Moon Valley Tattler February 2024

Celebrating Community Unity

DREW HUTCHINSON, PRESIDENT, MOON VALLEY NEIGHBORHOOD

We are thrilled to extend our heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you for making the Moon Valley Neighborhood Association’s (MVNA) annual meeting last month an unprecedented success. The incredible turnout we witnessed was a testament to the strength and unity of our beloved Moon Valley community.

As we reflect on the evening, we cannot help but be overwhelmed by the sense of togetherness and camaraderie that pervaded the event. This year’s meeting set a new attendance record, and it’s all thanks to your unwavering support and dedication to making our neighborhood the best it can be.

We would also like to extend our gratitude to some special guests who graced us with their presence and shared invaluable insights about our community. Debra Stark, District 3 Councilwoman and Vice Mayor, joined us and spoke passionately about various community issues close to our hearts. Her commitment to addressing our concerns and working towards a brighter future for Moon Valley is truly commendable.

Furthermore, we want to express our deep appreciation to Commander Matt Siekmann and his dedicated team from the Black Mountain Precinct. Their ongoing presence and unwavering support have played a vital role in ensuring the safety and security of our community. Their dedication to keeping Moon Valley a safe and welcoming place is truly remarkable.

Looking ahead to 2024, we are excited to announce a series of events and initiatives that will help us foster an even stronger sense of community:

• Community Involvement: We encourage all residents to get actively involved in shaping the future of Moon Valley. Your ideas and contributions matter. board@moonvalley.org

• More Membership & Security Dues: Your membership and security dues are crucial for maintaining the safety and beauty of our neighborhood. We urge everyone to renew their memberships and support our community financially. https://moonvalley.org/ membership/

• Create More Events: The popular 5k event is making a comeback this year in April! Stay tuned for details and mark your calendars.

• Continue to Get Moon Valley in the Media: We want the world to know about the fantastic community we have in Moon Valley. Let’s keep sharing our success stories.

• Moon Valley Monument Project: Stay engaged with the exciting Moon Valley Monument Project. We’ll need your input and support.

The MVNA is dedicated to making Moon Valley a place we can all be proud to call home. Your active participation and enthusiasm are what make our community exceptional. Let’s continue to work together and keep the spirit of Moon Valley alive.

Once again, thank you for your overwhelming support at the annual meeting. We look forward to a year filled with growth, unity, and community pride.

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

• Active Board Members: Our dedicated board members are here to serve you. We will continue to work tirelessly to address your concerns and make Moon Valley the best it can be.

TRAPPED IN MOON VALLEY

Phoenix is getting ready for the BIG games in town. The buzz is on and tourist season is in full bloom. Arizona one of the snowbird capitals of the world. But of course, this is why we all live here as well. The calendars are filling up, with the famous Waste Management Open (still just call it The Phoenix Open), Barrett Jackson Car Shows (many other around town with different names and sponsors) , Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show, American Indian Festival, the Inning Festival .. and the list goes on and on. No matter your hobbies and likes – “It is the best time of the year in Arizona.”

I recently was invited to a music offering at North Mountain Visitors center, Moon Valley another little gem we are blessed with and often forget and overlook. The parking lot was packed full of hikers, and people attending the wonderful music of Lee Lee , some type of hiking class, a jewelry making class, the library and many other wonderful things to do, buy and see there.

There is never enough “free time” do all there is to do around us.

Spring is also fundraising time, the events start filling the squares on our calendar and the many worthy causes work on how to educate, entertain and help you decide on where you might like to spend your money and support a cause.

Last week I was invited by the Larry Fitzgerald Foundation to a very intimate lunch at Dominick’s Steakhouse to announce his upcoming fundraiser. I cannot thank them enough for also including little publications like ours to come and learn and have the opportunity to chat one on one with Larry. Larry is not only a Big guy, but a man with one of the biggest hearts I’ve ever seen and truly believes in the non-profits he supports with his Foundation; a true class act. He is here to make a difference and to follow and help grow and strengthen organizations supporting breast cancer and helping children with a hand up in computer and technology access. Although he told me he follows a mantra to “stay narrow and deep,” concentrating on his missions and values, they are still always open to deserving groups providing the services in these areas.

As this spring season kicks off, I encourage to get out, see something new, visit someplace old, reunite with old friends and make the differences you can. As they say- every little bit helps.

