Moon Valley Tattler February 2026 by Moon Valley Tattler

Community Doesn’t Just Happen

BY DREW HUTCHINSON, PRESIDENT, MOON VALLEY NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION

February often gets labeled as the month of love, but in a neighborhood like Moon Valley, love shows up in a different way. It shows up in the effort we put into our community….quietly, consistently, and without much fanfare.

Strong neighborhoods don’t happen by accident. They’re built over time by people who care enough to participate, to look out for one another, and to stay engaged. Moon Valley is special not because of a single event or organization, but because neighbors here choose to be involved, whether that’s attending a meeting, volunteering for an event, keeping an eye on the street, or simply checking in with someone next door.

The Moon Valley Neighborhood Association exists to support and connect those efforts. We’re not an HOA, and we don’t enforce rules, but we do help bring people together, share information, coordinate security, and preserve the character of the community so many of us are proud to call home.

Community is built in small moments. A wave while walking the dog. Reporting something that doesn’t look right. Taking a few minutes to stay informed about what’s happening nearby. Those actions may seem minor on their own, but together they’re what create a neighborhood that feels connected, safe, and welcoming.

If you haven’t visited our website recently, I encourage you to stop by www. moonvalley.org. It’s the best place to find neighborhood updates, upcoming events, and ways to get involved at whatever level works for you. Even staying informed is a meaningful way to contribute.

As we move through February, I want to thank everyone who plays a role, big or small, in making Moon Valley the community it is. Your involvement is what keeps this neighborhood strong, and it’s appreciated more than you may realize.

Thank you for continuing to help build Moon Valley, one small action at a time.

March 8, 2026

TRAPPED IN MOON VALLEY

February, Kindness, and the Power of RAK

It’s February… a month when traditional activities and customs continue to grow more commercialized each year: hearts, red, love, candy, jewelry, flowers, and romantic dinners and dates, just to name a few. And honestly— who doesn’t love and expect most of it?

But there is another February “holiday week” you may not know about: RAK Week—Random Acts of Kindness, celebrated and promoted by randomactsofkindness.org. While they believe kindness should be practiced every day, from February 11–17 people are encouraged to go above and beyond to make others feel special.

It’s a wonderful idea—but why only one week?

In the crazy world we’re living in, kindness should be a mantra we practice daily, all year long. Bringing smiles and bright moments to those who live with less; those carrying heavy burdens of poor health, limited resources, broken bones, or broken hearts; the lonely, fragile, and less fortunate; and even friends and neighbors who simply need an occasional bright spot to light their way.

As the holiday season fades from our daily thoughts—the time when giving is most common—I hope we can keep RAK in our souls and on our to-do lists. As The Tattler knows, many of our friends and neighbors already live this calling daily and weekly; you read about it here every month.

I am publicly asking you to submit your RAKs this year that you would like to see published. Each month, we will choose one story to share— highlighting what others are doing in our community. Of course, many of us don’t perform these acts for recognition or praise, but for the “feelgood” endorphins, the smiles, and the quiet knowing that we truly made a difference. Still, sharing these stories can introduce others to deserving charities, meaningful causes, or neighborhood needs that could benefit from broader support.

Please send your ideas and submissions to info@mvtattler.org with the subject line: RAK to be considered.

Many of you may choose to remain silent—and that, too, is understood. “It is often small, private decisions, known only to individuals, that change lives and become vivid memories forever.” Start your own RAK diary today; it will become a treasure for you and your family to cherish for years to come.

Happy Valentine’s Day—and yes, please do something special for your loved ones. Moon Valley offers many wonderful eats, drinks, activities, attractions, and shopping experiences to enjoy along the way.

Book Your Next Event At Moon Valley Country Club!

BY MEGAN ZEMAITIS

At Moon Valley Country Club, we’re always raising the bar to create unforgettable events in an exceptional setting. From intimate celebrations to large-scale gatherings, our beautifully refreshed spaces and dedicated team set the stage for something truly special.

MVWC Luncheon was a Huge Success

by Paula G. Cullison

Moon Valley Women’s Club featured a Dynamic Duo for its January luncheon at Chompie’s Restaurant on Cactus Road. Kristin Gilger & Lauren Gilger presented their fascinating topic: Good Girls Revolt: The History of Women in Journalism. T he highly regarded Mother - Daughter team shared their respective experiences as females in the male dominated profession of the Media. The pair noted that women have made great progress in the media, with more women than ever leading major news organizations, especially at news networks. However, the majority of leadership positions overall are still held by men. Therefore, women still find themselves fighting for equity.

Kristin Gilger, now a Professor Emerita at the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication, has had an impressive 16 year career at Arizona State University where she served in leadership roles, including interim Dean at Cronkite. Kristin also served as Director of the Donald W. Reynolds National Center for Business Journalism and led the National Center on Disability and Journalism.

Kristin is the co-author of There’s No Crying in Newsrooms: What Women Have Learned About What it Takes to Lead , published in 2021. Her latest book, My Son, The Priest: A Mother›s Crisis of Faith, was released in November by Monkfish Book Publishing Company and is now in its second printing.

Lauren Gilger hosts The Show, the morning news program on KJZZ 91.5FM, the NPR affiliate in Phoenix. Prior to joining KJZZ more than a decade ago, she was an investigative producer and reporter for ABC15 News

in Phoenix. Lauren Gilger’s work has also appeared in The Washington Post and the Phoenix New Times, and on ABC’s Nightline. Lauren earned her master’s degree in Journalism from the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism at ASU and her undergraduate degree in French and visual arts from Fordham University, where she also earned a certificate in American Catholic Studies. For more information visit: www.MVWomensClub.org

L-R: Paula Cullison, Lauren Gilger, Kristin Gilger, Hana Ruzsa Alanis and Dawn Trapp (owner Moon Valley Tattler)

Love Local: Valentine’s Day

The best place to hunt for unique treasures to brighten your Valentine’s February! Flerish Marketplace and Employment Training Center resells community donated goods, handmade art, home decor, furniture and new boutique items to support Civitan Foundation, Inc. and the more than 300 individuals with disabilities they serve each day.

