More Than Just a Backpack
It is easy to take many things for granted. Even basic clothes and school supplies. Yet, many children in Arizona do not have any clothes or supplies to go back to school.
A nonprofit organization called the Back-toSchool Clothing Drive is working to change that one backpack at a time. The organization was founded in 1967 to supply children of migrant camps back to school clothes after the Salt River flooded. Their mission is to provide new school outfits and uniforms, backpacks, and school supplies to children in need. Today, they help more than 25,000 children from 260+ schools in 40 school districts.
BY GRACE CROWLEY, CLASS OF 2026
impacted my life so much. I have made so many new friends and helped many nonprofits just like the Back-to-School Clothing Drive. This organization was my first philanthropy with NCL. I love seeing the progression this organization has made and the many lives it has impacted.
Sunnyslope High School Senior Visits Rice University with QuestBridge Program
I like working with the National Charity League (“NCL”) behind the scenes, on the assembly line with my mom, and our NCL friends stuffing backpacks for thousands of kids who will need back-to-school supplies. I also really enjoyed setting up the T-shirt area at Grand Canyon University a few days before the event where the kids come to pick everything out. The best part, however, was seeing how excited these kids were to receive new clothing and items I take for granted every day; plus the feeling of knowing I played a small part in changing a child’s life at the start of the school year. My mom says her favorite part was working in the “Stitches-for-Love” area where we helped kids pick out one nice handsewn outfit, a
This year, NCL celebrates its 100th anniversary. Members of NCL nationwide volunteer nearly 3 million hours to more than 6,000 charities each year creating a $68 million philanthropic impact. There are 287 chapters in 31 states with roughly 200,00- members.
National Charity League is a mother-daughter organization with the vision of connecting hearts, hands and minds so that every community thrives. NCL is committed to supporting our pillars of philanthropy, leadership and culture by fostering the mother-daughter relationship, partnering with local and national nonprofits, building capable and courageous leaders through opportunities to learn, reflect and develop and preserve traditions and core values while appreciating the growth that comes from connecting with different communities and culture.
Our membership drive begins November 1st. For more information or to learn about joining NCL, please visit www. nationalchariyleague.org/ chapter/moonvalley, on Facebook: NCLincMoonValley, or Instagram: NCLMOONVALLEY or send an email to membershipmoonvalley@nclonline.org
Sunnyslope High School senior Angel Santana Torres visited Rice University as part of the QuestBridge Fly-In Program. QuestBridge selected Angel for the opportunity and flew him to the school to join other selected high school seniors in a special tour and program dedicated to other QuestBridge students.
Sunnyslope High School Senior Earns Congressional Award
Sunnyslope High School senior Uli Kohrt earned her Silver Medal from the United States Congress as part of the Congressional Award Program. Uli participates in and leads Theater, holds a job at Karl’s Bakery, bakes the most amazing “Uli-Bread,” and has learned and taught others to crochet and make baby hats for the Phoenix Children’s Hospital project.
To learn more about Sunnyslope High School, visit @SunnyslopeHighSchoolAZ on Facebook.
Grace with her mother
TRAPPED IN MOON VALLEY
Holidays are here! I cannot believe another year is almost over, I still remember my grandmother telling me to stop wishing the year away. I used to think a year was so long back then, seemed like we waited forever for our birthday each year. Now…… it’s slooooow down “I want off this fast ride”. I was surfing Facebook last week, the young are “bored”, I guess they have too much time, and the old are just trying to keep up, again another backwards life issue. When you are young, you should be grasping for time, too many things to do, and never enough time to do them, and old: all the time in the world.
That should go for money as well, I always thought we should be given our millions up front, and depending on how you played the game, would depend on how much you would have left to “play with” when you had the time. I want to wish you all a very Happy Thanksgiving. It is actually one of my favorite holidays. There is not much stress with this holiday, unless of course you hate cooking, (if so eat out!! or go to mom’s) other than that, what is not to love? The mouth watering smells of all the different foods cooking all day, football, lazy couch naps, and spending time with the ones you love. Of course I would be remiss if I did not mention another big part of this holiday… and that would be the Black Friday shopping trips. Hopefully like me, many of you already have your shopping under way and will not have to navigate this crazy day of shopping and can enjoy that much needed “sleep-in morning and big turkey sandwiches for lunch.