Every single job skill I’ve learned at Civitan has taught me something di erent, has taught me [to be] more responsible, has taught me to be a little bit more serious, has taught me to be on time, has taught me to get up a little bit earlier. If I didn’t have those jobs skills, I would not be the man I am today. -Santiago, Member

Estate Planning for Incapacity

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

As some of my previous articles have reminded you, estate planning isn’t just about who will get your assets on your death. It’s also about who will manage your assets and take care of you and your financial affairs if you become incapacitated. With proper planning, you decide that. Without proper planning a court may get to make the choice.

Incapacity means you are unable to make decisions for yourself. Incapacity can result from an accident, or arise from health issues, such as stroke, heart attack or dementia. If you are alive but can’t take care of your financial matters, a Will doesn’t help you – it’s only effective upon your death. You may have a power of attorney in place and believe this planning tool will effectively handle your affairs. But a power of attorney in Arizona only goes so far. Many clients who bring in their estate planning documents for review show me a power of attorney that is barely better than nothing at all. If there is a problem with your power of attorney, you don’t have one, or someone that holds your assets (like a bank) will not accept it, a probate court will have to appoint someone to manage those assets for you.

While you would probably prefer that your spouse or life partner manage your assets if you become incapacitated, the court will decide who will act for you. This can be a very big issue for unmarried couples. While the court may appoint your partner, it could also appoint a relative, and that may be the last thing you want or need. The court will also control how your assets are used to care for you until you recover or pass on. This public process is called a guardianship or conservatorship. It can be expensive, embarrassing, time consuming, and difficult to end. It does not replace probate at death so unless you plan ahead, your loved ones could have to go through the probate court system twice.

The Revocable Living Trust is the best way to plan for incapacity. When you set up a Revocable Living Trust, you transfer assets from your name to the name of your trust, which you can control as the trustee. You name whoever you wish to take over as successor trustee upon incapacity and at death. That person steps into your shoes to take care of your financial affairs, without a court appointing them and without court intervention or constant oversight and scrutiny. All

of your business stays private. If you recover, you resume your role as trustee of your trust.

The Revocable Living Trust is a better way to address incapacity than a power of attorney. The Revocable Living Trust:

• Is readily accepted by financial institutions

• Holds a successor trustee to a high fiduciary standard

• Allows your successor trustee to quickly and efficiently begin managing your assets to care for you and your finances

With a Revocable Living Trust in place, you can have peace of mind that you will be taken care of and your finances will not fall into disarray if you are incapacitated.

Another consideration is who will make health care decisions if you are unable to make them because of incapacity. You need three additional documents to assure you will be taken care of by those you want to be the decision makers. Those documents, called advance medical directives, include a Healthcare Power of Attorney (sometimes also called a Health Care Proxy), a Living Will, and a HIPAA Authorization. These important documents work together to allow your chosen person to direct your health care if you become incapacitated.

Be sure you are keeping these documents up-to-date. It’s a good idea to review your estate plan periodically and make sure it still meets your needs. We are happy to help you get an estate plan in place or review and update your existing plan. Just call the office at 602-375-6752 to schedule your free initial consultation.

Young and old

In this article I’m going to address topics that are directed at two distinct segments of our population – younger persons and older persons. In between, you can read too.

“The number one wealth builder for young people is home ownership!” This quote is not original with me. I’ve seen it so many times that it is impossible to cite one source. Ask any financial advisor and they will say the same thing. I’ve written about it before.

While as a young person, just starting out, it may be difficult to contribute very much, if anything, to a retirement account, every month you are paying for some place to lay your head. With a mortgage you are gaining equity, i.e., creating wealth. By paying rent, you are paying a mortgage for someone else. It’s like flushing money down the toilet.

A common retort when the subject is addressed is “I don’t have 20% to put down.” Well, you don’t need it. Fannie Mae and Freddy Mac have mortgages available with as little as 3% down. FHA, with slightly-eased entry requirements, has 3.5% down loans. The VA has 0% down payment mortgages. There are Down Payment Assistance (DPA) loans that you don’t have to repay.

Young folks – it is time to get into the game. Get with a trusted mortgage loan officer and investigate your options.

Now for the oldsters (myself included). If you watch much TV, you have

probably seen Tom Selleck talking about Reverse Mortgages. This segment is not specifically aimed at reverse mortgages, but Tom makes a very cogent point – most aging people want to stay in their homes, where they are comfortable. They do not want to move to some “old

folks’ home.”

