Moon Valley Tattler October 2020

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October 2020 | Vol. 40 No. 10

COUNCILWOMAN

Debra Stark

on how she’s here for Moon Valley

Read Now- 7 Lookout Mountain Recognized as national blue ribbon school - 3 Remembering Julie SImer - 5 BTC Assists our troops - 10 Here’s a playful twist on pet care - 15 ECRWSSEDDM POSTAL CUSTOMER

On the cover: Councilwoman Debra Stark (right) walks with Phoenix resident Jane (left) | Paid for and Authorized by Deb Stark for Phoenix

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WESD: Lookout Mountain Recognized as National Blue ribbon school + MORE

BY DR . PAUL S TANTON, SUPERINTENDENT, WESD

Hello! I am Dr. Paul Stanton, the proud superintendent of the Washington Elementary School District. Thank you for supporting the WESD through these times. As this column went to print, our leadership team made and continues to make updates to the reopening plan based on the Arizona Department of Health Services and the Maricopa County Health Department benchmarks and survey data. The latest information regarding WESD’s reopening plan is always available at www.wesdschools.org/returntolearn.

WESD teachers, administrators and staff remain dedicated to meeting the academic and social/emotional needs of each student. I am pleased to share the following highlights of the exceptional work by our staff on behalf of your students.

Lookout Mountain Elementary Recognized as National Blue Ribbon School

a special virtual broadcast hosted by the U.S. Department of Education on September 24, Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos recognized Lookout Mountain as an Exemplary High Performing National Blue Ribbon School.

Lookout Mountain is one of 367 schools in the nation and one of five schools from Arizona to be recognized in 2020.

The National Blue Ribbon School award affirms the hard work of students, educators, families, and communities in creating safe and welcoming schools where students master challenging content. National Blue Ribbon Schools serve as models of effective school practices for state and district educators and other schools throughout the nation; personnel at National Blue Ribbon Schools are often sought out as mentors.

The 2020 National Blue Ribbon Schools Awards Ceremony will be held virtually Nov. 12 and 13. Visit nationalblueribbonschools.ed.gov to view Lookout Mountain’s successful application posted on the National Blue Ribbon Schools website detailing key elements of successful schools, from individualized student supports, intentional instruction, collaborative cultures, and targeted curricula.

Congratulations to the Lookout Mountain School administration, teachers, staff, students and community on this highly esteemed national honor.

Lookout Mountain Principal Receives Maricopa County Exemplary Principal Award

The WESD is proud to announce that Lookout Mountain School is an Exemplary High Performing National Blue Ribbon School for 2020! During

Maricopa County School Superintendent Steve Watson announced that Mrs. Tricia Heller-Johnson has been named a 2020 Maricopa County Exemplary Principal. Mrs. Heller-Johnson is receiving this honor based on her exceptional leadership in building a strong school culture resulting in high student achievement and teacher retention. There were multiple phases in the selection process, which included a review of school achievement and teacher retention data, teacher and surveys, video interviews and professional observations.

“It is an honor to recognize Tricia Heller-Johnson as an Exemplary Principal. She is a strong instructional leader who has developed a positive and supportive culture with students at the heart,” said Maricopa County School Superintendent Steve Watson. “She encourages school-wide collaboration continued on page 4 L: NMLS 310878 | LO-0915401

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The Moon Valley Tattler | October 2020 3

WESD ... cont’D from page 3

and empowers teachers to take risks and grow their practice.”

T h e S u p e r i nt e n d e nt a n n u a l l y announces the Maricopa County E x e mpl a r y Principal Award to school leaders.

Wa sh ing ton Elementary School District is extremely proud to have two administrators receiving the distinguished honor this year. Acacia Elementary School Principal Christine Hollingsworth was also selected for the award.

Mrs. Heller-Johnson has served as Lookout Mountain Principal for 15 years. She is also a 2017 WESD Lamp of Learning honoree, the highest honor bestowed to employees for outstanding professionalism, leadership and performance.

Follow Us to Stay Informed We encourage you to like and follow WESD’s Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn to receive updates. Lookout Mountain and Mountain Sky families can also connect on each schools’ Facebook page.

We appreciate that you are part of the WESD Family. We thank you choosing the WESD to educate your children or grandchildren.

Jazmyne Holwegner: AZWP Volunteer Spotlight B Y PAU L A C U L L I S O N The flowers in our respective gardens of life are joys to behold. Our friends and family are close to our hearts. For the Arizona Women’s Partnership, these flowers come as supporters and volunteers. Our garden has been growing since 2002. As previously noted, many flowers come to us via ‘job’ postings on www.volunteermatch. org and this summer was no exception», notes Paula Cullison, President and Founder of AZWP. One of our most recent volunteers is Jazmyne Holwegner who replied to our need for a Social Media Manager.

Having successfully completed her studies inthe Honors program, Jazmyne graduated Summa Cum Laude (4.0 GPA) from NAU with a B.S in Strategic Communication - Class of 2020. While at NAU in Flagstaff, Jazmyne created several social media projects for the University, as well as worked on a team project for the Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument. Jazmyne is currently enrolled in the ASU Master’s degree program.

Jazmyne has been busy establishing the LinkedIn and Twitter accounts for AZWP and then posting our grant recipient profiles on both.

She also set up a MailChimp account, so we can contact our database in a timely manner; and has already organized two mailings for us.

‘After graduating, I was looking for ways to use the skills I had gained at NAU to help nonprofits communicate with their audiences. When I saw the listing on VolunteerMatch, I was excited to reach out. I’m thankful to Paula for allowing me to gain hands-on experience while bringing attention to AZWP and the wonderful organizations it supports’, noted Jazmyne For the AZ Women’s Partnership (based in Moon Valley), having a strong social media presence is a critical part of our growth. In this way we broaden our donor base, as we inform others about AZWP and our grant recipients. We are grateful to Jazmyne for her willingness to help us. You can follow the Arizona Women’s Partnership on facebook, instagram, twitter, and LinkedIn For more information visit: www.azwp. org email: azwpinc@aol.com or Tel:602-863-9744

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TRAPPED IN MOON VALLEY

LET TER FROM THE EDITOR

In great memory of my first partner and editor of the Moon Valley Tattler. Julie Simer was my inspiration and mentor in our early years of owning the Tattler. May she rest in peace and play with the angels as she is reunited with her husband John. awn Trapp

D

Julia “Julie” Ann Simer, age 77, passed away peacefully on August 31, 2020, north of Phoenix, AZ in her beloved Munds Park cabin where she spent her summers every year since 1974. She was born in Sheboygan, WI, to Roger and Marianne Kenney. In 1986, Julie married John Robert Simer who preceded her in death in 1999, as have her parents.

Julie graduated with a degree in Journalism from Barry University in Miami, FL, and with her passion for supporting children, she began her career teaching elementary students in Lame Deer, MT. Afterward, and for many years in Phoenix, she was a Proofreader for Imperial Litho, and later a co-owner of the Moon Valley Tattler until her retirement.

In retirement, Julie’s charitable heart led her to support the Assistance League of Phoenix, and further her more than 35-year devotion to Arizona’s Civitan organizations and Camp Civitan. She followed the Catholic faith, and also enjoyed playing golf, watching Arizona Cardinals football, collecting antique children’s toys, dolls, and books, reading avidly, and staying connected to her friends and family, all for whom she had great affection.

Surviving Julie are her sister and brother-in-law, Mary Kay and Russ Chaiser, of Hobe Sound, FL, and she also had two brothers and sisters-in-law, Linda and Timothy Kenney, of Sheboygan Falls, WI, and Margaret and Thomas Kenney, of Oviedo, FL, the latter of whom passed away previously. Also surviving Julie are her daughter, Katy Lewis of Peoria, AZ; her son, Andrew Simer of Salinas, CA; four grandchildren, Kendall Holcombe, Scott Simer, Amanda Pruett, and Matthew Lewis, all in the Phoenix area; five, soon to be seven, great-grandchildren; and nephews and nieces, all of whom she loved deeply.