WEDNESDAYS
Creating New Memories This Holiday Season
As we approach the holiday season, I’m reminded of the unique sense of community that makes Moon Valley such a special place to live. Whether it’s the excitement of a new family moving into the neighborhood, the simple act of waving to a neighbor on your morning walk, or the way our streets come alive with festive lights from October to December—these moments define why we choose to call Moon Valley home.
This November, we have a lot to look forward to. Our Annual Neighborhood Garage Sale will take place on November 4th & 5th. It’s not just a chance to clear out some space in your home, but also an opportunity to reconnect with old friends and meet new neighbors as we prepare for the holiday season. If you didn’t manage to sell everything out of your driveway, please consider donating your unsold items or taking advantage of Moon Valley’s Bulk Trash Day on November 11th. (Please check the website for coverage area details.)
Following that, we’ll gather for our MVNA Monthly Meeting on November 9th. This is your chance to have your voice heard and contribute to the continued growth and improvement of our community. Please check www. moonvalley.org for the latest updates on time and location.
As we transition into December, the holiday spirit truly takes over in Moon Valley. One of the highlights of the season is the 2024 Christmas Light Decorating Contest. If you’ve never participated before, now is your chance to get involved! From now through November 30th, you can submit your home for the contest, https://moonvalley.org/light-contest/. Voting will open
BY DREW HUTCHINSON, PRESIDENT MOON VALLEY NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION
on December 1st at 6:00 PM and run through December 8th, with winners announced on December 10th. The top homes will be recognized with special signs to showcase their holiday spirit.
And the fun doesn’t stop there! On December 14th, our neighborhood will shine even brighter with the Moon Valley Holiday Light Parade. It’s a night filled with creativity, festive cheer, and a lot of holiday magic as we come together to celebrate.
Finally, on Christmas Eve, we’ll continue the beloved tradition of lining our streets with Luminarias at Sunset. This event transforms our neighborhood into a beautiful landscape of glowing lights, making for a truly memorable and peaceful evening to share with loved ones.
As we enter this season of giving, I encourage everyone to take a moment to appreciate the sense of togetherness that makes Moon Valley so special. Whether it’s through attending an event, decorating your home, or simply greeting your neighbors, let’s make this holiday season one filled with joy and community spirit.
Thank you for being part of what makes Moon Valley such a wonderful place to live. I look forward to celebrating this festive season with all of you.
Stay Connected - As always, we encourage everyone to get involved with the Moon Valley Neighborhood Association. If you have any questions or want to participate, please contact us at board@moonvalley.org or, visit www. moonvalley.org. Together, we can keep making Moon Valley a bright and beautiful place to call home.
BY DR. PAUL STANTON SUPERINTENDENT, WESD
Greetings WESD Partners and Community Members,
This is Dr. Paul Stanton again, the proud superintendent of the Washington Elementary School District. The beginning of the second quarter has been filled with many exciting concerts, sports, ASA programs and community events. I want to give special thanks to all of our community partners that have showered our schools with love during our Love Our Schools events over the past month. It really does take a village, and I am grateful that the WESD has incredible partners to lean on. Thank you for being here and showing ongoing love, care and support to the students and staff of the district. You are truly appreciated.
Mountain Sky Wins Girls Volleyball Seventh Grade Championship
It was an exciting evening of action and competition last month as the WESD 2024-2025 volleyball champions were determined. All students played hard and displayed incredible skill and sportsmanship. Congratulations to Mountain Sky Junior High School who won the Girls Volleyball Seventh Grade Championship. Thank you to all of the coaches, families, staff and community members for their support throughout the season.
Lookout
Mountain Student
Wins Kiwanis T-shirt Design Contest
During the annual Kiwanis of North Phoenix Walk-a-thon, participants wore T-shirts with a design that was created by Lookout Mountain Elementary School second grader Claire B. She won first place and was surprised at a school assembly by Kiwanian Dorothy Watkins. In celebration of Claire’s achievement, she was presented with a gift card and a certificate. Claire was also recognized by the Kiwanis of North Phoenix at the walk-a-thon and even got to pick out a special prize. Congratulations to Claire B. The WESD is proud of her.