Available in-store

3850 East Thunderbird Rd., Phoenix, Arizona 85032 (602) 358-8677

For the animal lover and self-indentified pet parents. Honor a beloved pet with a custom painted portrait. Each one-of-akind painting is created by an inspiring artist with a developmental disability from Civitan Foundation, Inc. Choose from multiple aesthetics, including the newest bejeweled option!

Proceeds support the mission of nonprofit Civitan Foundation, Inc.

Available online starting at $45 www.civitanfoundationaz.org/ civitan-fine-arts (602) 953-2944

*seen on the cover!

Estate planning is not about anticipating the worst. It is about making sure the person you love is protected, empowered, and spared unnecessary stress during life’s most difficult moments. Whether a couple is married, unmarried, or intentionally choosing not to marry, planning together is a powerful way to show one’s love. Book an appointment for a free, no-obligation estate planning consultation to discuss your estate needs in understandable terms and in a friendly environment with The Law Office of Libby Banks.

In Person, Zoom or Phone Meetings for Free Consultation www.libbybanks.com (602) 375-6752

ybanks com | info @libbybanks com

www.joybus.org/shop/p/the-joy-bus-cookbook

Gift Guide

Experience the vibrant flavors of authentic Mexican street food and cocktails at our family-owned taqueria, where handcrafted tortillas meet perfectly seasoned meats. Each entree is prepared with care, featuring succulent carne asada, traditional al pastor carved fresh from the trompo, and tender carnitas slow-cooked to perfection at Taco Cinco in Moon Valley.

Dine-in

777 East Thunderbird Road, 100, Phoenix, AZ 85022

Order-out

https://taco-cinco.com/order

Pet Supplies Plus has the best goodies for your furry Valentine. From organic cookies and creamy treats, to collar charms, plushy toys, and even faux jumbo Gummy Bear toys, there is sure to be the purrrr-fect gift to bring home.

Available in-store from $3.78 to $9.98+

245 E. Bell Road, Suite 16, Phoenix, AZ 85022

(602) 962-6021

your

Even fur babies want to look their best for Valentine’s Day. Book a full service groom with Urban Wag and your pup will be snuggle ready and smelling like roses.

Mention the Moon Valley Tattler to try a luxury skin and coat spa soaks for free. Call to schedule (602) 441-5010

13240 N 7th St. Phoenix, AZ 85022

BY NICHOLAS WARNER, DC

Ah yes, the power of a simple hug. A hug can warm you, comfort you, make you feel safe – all of the above and more. In fact, a hug can even improve your health by reducing stress and other negative feelings often conjured by our daily social interactions.

A study published in PLOS One examined the power of a hug by tracking the social interactions of more than 400 people over a two-week period. Every night, researchers interviewed each person to gather information on daily interpersonal conflicts, whether they had received any hugs, and how they felt the hug(s) impacted them in terms of positive / negative affect. Most people reported receiving a hug at least once – and experiencing conflict at least once – during the 14-day period, and hugs were more likely to occur on conflict days.

According to study findings, “there was an interaction between hug receipt and conflict exposure such that receiving a hug was associated with a smaller conflict-related decrease in positive affect and a smaller conflict-related increase in negative affect when assessed concurrently.” In other words, people who received a hug felt better than people who didn’t, even in the face of conflict.

Considering the health and wellness impact of negative events, it’s critical we find ways to maintain a positive attitude; an attitude that shouts, “I’m not going to let this negative event ruin my day.” As research suggests, enter the power of the hug. Talk to your doctor for other tips to manage stress and the emotional ups and downs of life.

All Saints Lutheran Church Spring Festival March 14th!!

Come join us for an afternoon of fun and fellowship on Saturday March 14 from 11 am to 3 pm. There will be a Spring Festival for all to enjoy. The address is 15649 North 7th Street – across from Barro’s Pizza (we’re the church on the hill).

There will a giant waterslide, bounce house, and games for the kids. Free food, face-painting, and pinata’s. A special highlight is our fabulous silent auction. Each year, we have over 40 raffle items – so come and try your luck! Free Burgers and hot dogs will be served. And, for dessert – a gourmet ice cream truck!!

The weather is wonderful outside! Come and sit with us and enjoy our beautiful courtyard, meet your neighbors, bask in the sun, and listen to great music.

All Saints Lutheran Church offers something for all ages. There is Sunday School for children preschool to 5th grade. Confirmation classes for those in 6th through 8th grade. Bible Study for those in High School and Adult education every weekend.

There are two services every Sunday at 9:00 and 11:00. Of course, there is coffee and donuts between the services - we are Lutheran after all. The music program offers choirs for all ages, Hand Bells, Percussion Ensemble, Brass ensemble and have woodwind and string players. You might hear them during the festival.

There are many ways All Saints supports our communities. We hold Food Drives the first Sunday of every month, Back to School Drives in July and Blood Drives 3 times a year. In the summer we, offer Vacation Bible School and Arts Camp. Throughout the year, we offer opportunities to help to families both locally and abroad, build beds for children through Sleep in Heavenly Peace, and support the Navajo Mission in Rock Point, AZ.

If you are interested in donating any items for Silent Auction, please contact Pat Dilk via our church office (602) 866-9191.

We look forward to you joining us for this special opportunity to come and have fun, fellowship, and meet your neighbors!

Estate Planning for Couples: If You Love Them, Plan With Them

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

When couples talk about relationship milestones, they usually think of moving in together, getting engaged, getting married, or having children. Estate planning rarely makes the list. Yet creating, or updating, an estate plan may be one of the most meaningful acts of care partners can take for one another.

Why Every Couple Needs a Plan—Married or Not

One of the most common misconceptions is that estate planning only matters for wealthy couples or those nearing retirement. In reality, couples of all ages and financial situations benefit from planning. Accidents, illness, and incapacity can happen to anyone at any time.

Married couples often assume the law automatically gives spouses full authority to act on one another’s behalf. Unmarried couples may assume the opposite, that nothing can be done without marriage. The truth lies somewhere in between, and assumptions on either end can lead to serious problems.

