’t always know when the ‘last time’ is, so I try to keep things close to my heart and not forget.

This isn’t my usual upbeat and positive style. I’m in my 16th year of writing MVM, trying to find the ‘magic’ in things, and indeed there is magic in this. It’s in the loving, living and remembering because the last tim e just leads us on to another chapter of firsts that will have lasts.

Adults with Disabilities Produce Nutritious Meals for Low-Income Children

During the summer months, many children who normally receive a free or reduced cost breakfast and lunch at their school often do not receive adequate meals when school is out.

The Civitan Foundation, Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to enriching the lives of children and adults with intellectual disabilities through various programs and employment services, will distribute meals to low-income children, 18 years and younger, at five select Arizona locations as part of the Summer Food Service Program (SFSP).

Meals served in the Phoenix area will be prepared by participants of Civitan’s ‘Cook-er-y,’ a culinary program at Civitan Village which is fully comprised of chefs with disabilities - the Cook-er-y is led by Executive Chef Jeff Narbone, an Air Force veteran.

“The Civitan Foundation is honored to be a part of such an important program for two at risk groups – the special needs community and underserved youth,” said Dawn Trapp, CEO of Civitan Foundation, Inc. “Children will enjoy free, nutritious meals and snacks created by individuals with disabilities who are focused on building valuable job skills training and earning an income. Our kitchen crew looks forward to the program every year!”

From May through August, Civitan is providing healthy meals, based

on USDA nutrition guidelines, at locations in the Phoenix metro area and Williams, Arizona. Supervised members of Civitan’s culinary program prepare and deliver the food to four locations in north Phoenix. Meals served in Williams are prepared at Camp Civitan and their culinary team.

Mentor Kids at SBC 7601 E. Shea Blvd. Scottsdale ,AZ 85260

May 28th to June 27th, 2024

Breakfast & Lunch, 9:00 to 9:30 a.m., 11:15 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Mountainview Community Center

1104 E. Grovers Ave.

Phoenix, AZ 85022

May 28th to August 2nd, 2024

Breakfast & Lunch, 7:00 to 8:30 a.m., 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

OCJ Kids

21630 N. 9th Ave. Suite #103

Phoenix, AZ 85032

May 29th to July 17th, 2024, Wednesday’s only

Lunch, 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Paradise Valley Community Center

17402 N. 40th St.

Phoenix, AZ 85032

June 3rd to July 26th, 2024

Breakfast & Lunch, 8:30 to 9:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 18

BY DR. PAUL STANTON SUPERINTENDENT, WESD

Greetings Partners and Community Members,

This is Dr. Paul Stanton, and I am humbled to serve as the Superintendent of the Washington Elementary School District (WESD). We have reached the final month of the 2023-2024 school year, and I would like to extend my gratitude for your continuous support of our students, staff and schools. Thank you for being here and helping us accomplish yet another great school year.

Attend Our Final Finance Presentation

Our final Regional School Finance Presentation is Monday, May 13th, from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. in the gymnasium at Mountain Sky Junior High School, located at 16225 N. 7th Ave., Phoenix, AZ 85023. The presentation is open to all and will cover topics related to K-12 funding in Arizona such as where the money for school budgets comes from, how budget limits are determined, how the WESD spends the money, and how factors in the state affected the WESD. If you are unable to attend the presentation in person, it will also be livestreamed at https://youtube. com/live/5zU8NusSAMw. For questions, please email Daniel.Obrien@ wesdschools.org

Register Your Future WESD Kindergartner for Jumpstart Please share this opportunity with your family, friends and neighbors with soon-to-be WESD kindergarteners. Registration for our free, fourweek, half-day kindergarten readiness program, Jumpstart, is open now. Available at 27 locations in the WESD, the program will be offered this summer from May 28th to June 20th. During the program, children will make friends, learn kindergarten routines and practice kindergarten readiness skills. Free breakfast and lunch are also included. To participate in the program, children must be registered for kindergarten in a WESD school for the 2024-2025 school year. To register for Jumpstart classes today, please visit: https://www.wesdschools.org/jumpstart.

Now Enrolling for the 2024-2025

School Year

The WESD is currently enrolling kindergarten through eighth grade students for the 2024-2025 school year. Our dedicated teachers and staff help create learning environments where students are valued and supported. With multiple A+ Schools of Excellence, a National Blue Ribbon and a National Title I Distinguished School, the WESD is also proud to be a Top 20 school district in the country in student growth. The WESD also accepts open enrollment for students who live outside the district wishing to attend our schools. To learn more and enroll today, please visit https://www.wesdschools.org/registration

Final Thoughts

Although the school year is almost over, we will continue to share positive news and timely updates on our social media pages including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn. This is a great way to stay informed of all things WESD. The links to all of our social media pages can be found at https://www.wesdschools.org/socialmediadirectory

As always, thank you for being an important part of our WESD Family.

