Moon Valley Tattler December 2022

MVWC 50 th Anniversary Luncheon

On Nov 4th the Moon Valley Women’s Club celebrated our 50th Anniversary with a fabulous luncheon held at the Sheraton Crescent Hotel with over 100 members and guests in attendance! The Phoenix String Quartet provided lovely entertainment that set an elegant mood for the celebration. Photo displays, posters and MVWC scrapbooks presented interesting information and fun trips down memory lane. After a delicious meal, current MVWC President, Betsy Ingram, proposed a champagne toast to honor the friendships and camaraderie that are the heart of our Club.

A brief presentation of the 50 year history of the Club provided an overview and context for the Moon Valley Women’s Club and its place in the community. What started as a small “get to know your neighbors” club has grown into a vibrant social hub within the Moon Valley area. In addition, the MVWC Service Project was created to raise money to support local community groups and projects. The Service Project arm of the Club recently became an official 501(c)(3) nonprofit entity, and 100% of the money raised goes to fund grants that are awarded to deserving local associations that improve the quality of life in the community.

A special part of this Anniversary celebration was the opportunity to honor many of the Club’s past Presidents. We paid tribute to twelve former Presidents at the luncheon, and this was commemorated with a wonderful group photo! Numerous other delightful pictures were taken at our floral arch “photo booth” that day to observe our many friendships.

The Tradition Lives on

STUFF

BY GERRY JOHNSON

It was still dark outside. We met at the Visitor’s Center on 7th Street, south of Thunderbird at 6:30 AM. I was there, along with Rex, Joe (my son), Keith, Jim and Ocho (our aging Lab mix). We hiked westward on the trail by the cut off up to Shaw Butte and then south to the fork that leads to the park, back northeast to the cutoff to the saddle that leads to the trail to North Mountain along 7th Street and back north to the parking lot of the Visitor’s Center. It took a little over an hour. We each popped open a beer and had a few bites of pastry thrown in by Rex’s wife, Karyn. We took the included picture. Wished each other Happy Thanksgiving and went on our merry ways to celebrate with our families.

This is pretty unremarkable; except we have been doing some iteration of this annual meeting for close to 40 years. This started as our last big run before the Fiesta Bowl Marathon which traditionally was 10 days after Thanksgiving. We would do the Arizona Road Racer’s 10-mile Turkey Trot at Thunderbird Park in Glendale. Great run! Lots of comradery, and beer afterward.

After that area was built up with homes, we morphed into a pleasant but competitive jog from Dreamy Draw Park over to Tatum and back. A couple of beers, quickly hidden from sight when the Ranger would drive by, and then home to gobble our way thru our sumptuous dinners that our spouses had prepared while we were out running.

Our expanded group had switched from doing the marathon to an annual crossing of the Grand Canyon – north to south. As an aside we were highly competitive. Rex did several sub five hour crossings and he was not first. My best times were mid 5 hours.

Over the years, a lot of our running buddies have joined us on Thanksgiving, but most have frittered away. Of the original group, only Rex and I remain. Names like Bob, and his daughter Cindy, Parke, Charley, Jim and Jim, C.L.,

New Year’s Resolutions? To Keep them, Know your Why!

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

If you’re like me, December is a time to think about New Year’s resolutions. This year I want to keep my resolutions, instead of abandoning them all before January is over. How to do that? I asked my fitness trainer, Janet McConnell, whose book Elements of Aging Well: Wisdom from My Journey So Far is now avail able on Amazon. She says the way to stay motivated is to dig deep and find the “Why” behind your goal.

Your resolution: exercise regularly. Your plan: get up at six a.m. and get to the gym every weekday. But when the alarm goes off, the air is chilly and the bed is warm, hitting the snooze button sounds better. How to get yourself moving? Remember your “why.”

Why are you exercising? To keep up with your grandchildren, to live a lon ger life, or to make yourself feel more attractive?

Digging deeper into that “why” will make the difference between getting up to exercise and staying in bed. Why do you want to keep up with your grand children? Perhaps to avoid being left on the park bench or at home when the family heads for a fun activity. The “why” for staying healthy and living a long life? Perhaps it’s to be here to support your children, to be fit to travel, to enjoy the fruits of your labors. Looking good? The deeper why might be to find your true love, start a family and have a happily ever after. Keeping the “why” of your goal in mind is crucial to succeeding when the going gets tough.

If one of your goals is to create or update your estate plan, here are some “whys” and some tips to get it done in the new year.

It gives you peace of mind! You know you need to put some kind of plan in place. When you have done so, it will be a big load off your mind.

It protects you if you are incapacitated. If you can’t handle your finances or make healthcare decisions, your plan assures that the people you select can step in to care for you.

It shows your family you love them. When you die, it will be a huge loss for your family. You show them that you love them by making sure you don’t leave a mess behind. It’s agonizing for your heirs to deal with your estate when there is no proper plan.

It helps maintain family harmony. If you’ve set out your wishes in a proper plan, the chances of family arguments or drama are greatly diminished. Know ing what your wishes are helps to eliminate fights.