For married couples, some legal rights exist by default. However, those rights are often limited, vary by state, and may not apply in situations involving incapacity, financial decisions, or blended families. Marriage alone does not automatically allow a spouse to manage retirement accounts, sign legal documents, or make medical decisions. We have seen spouses unable to take

distributions from a partner’s 401(k) or even schedule a doctor’s appointment once a spouse becomes incapacitated because no power of attorney was in place. For unmarried couples, the law generally provides no automatic authority at all, no matter how long the relationship has lasted or how committed the partners may be.

The Power of the Right Documents

Four foundational tools play a critical role in estate planning for couples: beneficiary designations, powers of attorney, healthcare directives, and revocable living trusts.

Beneficiary designations control who receives certain assets, such as retirement accounts or life insurance, regardless of what a will or trust says. These designations should be reviewed regularly to ensure they reflect the couple’s current intentions. An outdated designation can unintentionally exclude a partner or leave assets to an ex-partner (yikes!).

Powers of attorney are especially important yet frequently overlooked. A financial power of attorney allows a designated person to manage finances if one partner becomes incapacitated. A healthcare power of attorney authorizes someone to make medical decisions when a person cannot speak for themselves.

Free Estate Planning Consultation

This is particularly critical for couples who are decidedly unmarried. If partners want to have the same practical ability to act on one another’s behalf in the event of incapacity, a power of attorney is essential. Without it, hospitals, banks, and other institutions may turn to biological family members instead, regardless of the partner’s wishes or relationship.

Additionally, many couples benefit from a revocable living trust. A revocable living trust allows assets to be managed during life and seamlessly transferred upon incapacity or death without court involvement. If one partner becomes incapacitated, a successor trustee can step in immediately to manage trust assets, pay bills, and maintain financial stability.

Revocable living trusts are particularly helpful for couples with jointly owned assets, blended families, or those with privacy concerns. They help avoid probate, reduce delays, and provide a clear roadmap for asset management and distribution. For unmarried couples, trusts can also be used to ensure a surviving partner is financially protected in ways that default laws would not otherwise allow.

Planning Together Is an Act of Partnership

Estate planning works best when couples approach it as a shared conversation rather than a solo task. Discussing goals, values, and concerns fosters transparency and trust. It also ensures that both partners understand the responsibilities they may one day need to care for each other.

Valentine’s Day reminds us that love is not only expressed through gifts or grand gestures. Sometimes, love looks like paperwork, thoughtful conversations, and planning ahead.

Give your loved ones a meaningful gift that lasts longer than flowers or chocolates by getting your estate plan in place. We give you the gift of a complimentary initial consultation. Call us at 602-375-6752 to schedule, or visit our website at www.libbybanks.com.

Building a Jewish community in Moon Valley

By Leisah Woldoff, Reprinted from JewishAZ.com with permission.

Michele Graff first found out about Chabad of Moon Valley when she was driving through the neighborhood and saw Rabbi Shneur Wolfman walking with his son. “I was so excited that as soon as I got home, I told my husband, ‘I think a rabbi just moved into the neighborhood!’” (She recognized he was a rabbi by the way he was dressed.) The next day, her husband contacted the Wolfmans to invite them to the Graffs’ home. “Not long after, Rabbi Wolfman came by, we talked and before we knew it, we were invited to the first Shabbat dinner they were hosting.” She decided to get involved because, from that very first moment, the rabbi and his wife, Esther, welcomed them like family.

Chabad of Moon Valley’s first event was a Chanukah event at Moon Valley Park in December 2023, which has become an annual tradition. Many people who attended that first year were surprised to discover that there were so many other Jewish families living in the neighborhood, said Wolfman, who notes that he is in touch with about 200 Jewish families that live in the area.

Moon Valley is a residential neighborhood in North Phoenix, between Thunderbird and Bell Roads near the Phoenix Mountains Preserve, that Wolfman describes as a great neighborhood for families with children. Since the Moon Valley Chabad opened, there’s a real feeling of togetherness, Graff wrote in an email. “Holidays, milestones and even the difficult times are shared with people who genuinely show up for you,” she said. “It feels like a close-knit Jewish family where all of us matter, and no one ever feels alone.” David Dietz, who has attended Moon Valley programs since the start, also appreciates the community that has formed within the neighborhood and the relationships that have developed. “We support each other,” he said. Arin Greenberg was introduced to Chabad of Moon Valley at the first Chanukah event and said she “finally found a home where I feel welcomed and supported.” She especially enjoys the Jewish Women’s Circle of Moon Valley, a group run by Rebbetzin Wolfman that offers women a place to socialize and learn. Past women’s programs included making doughnuts for Chanukah and round challah for the High Holidays, as well as a monthly Rosh Chodesh class. The group will celebrate Tu B’Shevat, the Jewish New Year for Trees, with a Wood Burning Workshop on Feb. 2. Other regular community holiday programs include a Passover seder and a Rosh Hashanah dinner. One of the newest programs is The Shabbat Experience, where members of the community are invited for a Shabbat morning of prayer, Torah learning and lunch. Other current programs

include Coffee with Rabbi and adult education courses “The Jewish Course of Why” and “Lift Your Life,” a seven-part journey through practical Kabbalah for everyday living. In the weeks leading up to Passover, Wolfman will teach a class on reading Hebrew to help students “lead the Passover seder confidently and like a pro” and a “Decoding the Talmud” class is scheduled to start in April. Chabad also has a Jewish Kids Club, a monthly children’s event that often connects families to local businesses. For instance, on Jan. 25, Chabad of Moon Valley [hosted] a pre-Tu B’Shevat event at Moon Valley Nurseries, where children decorated a pot and planted their own succulent, took a nursery tour and learned about the holiday. For Chanukah, families met at the local Home Depot to make a wooden menorah. In the fall, the Wolfmans, who have a young son and an infant, plan to launch The Neighborhood Hebrew School. The couple moved to Moon Valley in August 2023 from Flagstaff, where they worked with Chabad of Flagstaff at the Molly Blank Jewish Community Center. Rabbi Wolfman is originally from Chicago, and Esther grew up in the Bondi Beach neighborhood of Sydney, Australia. To Graff, Chabad of Moon Valley is where her “Jewish life feels at home.” “The rabbi and his wife greet us like family every time we have walked through their door, and that kindness and warmth has really deepened both my personal connection to Judaism and my sense of belonging to the Chabad of Moon Valley community.”