WESD to Host Teacher Interview Fair on November 2nd
The WESD will host a Teacher Interview Fair on Saturday, November 2nd, from 8:30-11 a.m. in the Governing Board Room at the WESD Administrative Center, located at 4650 W. Sweetwater Ave. Our District offers competitive teacher salaries of $53,000-$89,950 with performance pay,
student loan forgiveness, paid holidays and personal leave, multi-layer teacher support, professional development, school-age child care discounts, a wellness program and an Employee Assistance Plan, medical, dental and vision benefits, employer-matched contributions to Arizona State Retirement and much more. Please share this opportunity with your family and friends who are looking for work as a teacher. Whether they are a seasoned educator or just starting their teaching journey, we want them to be a part of our amazing team. Walk-ins are welcome. To apply online, please visit https://jobs.wesdschools.org/
Follow the WESD Online
Please follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn. This is a great way to keep up with the WESD all school year long and learn about the great things happening districtwide. To view a complete list of all of our social media pages, please visit: https://www.wesdschools.org/SocialMediaDirectory
We can’t do school without you. Thank you for your continued support and partnership.
Gratefully,
Dr. Paul Stanton, WESD Superintendent
Under Contract
Is It Time to Potty Train?
I’ve definitely noticed glaring differences between my daughter and son
My now 7-year-old daughter, Brynn, was extremely verbal by age 2 – very
Under Contract
REALTOR®, MCNE, PPS, LPS
C. 602-750-1448
Laura.Moore@azmoves.com
C. 602-616-4520
ShirleyShadegg@gmail.com
STACY
REALTOR®, MCNE, SFR, PPS
C. 602-316-0988
Stacy.Biehle@azmoves.com
My 2-year-old son, Henry, is hyper aware of everything – pointing to “dat” (A.K.A. “that) whenever he needs something nearby.
But he’s definitely far from where Brynn was in the language field.
Right now, he’s supposed to be saying 2-word “sentences” like “mama baba” (A.K.A. “Mom, please get me some milk, you lovely human being”).
Although Henry often knows what we’re discussing, he has trouble
So much so that our pediatrician recommended a state speech therapist survey to see if he would qualify for speech therapy with the Arizona Early
(They’re coming to our house for their first one-on-one meeting with him next week. And no, I’m actually not worried about the language thing. I know it will come since he knows so many words and can properly identify them.
Yet thinking about my son’s language developmental needs has me wondering if he’s ready for another developmental milestone: potty training. Which I know is out of left field after griping about language development, but is Henry ready to communicate his toilet training needs – even if he knows what we’re talking about – if he isn’t ready to communicate back?
He shows interest in potty training with books we read on the subject and pointing to his diaper when he needs to go “poo poo.” These, though maybe
Again, my kids are so different. Brynn went through three training toilets within one year before mastering potty training.
I’m really, very much, oh-so hoping that the opposite in language development is the same with potty training – and that it won’t take a year
Like many parents at this crossroads, I’m just curious if now is the time because my toddler is supposed to start preschool totally diaper trained by the
I mean, I know my husband and I aren’t the only ones out there feeling the pressure to have everything “right” by the time their child enters school.
Arizona Humane Society & The Law Office of Libby Banks
Team Up to Plan for Pets
BY LIBBY BANKS
Recently, a client at my law office asked my associate attorney Allison Gloss about how to ensure her beloved cats would be taken care of when she could no longer do so. This client didn’t have anyone she knew to take them. Allison knew this was an important concern for many pet owners. In our estate planning practice, we routinely plan for families and proactively ask about pets to be sure we are taking care of all of our clients’ loved ones. Allison took the initiative to look into how we could best help this client and give peace of mind to all the pet parents we work with.
Allison reached out to the Arizona Humane Society to see if they could help, since many of our clients support and give to that organization. When she reached out to them, we were told about their wonderful Continuing Care Program. This program, designed for members of their Legacy Circle, ensures that pets are placed in loving homes if their owners pass away. It’s an incredible initiative that the Arizona Humane Society staff manage carefully, selecting families who will care for the pets as if they were their own.
Vanessa Martin, the Arizona Humane Society’s Planned Giving Manager, explained that many older pet owners worry about what will happen to their pets if something happens to them. Through the Continuing Care Program, the Arizona Humane Society offers reassurance by placing pets with vetted families and providing ongoing care. It’s part of their broader mission of helping animals, and as Vanessa shared with us, planned giving—where donors include the Arizona Humane Society in their estate plans— constitutes about one-third of the organization’s total revenue. This program is just one way that donors can leave a lasting legacy, while also ensuring their pets are loved.
One unique aspect of the Arizona Humane Society’s program is its accessibility. Unlike some organizations that may require a specific donation amount to participate, the Arizona Humane Society welcomes planned gifts of any size, from $500 to $5 million, treating all pets enrolled in the continuing care program
with the same level of care. This is a tremendous relief for pet owners who want to adopt later in life but worry about what will happen to their pets after they’re gone.