Next a few tips on taking the steps that will get it done:

Be specific and break down the steps. A friend in my networking group often says, “be specific to be terrific.” If you set a goal that is too big or vague, it can be hard to get started. For estate planning, the big goal is having a will or trust in place. Breaking it down, a specific goal may be to research attorneys and then call to make an appointment, to buy a book on estate planning and read it, or to ask friends who they used for their planning.

Joe and others which I may have forgotten, all elicit fond memories. Recent additions are Keith, Boots, Jim, and Joe.

We stopped running several years ago. Now I walk Ocho and eighteen holes pushing a golf cart. The exercise is good but the relationships are better. Hopefully we can keep it up for many more years.

Thanks for allowing me to muse. Not much is going on in the mortgage business. Rates are down, but not enough to write about. Like I have said for the last few months, there are some real deals out there. Doesn’t cost to look. You can always refinance when the rates come back in line. All the really rich guys buy when the market is down. Perhaps they know something. Happy holidays!

- Gerry Johnson -

Write it down or put it on the “to do” list. We’ve all heard that written goals have more power and are more likely to come to fruition. For estate planning, put on your list the steps you are going to take, or put a reminder note on your com puter or phone about what you plan to do to move forward with the goal.

Pick a start date and make time for your goal. We are all so busy, a year can go by before you’ve done a single thing to move toward your goal. Getting an estate plan in place will take time, but maybe not as much as you think. Set a deadline to talk this over with your spouse or children, a date you will have your research complete, and a deadline to call the attorney.

Anticipate the obstacles. My clients often face obstacles in estate planning. For parents with young children, finding a guardian to name can be a near impossible task. My clients with Continued

THE WRITE

BY BROOKE KNUDSEN

back 20 years ago, I never imagined I’d become an insurance agent. As a single mom, I worked full time in the insurance world as well as a variety of second jobs to make ends meet. I worked in the business for a variety of agents and companies, all the time helping them to build their businesses while reaping no meaningful rewards. Customers I worked with always encouraged me to become a captive agent because I provided great personal service and really cared about them. But I couldn’t imagine doing that, nor did I have the capital to start up something like that on my own. Well, about 7 years ago, my epiphany came when I was let go from a sales position due to downsizing. After the shock of that, I immediately started researching the ins and outs of starting an independent brokerage. Maybe those customers knew something I hadn’t realized yet! I spent weeks on the phone with the State; learned about requirements and got all the necessary licenses and opened shop in my home office. Meanwhile I was working several other jobs to provide for my son and myself. My mother became my biggest cheerleader. She gave me $500 to help with expenses. I relied on family and friends to spread the word. Ironically, my first customer was a longtime family friend and Moon Valley resident. I grew up with their son and today he’s part of my brokerage. What sets me apart from other insurance brokers is that I don’t charge a broker fee and I’m not chasing sales quotas. I don’t pressure people into policies they don’t need or want. I treat them like family and I pride myself on being straight forward and honest. That’s what Integrity Insurance Brokers is all about – helping individuals and small businesses with their insurance needs. Call me anytime (602) 299-7447.

ProMusica Arizona’s Christmas Through the Ages Features New Arrangements of Traditional

Favorites, Bell Choirs, & a New Holiday Composition

ProMusica Arizona Chorale and Orchestra’s holiday concert, Christmas Through the Ages, will feature stunning arrangements of traditional carols like “The First Noel” and “The Huron Carol,” as well as favorites like “Carol of the Bells” and “Sleigh Ride.” Under the direction of Patti Graetz, the concert also will include the world-premiere of “Jesus, Refulsit Omnium” (“Jesus, Radiance of the World”), the earliest known Nativity text stemming from 368 A.D. based on the original Gregorian chant, with music by ProMusica Arizona Chorale member and professional composer Ryan Gunderson. The All Saints Lutheran Church Bell Choir and the Handbell Ringers of Sun City will add their talents to the performance, and as always, the audience will be invited to join in singing several well-known songs of the season.

In the giving spirit of the season, contributions will be accepted and equally divided between ProMusica Arizona for community music programs and Youth for Troops’ drive to send packages to deployed servicemen and women for the holidays. Donations will be accepted by cash, check, or credit card, and a “text-to-give” number and QR code will be provided at the concert for easy and convenient giving from cell phones.

Dates and Venues include:

· Saturday, December 17, 2022, 7:00 pm – All Saints Lutheran Church, 15649 N. 7th St., North Phoenix

· Sunday, December 18, 3:30 pm – American Lutheran Church, 17200 N. Del Webb Blvd., Sun City

Ticket Prices: Adults - $27.50; Seniors (65+) and Military - $25; Students (16-22) - $12; and children 15 and younger are free with a paid adult. Free student rush tickets are available 15 minutes before each performance based on seating availability. Groups of 10 or more for a concert will receive a 10% discount. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit pmaz.org or call 623-326-5172.