Same Story, Different Year

MOON VALLEY MAGIC

BY DEBBIE ERBSTOESSER

I’ve been cleaning out my sewing room. It’s the smallest room in the house and the most cluttered because it becomes the dumping ground for all things mine, his and ours. For the last 7 months it’s where most of my teaching supplies landed and I could barely get to my sewing machine. This is not a one day clean up job because there are so many files and papers to read through. Some have to be shredded, some filed and some kept. It’s tedious and stressful.

One of the things I came across was a box of old Tattlers. I don’t know why I was saving so many of them? Paper is heavy, collects dust and takes up space. Of course I had to read my old columns as I was sorting and found that not much has changed. The days and weeks after Christmas are still kind of depressing because we’ve come off of an amazing time with our favorite humans and the house is quiet. Putting away all the lights and décor is sad for me, because I love it so much. That is the reason I put it up so fast; the day after Thanksgiving. It takes me several days to get the inside of the house done. I have to wash all the Christmas linens and clean the dust off of the décor. I can’t just toss everything into boxes, as some things are fragile and quite frankly there’s so much!

Gary can take down the house lights in one afternoon, and put them all away in one place…the attic. Whereas my décor goes in several different places; garage, pantry, back room, sewing room, shed, attic. I’m always so grateful we had a Tuff Shed built on our property. I simply go out the backdoor and there are most of our decorations. No more driving and making multiple trips, not to mention the monthly expense of the storage unit. The new shed paid for itself in a few short months.

It is mid-January as I write this and the décor is just now put away. I think this is the longest it’s ever taken me!? In just 10 months, I’ll be putting it all back up again! It’s going to feel like ‘yesterday’….

A Paw-fect Way To Give Sage, Class of 2030

Recently, I was able to play with and bathe the squirmiest pug puppies at HARTT - an animal rescue that saves street animals and gets them ready for adoption. They were beyond adorable - but they sure do make a mess!

I got this opportunity through the Moon Valley Chapter of the National Charity League where my mom and I both get to serve our community through philanthropy and grow through leadership. It’s not all work - we have a lot of fun too! We have get-togethers and outings where we create amazing relationships with others our age who go to different schools in the area.

We would love to have new moms and daughters join us! Applications for new members are being accepted through March 1! Check out our website for more information or to RSVP for one of our upcoming events:

February 11 from 7pm-8pm - moms only

February 19 from 6.30pm-7.30pm - virtual meeting

February 22 from 2pm-4pm - informational and all chapter meeting

Website: nationalcharityleague.org/chapter/moonvalley/

7TH

The Hungarian Cultural Association of Phoenix Presents

BY DR. LUPITA HIGHTOWER SUPERINTENDENT, WESD

Dear WESD Partners and Community Members,

As the proud interim superintendent of the WESD, I am continually inspired by the dedication in our classrooms and the partnerships that make our success possible. I am also filled with such pride and gratitude for the remarkable students, families, educators, staff and community members who ensure our school district is a place of learning, belonging and hope. This point in the school year invites reflection on our progress and renewed focus on the work ahead—supporting students not only academically but as confident, compassionate individuals.

As we look toward the spring, let us carry forward a shared sense of purpose and optimism. Thank you for believing in our schools, supporting our vision and investing in our promise of preparing all students to become responsible, successful contributors to our diverse society.

Save the Date for Future Middle Schooler Night on Feb. 19

Families with students preparing to enter middle school are invited to attend Future Middle Schooler Night on Thursday, Feb. 19, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., an event designed to help students and families feel confident and excited about the transition to the next stage of education. The event will be held simultaneously at Cholla Middle School, Desert Foothills Junior High School, Mountain Sky Junior High School, Palo Verde Middle School and Royal Palm Middle School, allowing families to visit the campus their child will attend. During the evening, students and families will have the opportunity to tour school campuses, meet teachers and staff and explore academic programs and extracurricular offerings. Please contact the middle school for more information.

Attend our Teacher Interview Fair on Feb. 28 Are you ready to make a difference and inspire the next generation? Join us for our Teacher Interview Fair on Saturday, Feb. 28, from 8:30 to 11 a.m. at the WESD Administrative Center, located at 4650 W. Sweetwater Ave. We are currently hiring K-6 elementary, 7-8 middle school and special education teachers for the 20262027 school year. Our District offers a competitive teacher salary of $53,100 to $80,520 including approximately $3,100 for performance pay, student loan forgiveness, school-age child care discounts, medical, dental and vision benefits, vacation, paid time off and sick time, employer-matched contributions to Arizona State Retirement and so much more. To pre-schedule an interview, please call 602-347-2622. Walk-ins are also welcome. To search our open positions and apply online, please visit jobs.wesdschools.org/

With gratitude,

Dr. Lupita Hightower

WESD Interim Superintendent

Your tax credit donations directly impact member programs, providing enriching curriculum, job training and a direct pipeline to gainful employment and community engagement— envisioning a future where every individual with an IDD has the opportunity to realize their potential, pursue passions, and contribute their unique abilities in an inclusive community.

to realize their potential, pursue passions, and contribute their unique abilities in an inclusive community.

Square feet in our new Flerish Marketplace Employment Training Center and Thrift Store, offering 100 supported employment shifts weekly,while creating greater opportunities for skill building and independence.

Individuals served annually through our life-enriching programs and accessible adventures.

Staff and volunteers found their passion at Camp Civitan, inspiring them to dedicate their careers to serving the disability community.

Years of providing safe, inclusive, and life-enriching programs promoting education, life skills, socialization, job training and employment opportunities to the members we serve through Civitan Foundation, Inc. and Camp Civitan. Since 1968, our mission has been to empower Arizona’s IDD community and their caregivers with centralized and convenient access to a diverse range of essential and life enhancing services.