Her family grieves her passing and takes comfort in knowing that Julie is reunited with John, her parents, and others. Funeral services are being planned for this fall at Phoenix Memorial Park. Her family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Civitan Foundation, Inc., 12635 N. 42nd St, Phoenix, AZ 85032.

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COUNCILWOMAN

Debra Stark

on how she’s here for Moon Valley

BY ANNIE DEGR AW

This year marks 60 years This move helped to lower water bills and further secured the community’s since the very first subdivisions water future. of Moon Valley were brought to “Working with Debra is easy. It is clear that she is not only a leader but life and much has changed in also a resident of our community with skin in the game,” said long-time Moon Phoenix.

Valley resident Joshua Matthews.

Now the fifth largest city in the nation, Phoenix has still retained the neighborly feeling that attracted so many here. This is the type of community Councilwoman Debra Stark strives to keep intact while representing the people of District 3 and Moon Valley.

“I do not take this job lightly; it is an honor to play a small part in making our shared future brighter,” said Stark. “Our residents deserve efficiency and accountability from their elected leaders. I have made it a priority to not only be This year has been deeply challenging for small businesses. At the city, active in our neighborhoods, but to cut through the red tape and bureaucracy Debra worked to allocate millions of federal dollars to aid small businesses that too often burdens those looking to start a business or build a home.” during the global pandemic. Debra has been instrumental in working directly During her time on council, Debra has worked to make the city safer, with developers to ensure that the redevelopment of Paradise Valley Mall is led more sustainable, and economically vibrant. Working with local neighborhood with innovation while also protecting surrounding neighborhoods. associations, she helped create new block watches and developed the Gated Stark’s work certainly speaks for itself, and has gained her notable endorsements Alley Program to deter littering and loitering. She also developed the Phoenix to include the Professional Fire Fighters of Arizona, Arizona Police Association, CARES program to address the issue of encampments and to offer resources and the Phoenix Law Enforcement Association. to neighbors who have fallen on hard “Our work is not yet done. Phoenix is the times. Debra was integral to helping fastest growing city in America because of what we the city pull off the most ambitious have built together; people want to be a part of our citywide street paving program success,” said Stark. in Phoenix’s history; 2019 saw a Help Debra continue to serve this great city— 300% increase in paved street miles vote for Debra Stark for District 3 on November 3. compared to prior years. These roads

must also be safe to travel which is

why Debra has pushed for increased

traffic safety measures to reduce

speeding and red light running.

Securing the state’s precious water supply and ensuring resilient infrastructure remains a top priority for Councilwoman Stark.

Working with local leaders including Supervisor Bill Gates, she assisted the Moon Valley and Pointe Tapatio Golf Debra Stark, featured above and to the Courses to utilize untreated water right serving Phoenix and District 3 rather than the prior use of potable water.

I do not take this job lightly; it is an honor to play a small part in making our shared future brighter.”

Debra Stark

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The Moon Valley Tattler | October 2020 7

Rookie DAD: Embracing the Stuck & Finding Silver Linings My wife usually writes this column. When she asked me if I’d like to guest write this column for her so parents could hear from a male perspective, I told her I would like to. I mean, with the current state of the world, there can’t be a shortage of topics to write about.

It took me about two hours to actually start writing.

If you’re anything like me, the last six months have been fairly trying, and I know that many, many people were put into much worse situations than myself and my family. My wife is navigating her bipolar disorder in quarantine and my daughter has grown more since March than, it seems, in three years.

This virus has caused a remarkably devastating effect on millions of people, and it truly seems like the world that will be a much different place moving forward. We have been bombarded with so much information -- much of it negative -- that it seems like it is taking all of my energy to navigate it and to simply do my best to get through the day.

Not knowing what our lives will be looking like even months from now makes it hard to try to plan for the future. It feels like we’ve been living in a state of paralysis to the point where attempting to envision and make steps toward changing our future seems way too difficult at this point.

That brings me to this column. As I struggled to write, I couldn’t help but compare how I felt attempting to write this article with how I’ve felt about the world recently: stuck.

Just like the world feels as if it is in a constant loop of taking one step forward and then two steps back, I would write, delete, and rewrite in the hope of creating something that would connect with as many people as I possibly could.

As I kept banging my head against the wall, I realized that this path wasn’t

B Y A D A M CO N S TA B L E

the right one to take. Instead I needed to try to do what I’ve been doing in our lives for the past six months: try to take each day as it comes, focus on what needs to be focused on and do your best to make each day a little better than the last.

“Try to take each day as it comes, focus on what needs to be focused on and do your best to make each day a little better than the last.”

The biggest positive that I’ve been able to take away since the pandemic began was how much time I have been able to spend with my daughter. Prior to working from home I would sleepily get her ready for the day, drop her off at daycare, and come home to get maybe an hour and a half with her before she went to sleep.

During quarantine though, that all changed. Brynn is three and a half now, and in the last sixth months I’ve been able to witness more growth in her than I had been able to see in the first three years.

It is truly the definition of a silver lining. For me, being able to better foster my relationship with her has made quarantine manageable. Sure, it was definitely not easy trying to entertain a three year old at home while working, but being able to have the option to do so has meant the world.

I think that if I only focused on what was happening outside of my home instead of attempting to make the most of my time inside my home, I would have emerged from quarantine with a number of regrets. While there are many very pressing, urgent, and vitally important societal issues at stake in the world right now, they are not the only issues and responsibilities we face.

This is not to diminish the impact that race relations, climate control, the COVID-19 pandemic, or the presidential election will have on us here in the present and for our future generations, but for me, I personally needed to start with something smaller and more personal.

I, unfortunately, do not have any great words of wisdom for those topics.

Instead, I can only offer something that hopefully has a shred of value: If you’re like me, and feel stuck and overwhelmed with the world, it’s important to understand that the small steps you are taking add up to more than you may realize.

It just so happens that being stuck at home for quarantine gave me that opportunity.

Whatever your silver lining may be, I truly hope that you are able to find it.

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The Moon Valley Tattler | October 2020 9

boys team charity: lending our assistance for the troops!

BY RYAN C ALC ATERR A , FR ANK IE GLE A SH, CHARLIE C ALC ATERR A & DJ GLE A SH

During this pandemic, Boys Team Charity continues their dedication with helping our communities as must as possible. One of the ways we were able to accomplish our goal is with philanthropy partner, Packages From Home.

Packages From Home is a non-profit organization with a mission to send care packages oversees to Active Duty US military members stationed or deployed overseas. Their purpose is ‘to show our military members and veterans that we acknowledge & appreciate their many sacrifices in service of our freedoms as Americans’. BTC is proud to partner with PFH to help fulfill this outstanding mission. Learn more by visiting the PFH website: www.packagesfromhome.org.

Due to limitations of volunteering in person over the summer, our chapter was able to help this philanthropy in a few different ways. Boys Team Charity North Valley Teammates could choose to decorate the exterior of Priority boxes at home, write letters to service men and women and/or go to the Packages from Home facility to help fill care packages. As a result, BTC North Valley helped create and pack over 125 packages in July!

The Priority box decorations were quite creative with written with words of appreciation, drawings and stickers.

Every care package includes a letter to the recipient with expressions of encouragement and thanks. There are two types of packages shipped to military members: food and drinks or hygiene + entertainment goods. All goods are donated by the local community and can range from crackers and drink mixes to sunscreen and books.

Some military members have special requests for specific items needed, others

take whatever is available, but every box must be filled up with as much goods as possible! Packages From Home organization has a philosophy of ‘we don’t ship air’.

So, zero space can be left inside the boxes. In just a few hours, 10 BTC teammates and coaches filled the boxes with the goodies!

Being able to pack a box for an individual military member made it very personal knowing you were helping someone who is far from home.