For clients with pets, planning ahead is essential. As an estate planning attorney, I often talk to clients about options like the Arizona Humane Society’s Continuing Care Program, but there are also more formal ways to ensure pets are cared for. One of the most secure options is to set up a pet trust. Just as you would create a trust for minor children, a pet trust sets aside money for the care of your pets, with a designated guardian to ensure they live out the rest of their lives cared for and comfortable. If any funds remain after the pet passes, you can arrange for those funds to be donated to a charity like the Arizona Humane Society, or another cause you hold dear.
Another common approach is to include pet provisions in your estate planning documents. While these are less formal than a pet trust, it’s important that your wishes for your pet’s care are in writing, otherwise, they may not be binding. Estate planning should always be thorough, providing for all of your loved ones, covering all assets, arranging care for your pets, and making sure you are cared for if you become incapacitated. Having a comprehensive plan in place will give you and your loved ones peace of mind.
The connection between my office and organizations like the Arizona Humane Society may seem unconventional, but these partnerships are vital. Both of us want to ensure that people, and their pets, are cared for and that estate plans reflect all of their wishes. Many of my clients are charityminded and don’t have someone in place to take care of their pets after they’re gone. Making them aware of programs like the Arizona Humane Society’s Continuing Care Program offers an ideal solution.
Even if someone doesn’t have pets, estate planning is crucial. It’s important to remember that almost every adult has some form of an estate, whether big or small. If you don’t create a plan, the state will decide what happens to your assets—and that plan may not align with your wishes. While a large part of estate planning involves distributing your estate after death, it’s just as important to make sure you have the right structures in place in case for financial and personal care if you become incapacitated.
Whether you’re a pet parent or not, I encourage everyone to think about their estate plan and ensure it reflects your values, your loved ones, and your wishes. To learn more, feel free to contact my office for a consultation, or if you’d like more information about the Arizona Humane Society’s Continuing Care Program, it’s worth checking out how they support pet parents and their furry family members. Give us a call if you would like to meet to discuss your furry friends and other loved ones and put a plan in place. Our number is 602-375-6752.
Follow-ups, Reminders, Updates
MOON VALLEY MAGIC BY DEBBIE ERBSTOESSER
November marks my 16th year of writing Moon Valley MagicMVM. Our oldest son was a 13 year old 7th grader at Mt. Sky Jr. High and I was the President of the PTO called SPICE. He is 29 this month and I’m the PTO liaison at the school I work at. I’ve spent the last 24 years being involved in parent organizations in one way or another and writing about it!
Remember my challenge over the summer to try a local place every week? I wanted to try two/ week, but ended up visiting one/week. It was too blasted hot to wander around, as my idea was to park and walk store to store inquiring, shopping etc. While walking/dancing home from Anytime Fitness, I saw a sign for massages in the window of the Compliments Salon and called. Gary loves them and one of the ladies, Patricia, does cupping. He goes every month and says she’s wonderful. Other places I called didn’t call me back and I have little patience for that. Gary and I both get our hair cut at Dolled and Dapper and pedicures at Capri Nails, both on different corners of 7th St and Union Hills. On the NE corner of the same intersection, Mi Pueblo Restaurant has authentic Mexican food! I grab take out from them after a pedi. I ate at Natalino’s Italian Restaurant and Vegan and Vine with the Moon Valley Women’s Club and both were delicious. Low carb eating is hard when dining out, but it can be done, but not at Xolo Tacos at 7th and Thunderbird. We’ve got to keep that place in business! Their Phoenix margaritas are the best and the menu has expanded!
I do like our little bubble here in the ‘hood, with places I can bike or walk to and keep my tax dollars in, so traveling to get a facial at Variety Skin Studio is unusual for me, but Mikayla is extraordinary and our oldest son, Jon, is in love with her. Wherever you shop, please remember to pay small businesses in cash. I had no idea how much they pay in credit card fees until Tonya at Mamma Toledo’s Pie Hole posted the amount at over $6000/year! We now pay all small businesses in cash (especially the tips) and use our credit card for groceries, utilities and big box stores.
I don’t want anyone to think I’m some sort of angelic shopper, only staying local. There are things I can’t find locally and don’t want to drive around for, so I am an online shopper as well. While I can be quite clever sometimes, I didn’t think of the snacks for delivery drivers on my own. I got that from Instagram. I happened to have the exact same rolling cart, so I filled it up and set it out. If the neighbor dogs find it, I’ll have to stop.