Gratefully,

Dr. Paul Stanton

WESD Superintendent

Williams Recreation Center

301 W. Railroad Ave.

Williams, AZ 86046

June 2nd to August 5th, 2024

Summer FOOD SERVICE PROGRAM, cont’d from page 17

Breakfast & Lunch, 8:00 to 9:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

The SFSP is a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Child Nutrition Program created to provide free meals to low-income children. It is administered by the Arizona Department of Education. To be eligible to receive free meals, children must meet the income guidelines for reduced-price meals in the National School Lunch Program. Children who are part of households that receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or benefits under the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR), or Temporary Assistance to Need Families (TANF) are automatically eligible to receive free meals. However, no forms or documents will be required on site.

Founded in 1968, Civitan is committed to becoming Arizona’s foremost visionary and resource in the provision of unmatched, innovative services for individuals with disabilities. Civitan’s flagship programs include Camp Civitan, a residential camp experience in Williams, Arizona, and the Civitan Foundation Village. The Village provides a multi-disciplinary Life Learning Day program (DTA) and a vocational training center (GSE) with opportunities in digital multimedia productions, visual and performing arts, a culinary institute, art program and music lab. Civitan also offers respite and recreation programs (RSP), Home and Community Based Services (HCBS), and youth programs (DTS). Civitan has been named an IMPACTful nonprofit finalist with Greater Phoenix Chamber.

For more information about these food programs or about jobs for the developmentally disabled at Civitan, please visit www.civitanfoundationaz.org

3D Printing and Dentistry

BY DR. BRIAN CALLAWAY

3D printing has revolutionized the field of dentistry in recent years. The technology has made it possible to create dental prosthetics, surgical guides, and other dental devices with a high degree of accuracy and precision.

3D printing is an additive manufacturing process that involves creating a three-dimensional object from a digital file. The process involves layering materials such as plastics, metals, and ceramics to create a physical model of the object. The technology has been around for decades, but recent advancements in software, materials, and hardware have made it more accessible and affordable.

One of the main benefits of 3D printing in dentistry is the accuracy and precision of the final product. Traditional methods of creating dental prosthetics and devices involve a lot of manual labor and are prone to human error. With 3D printing, the digital file is sent directly to the printer, and the device is created with minimal human intervention. This results in a more accurate and precise device.

Another benefit of 3D printing in dentistry is the speed of production. Traditional methods of creating dental prosthetics can take days or even weeks to complete. With 3D printing, the device can be created in a matter of hours, reducing the turnaround time for patients.

Applications of 3D Printing in Dentistry

Surgical Guides: 3D printing has also made it possible to create surgical guides for dental procedures such as implant placement. The guides are created using the patient’s CT scan data and are designed to fit over the patient’s teeth and gums, guiding the surgeon in the placement of the implant.

Dental Models: 3D printing has also made it possible to create highly accurate dental models for use in treatment planning. The models can be used to create customized orthodontic appliances such as clear aligners and retainers.

Come see us at 1820 W. Thunderbird Rd. Suite #1 to see how we use 3D printing and other technology to offer quality dental services. You can also visit our website at www.azfd.com

Moon Valley Women’s Club  Expands Its Boundaries

Attention Ladies! If you’re looking to network with other neighborhood women who share similar interests and hobbies, consider joining the Moon Valley Women’s Club (MVWC). Recently the MVWC expanded our geographical boundaries to include more neighborhoods south of Thunderbird Road. (Please see Map for details). In addition, prospective members who reside outside of the boundaries can be sponsored by a current member in good standing.

Membership is $35 a year and includes access to the website, monthly newsletters, interest group get-togethers and invitation to monthly luncheons and programs. Plus, it offers a chance to participate in fundraising events for our 501(c)(3), the MVWC Service Project. Funds raised are distributed annually to deserving local nonprofits that actively improve the community.

There are currently over 270 members of all ages. The legacy of friendship and community remains strong. There are dozens of activities and special interest groups that meet regularly for enjoyment and friendship.