Good News from Glendale Union High School District

Glendale Union High School District is inviting educators to explore exciting career opportunities in a district committed to excellence and student success. Attend the GUHSD Teacher Career Fair on Saturday, February 7, from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Greenway High School and learn about teaching opportunities for the 2026–2027 school year. Discover why GUHSD is recognized for academic achievement and strong support for professional growth. Call 623-435-6017 to reserve your interview today!

Glendale Union High School District is proud to launch its annual Parent University, a series of free workshops designed to help families support their teens throughout their high school years. Several GUHSD campuses will host evening sessions led by trusted experts who will address real challenges facing students today. Each event will also feature resource tables from community partners, door prizes, and Spanish translation services to ensure accessibility for all families. Parent University will be held at Apollo High School on February 3 and Cortez High School on February 24, with all sessions running from 5 to 7 p.m. Open to all families, Parent University provides valuable information, resources, and opportunities for parents to stay informed and actively engaged in their students’ success.

Congratulations to the Glendale Union High School District Governing Board on receiving the Total Board Boardsmanship Award from the Arizona School Boards Association. This honor recognizes board members who have earned the Certificate of Boardsmanship and shown a strong commitment to continuous learning. The award highlights leadership focused on student success and progress toward district goals. The Total Board Boardsmanship Award reflects the Governing Board’s dedication to serving students, families, and the greater GUHSD community with excellence.

Thunderbird High School

Thunderbird High School’s Distributive Education Clubs of America (DECA) has earned Thrive Level Chapter Campaign recognition for the 2025–2026 school year, placing the program among 1,188 DECA chapters nationwide to receive the honor. The recognition reflects the chapter’s successful completion of all four DECA fall campaigns, including community service, innovation and entrepreneurship, promotion, and membership growth. These achievements showcase strong student leadership, school involvement, and meaningful community engagement. Thunderbird DECA will be formally recognized at the DECA International Career Development Conference in Atlanta this April.

Thunderbird High School’s NJROTC unit completed its Area Manager’s Inspection, highlighting the cadets’ leadership, discipline, and commitment to excellence.

Cadet leaders opened the day with a briefing on unit activities for Area 20 Manager George Murga, THS Principal Jason Latham, and Career and Technical Education (CTE) Director Tracy Mayfield. Throughout the inspection, cadets were evaluated on in-place drill, uniform inspection, and platoon drill as they competed for the Honor Ship distinction. The event concluded with a formal pass in review, where USS John Paul Jones earned the Honor Ship streamer, and Cadet Mya Spurlock was recognized as Cadet of the Month.

Come Play With Us at Shadow Rock Preschool!

At Shadow Rock Preschool, learning begins with play! We are a playbased, experiential preschool rooted in the belief that every child is unique and unrepeatable. Our curriculum supports the whole child, building language, cognitive, emotional, and social skills in ways that are developmentally appropriate and joyful.

Through hands-on exploration, creativity, and guided discovery, children learn how to self-regulate, problem-solve, collaborate, and think critically, skills that are essential for both academic success and emotional well-being. At Shadow Rock Preschool, children are encouraged to express themselves, learn from mistakes, and build friendships in a safe, structured, and nurturing environment. These early experiences lay the foundation for a lifetime of confidence and curiosity.

What Parents Are Saying: “There is so much to love about Shadow Rock Preschool. We love that the safety and well-being of our child is a priority, how happy our child is to go to school each day, and how they are learning to be a good friend and a respectful member of a community of learners!”

“I have had three children go through Shadow Rock Preschool from 18 months to 5 years old. The teachers and staff truly love educating young, independent thinkers. The social and emotional growth my children experienced prepared them beautifully for grade school, and the friendships we made continue to grow. We love SRPS!”

We offer classes for children 18 months through 5 years old.

Registration Information: Current families may register beginning Tuesday, March 3, at 7:30 AM. New families may register online starting Wednesday, March 4, at 7:30 AM.

To schedule a tour or learn more, please contact Director Jeane-Marie Cavanaugh at (602) 993-0050 or director@shadowrockpreschool.org.

Shadow Rock Preschool is licensed by the State of Arizona and affiliated with Quality First. Visit our website and follow us on Facebook and Instagram to see the fun in action. We can’t wait to meet your family!

OFFICE OF HOMELESS SOLUTIONS, CITY OF PHOENIX

By Frosty Kroening

For many years now city, county, state, and national agencies have been hearing from citizens about finding places for homeless people to live. And they look for ways to find work for homeless people so they are not living on the street, in parks, on commercial and government property. The City Council and Mayor have set up the Office of Homeless Solutions as a way to organize a response.

It was a pleasure to meet two people who actually go out into communities and talk with homeless people. They are: Jacklyn Breidt, Homeless Liaison and Scott Hall, Deputy Director, Office of Homeless Solutions. At the January meeting of the Black Mountain Community Alliance, they walked us through how the system works. They stressed that it is very important to give money through a website called GiveSmartAZ.org and not give panhandlers money.

The Office of Homeless Solutions website provides the names and locations of facilities that house, feed, and help people according to their needs. More of these facilities opened in 2025, some fairly near Moon Valley.

Block Watch participants from many Precinct neighborhoods asked detailed questions about the care of children, mentally ill people, people with dementia, and drug rehabilitation. City staff are trying hard to help the growing number of homeless people and being successful with the services and facilities that have been put in place.

We also talked about the new shopping cart ordinance. (Very interesting.) Call Neighborhood Services if you see a stray shopping cart. Members also wanted to know about ordinances having to do with electric bikes. Legally they are treated like motorcycles. Riders must be 16 or older and have driver’s licenses and insurance. And they must obey regular traffic laws. The same for golf carts.

Happily, Commander Calderon-Tanguma began the meeting with the good news that a person firing an antique gun at New Years has been arrested on multiple charges and is in jail. The Crime Lab staff identified the gun via the spent casings and multiple police officers and detectives helped find the perpetrator.