About those tax dollars, it’s getting to be that
time. Please take advantage of the Az Tax Credit and give to a school. You get the money back in your taxes, so it’s a no brainer. You can earmark it for a specific school in your preferred district and even a specific program/ department like band, drama, field trips etc. In continuing your support of schools, our local Mt. Sky Jr. High appreciates donations of nice clothing for the 8th graders who are being promoted to High School. I got rid of the last of our boys’ dress shirts and pants (that would fit a 13-15 yo) many years ago. Many school nurse offices have a closet/storage room for donations students can get clothes from.
WHAT IS THE BLACK MOUNTAIN POLICE PRECINCT “NET SQUAD?”
By Frosty Kroening
The October 9, 2024 Black Mountain Community Alliance meeting featured a Community Appreciation and Recognition Day. Commander Matt Siekmann and Resource Lieutenant Ben Sywarungsymun, and many more police officers and community members received awards.
A surprise presentation was included in this meeting. Commander Siekmann introduced our precinct NET Squad members. They will be receiving awards for their very important work doing the tough jobs of researching and apprehending people who are causing citizens trouble. This can range from murder to stolen cars and goods. They also handle some family disputes, human trafficking, and finding and arresting drug dealers (high priority). Helping them are citizens who are trained to be the eyes and ears to assist the NET team.
Speaking of donating….I’m going to donate my hair again, probably for the last time, but I won’t give 12 inches again. Children with Hair loss only requires eight inches, but I was feeling generous. Afterwards I couldn’t pull it back and out of my face and was getting annoyed! I also forgot that when it’s that short, one side of my head does whatever the heck it wants and goes wonkie. Now it’s at the next annoying stage of being just long enough to tuck into my collars, and won’t stay out. I clearly need to either go long or really short. I’m just grateful it grows fast. . and isn’t that what November is all about? I have a sign in our home saying, “Gratitude turns what we have into enough.”
Debbie has lived in Moon Valley 34 years, is a Gifted Specialist in the Deer Valley School District, married 40 years to her high school friend, Gary, and has 3 grown and flown sons.
We met all 7 members of the team and asked them many questions about their work. One “bust” revealed 200,000 fentanyl pills and five guns. NET Squad members also provide protection for “dignitaries” visiting Phoenix, a very important mission. The Commander expressed his gratitude for the fine work NET Squad officers do. They are plain clothes officers most of the time. Audience members also thanked them for their careful, detailed, and often difficult work.
The bmcainfo.org website contains the dates of upcoming police and community events.
Hail the Weekend Warrior
BY NICHOLAS WARNER, DC
Many people are so busy during the week that the weekend becomes their only real time to exercise. Confining your physical activity primarily to the weekend still helps reduce disease risk, according to research, which means when it comes to health, it’s time to hail the weekend warrior!
The study, findings from which appear in the research journal Circulation, a publication of the American Heart Association, tracked nearly 90,000 individuals with wrist accelerometers to gauge total physical activity performed, as well as time spent engaging in specific types of physical activity. After one week, researchers utilized the data to categorize participants as weekend warrior, regular exerciser or non-exerciser (inactive).
Next, the researchers compared physical activity patterns, as categorized above, and the presence of nearly 700 conditions spanning 16 types of diseases (mental health, digestive health, neurological health, and more), tracked for years after the one-week data-collection period. They discovered that both weekend warriors and regular exercisers had substantially lower risks of more than 200 diseases compared with non-exercisers. Among the strongest risk reductions: cardiometabolic conditions (example: high blood pressure) and diabetes.
The most important finding: differences were not significant when comparing weekend warriors with regular exercisers, meaning you reduce your disease risk approximately the same whether you concentrate your physical activity on the weekends or spread it throughout the week. So whenever you find the time, get out there and exercise!
Thunderbird High School’s Key Club Participates in Walk-A-Thon
Thunderbird High School’s Key Club participated in the Walk-A-Thon at Hurricane Harbor for the seventh year. This is an annual event sponsored by the North Phoenix Kiwanis. The event raised money to benefit students in the community.
Thunderbird Key Club members were able to collect donations totaling $300 and donated blankets for the Blanket Drive. This was an additional service event at the Walk-A-Thon this year to benefit homeless guests at Andre House Hospitality Center.
To learn more about Thunderbird High School, visit @ThundebirdHighSchoolAZ on Facebook.