I’m citing a mortgage industry newsletter named “Housingwire.” From their January 23, 2024 edition, in an article by Chris Clow, he cites a survey of 1001 “Baby Boomers” that shows “. . . more than half . . . will stay in their homes as they age.”

He goes on to state that their homes are “time capsules.” The vast majority of homes have much needed deferred (ignored) maintenance, and virtually no added safety and accessibility features.

The thrust of the article is that there are Renovation loans available. I’m not an expert on Renovation loans, but in my experience, the work that was done far out-valued the cost of doing it. This can also be accomplished with a Reverse Mortgage. Additionally, a recently updated home makes a much more valuable inheritance than some “tired” old abode from the ‘50s, ‘60s, or ‘70s.

Thus, I’m saying the same thing to the oldsters - it is time to get into the game. Get with a trusted mortgage loan officer and investigate your options.

You will be glad you did!

Member Spotlight: Annette McClure

Annette has over 30 years of banking experience in the wealth management and investment business, and has been a Certified Trust and Financial Advisor since 1998. She worked for Marine Bank for over 17 years, most recently as an Executive Vice President where she oversaw the Wealth Management team.

In June 2023, she helped open the Springfield, Illinois office of Terril & Company, where she is the Executive Vice President of Wealth Management. Terril & Company is a boutique investment firm where Annette helps individuals, families and business owners achieve their financial goals by creating a comprehensive investment, retirement, estate and tax planning strategy.

Annette earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management from the University of Illinois, Springfield.  She also graduated from the ABA Trust School in 1996 and the National Graduate Trust School at Northwestern University in 1998.

Annette and her husband Steve fell in love with the desert while visiting Phoenix, and purchased their home here in 2018. After dividing their time between Phoenix and Springfield for several years, they became full-time residents here in 2022.

Annette joined the Moon Valley Women’s Club that same year, and enjoys volunteering with the MVWC Service Project, attending the Club’s monthly luncheons, and participating in the wine tasting activity group. In her free time, Annette enjoys hiking Shaw Butte, golfing at Moon Valley Country Club, and doing cross fit with her husband.

Rookie Mom: Love languages & Milestones

When faced with the daunting task of finding the perfect gift for my husband’s 40th birthday, I turned to the wisdom I’ve gained throughout our marriage – the importance of understanding and expressing love through our unique love languages.

In our relationship, Adam demonstrates his affection through stability and everyday gestures – tackling household chores, managing the daily grind, and ensuring our home runs smoothly.

He’s the epitome of a “gift card guy,” valuing practicality over elaborate gifts, a preference rooted in the thoughtful gifts that symbolizes love during his upbringing.

Given the significance of his 40th milestone, I wanted to go beyond the routine expression of his love language, which often involves tasks like cleaning the house, maintaining our cars, and running errands. I envisioned a celebration that truly reflected the magnitude of this occasion.

To make his birthday memorable, I orchestrated a trip from Seattle to Spokane in May, where Adam could reconnect with his best friends and our families. Together, we’ll explore the Woodland Zoo and Seattle Center, opting for activities that align with Adam’s low-key, yet deeply appreciated, preferences.

For a man who primarily connects with friends through college sports texts and computer game chats, this was a significant departure from the ordinary.

Fast forward to Valentine’s Day, where I aim to align our love languages on a parallel level. With careful planning, I decided to express my love through Adam’s language – detailing his Hyundai, surprising him with gift cards to Steam and Amazon, and presenting a coupon book filled with tasks and errands I’d willingly take on to make his life easier.

In essence, these thoughtful gestures transcend the ordinary and speak

BY BRIGHID CONSTABLE

directly to the heart of our unique love languages, making these special occasions truly unforgettable for both of us.

How are you using your partner’s love language this February to make special occasions more special than last? Because a partnership is work and doing something thoughtful in a language that speaks to them is really worth it in the long run.

It may not be your love language, but it will be valued.

If you can’t seem to pull yourself away from your desk, off the couch, out of bed or any other scenario that renders you sedentary, listen up: It’s time to get a tracking device and start tracking your way to wellness. Why? Because research suggests people who track their activity are more likely to do it – and do more of it.