Stuart Hansen, Trish Hansen K err and Br ad Hansen

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

Rookie Mom: A Letter to My Daughter (Who’s Turning 9)

BY BRIGHID CONSTABLE

Dear Brynnie,

You’re 9. Which blows my mind, because it feels like I’ve watched you live a hundred little lives already—so many versions of you, unfolding right in front of me. It has been such an honor to be your mom and to witness you becoming yourself. (I’m tearing up as I write this.)

I also have to admit something: being your mom can feel a little jarring—in the best and hardest way. I worry about you, and I probably always will. And underneath all of that worry is one simple thing: I want you to be happy.

I want you to love learning, not just for school, but because learning is a lifelong thing—something you get to do for you.

I want you to focus on what lights you up. If math doesn’t matter to you, that’s okay. You are brilliant with words and ideas and creativity… and so much more than any subject could measure.

And I want you to fall in love with people—people who genuinely see you, accept you, and love all of who you are… and all of who you’re still becoming.

And I know, I know—this is a lot to say to a nine-year-old. (Ha.)

Love you always,

Mom

��✨ Touch-A-Truck for Camp Patrick is BACK… and we’re trying something NEW this year! ✨��

Join us Monday, February 16, 2026 (President’s Day) for a hands-on, family-friendly day from 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM as kids get up close with some of their favorite big vehicles!

�� Fire trucks

�� Police vehicles

�� Tractors

�� Construction trucks

�� Emergency vehicles …and so much more!

PLUS enjoy food trucks, local vendors, and plenty of fun for the whole family. We’re excited to test out a Monday holiday event and can’t wait to see you there!

All proceeds support Camp Patrick and help send kids living with Spina Bifida to camp ��

��️Buy tickets: https://camppatrick.com/event/touch-a-truck/

A Girl’s Best Friend

BY ARCHER CUSHMAN

I was eight years old when I fi rst met Milton, and I will never forget it. I had recently set my mind on wanting a Cavapoo puppy (a $4,000 designer dog). My mom - in an attempt to get me interested in another, cheaper dog breed - asked my grandpa to come over with his little shih tzu. It was then that I fi rst set eyes on Milton. He was one year old and weighed only seven pounds. Because I had never seen a dog so cute and tiny before, I was immediately in love. When my grandpa and Milton left, I was devastated, but to my utter joy, my grandpa called that night asking if we wanted Milton. After my parents agreed, the long week before we got Milton began. On Sunday morning - just fi ve days after I met him - Milton joined our family. Everyone was excited, especially me since I had been asking for a dog for about 4 years. Since then, Milton has been my loyal companion and furry friend. Milton is an interesting dog. First of all, he follows none of the normal dog rules. He doesn’t like any sort of physical activity - no walks, no playing fetch. He doesn’t lift his leg when he pees. He can’t swim (we had to get him a life vest because he just sinks to the bottom of the pool if he falls in). Second, he thinks he’s a cat. He arches his back in a cat-like manner every time we pet him, he sleeps on the top of the couch, and instead of chasing our cat Snowball, he has adopted her as his sister. Finally, he makes a lot of noise. He’s one of the only dogs I know that snores (loudly!) at night, which is one reason why he can no longer sleep on my bed. But even though he’s not your average dog, he’s the best fi t for our family. For those of you who are thinking about getting a dog or who have kids begging you for a puppy, here are some pros and cons to dog ownership:

Pros:

• The biggest pro to having a dog, in my opinion, is having a furry companion that will always love you. When I’m feeling sad, Milton always comes and snuggles me and makes my day better. He’s always excited to see me, listens to me without judgement (maybe), and looks great in Halloween

• Dogs can offer a sense of protection. At fi ve pounds, Milton can’t scare off much but he alerts us when people (or even the wind) is near our house.

Cons:

• Dogs can be messy. One time, Milton went into all of the trash cans in our house and pulled out dirty tissues and was chewing them under our dining room table.

He’s also tried to eat his own poop before which was pretty disgusting.

• Dogs can be expensive. Last year, we think Milton got stung by a scorpion or ate a bee. We had to rush him to 1st Pet for treatment. He ended up being okay but at a high cost.

• Dogs require attention. Milton is happy to sit around most days but he still needs to be played with and exercised. If we are going to be gone for a long time, we have to have Milton stay at a family member’s house, which can sometimes limit how long we can stay at places.

Taking care of a dog is a way to practice responsibility. I help take

I think the pros outweigh the cons. I can’t imagine my life without Milton because he is such a valuable part of our family and he brings so much peace into our lives. Choosing the right breed is important; some breeds are more energetic and others are more calm and Milton-like. There are a lot of great rescues in our area with lots of adorable, friendly dogs looking for a best friend. So if you are on the fence about adding a dog to your family, I suggest going to visit these wonderful organizations. Maybe you will fi nd the same comfort and love our family gets from Milton every day!

At Pet Spa, our stylists have over 10 years experience and practice a no fear way of pampering your beloved pup. We take our time with one on one appointments that are limited to a small amount of pups coming through our doors on a daily basis. They are never put in a cage. This approach allows for a calm stress free environment for our stylists and the pups we care for.

From start to ﬁnish, your pup will be pampered by their own personal stylist. We care about the health of your pup’s skin and coat and use luxury products hand mixed to their speciﬁc needs. We also give them a relaxing blueberry facial with facial massage that they love. They are towel dried then gently hand blow dried. They are then given a mani/pedi, ear cleaning, teeth enzyme spray, face, feet, and sanitary trim with a cut and style to your liking They leave us happy, looking great, smelling amazing, and so soft to the touch. We

members of your family

Tr y our luxur y skin and coat spa soaks. Keratin Soak, Detoxifying Mask, Protein Conditioner, or Medicated Spa Treatment. Your groomer will decide what will be best for your pet based on their skin and coat needs.

F R EE when you mention our ad in the Moon Valley Tattler. 13240 N 7th

Technology – Innovation –

New Stuff

BY GERRY JOHNSON

So, BJ got a Roomba for Christmas (PS – I didn’t give it to her). Her’s is actually made by Shark. It is so neat. She spent about an hour helping this thing map our home, now she assigns which rooms to sweep and forgets it. When done it automatically returns to the charging station. So far, she has emptied it after each use – about a two-minute chore. May not be new to you, but it is to us. We love it.