Washington High School’s Interact Club Volunteers at Andre House
Washington High School’s Interact Club went to Andre House to assist with their mission of feeding, clothing, and comforting the most vulnerable. The Interact Club members helped with meal preparation and served over 500 meals.
To learn more about Washington High School, visit @WashingtonHighSchoolAZ on Facebook.
GUHSD Presents Annual Marching Band Exhibition
GUHSD is proud to present the annual Marching Band Exhibition! All nine high school marching bands will perform on Monday, November 4 at 6:30 p.m. at the Glendale Community College Football Stadium, 6000 W. Olive Avenue. This is a free event open to the public.
To learn more about GUHSD, visit @GUHSDAZ on Facebook.
Avoiding the Pain of Probate
BY LIBBY BANKS, PLLC, THE LAW OFFICE OF LIBBY BANKS
You’ve probably been told by friends or advisors to avoid probate at all costs. Probate is the court proceeding filed in order to appoint an personal representative – called a personal representative in Arizona – to be able to access a deceased person’s bank accounts and assets and settle their estate. Most people know that you will likely have to file probate if your deceased loved one has no Will. However, the estate of a person that has only a Will is also very likely to end up in probate court. That’s because a Will doesn’t enable the personal representative named in the Will to act for them. The court still has to formally appoint your personal representative before they can begin to work on settling the estate. I think of a Will as a request to the court to appoint your personal representative to handle your estate, and to direct your personal representative to follow the court’s rules and distribute your estate as you have stated in the Will.
Another reason many want to avoid probate is that it’s a public proceeding. Just how public and how easy it is to get information about a case was brought home to me again not long ago when I asked my administrative assistant to check on a probate case I needed information from. A few minutes later he came in and said “since it was only $2.00 I went ahead and got a copy of the will too. The court clerk will email it to me later today.” Also in the file was a list of the people who are included in the Will along with their addresses. In many cases, not only is the Will public, but a list of assets and the appraised amount must also be filed. Wow. I don’t know about you, but I don’t want people to be able to get information about my affairs that easily!
Another aspect of the public nature of probate are the predators actively looking at case files and approaching the family. One client recently told me that they had numerous letters from people wanting to buy the house of her deceased mother, and that one real estate agent actually came to the door to try to get them to sell – at a very low price, as you might guess.
If maintaining your privacy and that of your family and other beneficiaries is important to you, then you want to avoid probate with a Revocable Living Trust. The Trust avoids probate. The successor trustee you name to handle the assets in your Trust does not have to be appointed by the court. The Trustee is able to access the accounts and property owned in the trust and those paid to the Trust by beneficiary designation. No court proceedings are necessary. The Trust is private too, there is no need to file anything with the court if it is put together properly.
On your death, your heirs will need to settle your estate, and unless you have the right plan in place, you may be placing a heavy burden on them. The best way to make it less burdensome is to use a Revocable Living Trust for your estate planning. A trust isn’t just for the wealthy. Everyday people who want to simplify their affairs after death can do so with a trust.
If you are ready to put a proper estate plan in place – one that avoids probate and makes it easier for someone to manage your assets if you are incapacitated – give our office a call at 602-375-6752, and book an initial consult with me or our other attorney, Allison Gloss.
Local Artistry Shines at Moon Valley Holiday Pop-Up Fair
BY JACKIE BRIGGS
As the holiday season approaches, we have a new local event to look forward to! Local Moon Valley organizer, Becky Barnett, invites everyone to experience the magic of handmade goods at the annual Arts & Crafts Holiday PopUp Fair, happening on November 23 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m at Serafina Coffee Roasters.
As a longtime Moon Valley resident, Becky has put together a craft fair that represents more than a shopping opportunity—it’s a way to support and celebrate local talent. “For me, part of the holiday season is visiting arts and craft shows,” she says. “I love to see other artists’ creativity and ideas, and I truly appreciate the time, work, and originality that goes into them. Supporting small businesses and local artists is so important, especially in the age of Amazon and online shopping.”
At a time when mass-produced goods dominate the market, fairs like this one offer a refreshing experience. “There’s something special about holding a handmade piece, knowing that it was crafted with care and imagination. When you buy local, you’re not only supporting the community but also the arts. You’re supporting growth and individualism,” she explains.
This pop-up fair will be another one of Moon Valley’s community-focused events, with local crafters and artists showcasing everything from hand-crafted ceramics and jewelry to unique home décor, self-care items, and original art pieces. “There are very few craft fairs close to Moon Valley, which is why this event feels so personal,” she adds. “This neighborhood is home; my kids went to the same schools I did, and so many of us who grew up here have stayed or come back. There’s a deep-rooted sense of community that Jackie and her team at Locality Homes are nurturing with this fair.”