BTC is a volunteer service organization dedicated to developing an altruistic spirit in young men through active participation in philanthropic projects in their communities. BTC North Valley includes those living in 85022, 85023 and 85029 zip codes. To learn more, visit: btcnorthvalley. chapterweb.net/.

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Charitable giving with your estate plan

BY LIBBY BANK S, PLLC THE L AW OFFICE OF LIBBY BANK S September was Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. One of the charities I support is Amanda Hope Rainbow Angels, an organization supporting children with cancer and their families in a variety of wonderful ways. More on that below in my article. Thinking about my charity this past month reminded me that it might be time to write again about various methods of giving to charities when we do estate plans. There are several methods of giving to charitable organizations to benefit charity – and some also give you tax advantages.

Gifts from a 401(k) or Traditional IRA: Your contributions to your 401(k) or IRA are pre-tax money. You, or an individual inheriting the IRA from you, will pay taxes when the money is withdrawn from your retirement fund. A charity, on the other hand, will not pay taxes. If giving to charities is part of your estate plan, you may want to structure the plan to give from an IRA or 401(k). Be careful, though, when you have both individual beneficiaries and charities on the same IRA, as there can be unintended tax consequences when you do so. Consult with an attorney or CPA to avoid any issues.

Gifting your Required Minimum Distributions: Another option for giving is a gift during your lifetime using Qualified Charitable Distributions. Individuals who are taking required minimum distributions an IRA can give up to $100,000 from an IRA to a charity tax-free. The payment must be made directly to the charity to qualify for this tax-free distribution. The individual doesn’t receive an income tax charitable deduction, but they also don’t have to recognize the distribution as taxable income. For those who no longer itemize on their tax returns, this is a great option. If you are already making gifts to a charity each year, this can be a way to benefit your charity to a greater extent and save yourself taxes.

Again, just remember not to take the distribution into your bank account first! It must go straight to the charity from your IRA. The Donor-Advised Fund: Donor-Advised Funds offer a simple way for you to benefit a variety of charities during your life and beyond. A donor-advised fund is established with, for instance, a community foundation. In our state, the

Arizona Community Foundation is one choice for a donor-advised fund. The donor can give cash or securities to the fund. He or she receives an income tax charitable deduction for the year of the donation. The donor designates the charities he wants to receive the benefit of his donation. A donor advised fund can be used for a gift from your estate after your death as well.

Charitable Remainder Trust: A charitable remainder trust allows the donor to give assets to an irrevocable trust that then provides income for an individual beneficiary while the remainder of the assets are given to charity after a period of years or at the death of the individual beneficiary. This type of trust can be an excellent vehicle for gifting highly appreciated assets with a low basis. The trust will permit a donor to claim an immediate charitable deduction for the value of the assets that will ultimately pass to the charity. The donation also avoids the capital gains taxes on the appreciated assets.

About Amanda Hope Rainbow Angels: As I mentioned in my opening, Amanda Hope Rainbow Angels assists children with cancer and their families (www.amandahope.org). Imagine having a child with cancer – and then throw Covid-19 on top of it, maybe resulting in job loss. Your other children need more of your time, and now having to socially distance yourself from many of your close friends and family who’ve been your support! It’s been really tough for these families! Amanda Hope has continued to serve them, but in these times can use more help. The Annual Gala has moved to primarily a virtual event, and much of what they bring in has come from this in the past. To support them this year, I’ve pitched in and created Team “Be the Change” to raise money. If you are interested in making a donation, here is the link to the website: https://tinyurl.com/ LB-Cancerhelp. Thank you for your help!

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The Moon Valley Tattler | October 2020 11

COVERAGE FOR THE THINGS YOU & YOUR FAMILY CARE ABOUT

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Local Elections are important - Please Vote!

BY BRET ALDIERI, MVNA PRESIDENT

I am very fortunate to lead a great group of volunteers that manages MVNA. We all volunteer our time for the benefit of all our residents and our entire community. Our association and board remain political agnostic (which these days can be a bit of a challenge). However – we did want the community to be aware of a couple of local leaders who are very supportive and continue to help us solve concerns. My experience with both Bill Gates and Deb Stark is that they are always available, and quick to bring help and leverage city or county services to address local issues.

Deb Stark - Our city council representative is always available to our community. She attends every annual MVNA meeting, attends our community events, and engages with us on issues and solutions. I’d like to share some of the highlights from her current term. She took the Gate’s proposed water solution and brought it over the finish line – a major achievement that brings lower cost canal water to the three golf courses in our community. This required constant effort to bring together city, county and national groups to solve this unique challenge. Deb has also delivered the following: Brought $5M of federal CARES funds to support local businesses Strong advocate for block watch and the Gated alley pilot to clean up alleyways Remains diligent on building infrastructure in ways that protects our water supply Leading efforts to address encampments in our district Worked with legislators for state guidelines to protect neighbors of Sober living homes Negotiated a gift from Phoenix Suns for improvement of Shadow Mtn Senior Center Accelerated road re-pavement to improve street safety and efficiency Bill Gates – Our Maricopa County Supervisor stays very connected to our community. Bill proposed the city led water solution to the golf course issue as our prior councilman. He continued to support the solution by lobbying council members to support this local cause. You may not be a golfer – but we all enjoy having this island of green in the heart of our community. Bill has also delivered: Strong advocate for public safety supporting Maricopa County Sherriff’s office Directed $75M in Federal aid for COVID testing and contact tracing activities Successfully secured $63M for small business relief and $36M in rental assistance Led country digital transformation, enabling a smarter County able to offer remote services Champions continuous improvement; saved $4.1M of county funds in first year Ensures county services are connected to community needs – like flood control Please note we have a community resident who is running for Justice of the Peace. I have had a few conversations with Michael Irish and found him very energetic and seems well qualified. Beyond that would encourage you to visit his website www.irish4jp.com for more information.

Democracy works best when people are properly informed and VOTE! Do your part, wear your mask when close to others. Stay safe and healthy Moon Valley!

Moon Valley - Neighbors helping Neighbors

GUHSD Governing Board Virtually Celebrates 2021 National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists

BY C I A R A E S C A L A N T E The Glendale Union High School District is proud to recognize two student semifinalists in the 2021 National Merit Scholarship Program. The semifinalists include Thunderbird High School seniors Keegan Halvorsen and Elliott St. Clair. To celebrate this prestigious milestone in their academic careers, the semifinalists participated in a virtual celebration during the GUHSD Governing Board’s regular meeting on Wednesday, Sept. 16. The virtual meeting provided the governing board with the opportunity to learn more about the semifinalists and commend them for this amazing achievement.

Every September, the National Merit Scholarship Corporation selects semifinalists from 1.6 million entrants across the country. Out of the 50,000 students with the highest PSAT/NMSQT Selection Index scores, approximately 16,000 high school students qualify as semifinalists.

From the semifinalists group, some 15,000 students meet the very high academic standards and other requirements to advance to the finalist level of the competition. By the conclusion of the 2021 program, about half of the finalists will win a National Merit Scholarship, earning the prestigious Merit Scholar title.

Winners may receive one of three different types of National Merit Scholarships including the $2,500 National Merit Scholarship, corporate-sponsored scholarships and college-sponsored scholarships.

Congratulations to GUHSD’s 2021 National Merit Semifinalists.

The Moon Valley Tattler | October 2020 12

I NEED

Y UR

$279,000 $489,900

LISTING!

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I’ve sold all of mine.

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SOLD $355,000

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-Pool and Huge Wrap Around Patio -The Cousins are just a call away for your buying or selling needs

SUSAN & LAURIE

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-3 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms -2 Car Garage and Pool -Community Park & Near 101 -Ready to Buy or Sell...Just Call!