Artificial Intelligence – lots of talk about it. At Christmas, I mentioned to my son that I had no clue what it was all about. He said to give him a subject (I did – “new advances in Reverse Mortgages”). In just a couple of minutes we had a complete essay, on his phone, about the subject that was better than I could have written. I used AI in last month’s submission, with some minor additions, it worked great.

Last fall I bought a new Taylor Made Qi35 driver. I had been using a first-generation Burner for years. It incorporates heel-toe weighting, adjustable hosel, and I got a Denali-red senior shaft. I’m hitting it really well. Also, upgraded to graphite shafted Ping irons. I had been using my Eye 2 clubs for many years. I’m getting another 10 to 15 yards. I’m ecstatic.

The point is, there is lots of new stuff out there, which you may not know about if you don’t investigate. Which brings us back to Reverse Mortgages. The loan of choice is still the FHA insured Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM). You must be at least 62 years old, have plenty of equity in your home, and there is a healthy FHA Mortgage Insurance premium added to the balance, but no monthly Principal and Interest payments. The upper loan limit for 2026 is approximately $1.25 million.

What if your home is worth $2 or $3 million? What if you are not yet 62, but only 52 years of age? What if you have a really low interest rate on your current mortgage, but you need some extra liquidity? There is a myriad of new proprietary Reverse Mortgage products out there, and if you have thought about this in the past, but decided against it, it bears looking into it again. I’ve said it before, and I’m sure I’ll say it again – it doesn’t cost anything to talk. There’s no pressure, just information to help you make a reasoned decision. Let’s talk.

2026 Remodeling Trends

BY TOM SERTICH, KIRK DEVELOPMENT COMPANY

Home remodeling in 2026 continues to focus on comfort, technology, and natural design elements. Smart home features are becoming standard, with homeowners integrating automated lighting, security systems, thermostats, and voice-controlled devices to improve convenience and efficiency. Technology is blending seamlessly into everyday living.

Warm finishes and natural materials are also trending. Wood tones, stone surfaces, and earthy color palettes create inviting spaces that feel both modern and timeless. Kitchens are growing larger and more functional, featuring oversized islands, generous pantries, and open layouts that connect to great rooms and dining areas—perfect for entertaining and family life.

Primary bedroom suites are becoming private retreats, with spacious layouts and luxurious bathrooms that include large walk-in showers and spalike features. Outdoors, homeowners are investing in resort-style backyards designed for day and night use. Fireplaces and firepits, comfortable seating areas, and ambient lighting make outdoor spaces an extension of the home, ideal for relaxing or hosting guests year-round.

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

Remembering Dr. Grover

Dr. Gary Grover, the founding chiropractic physician of Moon Valley Chiropractic, leaves behind a legacy defined by healing hands, an open heart, and an unwavering love for his patients. For decades, Dr. Grover practiced chiropractic not simply as a profession, but as a calling. He believed deeply in the body’s ability to heal and dedicated his life to helping others find relief, strength, and balance. Patients often spoke of feeling truly heard in his office—never rushed, always respected. His kindness and compassion were matched by a sharp sense of humor that put people at ease, even on their hardest days. To many, he was more than a physician; he was a steady presence, a trusted guide, and a friend.

Dr. Grover’s passion for chiropractic medicine was evident in every aspect of his work. He took pride in staying curious, engaged, and enthusiastic about his craft, even after decades of practice. He approached each patient with understanding and genuine care, believing that healing required both skill and empathy. Outside the office, he was an avid golfer who found joy and camaraderie on the course, a place where his easy laughter and competitive spirit shone through. Whether adjusting a spine or lining up a putt, he brought focus, warmth, and enthusiasm to all he did, leaving a lasting impression on everyone he met.

Above all, Dr. Grover was a devoted family man. He shared more than 50 loving years of marriage with his wife, a partnership rooted in respect, affection, and unwavering support. He was the proud father of three sons and a joyful grandfather to five grandchildren, each of whom he cherished deeply. His love for his family was the foundation of his life and the quiet strength behind his professional dedication. Dr. Gary Grover’s impact will continue to be felt through the countless lives he helped heal, the family he adored, and the community he served with such passion and grace.

Dr. Grover, you are missed.

With love, Dr. Jamey Reichow.

Boys Team Charity Puts Down Roots at Local Park

By Tate Calhoun, Class of 2026

The Class of 2026 Boys Team Charity Senior Project brought the Boys Team Charity North Valley Chapter together with City of Phoenix Parks Dept on November 8, 2025 to plant trees in local parks. The first event was a huge success! The Class of 2026, along with other members of Boys Team Charity North Valley chapter, were able to make a visible and lasting difference with the planting of 10 box trees around Mountain View Park in North Phoenix.

The event was made even more impactful by the presence of Councilwoman Deb Stark, who showed up in support of this community event. Throughout the day, the boys demonstrated responsibility, leadership, and a strong work ethic while digging and planting trees.

Following the success at Mountain View Park, the Boys Team Charity senior project is continuing its mission with another tree-planting event on February 21, 2026 at Moon Valley Park. The Senior Class and Boys Team Charity families are excited to serve their community again!

Moon Valley Strides for Schools 5K Registration Is Open

The countdown is on for the third annual Moon Valley Strides for Schools 5K, and our entire community is invited to join the fun! The event is returning to Moon Valley Park on Saturday, March 28, 2026, bringing neighbors together to support students at Lookout Mountain Elementary, Mountain Sky Junior High, and Thunderbird High School.

Registration is now open for runners and walkers of all ages. This year, the 5K Walk/Run will be timed with age-group winners! Whether you are chasing a personal best or planning a relaxed walk with friends and family, this event is all about participation, connection, and giving back. Every registration helps fund classroom resources and student programs at our local schools.