We hope this event will be a jumpstart on holiday shopping before the madness
of the season begins, offering attendees a peaceful, meaningful shopping experience. The pop-up’s proximity to Thanksgiving gives it an extra festive touch, inviting people to explore and enjoy the beauty of locally-made goods before the whirlwind of December sets in.
From handmade cards to thoughtful gifts, the Moon Valley Arts & Crafts Holiday Pop-Up Fair is your opportunity to give gifts that carry the warmth of your community. Whether you’re shopping for others or simply treating yourself, there’s something special for everyone to discover. Locality Homes, a proud sponsor, believes that supporting local events like this is key to what makes us a “community-driven” company. We’re honored to help create these kinds of moments where neighbors connect and support each other, adding to the strength and spirit of Moon Valley.
So mark your calendar and join us on Saturday, November 23, 2024, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. for a day filled with art, creativity, and community spirit. Bring friends, browse with family, and support Moon Valley’s incredible local artists and crafters!
Time to ride!
This is it cool weather for the next 5 months. We have been waiting for this for how long.
Take the bike out dust it off. Air the tires oil the chain spin the wheels is there a nice easy spin. Is the tire rubbing on the fender? Do the brakes still work? If all is well its time for a ride.
Biking adds life and peace and quiet to a busy world. No bill is sent you if you ride long or short. Riding with others is fun. With kids is a challenge but worth the extra time.
Riding solo is a good way to think and enjoy the day. Riding a little slower is not for every one but it has the advantage of you seeing things not seen riding in a car. Best of all its free and fun. Maybe it should be taxed!
Take the time make the ride - its still free.
BY LEON OF TRY ME BIKE SHOP
ebra
D Stark for Phoenix City Council Moon Valley Supports
As Your Councilwoman, Deb Stark has:
Implemented programs to ensure public safety have the tools they need to keep our streets, parks, and neighborhoods safe
Secured funding for the North Mountain Healing Center, which serves Sunnyslope and Moon Valley areas to reduce homelessness
Increased street safety by implementing a roadway safety action plan to fix Phoenix’s most dangerous intersections
Spine Check: A Back Story of Books, Good Deeds
& Good Posture
BY JENA RITCHIE, MOON VALLEY CHIROPRACTIC
Moon Valley Chiropractic is hosting a book drive to support the Moon Valley Women’s Club. Until Friday, November 15th, please bring in your extra books that are in good, reusable, or resalable condition. The books will be sold at an upcoming event to help raise funds for our Community Service Project(s) and donated to provide valuable reading material for Sunnyslope K-8 School in partnership with our neighborhood National Charity League Chapter. We encourage you to participate in this initiative, not only to promote literacy but also to support good posture. All book genres are welcomed, especially those that appeal to early and elementary school-aged readers. Ideally, these books can be first readers, picture books, language books, biographies, non-fiction, novels, science fiction, and historical fiction.
In libraries, most books are stored upright to preserve the integrity and structure of the book spine. Many of us have seen or experienced moments of people walking around with books on their heads. Try it out yourself to test your balance, attention, and posture; align the spine – keep the head upright and the neck, shoulders, and hips straight. Place the book above your head, then slowly move around. It’s an immensely entertaining and screen-free physical activity. Make it a fun little contest and set a timer to see who can perform various tasks while keeping the book atop their head, hands-free the longest.