Case in point: A new study suggesting that you’re more likely to participate in physical activity if you’re able to monitor it with an activity tracking device. Researchers reviewed 39 studies involving 164,000 total study participants who utilized wearable activity trackers to monitor their physical activity. They found that using a tracking device (compared to not using one) “improved physical activity ... equating to approximately 1800 extra steps per day, 40 min per day more walking, and reductions of approximately 1 kg [2.2 pounds] in bodyweight.”

Just consider the walking / step data: Using a tracking device could increase your daily step count by nearly 2,000 (that’s approximately a mile depending on your gait / pace). Every extra step is one step closer to the healthier, happier you you’ve always wanted; and for some people, it’s the jump-start they need to get away from that aforementioned couch, bed, desk, etc.

The authors’ conclusion, which accompanies a summary of their findings in The Lancet Digital Health, says it all: “Wearable activity-tracker interventions are effective in increasing physical activity and supporting modest weight loss in a wide variety of clinical and non-clinical populations and age groups.”

If that’s not reason enough to start tracking your way to wellness, we don’t know what is!

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

Shadow Rock Preschool

BY REV. KENNETH HEINTZELMAN

Shadow Rock is a play-based experiential learning preschool whose primary belief is that EVERY CHILD IS UNIQUE AND UNREPEATABLE. It is licensed by the state and affiliated with Quality First.

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; we love how happy our child is to go to school each and every day; and we love that our child is learning to be a good friend and a helpful, respectful member of a community of learners!”

“I have had three children go through Shadow Rock Preschool from ages 18 months to 5 years old. I can’t say enough about the teachers and staff and their love of educating young independent thinkers. The social and emotional growth my children made during their time at preschool prepared them to transition to grade school. The friendships that my family made through Shadow Rock preschool continue to grow. We love SRPS!”

Classes are available for 18 month olds through 4 year olds turning 5.

Registration for currently enrolled students begins at 7:30 AM on Tuesday March 5th and for new families on Wednesday March 6th at 7:30 AM. Please reach out to director Liz Curry at (602) 993-0050 or director@ shadowrockpreschool.org to schedule a tour or get more information.

WEATHERIZATION

How Important Is It?

By Tom Sertich, Kirk Development Company, Design Build Relmodeler I have shared this before and I think it is worth going over again before our hot season starts. There is a big benefit to you as a home owner.

WHAT IS WEATHERIZATION?

Weatherization can be as simple as energy efficient light bulbs, insulating your hot water piping, jacketing your water heater or calking. Weatherization can be anything that reduces energy consumption. Larger items can be energy efficient windows, energy efficient HVAC systems, Insulation and new water heaters.

WINDOWS/DOORS:

Not all windows or doors are efficient. You need a professional to advise you which windows/doors meet the correct criteria. If someone is selling windows cheap, they probably are cheap. Some dual pane windows are not much better then single pane windows.

HEATING AND COOLING:

The efficiency of air conditioners are rated by the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating (SEER). Substantial energy savings can be obtained from more efficient air conditioning systems. By upgrading from a low SEER system to a SEER rating of at least 15 can considerably reduce power consumption. The United States requires by code that all new air conditioning units have a SEER rating of at least 15. It is important for a professional to give you the correct information regarding a new HVAC system.

WATER HEATERS:

When deciding on a new water heater for your home you should choose a water heating system that will provide enough hot water, but also that will provide energy efficiently, saving you money. There are several different types of water Coninued on next page

Are the bike paths safe?

BY LEON OF TRY ME BIKE SHOP

WEATHERIZATION (continued

from prior page)

heaters available. Different systems include conventional storage water heaters, solar water heaters and demand (tankless or instantaneous) water heaters.

INSULATION:

Heating and cooling amount to over 50% of the energy used in the average home. Inadequate insulation is one of the leading causes of energy waste. Most older homes have had settling of their insulation which reduces its efficiency. By having a professional check your attic insulation, you can save money and make your home more comfortable. Decrease your heating or cooling by providing an effective resistance to the flow of heat and cold.

Call Kirk Development Remodeling 602 944-3658 for a free in home estimate.

The bike paths are safe and cleaned by park rangers and police. This is a rather new effort in the last few months. Clean up has been let go for a long time. Washes have been cleaned of litter, shrubs and grass. Things left on the sides of the paths have been tagged an given 48 hours to be moved. If not they hauled off by the city. Camping is not permitted in the city by state law. This can cause a unsafe ride for bicycling. Report campers to the city for remove all.