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SOLD $1,134,000

8448 W Behrend Dr - 85382

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$309,000 Under Contract - 1st Day on Market

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The Moon Valley Tattler | AUGUST 2020 13

Moon Valley NCL Chapter Tea: “A Mask-arade”

BY CHRISTINE PAT TON The National Charity League, Inc. (NCL) Moon Valley Chapter looks forward every year to the month of May. Another school year comes to a close and that means it’s time to host our Annual Chapter Tea. This event brings us together to kick off our new year, celebrate individual achievements, and welcome Ticktockers and Patronesses to our chapter. This year the Tea Committee coordinated the event around a Mardi Gras theme. They incorporated French culture, music, food, decor, and masks into the day. However, COVID restrictions quickly pushed our Tea into August then the Tea Committee was faced with the decision to cancel the 2020 Chapter Tea or come up with a different way of hosting our “Mask-arade”. Keeping in stride with our increasingly virtual world, we chose to take on the challenge of hosting a virtual event. Tea Chair, Cheri Keene’s vision was as follows: “In shifting from an in-person event to virtual, my hope was to bring everyone together through laughter and celebration. The easy decision would have been to cancel, but we wanted to welcome our new members and to honor those who had given so much of their time during the past year. So we just had to figure out how to do that in today’s environment. We wanted to avoid a virtual event that felt like another zoom meeting, so we shifted to a video production where we could weave in various segments to create viewer engagement. “ The Tea Committee gathered inspiration for our production from “Some Good News with John Krasinski”. We developed a news-style video that gave us the opportunity to incorporate some fun elements such as a weather segment and a “what to wear/what not to wear” to NCL meetings video hosted by our Senior Class of 2021. We also added a twist to some of the traditional elements of our annual Tea. Instead of a speaker talking to the attendees, Cheri Keene, hosted a Q & A session with Karianne Munstedt, a Women’s Award winning Photographer, who answered questions about living authentically. In addition, we filmed our Chapter President, Kris Thayer, presenting special achievement awards to individual girls and moms at their homes, with everyone masking up

for our “mask-arade”.

In order to build excitement leading up to the Chapter Tea, we also hosted a drive-thru component the day before the event. Members were able to stop at stations to drop off donations for our featured charity, Desert Mission Food Bank. They could stop for a picture and to pick up a goodie bag which included a Tea program, tea and honey, pins and awards, and our highly coveted, super cute and delicious Tea Cookie.

Even with the challenges we had to overcome our Tea was fabulous! Cheri Keene stated, “this year’s Chapter Tea could not have happened without the committee’s involvement. They helped to inspire how the event unfolded and I was so fortunate to work with such a wonderful group of ladies! I have to say, I was overwhelmed at the beginning. But now I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to grow as a leader in a way that I was not expecting.” I think we all have had to change a little, grow a little and adapt to this continually changing landscape.

And who else better to grow and celebrate with? Our fellow NCL members!

Thanks for the memories and in the words of John Krasinski “remember no matter how dark it gets there is always good in the world!”

NCL, Inc. is a philanthropic organization with over 200 chapters across the country that all share the mission of fostering strong mother-daughter relationships through community service, leadership development, and cultural experiences. Members include girls ranging from 7th to 12th grade along with their mothers. For more information about NCL, Inc., please visit our website at https://moonvalley.natioanlcharityleague.org

UNIFIED. TRANSPARENT. COMPASSIONATE. Now and always, your health and safety matters at Avamere.

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Why GenerationZ & Chiropractic are a perfect fit

Do you have aches & stiffness?

I can help you. I combine the two powerful healing arts, Massage Therapy and Chiropractic Care, to achieve better, longer-lasting results.

BY DR. NICHOLAS WARNER, DC

Sometimes Generation Z – adults ages 18-24 – seems like it has it all ... everything the rest of us used to enjoy. Health is a big one, of course; how many times did you go to the doctor when you were that age? But scratch below the surface and you’ll find that Gen Zers have some of the same health issues and needs as people in any other age group. Case in point: new survey findings that reveal many Gen Zers experience chronic pain at a young age and are open to drug-free pain management, including chiropractic. Here are some of the key findings from the survey: ”When asked about their neck, shoulder and back pain, 18% of survey participants reported they first felt pain before the age of 10; 36% between the ages of 11 and 15 and 37% first felt discomfort between the ages of 16 and 20.”

“More than half (54%) of respondents classified their risk for persistent pain as ‘medium.’ Meanwhile, only 36% of survey respondents said their chronic pain is improving while the remainder reported it is getting worse (36%) or staying the same (28%).” “[N]early three-quarters (73%) of Generation Z survey respondents reported their chronic pain was caused by their sleep position, followed by sports or exercise (45%) and carrying a heavy bag (39%).” “[M]ore than 63% of survey respondents reported being ‘somewhat’ or ‘very’ interested in chiropractic care while 17% have already received such care.”

“Nearly 64% stated they believe chiropractic care should be covered by insurers, followed by physical therapy (61%); and massage, cupping, reiki and reflexology (50%).”

“Nearly 31% of survey respondents stated the efficacy of drug-free, natural pain management methods was a more important deciding factor than cost (24%) and convenience (20%).”

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“Younger Americans seem to be recognizing that pharmacological pain management methods alone deliver only short-term relief without addressing the underlying causes of chronic neuromusculoskeletal pain that can often start at an early age,” said Dr. Sherry McAllister, executive vice president of the Foundation for Chiropractic Progress, a nonprofit chiropractic organization that conducted the survey.

The moral to this story: Whether you’re young, old or any age in between, you need chiropractic! With chronic pain at an all-time high during the pandemic and the public increasingly wary of vaccines and other medication, what better time for Generation Zers – and any other Generation, for that matter – to embrace chiropractic?

New, Locally-Owned Pet Store Puts Playful Twist on Pet Product Shopping

BY MICH BAYLEY & BRETT CORDES

Pet Supplies Plus opened a new location at 245 E. Bell Rd., Ste. 16. The locally-owned pet store offers pet parents a hassle-free way to find better products and services for their pets, while saving them money and celebrating the fun of pet ownership. The store offers amenities such as a full-service grooming salon and self-service pet wash stations, a knowledgeable pet care team, and carry-out service in which team members carry heavy items to neighbors’ cars.

The store is owned by local entrepreneurs Mich Bayley and Brett Cordes, businessmen and animal lovers who have joined forces to provide the Moon Valley community with quality pet products and services for. Cordes is a highly respected Veterinarian (aka ‘Brett the Vet’) and owns Arizona Animal Hospital (www. arizonaanimalhospital.com). Cordes and Arizona Animal Hospital will offer select vet services at the new Pet Supplies Plus Moon Valley store. As community partners, Cordes and Bayley will work with local animal shelters, rescue organizations and nonprofits to host year-round adoption events, fundraisers and pet food and product drives.

“With our second store, we want to provide the same care and commitment to our neighbors’ pets in a new community,” said Bayley. “With medical resources being provided under the same roof as retail offerings, neighbors will have one less trip to worry about while caring for their furry – or scaly – family members.”

Pet Supplies Plus is open Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. During this time of social distancing, the pet store is offering neighbors online ordering with either one-hour curbside pick-up or free home delivery. To learn more about Pet Supplies Plus of Moon Valley, visit www.petsuppliesplus.com or call (602) 962-6021.

Call us: 602.765.0902

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Pet Supplies Plus Moon Valley 245 E Bell Rd STE 16 | 602.962.6021 Mon-Sat: 8am-8pm • Sun: 9am-6pm

The Moon Valley Tattler | October 2020 15

Pandemic Stress takes a toll on teeth

BY DR . MEL ANIE SIMCHAK HULL, DDS

Moon Valley’s Home for Dental Care Since 1982

JAMES D. FALK, DDS MELANIE SIMCHAK HULL, DDS MICHAEL HULL, DDS

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In the past 3 months I have seen an unusual number of fractured teeth, broken dental restorations and dental pain from clenching and grinding. In one day, I had three patients with a broken upper front tooth! This trend seems to be another unfortunate result of COVID-19 related stress.