There are also many ways to support the event beyond registering. Sponsorship opportunities are still available. Moon Valley Country Club is returning as our Valedictorian Sponsor! We invite local businesses to support the 5K with sponsor packages starting at $250. Sponsors help underwrite the cost of the event so more of the proceeds go directly to our schools.

Community members can also participate by purchasing raffle tickets, with exciting prizes donated by local businesses, or by supporting our Sponsor a Student program. For just $20, you can sponsor a student’s race entry.

Race day will feature live music from the Thunderbird High School Band, appearances from 3TV’s Paul Horton during a live broadcast, and an Activity

Zone with fun for all ages. The Activity Zone features an obstacle course, lego builds, face painting, water balloons, basketball drills with Thunderbird High’s Basketball team, crafts, martial arts and more!

To register, sponsor, purchase raffle tickets, or get involved, visit www. MoonValley5k.com or email info@moonvalley5k.com. We look forward to seeing you on March 28, 2026!

Moon Valley H me Tour

What Does Love Look Like?

BY DR. SANDI HOWLETT

With Valentine’s Day in February, many think of it as the ‘love month’ – well Hallmark, florists, and restaurants certainly capitalize on that theme. And we all love love, right? Has love ever surprised you? Sometimes love arrives in disguise. That happened to me.

Many years ago, while on a business trip, my home was broken into and lots of things were taken. I felt vulnerable and violated. The police officer who responded gave me many tips on securing my house – motion lights, secure side gate, put stick in sliding door, and more. He stressed that the most important deterrent would be a dog. He assured me a barking dog would make would be burglars move onto a house without a barking dog. I traveled extensively with my work and did not feel I was home enough to have a dog but a neighbor (with 7 dogs) assured me that she would help.

Soley out of curiosity, two days later, a frigid January afternoon, I headed to the Arizona Humane Society to ‘look at dogs’. Okay, I did pack a beach towel, ‘just in case’. More important, I took my list of essential requirements for my potential guard dog: mature, brave, non-shedding, female, house-trained, and tan to match my carpet in case she did happen to shed a little bit. I walked the kennels. There were all kinds of dogs…big, small, vocal, playful, growly, shaggy, short hair…so many dogs.

Squished in the back of a crowded kennel, I noticed a tiny black puppy trembling from being tormented. The big dogs and other puppies were dragging the little one by its too big collar. I was concerned it would get hurt so I retrieved it to keep it safe. The pup was a dirty mess, covered in fleas and ticks and in its anxious state, promptly urinated on me (three times) as I carried it for the next hour…none of this was endearing yet there was ‘something’ about that little one that got to me.

would a ‘sign’ to adopt him but if not, back to the kennel. Up until then, the trembling pup had not even made eye contact much less shone a bit of interest in me. When I turned around, there he was, a few steps behind me like I was his mother! Now what????

I carried him to the front desk and started asking questions as I completed the adoption application. I pointed out the fleas and ticks to the people working at the front desk. The temperature was going to be in the high teens that night, and this was back in the day when dogs were ‘dipped’. That was out of the question plus it was also closing time and the staff wanted to go home.

And so my love story began -- for $40, I brought home a stinky, infested, 12#, terrified dog; a small bag of puppy chow, and a certificate to return when he was 6 months old to be neutered. He was the polar opposite of every single thing on my list of requirements – and unbeknownst to me at the time, it was one of the best decisions I had ever made.

For 16 years I had a perfect companion and friend in this fur baby. Bunny was my ‘heart dog’, arriving at a time when my own heart had been broken. We did everything together including six cross country trips by car. I redirected my career to work locally rather than travel as I wanted to spend every day with him. That dog changed my life in more ways than I could ever have imagined and I am forever grateful. I did not know I could love anyone, aside from my Grandmother, as much as I loved that dog…he changed my life posing the oft asked question, ‘Who rescued who?’

There is much more to the story of course and perhaps I will share that later. For now, Bunny is a reminder that love just might look different than any wish list. Life can be bountiful and perfect yet look very, very different from our plan.

The dog was 8 weeks old, terrified, shedding all over my shirt, a jet-black male, and most certainly, not house-broken! Every single trait of this dog was what I did not want…yet there was something. I even took him to the yard area, put him in the grass and walked away, telling myself if he followed me, it

Happy Valentines Day to you as you open to the possibility that love can have many looks. Sometimes it has four legs!

Dr. Sandi Howlett is a Grief Specialist, speaker, and writer based in Phoenix. She may be contacted at drsandihowlett@gmail.com

Classifieds

Paper Shredding

Drywall Repairs and Texturing

ABCO Shredding Services located at 2640 E Rose Garden Lane, Suite 4, in Phoenix, AZ 85050, offers shredding services, etc. to residents and businesses of all sizes.

Bring any amount of paper and watch the shredding 9am until 2:00pm M-F, or drop it off from 9am until 2:30pm. Either option will have a Certificate of Destruction on the receipt. All shredded paper is recycled. www.abcoshredding.com is our website for information on other items such as hard drives from your laptops or towers, iPads, tablets, cell phones, CD’s/Floppy disks, etc.

Please call us at 602-374-4408 for Saturday and/or holiday hours, or if you have any questions. Pickup of documents also available.Thank you! Looking forward to seeing you soon!

Drywall repairs and Texturing. Includes water damage, remodeling, and popcorn ceiling removal. In business since 1980. Mike Collins Acoustics 623-582-4325

HOLIDAY LESSON SPECIAL - All Ages. Positive, patient instruction. How you learn makes a difference. Play songs you love. Feel accomplished. Startup 2 free lessons + books. www.PianoKeysToMusic.com Music Educ/Pianist Established MV Moon Valley Studio. 602.971.0089Cell 602-574-3694 Valerie Thomas

Distribution Information

The Moon Valley Tattler is distributed monthly free of charge to Moon Valley area homes. 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. 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: THE MOON VALLEY TATTLER, LLC, info@mvtattler.com, 602-765-0902, Publisher & Editor: Dawn Trapp

Handy Dandy Classifieds Form

Moon Valley Resident. Text 602.969.1924 or visit albinobuffalo.com to learn more.

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

MONDAY