Where will the campers and urban miners go? The city is making new places to house them but not all want help. Vote for more mental help and housing. We can help by not giving tents and money to those on the street corners. Calling 211 gives a live operator 24 hours a day for help.

This a short answer to a big problem for now the bike paths are safe ride and enjoy!

Love your body And Bones

BY JENA RITCHIE, MOON VALLEY CHIROPRACTIC

For obvious reasons, February is a month that we all love to focus on LOVE! It is wonderful to share warm sentiments with loved ones and it is a nice opportunity to celebrate the meaningful relationships in our lives. Naturally, we want to nurture and appreciate these relationships for years to come. It is also an opportunity to appreciate and show extra love to our body and bones, which are central to every aspect of life.

The concept of Self-Love has emerged as a trending topic that sparks debates and interesting conversations. It is not about vanity, narcissism, or greed. When rooted in wellbeing, the idea is making a priority of selfcare practices that enhance good health, vitality, and longevity. The more effectively we maintain good health, the more equipped we are to pour into others and nurture strong, loving, and long-lasting relationships.

Even though generations of humans managed to evolve for thousands of years before us, today we have the benefit of research and best practices to guide us in making informed decisions about our habits and choices. Sufficient sleep, hydration, nutrition, and movement are core to maintaining a body that can carry us through daily activities. Our bones store vital nutrients, create structure for securing muscles and tissue, enhance physical strength, and protect organs.

Building strong and healthy bones in early childhood and teen years is crucial as well as preserving bone health as we age. Bone mass often peaks at 30 years of age and while bone remodeling occurs throughout our lifetime, it slows with every passing year. The better bone mass we have at our peak, the better the bone mass “bank account” will be later, resulting in fewer bone related injuries and conditions.

A variety of influences affect bone health. Calcium intake contributes to enhanced bone development and reduces the likelihood of fractures. Weight bearing exercises help strengthen bones and muscles, priming them for higher performance. Avoiding substances like tobacco and alcohol is advantageous for protecting bone health and reducing risk of bone disease.

top take o the x rays because we are not doing that right now.

Women tend to be at greater risk of osteoporosis due to having less bone tissue than men. Bone loss increases during menopause because of declining estrogen levels. Hormone levels fluctuate according to gender impacting bone health and men with low testosterone levels can experience a loss of bone mass.

“I’ve relied on Dr. Reichow for years. I can always count on him to get me back on the course.” -Craig R.

Unhealthy eating habits like severely restricting food consumption can weaken bone in both men and women.

Other genetic conditions can also underscore bone health from race to family history. Bones thin with age, therefore physical size is also a factor because smaller bodies have less bone mass for support going forward. Additional concerns are conditions that reduce the body’s capacity to sufficiently absorb calcium as well as certain prescribed medications.

Luckily, there are simple ways we can all show our body and bones a little love this season. For example:

A diet with sufficient calcium is recommended for adults ages 19 to 50 and men to age 70, the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) is 1,000 milligrams (mg) of calcium a day. The recommendation increases to 1,200 mg a day for women 51 and older and for men aged 71 and older.

Dairy products, almonds, broccoli, kale, canned salmon with bones, sardines, and soy products such as tofu offer useful sources of calcium.

Vitamin D is necessary for your body to absorb calcium. Adults ages 19 to 70, the RDA of vitamin D is 600 units (IUs) a day and it increases to 800 IUs a day for adults aged 71 and older.

Sunlight also contributes to the body’s production of vitamin D. Reliable sources of vitamin D include oily fish, such as salmon, trout, whitefish, and tuna as well as mushrooms, eggs, and fortified foods, like milk and cereals.

Vegetables offer a source of Vitamin C, which stimulates production of bone-forming cells. Green and yellow veggies according to studies tend to help with bone mineralization.

Physical activity, especially weight-bearing exercises, such as strength training, walking, jogging, and climbing stairs, help build strong bones and slow bone loss.

One final tip is seeking routine care at Moon Valley Chiropractic to ensure proper body and bone alignment which is known to enhance mobility, improve blood flow and circulation, and reduce pain and inflammation. We would love to discuss and explore more ways you can create a long life filled with love and happiness. Please call our office at 602-298-0292 to schedule your appointment.

initiative.