Reports from the American Dental Association confirm that dentists around the country are seeing an uptick in patients who are grinding their teeth, likely due to pandemic-induced stress. This condition, known as bruxism, results from the oralfacial muscles clenching the upper and lower teeth together and grinding them. It is one of the body’s ways of reducing the energy made from stress and anxiety.

The ADA recommends placing self-care and stress management as a top priority during the pandemic.

During a routine exam and cleaning appointment, the dentist and hygienist will look for signs of bruxism, such as worn tooth cusps and fracture lines appearing in the enamel. For some people, custom made appliances called “bite guards” or “occlusal guards” may be recommended to protect the teeth from the damaging effects of bruxism.

Don’t let stress take a toll on your teeth!

The Bill of Rights

BY FROST Y K ROENING Our Bill of Rights is such an amazing document. It is part of the Constitution.

It is the inheritance we share. It didn’t come easily. It cost many lives, including some of my ancestors’ lives as young people. It costs lives today.

The first amendment to the Constitution contains freedom of religion, freedom of speech, and freedom of peaceable assembly to redress grievances...a triple whammy of intensely important concepts.

Imagine a country where if you practice a certain religion, you are shunned or outlawed or moved to a different country. There are many examples of those practices around the world. Imagine not being able to follow your own conscience on spiritual matters.

What does freedom of speech mean? Always telling the truth? Unfortunately, no. It means persons can lie and fudge and make up stories and still have the freedom to do it. That is called propaganda. Citizens have the task of figuring out what is propaganda and what is the truth. There are multiple ways of doing this, but it takes effort.

The third freedom in the first amendment is the right to peaceful assembly to redress grievances. The Phoenix City Council and Phoenix Police Department have gone out of their way to find ways to help groups assemble without causing damage or hurting each other and property. Yet, assembly remains a right under the Constitution. It is an important tool for citizens.

There are ten amendments that are considered our Bill of Rights. It is easy to find them on the web. These separate us from the countries that now have no real freedom. For instance, Anne Garrels writes about Russia. She spent seven years in the middle of Russia in an industrial city. Her accounts are eye-opening. People who do not have freedoms live double-lives. They stay quiet to survive, yet try to undermine authorities when they can. Or they accept the status quo, but lose much of their creative energy. This kind of tension would not be fun to live with.

It would sap my strength, for sure!

Our precious Constitution reminds us of who we are as a people.

We expect our leaders to uphold its words and concepts. Freedom means keeping true to the Constitution, including the Bill of Rights.

www.moonvalleytattler.com | 16

Missing M O O N VALLE Y M AG I C BY D EB B I E ER BS TO E SSER Just about every time I leave the house I’m missing half of my face! If I had crooked teeth, wearing a mask would be a blessing, but I had braces about 10 years ago. I’m one of those people who can’t leave the house without lipstick on. It finishes off my look, but I suppose I really need to stop wasting money buying it. I can’t help myself though, making up my whole face makes me feel good about myself, kind of like making the bed every day. No one will see it, but I know it’s done.

It all started during college when the guy behind me in the grocery store told me I had perfectly shaped lips. I wasn’t sure if it was a pick up line or not and I was pretty embarrassed, but said thank you because that’s the polite thing to do. First chance I had with a mirror I looked at myself objectively and realized that he was correct! I started wearing lipstick to accentuate them. Then a few weeks later in yet another store, I ran into a friend who looked fabulous and I told her so. She commented that she never left the house without lipstick and sunglasses on. The combination was an immediate make-over that made her look ‘put together’ when she wasn’t. Consequently, I started doing the same. I’ve been using this ‘trick’ ever since.

While I miss my students and working with them directly, I don’t miss the need to be ‘put together’ and fully dressed up. Only the top half matters and you better believe that I wear lipstick! I won’t miss teaching online, as it’s really quite difficult to do a good job with gifted students who need hands on projects, but I will miss the freedom to be able to use the bathroom whenever I need to. One good thing that came of online teaching was seeing what my smile looks like. I was shocked to realize my toothless smile resembles a smirk! It’s got to be that darn RBF. So now I know that I have to show my teeth when I smile, or I don’t look happy at all.

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I really missed Anytime Fitness and felt shutting down the clean gyms was a terrible injustice. I was definitely not happy then. I realize that it would be impossible to verify that all athletic facilities are sanitary, but as one who has used and worked in many since college, Anytime Fitness and Pilate Barre are the cleanest places I’ve ever exercised at, long before covid19. AF has numerous sanitation stations around and everyone is and always was conscientious about wiping down equipment. I still miss Mamma Toledo’s Pie Hole being open 6 days a week, instead of just Friday, Saturday and Sunday. I miss their amazing breakfasts and being able to pop in for a coffee after my workout at Anytime Fitness. Of course, I wouldn’t be able to run home holding a coffee . . . so there is that.

In late September, I’ll be back in the classroom and while I won’t be missing the online teaching aspect of this pandemic, I will miss working from my sewing room at home. I can start dinner or make quick trips to the store on my breaks without having to sign out! It won’t be necessary to put on lipstick because a mask will be required all day at school, but I’ll wear it anyway. A habit this old isn’t that easily broken, whether half my face is missing or not, I’ll at least know the lipstick is there.

Debbie Erbstoesser has lived in Moon Valley for 30 years, is a mother of 3 adult sons and has been married to Gary, her friend from High School, for 36 years. She is a gifted specialist in the Deer Valley School District.

Call us: 602.765.0902

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HOURS: MON - FRI 8-12, 2-6:30 CLOSED TUESDAYS

The Moon Valley Tattler | October 2020 17

Considering buying a home or ref inanc ing yo ur mor tgage?

Reverse Mortgages Explained THE WRITE STUFF BY GERRY JOHNSON

My Reverse Mortgage business has really picked up in the last few months.

In analyzing why my borrowers are initiating a Reverse Mortgage, it is almost always based on economic need. They simply don’t have the resources to maintain a comfortable lifestyle in their waning years. Of my last five loans, a couple of borrowers had a small pension, and all had Social Security. They all had “forward” mortgages, thus a monthly mortgage payment.

Eliminating a monthly mortgage payment is the number one reason why elders turn to a Reverse Mortgage. You have to have a pretty good equity in your home for this to work, but most seniors do. The home doesn’t have to be paid for. When you have no principal and interest payment, it is like getting a raise Moon Valley resident since 1974 equivalent to that same amount. But you still have to pay taxes, insurance and HOA dues.

Usually, after paying off the forward mortgage, additional funds are available Senior Loan Officer which can be treated as a line of credit to be accessed when needed, or a monthly Residential and Reverse Mortgages stipend if extra income is needed, or by a lump sum distribution (stipulations 602.390.6422 apply), or any combination of the previous. gjohnson@peoplesmortgage.com The loan of choice is the FHA version which is called a Home Equity Conversion Mortgage or HECM. Some lenders have proprietary versions. To date, I have only recommended the HECM loan which seems to have more - ACCESSIBLE - KNOWLEDGEABLE - RESPONSIBLE safeguards and better terms. FHA doesn’t make the loan, but they do indemnify LO Licensing: AZ LO-0911738 CA-DBO183091 NMLS-183091 Company Licensing: AZ BK-0904164 CAthe lender, and the borrower, against default by either party.

FLL603L266/RMLA4130661, Licensed by the Department of Business Oversight Under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act NMLS-6274 You have to be at least 62 to qualify. The amount that can be advanced is called the Principal Limit. It is based upon FHA guidelines which consider the appraised value of the home, the age of the youngest borrower, and the prevailing interest rate. Older borrowers will receive a higher percentage of the appraised value than younger ones.

So far, I have only talked about the up side of a Reverse Mortgage. As I said, a HECM is an FHA loan. On all FHA loans (forward and Reverse) one has to pay mortgage insurance. This is an up-front charge which is rolled into the loan, not out-of-pocket. There is also a small monthly fee charged which is also rolled into the loan.