Michele Workman joined over 10 years ago. “When I moved to Moon Valley, I didn’t know anyone and when I received a postcard invitation from MVWC, I attended my first luncheon. Everyone was so welcoming and I instantly made new friends,” Michele said. “I was asked to manage the website and I was unsure that I could do it. It seemed very daunting. As it turns out, this leap of faith was a journey of personal development for me and it continues to challenge me to learn new things.”

To learn more about the Moon Valley Women’s Club, visit www.mvwomensclub.org.

Paper Shredding

ISO Antiques

No need to save box after box of confidential documents to take to a shredding event. Bring any amount of paper for shredding to ABCO Shredding Services located at 2640 E Rose Garden Lane, Suite 4, in Phoenix 85050. You may watch the shredding of your documents 8am until 2:30 pm M –F or just drop them off from 8am until 4pm. Either option will have a Certificate of Destruction on your receipt.

Check out our website www.abcoshredding.com for information on other items that can be shredded such as hard drives from your computer tower or laptop, iPads, tablets, cell phones, CD’s/Floppy disks, etc.

Buying Antinques & Collectibles - selective online sales. Call Cheryl - 480-229-3376 - Emailbackintheday@cox.net

Clear Advantage Window Cleaning

Glass Cleaning Specialist performing highest quality detailed PERFECTIONIST work every time. Tracks/Sills/Screens/Sunscreens cleaned. 15+ yrs. exp. Free

Estimate. Owner Operated. Moon Valley Resident. Joe Albert 480 228-5453

Piano Lessons PRIVATE ONLINE & IN STUDIO

Emerge from these times playing piano! All Ages. Positive, patient instruction. How you learn makes a difference. Play songs you love. Feel accomplished. Startup 2 free lessons + books. www.PianoKeysToMusic.com Music Educ/Pianist Established MV Moon Valley Studio. 602.971.0089

Valerie Thomas

you! Looking forward to seeing you soon!

Drywall Repair & Popcorn Ceiling Removal

Drywall repair and texturing Popcorn ceiling removal Water damage Electrical and plumbing patching. In business since 1980 Furnished Homes our Specialty Licensed and Bonded Mike Collins Acoustics 623 582 4325

EPIC HOME REALTY

Mary Aranki, EPIC Home Realty:

Cleaning Services

Homes, Commercial Businesses, Move in / Move outs. One time, Weekly, by-weekly or Monthly. Free estimates, call Molina 602-326-2780

Nurse’s Assistant

Nurse’s Assistant available for in home care. Call Rebekah at 602-907-8358.

CAREGIVER: Available for Work

15 years experience. If interested please contact Susan at 602-481-2481 for more information. Thank you

An Unexpected Benefit of Volunteering

BY LAUREN BRIGGS

My mom, my sister, and I are all in the Moon Valley National Charity League (NCL), an organization where we volunteer in our community and help with leadership activities, charity work, and much more. In March of 2023, we volunteered at the HARTT animal shelter. HARTT stands for Humane Animal Rescue and Trapping Team. It is a shelter that saves the lives of homeless animals and finds them a loving family. During our volunteer work at HARTT, we painted a mural along their outside wall. We took breaks to play with the dogs and assist in their socialization. I met a dog who had recently been given up by his previous owners and ran away from his new owner. This tiny white dog was alone in a field for two weeks, struggling to find food and shelter. HARTT was able to humanely trap him and shelter him. The dog’s name was Miles and after spending time with him, I knew he needed a loving family to adopt him. I had been asking for a dog for a long time, and I just knew he was the perfect one! I continued to ask my mom about him, telling her why he was the perfect dog for our family. A few days later, I checked HARTT’s website and saw that Miles wasn’t listed

anymore. I was so sad but little did I know, my mom and stepdad had already filled out the adoption forms and adopted him for me. Exactly one week after our NCL volunteer work at HARTT, I came home to find Miles waiting for me in my room. Now, almost a year later, Miles is safe, happy, and healthy in his new home! This is all thanks to NCL and HARTT for giving my family and I such an amazing opportunity to volunteer together at so many more different events and charities. Thanks to NCL, Miles gets to live the rest of his life with a loving family!

We hope you will join us in creating lasting memories and friendships while giving back. You can make a difference in your own life and the lives of so many others. Our membership drive starts in November and we encourage mothers and daughters currently in 6th, 7th and 8th grade to visit www.nationalcharityleague.org/chapter/moonvalley or email membershipmoonvalley@nclonline.org.

Visit us on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/ NCLincMoonValley/ or Instagram at: NCLMOONVALLEY