SUBMITTED BY MICHELE BAKER

You are invited to make a monetary donation to Soles4Souls and its 4EveryKid initiative. This effort helps children experiencing homelessness across the U.S. kick off the new year with confidence. Soles4Souls believes everyonedeserves the joy that comes with a new pair of shoes.

cb.today/realty/2024/soles4souls

For the millions of kids in the U.S. who experience homelessness, life is full of challenges. And without a good pair of shoes, kids feel embarrassed, discouraged, or left out— simply because they lack something most of us take for granted. In short, they feel limited today, which can limit their tomorrow.

While many organizations are focused on the critical needs of food and shelter, school officials indicate shoes are essential for students to succeed in school. Kids who receive new shoes have more confidence, attend school more regularly, and are more physically active.

Since starting 4EveryKid in 2020 the data collected from 4EK distributions thus far has revealed many positive changes in the lives of students experiencing homelessness:

• 72% shared that shoes were one of their greatest needs

• 79% reported having an increase in physical activity

• Over half of students reported wearing their new shoes to play sports (Over 30% of students reported missing sports/ extracurriculars sometimes because they lacked proper footwear)

• 95% of students reported an increase in confidence with their new shoes (Students also said they felt more accepted, valued, and proud)

• 4 out of 5 students reported feeling more equal to other kids in school with their new shoes

• 80% of students said they were more excited to attend & participate in school with their new shoes

• 54% of youth have better school attendance once they receive new shoes

• 45% of distribution partners reported improved behavior

Please visit cb.today/realty/2024/soles4souls for more details and full donation information.

effort helps children

Soles4Souls believes everyone

BY DR. PAUL STANTON SUPERINTENDENT, WESD

Greetings Partners and Community Members,

This is Dr. Paul Stanton, the proud Superintendent of the Washington Elementary School District (WESD). I want to express my gratitude for your ongoing partnership, and I know that our district can rely on your care and support for the students and staff of the WESD. Thank you for being an integral part of our WESD Family.

Save the Date for Future Eagle Night: Calling all future seventh and eighth grade students! Mountain Sky Junior High School will host its Future Eagle Night on Thursday, February 15, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at 16225 N. 7th Ave. This is a great opportunity for future seventh and eighth grade students and their families to tour the campus, meet the staff and learn about the programs and school culture. Discover the benefits of attending Mountain Sky as a middle schooler and why it is a great place to learn and grow! We hope to see you there! To learn more, please call 602-896-6100.

Lookout Mountain, Mountain Sky Teachers Named 2023-2024 Fiesta Bowl Charities Wishes for Teachers Recipients: Congratulations to Lookout Mountain Elementary School Teacher Erin Johnson and Mountain Sky Junior High School Teachers Emily Barnes and Kathleen Luther who were recently chosen as winners of the Palo Verde Fiesta Bowl Charities Wishes for Teachers program! Each year during the holiday season, Arizona K-12 teachers are randomly selected to receive a $2,500 grant to fund classroom supplies and

GUHSD Honored with Award from Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction

Superintendent of Public Instruction, Tom Horne, recently acknowledged the outstanding accomplishments of the Glendale Union High School District (GUHSD) during a regular governing board meeting on January 10, 2024. He praised the district for its exemplary support of English Language Learners (ELL). Superintendent Horne pointed out the district’s leading reclassification rate in ELL programs, evidenced by their high proficiency on the AZELLA (Arizona English Language Learner Assessment) test. He noted that the reclassification rate is the highest in the state.

The success is attributed to GUHSD’s dedicated teachers who meet each student at their level, offering tailored language services to fulfill individual needs. The hard work of the ELL students and the commitment of GUHSD teachers, who set high expectations and build meaningful relationships with students, encourage them to achieve exceptional performance.

Superintendent Horne also highlighted the district’s national acclaim, citing their recognition as the Advanced Placement District of the Year by the College Board. Moreover, he mentioned that all nine schools in the GUHSD consistently rank among the top in the nation according to U.S. News & World Report.

In a momentous occasion, Superintendent Horne presented a certificate of achievement to GUHSD Superintendent Brian Capistran and the Governing Board, in recognition of the district’s impressive achievements.

To learn more about GUHSD’s news, visit @GUHSDAZ on Facebook.

Help Support GUHSD Students with a Tax Credit Contribution

There is still time to give back to GUHSD students with a tax credit contribution. By donating to a GUHSD high school or program of your choice, you can benefit students’ high school experiences and positively affect your community.