If you are planning on staying in your home for only a year or two, I would not recommend a Reverse Mortgage. The Up-Front Mortgage Insurance Premium, 2% of the appraised value of the home, is simply too high, but amortized over five or ten years or longer makes much more sense. Some-times the Mortgage Loan Officer can help you pay a portion of the fees or UFMIP. It is worth discussing.

In October, 2017 FHA changed their guidelines. Their formulas do not allow the lender to advance as much as they once did. The offshoot of this is that it makes the whole program much more secure, but it also ensures that the borrower will have substantial home equity when that maturity event occurs and they can no longer remain in their home. There will be funds for the heirs or funds to devote to assisted living.

There are many more considerations. I would recommend getting with a trusted Mortgage Loan Officer, who is familiar with Reverse Mortgages and exploring your options. Today’s low interest rates make it especially attractive right now.

Gerry Johnson

Moon Valley Neighborhoods: Quail Hill

BY JULIE PEK

The story goes that three different California builders brought their unique style to Phoenix and built the Quail Hill townhome community in two phases from 1975 to 1985. It most likely was a tag-team effort. There are 228 units in Quail Hill with three different floor plans, including multi-level and single level, some with garages and some with carports. The unit north of the pool was the original sales office and the models were the first few units east of the office.

Ted and Barbara bought a new build there when they became empty nesters.

That was 34 years ago and they still enjoy their townhome. They were attracted to the community because they liked the lifestyle it offered. “It was a bonus and comfort that we didn’t have to worry about anything outside of our unit, because the HOA took care of it,” Ted told me. “We watched families grow up, and lots of seasonal visitors enjoy Quail Hill,” he added. For many years Ted was involved in the HOA leadership but is happy now to enjoy his 18 grandchildren, 37 great grandchildren, and 1 great-great grandchild!

Quail Hill is still popular today with a variety of buyers. Because it is so popular, it’s common to see a unit pass to a family member instead of going on the market. And if a unit comes up for sale, it’s under contract quickly. Most units are selling in the low $200,000 range, or $163 per square foot. This conveniently located community with floorplans that have adapted to modern needs will continue to hold its value and attraction. Just like it still does for Ted and Barbara.

Today’s real estate market is remarkable in Phoenix. Call me if you are interested in learning more about it.

18 OCtober 2020 | info@mvtattler.com

www.moonvalleytattler.com

Avoiding Monoculture B Y K AT H L E E N V I C K Greetings, Readers!

Please, take a peek out one of your front windows—or door— look down the street and imagine, if you will, the sidewalks of Moon Valley continuously bathed in dappled shade. We can accomplish this by planting trees every 20-30 feet along our property lines, no further than 5 feet from the sidewalk. What an improvement our neighborhood would be! Not only would the environmental and the aesthetic effects be enhanced but our property values would rise since most people prefer to live on a tree-lined street.

When thinking about planting multiple trees it is necessary to avoid “monoculture”—planting the same type of tree over and over. The reason for this is twofold. First, it is visually boring but more importantly, if there is a blight of some sort, it will attack all of the same type of tree and they will all become victims. By planting a variety of species, one hedges one’s bets on long-term success—and, of course, the visual result is more interesting.

Another factor to consider is to avoid fast-growing species. In general, trees that grow quickly are weak and tend to break more readily. Moon Valley is subject to micro-bursts and afterwards it is easy to see the veritable grave yard of trees that have been damaged by the wind. To that end, select trees that may be slower growing but are stronger. They will be more successful for the long run.

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RFD BLOCK WATCHER BY BLANCHE LUKES Did you ever round a bend in Moon Valley and there on the street were almost a dozen motorized skateboards?

Oh, what fun they were having whizzing back and forth across the street laughing and having a great time. However, as cars were approaching, if the motorist got distracted and didn’t see them: “ A Recipe for a Disaster!”

I remember a call my son got while visiting us during holiday break from college. His roommate back home was in critical condition after a freak accident. Sitting on the fender of a car after a few, a friend started driving the car and he fell off the fender. Not so funny, Craig ended up in the hospital a paraplegic. In talking with my son, he told me he visits Craig periodically to keep in touch. The Mom, now a single parent, has all these twenty-five plus years been the care giver for Craig who is now fifty-five. She lifts him from bed to a wheelchair, feeds him and has been doing this all these years. Even with help this eighty some year old mom is finding it is getting too much for her. This past week she had a mild stroke. Who would have thought a silly prank would cost so much. So why am I telling you this sad story? Because those kids on our street are just having fun, but it is too dangerous. If you are a parent, friend or relative have the conversation of “what if?”

Also, how do we slow down the speeders?

We need to ban together and somehow make it unpopular to speed on our streets. Ideas welcome. I recently put a sign on my garbage can. (Speed Limit 25 MPH). We can get them free and perhaps if every can on Friday had one on it, that would help.

Blanchelukes@cox.net - Moon Valley Block Watch

19 October 2020 | Call us: 602.765.0902

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The Moon Valley Tattler | AUGUST 2020 19

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GIFT CARD: $100 Visa Gift Card fulfilled by Protect Your Home through third-party provider, Mpell, upon installation of a security system and execution of monitoring contract. $4.95 shipping and handling fee, gift cards can take up to 8 weeks to arrive after following the Mpell redemption process. BASIC SYSTEM: $99 Installation. 36-Month Monitoring Agreement required at $27.99 per month ($1,007.64). 24-Month Monitoring Agreement required at $27.99 per month ($671.76) for California. Offer applies to homeowners only. Basic system requires landline phone. Offer valid for new ADT Authorized Premier Provider customers only and not on purchases from ADT LLC. Cannot be combined with any other offer. The $27.99 Offer does not include Quality Service Plan (QSP), ADT’s Extended Limited Warranty. ADT Pulse: ADT Pulse Interactive Solutions Services (“ADT Pulse”), which help you manage your home environment and family lifestyle, require the purchase and/or activation of an ADT alarm system with monitored burglary service and a compatible computer, cell phone or PDA with Internet and email access. These ADT Pulse services do not cover the operation or maintenance of any household equipment/systems that are connected to the ADT Pulse equipment. All ADT Pulse services are not available with the various levels of ADT Pulse. All ADT Pulse services may not be available in all geographic areas. You may be required to pay additional charges to purchase equipment required to utilize the ADT Pulse features you desire.

ADT PULSE + VIDEO: ADT Pulse + Video installation is an additional $299. 36-month monitoring contract required from ADT Pulse + Video: $59.99 per month, ($2,159.64), including Quality Service Plan (QSP). Doorbell camera may not be available in all areas. GENERAL: For all offers, the form of payment must be by credit card or electronic charge to your checking or savings account, satisfactory credit history is required and termination fee applies. Certain packages require approved landline phone. Local permit fees may be required. Certain restrictions may apply. Additional monitoring fees required for some services. For example, Burglary, Fire, Carbon Monoxide and Emergency Alert monitoring requires purchase and/or activation of an ADT security system with monitored Burglary, Fire, Carbon Monoxide and Emergency Alert devices and are an additional charge. Additional equipment may be purchased for an additional charge. Additional charges may apply in areas that require guard response service for municipal alarm verification. Prices subject to change. Prices may vary by market. Some insurance companies offer discounts on Homeowner’s Insurance. Please consult your insurance company. Photos are for illustrative purposes only and may not reflect the exact product/service actually provided. Licenses: AL-21-001104, AR-CMPY.0001725 AZ-ROC217517, CA-ACO6320, CT-ELC.0193944-L5, DC-EMS902653, DC-602516000016, DE-07-212, FL-EC13003427, EC13003401, GA-LVA205395, IA-AS-0206, ID-ELE-SJ-39131, IL-127.001042, IN-C.P.D. Reg. No. – 19-08088, City of Indianapolis: LAC-000156, KY-City of Louisville: 483, LA-F1914, LA-F1915, LA-F1082, MA-1355C, MD-107-1626, ME-LM50017382, MI-3601205773, MN-TS01807, MO-City of St. Louis: CC#354, St. Louis County: 100194, MS-15007958,MT-PSP-ELS-LIC-247, NC-25310-SP-FA/LV, NC-1622-CSA, NE-14451, NJ Burglar Alarm Lic. # -NJ-34BF00021800, NM-353366, NV-0068518, City of Las Vegas: 3000008296, NY-Licensed by the N.Y.S. Department of State UID#12000317691, NYS #12000286451,OH-53891446, City of Cincinnati: AC86, OK-AC1048, OR-170997, Pennsylvania Home Improvement Contractor Registration Number: PA022999, RI-3582, RI-7508, SC-BAC5630, SD- 1025-7001-ET, TN-1520, TX-B13734, ACR-3492, UT-6422596-6501, VA-115120, VT-ES-2382(7C),WA-602588694/ECPROTEYH934RS, WI-City of Milwaukee: PAS-0002966, WV-WV042433, WY-LV-G-21499. 3750 Priority Way South Dr. Indianapolis, IN 46240 ©2017 DEFENDERS, Inc. dba Protect Your Home DF-CD-NP-Q320