Good posture contributes to a host of worthwhile everyday health benefits. Among them are:
• Improved organ function, especially breathing, circulation, cognition, and digestion
• Reduced physical aches and pains from your head to your toes and everywhere in between
• Enhanced functional performance, particularly during dynamic sports activities
• Preservation of joints, bone structural integrity, and minimized muscle fatigue
• Increased sense of self-confidence and well-being Continued on page 15
Gathering
By Dr. Sandi Howlett
When I was in elementary school, we sang special fall songs. One started with “Over the river and through the woods, to Grandmother’s house we go….” The other memorable one was an old Quaker hymn that began “We gather together to ask the Lord’s blessing.” This is the season for gatherings. More families gather for Thanksgiving than for any other holiday. For many, it is the BEST holiday of the entire year. When asked ‘Why?’, lots of people say it is the food…the bountiful feast that tosses calories to the wind for the fall delights of turkey with all the fixings and so much more! Perhaps it is the marathon of college football rivalries. And just maybe, it is being with the people we care most about, family and friends. Thanksgiving is a unique holiday in that family tables are frequently open to friends, neighbors, and sometimes strangers…
What does it mean to ‘gather’? Definitions include: “come together; assemble or accumulate,” “bring together and take in from scattered places or sources.” Fall is a gathering season…farmers harvest crops, some animals feast to prepare for hibernation, some collect food to sustain them through the cold months. In the desert, we welcome cooler weather that mimics the autumn of other places; the smell of back yard fire pits in the evening; pulling out ‘winter’ jackets and boots for that slight chill in the air (and to get a few days wear from them); trips north in pursuit of colorful foliage and crisp mornings; piles of pumpkins at the grocery store; lots of fall festivals and outdoor art shows and (ahem), the beginning of Christmas music on the radio and in stores…
Why do we gather? Is it really the feast and the football? Of course not. Those are given great attention and often treated as a ‘centerpiece’ for the crowd. What is the real reason people gather? I think we seek connections – that bond of sharing a part of our life with another person. We gather for other occasions including birthdays, weddings, and funerals. Again, it is the sense of ‘connection’, a reunion of souls that helps to remind us that we are part of something bigger than ourselves; that we are inter-connected with common interests and concerns; that we are all spinning through space together. We gather to share, listen, and support one another. We gather to fill that piece of humanity that reminds us that while we may live far apart, we are not alone. Perhaps there are invisible strings that connect us across the miles and even through the veil between life and death.
As you gather this season, may you feel the heartful connection of love and caring. May you feel gratitude in your heart and find ways to share that with those who are most meaningful in your own life. Hansen’s - We’re here when you need us.
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
Hansen, Trish Hansen K err and Br ad Hansen
Trish Hansen Kerr, Br ad Hansen, Tanner Kerr, & Stuart Hansen
The simple practice of balancing books upon one’s head easily offers an introductory exercise in good posture. It also discourages undesirable spinal conditions like Forward Head Posture (FHP), which is, unfortunately, becoming increasingly common in today’s tech-neck society. Forward head posture (FHP) occurs when a person chronically leans forward out of neutral alignment with their spine and is clinically recognized as a form of repetitive strain injury.
We are all prone to poor posturewhether dentists, hairdressers, or everyday people who enjoy reading books or using electronic devices. Forward head posture is one of the most prevalent postural concerns. The gravity of pressure of a poorly aligned spine dramatically increases thoracic hunching, adding the structural stress of roughly 10 pounds of weight per inch of forward tilt. FHP contributes to stiffness, balance issues, incontinence, constipation, heartburn, slow digestion, arthritis exacerbation, compromised respiratory function, headaches, humped back, degeneration, and more.
Consciously maintaining good posture can reduce the likelihood of developing FHP. Luckily, Forward Head Posture is a correctable condition. Chiropractic care offers a comprehensive treatment approach. By combining spinal adjustments, muscle therapy, ergonomic advice, and preventative strategies, chiropractors can effectively address FHP, enhancing overall health and function. Do a good deed for your good health and schedule your appointment with Moon Valley Chiropractic. Please call our office at 602298-0292
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Moon Valley Women’s Club – Member Spotlight – Lin Felix
Lin Felix has been a member of the Moon Valley Women’s Club for over 25 yrs. During that time, she has had many Board roles including Records, Secretary, Events, Fund Raising Chairman and has overseen door prizes. In addition, she leads the following groups: Poker, Daytime Canasta, Daytime Pinochle, Wednesday Page Turners book club, and the needlework group. She also helped start the Classy Cooks group approximately 18 years ago. Lin currently serves on the Recognition Committee. She participates in 9 group activities and that keeps her busy!
Lin moved to Phoenix from Ohio 30 years ago so that her son could go to college here at the only CAD school in the country at the time. She met her husband, Armando, and they have been traveling the world for the past 29 years! They have five kids between them and one granddaughter. Aside from club activities, her hobby is counted cross-stitch and her addiction is reading.
When asked, what’s the best part of being a member of MVWC, Lin responded “It’s all about the friends I’ve made over the years.” During COVID, she and three of her friends started an informal Hand & Foot group. She values this group of friends (and all her friends) dearly. Her best advice to new members: “Take advantage of any groups you may have an interest in because the fun and friendships can’t be measured!”
To learn more about the Moon Valley Women’s Club, visit: https://mvwomensclub.org.
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