Arizona state law also allows you to receive a dollar-for-dollar tax credit for contributions that you make to an Arizona public high school, which you can use as a credit against any state income taxes that you may owe.*

Married couples can contribute up to $400 when filing jointly; $200 per

projects as part of the program. Ms. Johnson will use her grant to purchase new tables for the literacy lab and hands-on reading manipulatives for students. Additionally, Ms. Barnes will use her funds to purchase new tables for her classroom while Ms. Luther will use her grant to purchase a variety of hands-on math activities, games and manipulatives for students. A special thank you to Palo Verde Fiesta Bowl for supporting our teachers within the WESD Family!

WESD to Host Teacher Interview Fair: The WESD is hiring teachers! Join us to experience the WESD difference at our upcoming Teacher Interview Fair on Tuesday, February 13, from 3:30 to 6:00 p.m. at the WESD Administrative Center, located at 4650 W. Sweetwater Ave.

The WESD offers competitive salaries of $51,610-$66,150 including performance pay, student loan forgiveness, multi-layer teacher support, professional development, medical, dental and vision benefits, employermatched contributions to Arizona State Retirement, and so much more!

To learn more and preschedule an interview, please call 602-347-2622. You can also apply online at https://jobs.wesdschools.org/. We look forward to meeting you!

Final Thoughts: If you have not done so already, please follow us on all our social media pages including Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn at @ WESDSchools. You do not want to miss out on all the exciting news we will be sharing throughout the remainder of the school year.

As always, thank you for choosing the WESD.

Gratefully,

Dr. Paul Stanton, WESD Superintendent

person if filing separately; and single individuals can make a maximum contribution of $200.

*Please consult a tax professional for more information.

To make a tax credit contribution, click here: https://bit.ly/3ZL18L9

You can also make a larger donation through the GUHSD Education Foundation (501c3) here: https://bit.ly/3Xpjksc

Thunderbird High School NJROTC Participate in Community Service

Thunderbird High School NJROTC conducted their quarterly Adopt A Street. Cadets cleaned 19th Avenue from Thunderbird Road to Greenway, and other cadets cleaned the campus, including the stadium and softball/ baseball fields. This activity added over 100 community service hours to NJROTC’s count and made the environment cleaner for everyone.

To learn more about Thunderbird High School news, visit @ThunderbirdHighSchoolAZ on Facebook.

BY DR. BRIAN CALLAWAY

Halitosis, commonly known as bad breath, is a prevalent condition affecting millions of people worldwide. While often dismissed as a minor social inconvenience, halitosis can significantly impact an individual’s personal and professional life. The Science Behind the Stink:

The primary culprit behind halitosis is the breakdown of volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs) by anaerobic bacteria residing in the oral cavity. These VSC molecules emanate a foul odor, leading to the characteristic unpleasant breath.

Several factors contribute to the proliferation of these malodorous bacteria:

• Poor oral hygiene: Inadequate brushing, flossing, and tongue cleaning allow bacteria to accumulate on teeth and tongue, creating a breeding ground for VSC production.

• Dry mouth (xerostomia): Saliva plays a crucial role in neutralizing oral bacteria and flushing out debris. Reduced saliva production, often due to medications, medical conditions, or dehydration, can exacerbate halitosis.

• Smoking and tobacco use: Tobacco products directly contribute to bad breath and stain teeth, providing additional nooks for bacteria to thrive.

• Certain medical conditions: Gastrointestinal issues like acid reflux, chronic sinusitis, and diabetes can also contribute to halitosis.

Combating the Odor:

The management of halitosis usually involves a multipronged approach:

• Improved oral hygiene: Brushing twice daily, flossing once daily, and using a tongue scraper are essential for reducing bacterial build-up.

• Hydration: Adequate water intake promotes saliva production and helps flush out debris.

• Dietary modifications: Avoiding strong-smelling foods like garlic, onions, and coffee can significantly improve breath odor.

• Smoking cessation: Quitting smoking or tobacco use is essential for long-term breath improvement.

• Treating underlying medical conditions: Addressing any underlying medical conditions contributing to halitosis is crucial for long-term management.

Professional Intervention:

In some cases, professional intervention may be necessary for managing halitosis, such as:

• Professional dental cleaning: Scaling and root planing remove built-up plaque and calculus, creating a cleaner environment for oral bacteria control.