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The Moon Valley Tattler | October 2020 21

Moon Valley Classifieds House Cleaner

Skincare by Auvrie Premium facials at reasonable prices.

30 Minute Facial: $25. Free Paraffin for New Clients! Call or text Auvrie at 602.554.6806 or visit auvrie.com

ISO Antiques Buying Antiques and CollectiblesCall Cheryl at 480-229-3376 or email backintheday@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

Send In Your Classifieds

The best house cleaner in your area.

We have more than 14 years experience. Free estimates. Please text or call at 602-446-7831

Acoustic (Popcorn) Ceilings Removed All types of texturing and drywall repairs.

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Call Mike 623-582-4325

Get Published

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Emerge from these times playing piano!

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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 MoonValley Studio 602.971.0089 Valerie Thomas

Book manuscript submissions currently being reviewed. Comprehensive Services: Consultation, Production, Promotion and Distribution. Call for Your Free Author`s Guide 1-844-718-6746 or visit http://dorranceinfo.com/moon

Customized Indoor Outdoor Mural Artist for Hire.

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THE MOON VALLEY TATTLER, LLC info@mvtattler.com www.moonvalleytattler.com 602-765-0902

!

E L B

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IL A V WA

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Distribution Information Business profiles are based on information supplied from advertisers. Readers are urged to verify. Articles and photographs can be submitted for use in future issues.

Please submit a SASE if return is necessary. The publisher reserves the right to reject any advertisement or letter to the editor that is not in keeping with the standards of the publication. The publication’s name is copyrighted by:

Yard Sale Oct,15,16 & 17- 8am- 4pm, 1128 E. Rowlands Lane, Phoenix, AZ 85022 Multifamily house hold items, dishes, bedding, Halloween & Christmas items + more!

Add Color with a Mural

$20 for first 20 Words $0.50 for every Additional Word Email your content to: info@mvtattler.com Easy & Affordable way to advertise!

The Moon Valley Tattler is distributed monthly free of charge.

Readership is 50,000. The paper is mailed to Moon Valley area homes from Bell Road on the north, south through “The Pointe” community to Peoria, east to Cave Creek Road and or 32nd Street, and west to 19th Avenue. Additional copies are distributed at rack locations.

Content in full or part may not be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher. Opinions expressed by contributors are not necessarily the opinions of the publisher and do not constitute an endorsement of products or services. Publication of an ad does not constitute an endorsement.

YARD SALE

Show your Moon Valley Pride

In Sizes for Men & Women: Available in Black & Purple

Order Online + Ship to Home:

www.teechip.com/moonvalleyquail

Handy Dandy Classifieds Form Use the form at right to mail or drop off your classified ad.

You may also email a Word doc directly to info@mvtattler.com 20 WORDS FOR $20 (PER MONTH). Additional words are 50 cents each.

ALL CLASSIFIED ADS MUST BE PREPAID. Fill in ONE word per box below.

1 2 3 4 5 6

MAIL................................ Moon Valley Postal 13236 N. 7th St. #4304 Phoenix 85022

DROP OFF..................... Moon Valley Postal 13236 N. 7th St. #4304 Phoenix 85022

EMAIL..............................................................................................info@mvtattler.com

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Name______________________________________________________________________ Credit Card Number_______________________ ____________________________________ Credit Card Type___________________ Exp.___________________CCV#_______________ Billing Address________________________________________________________________ City____________________________________ State____________ Zip________________ Month(s) To Print__________________________Phone_______________________________

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Call us: 602.765.0902

The Moon Valley Tattler | October 2020 23

SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESS #ShopMoonValley

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Windows and Patio Doors!

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We recognize each family with a customized service that celebrates life and memorializes loved ones.

Call for your FREE in-home consultation.

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DETAILS OF OFFER: Offer expires 10/31/2020. Not valid with other offers or prior purchases. Buy one (1) window or patio door, get one (1) window or patio door 40% off, and 12 months $0 money down, $0 monthly payments, $0 interest when you purchase four (4) or more windows or patio doors between 7/1/2020 and 9/30/2020. 40% off windows and patio doors are less than or equal to lowest cost window or patio door in the order. Subject to credit approval. Interest is billed during the promotional period, but all interest is waived if the purchase amount is paid before the expiration of the promotional period. Financing for GreenSky ® consumer loan programs is provided by federally insured, federal and state chartered financial institutions without regard to age, race, color, religion, national origin, gender, or familial status. Savings comparison based on purchase of a single unit at list price. Available at participating locations and offer applies throughout the service area. See your local Renewal by Andersen location for details. License MN:BC130983/WI:266951. Excludes MN insurance work per MSA 325E.66. Los Angeles License #992285. Orange County License #990416. MHIC #121441. VA License #2705155684. DC License #420215000125. All other license numbers available upon request. Some Renewal by Andersen locations are independently owned and operated. “Renewal by Andersen” and all other marks where denoted are trademarks of Andersen Corporation. © 2020 Andersen Corporation. All rights reserved. rba12288 *Using U.S. and imported parts.

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ASK Gen-E: Technology need not be scary!

Sponsored by Generation Tech Support

Dear Gen-E, I am afraid of technology. There is so much talk about hackers and people watching me online and maybe they will find out where I live and come and get me and oh, I am so worried about all this!

Scaredy Cat Catherine

Dear Scaredy Cat, Going online is a bit like going outside your home, there are dangers out there, robbers, kidnappers, and terrible drivers. Yet we shop, meet with friends and venture out into the highway. The information highway, aka “the Internet” is much the same. And yes, there are some risks, but there are a few sound precautions you can take.

Just like talking to strangers, don’t open email from strangers. Walk on by and just delete them.

We know from mom, never to go into a car if you don’t know the driver.

So, don’t open a link, unless you know the sender. Don’t take candy from them either!

Did you ever send or get chain mail? Did you ever get $10,000 even after we all sent that dollar to 10 people? Nope! Be mindful not to send or open forwarded messenger or email messages. They are collecting email information on the way to and from senders. Chain mail! Pffffttt! Been there done that.

I bet you take your car in for service, right? That’s what computer and device updates are for. Updates adjust and fix large scale security events and offer ‘patches’ to globally dispel vulnerabilities across the airwaves and keep you safe.

App developers want you to be happy and keep using their games, programs and services so they are motivated to keep you safe too.

Only your best friends know your secrets, so use strong passwords for everything you hold dear. This need not be overcomplicated. Make some phrase that you can remember like: Every Sunday Dan Watches Football= ESD@Nwf00tball! Use symbols and numbers in your words. Having a strong password is like having a good door lock. Enabling two step verification with phone codes, is like adding a security system.

Do you remember, years ago, getting that big, fat, phone book delivered to your house every year? We propped kids up at the dinner table sitting on a book that shared everyone’s address and phone number! Yikes everyone had our address way back then!!

While our personal data today is a lot more widespread and varied, it need not cause us to over worry if we follow the same caution as in our everyday life.

Of course, a hot cup of tea or a shot of bourbon may help too. Overall, the more knowledge you seek about different technologies, the features, handy tools, tips and fixes, the more comfortable you will feel about using it.

Today, like the police and first responders who safeguard our neighborhoods, there is a growing cadre of cybersecurity professionals who, day in and day out, investigate and protect online breaches, and fight the online bad guys. That field is growing exponentially to the growing use of new technologies. There, feel better? Onward to great tech adventures ahead!

Always here to help.

Geek Love, Gen-E

Have

TECH Ques�ons?

Have

TECH

Ask Gen-E

Do you have tech questions eating away at you? Want your letter featured in the Moon Valley Tattler? All questions are great questions and Gen-E cannot wait to help! Send a note to Gen-E at GEN-E@gentechsupport.com

Questions?

How can I sync my phone to my computer?

Why is my computer SO slow?

How can I fix this password problem?

What is going wrong with my email?

Yikes! is overloaded!

HowMy dodata I send this photo?

Where isHow my stuff?

Where is the media?

Cloud? do I navigate social

I wish someonecould could just...

I wish someone just...

SHOW WHATTO TODO! DO! SHOW MEME WHAT

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(602) 374-5624 GenTechSupport.com 402 E Greenway Pkwy • Phoenix, AZ 85022

Call us: 602.765.0902

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Enthusiasm Personal Attention to Detail Integrity Frequent Communication MOON VALLEY RESIDENT & AREA SPECIALIST The Moon Valley Tattler | October 2020 25

Generation Z Cars – The Mercedes EQC 400

BY JOHAN SWART, CORNEL SWART & JAN SWART

Every person has their own personality which defines them. As a person gets older, it seems more difficult for a person to accept change. Companies often seem to exhibit the same behavior. Why is that? Well, companies consists of people and people’s behavior will be reflected in the company behavior. So, it is not surprising that human nature lives in companies and as the work force ages, a company becomes more set in its ways, resisting change more and more. Hence working for Dell, Michael Dell once made each employee read the book “Who Moved my Cheese” he did so to encourage the employees to accept change and change their design habits as the market change. He did so to ensure Dell does not lose track with what the market wants and change to follow the market – resisting change is not progress and can cause companies to lose their market. So, what does this have to do with cars? Well, the brochure for the new Mercedes EQC 400 electric vehicle says “… a bold statement about the future of driving”1.

Excited, we decided to find out whether the oldest car company managed to moved its cheese, dropped the stereo typical car design habits and created an electric vehicle that is, similar to Tesla, a bold statement about the future of driving.

The EQC is a SUV with an all-new drive system with one synchronous motor electric drivetrains at each axle, which gives the EQC the characteristics of an all-wheel drive vehicle, delivering 402 hp and 561 lb-ft of torque. The battery is an 80kW battery. The battery has the ability to fast-charge from 10% to 80% in 40 minutes when a 110 kW DC charging station is used. The interior is spacious and comprise of upmarket quality materials. The interior rose-gold accents create a modern iPhone feel and the large rectangular LED screen is incorporated in the instrument cluster space. From the outside, the EQC is instantly recognizable as a Mercedes-Benz – lots of big Mercedes emblems. The design hints that this is not a normal Benz but in a typical German conservative way. The grille and headlamps are combined (like Tesla) in a black-panel surface at front with a LED light band at the top, which is a nice touch. With 402 hp and 561 lb-ft of torque, driving the Benz is like driving any electric car. It is quick, quiet and effortless.

We really enjoyed the acceleration and although the 0-60mph in 4.8 seconds

1

sounds slow by electric car standards, it was fast enough for us and more than enough for everyday use. The ride was smooth and we have no complaints in this department. One negative is the battery in such a large vehicle.

The 80kW battery may be suitable for Europe with its shorter distances but not the USA – 200 miles is not enough and in Phoenix that rating may decrease to 150 miles (?) in summer.

Like the BMW i3 and the Nissan Leave, the range with this battery may make you grab a bottle of Prozac before going on a long road trip to calm the nerves and deal with range anxiety.

The car came with the same safety features found in most modern cars which include Standard Active Brake Assist, Speed Limit Assist and PRE-SAFE® system, Available Driver Assistance Systems: Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC ®, Active Blind Spot Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist and PRE-SAFE PLUS. Mercedes was supposed to release this car earlier this year in the USA with a starting price of $67K, but the launch was delayed by a year in order to supply Europe with vehicles.

We are not exactly sad because Daimler Benz built an electric car that looks, rides and feels like a normal gas powered SUV – the interior did not excite us and neither were there any “cool” features with a “wow” factor. It is as if Daimler wanted us to believe that installing an electric engine into an ox wagon makes the ox wagon special, not realizing that we still perceive it as an ox wagon … with an electric engine. The evidence of a “bold statement about the future of driving” was nowhere to be found – clearly the employees at Mercedes AG have not read the book “Who Moved my Cheese” – we recommend they do and give us something fresh and exciting that is GenZ approved!

https://www.mbusa.com/en/future-vehicles/eqc

New apartments are coming to Beatitudes Campus!

Be among the first to get an insider’s preview of our new Promenade Residences.

Getting inspired by plans for these new residences is easy. Join our B V.I.P. Club to enjoy exclusive member benefits.

Call 602.560.7975 today or visit us at BeatitudesInspired.org for details.

26 OCtober 2020 | info@mvtattler.com

1610 West Glendale Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85021

Beatitudes Campus is a not-for-profit life plan community founded by the Church of the Beatitudes.

www.moonvalleytattler.com

It’s time you got out of the house.

Our Inn Keepers are waiting to meet you and provide a relaxing, heart-warming experience right in cool, gorgeous Williams, Arizona.

Home Cooked Breakfast Oversized Cabin Rooms Rustic & Americana Decor Late Night Campfire Cozy Robes In-Room Great Vacation Packages

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Cool off in our nearby lake & go fishing. Shop & eat on historic Route 66. Hike the Grand Canyon or spy wild animals at Bearizona.

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Call us: 602.765.0902

Don’t flip this page!

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The Moon Valley Tattler | October 2020 27

Your Local Real Estate Specialists

Dave Dix 602.686.1503

Jackie Briggs 602.717.4844

Brewer Johnson 602.820.8128

NOW IS THE TIME TO SELL! 15428 N. 1st Ave.

LONG GONE AT $550,000 • • • • •

Closed at $253/Sq Ft 4 Beds / 2.5 Baths / 2,174 Sq Ft Completely remodeled Pool, built in BBQ, and large covered patio Two RV gates and 3 car garage

Dave Dix - DaveDix.com

216 W. Winged Foot Rd.

1120 W. Marconi Ave.

GORGEOUS REMODEL

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4 Beds / 2.5 Baths / 2,421 Sq Ft 1/3-Acre Cul-de-sac Lot Located in Moonlight Cove Downstairs Owner's Suite Covered Patio and Pool

Jackie Briggs - AZsoldhomes.com

Inventory is at historic lows and buyer demand is strong. As your Moon Valley experts, we know how to get your home sold for top dollar. Because we live here, this community is important to us and you will receive the highest level of service while keeping you safe. Call us today to receive a free competitive market analysis on your Moon Valley property!

Your health is important to us. All showings require masks, hand sanitizer, and additional precautions for your safety.

E. Thunderbird Rd. • Phoenix, AZ 85022 • Independently Owned and Operated 28 OCtober 2020678 | info@mvtattler.com

www.moonvalleytattler.com