• Prescription medications: For dry mouth caused by medications, saliva-stimulating drugs or mouth rinses may be prescribed.

• Surgery: In rare cases, surgical procedures may be needed to address anatomical issues contributing to halitosis.

If you have questions about halitosis or the symptoms that are associated, discuss these with your dentist or call AZ Family Dental @ (602) 922-5969. You can also visit us at www.azfd.com

Paper Shredding

ISO Antiques

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

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

Call us at 623-748-8480 if you have any questions. Thank you! Looking forward to seeing you soon!

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

Clear Advantage

Window Cleaning

Glass Cleaning Specialist performing highest quality detailed PERFECTIONIST work every time. Tracks/Sills/Screens/Sunscreens cleaned. 15+ yrs. exp. Free Estimate. Owner Operated. Moon Valley Resident. Joe Albert 480 228-5453

Piano Lessons PRIVATE ONLINE & IN STUDIO

Emerge from these times playing piano! All Ages. Positive, patient instruction. How you learn makes a difference. Play songs you love. Feel accomplished. Startup 2 free lessons + books.

www.PianoKeysToMusic.com

Music Educ/Pianist

Established MV

Moon Valley Studio. 602.971.0089

Valerie Thomas

St. Teresa of Avila. Join us for Mass! Saturdays at 4:30 p.m. Shadow Rock UCC, Education

Chapel, 12861 N. 8th Ave., Phoenix. ALL ARE WELCOME! Stavila.org

Drywall Repair & Popcorn Ceiling Removal

Drywall repair and texturing Popcorn ceiling removal Water damage

Electrical and plumbing patching. In business since 1980 Furnished Homes our Specialty Licensed and Bonded Mike Collins Acoustics 623 582 4325

EPIC HOME REALTY

Mary Aranki, EPIC Home Realty: Your Moon Valley neighbor, offering expert real estate services. Call for personalized assistance today! 602-315-7225

Cleaning Services

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

Nurse’s Assistant

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

CAREGIVER: Available for Work

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

Weight Loss for healing and increased energy. 15 year experienced practitioner of Eastern Medicine, Acupuncture, and Herbs. Etherealbodyworks.com. Email etherealbodywork@gmail.com

Community Driven is More Than a Tagline

By Jackie Briggs, Broker at Locality Homes

At Locality Homes, our tagline is “Local Real Estate. Community Driven.” In fact, when my husband Richard and I were coming up with potential company names, we picked Locality because it is a portmanteau of “Local” and “Community.” For us, giving back to our community in Moon Valley is more than a tagline. It is a cornerstone of our business. One of our favorite ways to do that is by supporting local schools.

Real estate is not just about physical properties; it’s about the people who inhabit them. Strong schools build strong communities and a positive environment for the families who live there. Even if you don’t have schoolaged children, having excellent schools contributes to a desirable community, increased property demand and appreciation. By supporting local schools, we are investing in the future of our community to continue being a thriving and supportive neighborhood. On a personal note, my husband and I have three children currently attending local schools and we see how hard the teachers and administrators work to provide our children with an excellent education and opportunities.

We invite you to join us in support of our local schools! On February 10th, we are hosting a Wine & Whiskey Night to benefit the Thunderbird High School Scholarship Fund. You can sample a variety of wines and over 100 bottles of whiskey, while enjoying food, live music, silent auctions, and a 50/50 raffle. We cover the full cost of the event, meaning every dollar collected will be used for scholarship money to benefit the Class of 2024. Buy your tickets at www. mvwineandwhiskey.com and have a great time while supporting your local community!

Award

Winning Artists Featured at Arizona Capitol Museum: ICW exhibit extended to February 29 by Paula G. Cullison

As Guest Curator, I am honored to note that the In Celebration of Women II - Making HERstory juried art exhibition has been extended to February 29, 2024 at the Arizona Capitol Museum 1700 W. Washington Street, Phoenix in the 2nd floor gallery. Hours are Monday to Friday 9am - 4pm and Saturday 10am - 2pm. FREE admission and FREE parking. The exhibit features the works of 37 local female artists (various medium), including my photograph of 'Two Swiss Cows' taken at Bachalpsee near Grindelwald.

For more info, contact me at: paulacullison@aol.com / Tel: 602-863-9744 / ICW videos are at: http://www.azwp.org