Partners and Community Members,

This is Dr. Paul Stanton again, the proud Superintendent of the Washington Elementary School District (WESD). It is from the heart when I say I am incredibly grateful for the continued support of our Bond and Override. As you may have heard, our community voted in favor of both our Bond and Override, which will allow us to provide and maintain important programs and necessary upgrades at our school campuses. I am honored and cannot thank you and the voters enough for supporting the WESD Family. In this update, I will highlight some achievements of our extraordinary schools and students, and provide details on how you can support our schools during this season of giving.

Lookout Mountain Earns “A” Designation

Congratulations to Lookout Mountain Elementary School for being designated as an “A” school from the Arizona Department of Education! With increased growth points from 2018-2019, Lookout Mountain and the rest of our schools remained focused on meeting the social emotional, academic and behavioral needs of all students. We are so proud of Lookout Mountain for earning this incredible achievement and admire their ongoing commitment to improvement and growth.

Mountain Sky Students Earn Perfect Assessment Scores

The final round of our perfect score students were recently recognized by the WESD Governing Board for their academic achievements. Congratulations to students from Mountain Sky Jr. High School who earned perfect scores on either the English Language Arts or Math portions of the 2022 Arizona’s Academic Standards Assessment (AASA). The WESD Family is proud of these exceptional students.

Mountain Sky Students Win Middle School Cross Country Championship

Students from Mountain Sky Jr. High School were crowned the big winners at the recent WESD Middle School Cross Country Championship. Congratulations to both the boys and girls teams for finishing in first place taking home the title of district champions! We are proud of all our students who competed for displaying their amazing talent and sportsmanship.

Support Your Local School with a Tax Credit Donation

As we enter into the season of giving, please consider making a tax credit donation to a WESD school. Your donation provides WESD students the opportunity to succeed in extracurricular activities and funds items such as uniform replacements, equipment, stipends for coaches and sponsors. By making a tax credit donation, you will also receive a dollar-for-dollar reduction on your state income taxes. Please consider making a tax credit donation today by visiting www.wesdschools.org/taxcredit to help enhance the education of a child in just a few steps. The WESD is thankful for your support. For more information, please call 602-347-2631.

As always, it is an honor sharing our special news with you and the rest of our community. Thank you for your continued partnership with our District. Gratefully, Dr. Paul Stanton, WESD Superintendent

Let’s Talk About protein

BY ANDY FEIGUM, FITNESS DIR. AT ANYTIME FITNESS

Protein is one of the big three macronutrients with fats and carbohydrates being the other two. In the human body, proteins are the primary structural components of cells and perform a few different duties. The primary func tion of the protein consumed in the diet is to build and repair cells. Protein provides about 4 calories of energy per gram, and when protein is consumed as part of a well-balanced diet it can help provide feeling of satiety or being full. This, in turn, can reduce the feelings of hunger that can lead to consum ing too many calories. In addition, protein is more energy expensive, which means that it requires more energy during the digestive process compared to carbohydrates and fats. What this means is that if you boost the percentage of your daily calories that come from proteins, say from 30% to 40%, it can help you lose weight.

Whey or Plant Based, which one is better? For the vast majority of people, either one is fine, choose one based on your dietary habits and needs. If you’re already using and enjoying whey protein powder, there’s no reason to replace it with a plant-based version. However, if you find your self experiencing stomach issues or wish to try a non-whey option, there are many plant-based protein powders that can also give you great results. Ideally, choose a version that contains more than one plant protein source, as single source plant based powders may not provide a complete protein. Complete proteins provide the nine essential amino acids that your body has to obtain from diet (Histidine / Isoleucine / Leucine / Lysine / Methionine / Phenylalanine / Threonine / Tryptophan / Valine) and in the right propor tions, to support healthy cell maintenance and repair.

Ultimately, the best protein source, whether it’s from your diet and/or supplemented through powders, is one that you enjoy and that meets your dietary needs and contains enough protein to meet your personal health and fitness goals.

THE JOY OF VOLUNTEERING AT MORIAH

BY MAIJA KAPOSY

Volunteering at MORIAH Cooperative has been an amazing experience. I’ve experienced so many special moments of fun, games, and heartwarming chats. MORIAH is an organization aimed towards supporting children with special needs and their families through events that help to empower kids through learning and new experiences.

There are a wide range of events offered and I have participated in rock climbing, roller skating, and going to the trampoline park. By far my favorite would have to be the fall festival. I made some new friends. I enjoyed doing the activities such as climbing around under a big parachute and decorating pumpkins. My mom, Elli, who was also at the event said, “It was amazing to see how everyone came together to enjoy the day with games and new friends.”

Anyone can volunteer with MORIAH, all you need to do is go to  www. moriahus.org and check out what events are coming up. Giving this holiday season doesn’t have to be only clothes and toys but donating your time will brighten your day and make those around you smile.

My mom and I have been able to participate in many of these fun events through National Charity League (NCL), Moon Valley Chapter. In NCL, mother and daughters grow strong bonds through philanthropy work. I have found my passion for volunteering and my appreciation for these opportunities with the support of my mom and the other amazing women I meet.

National Charity League, Moon Valley Chapter’s annual new membership drive is November 1, 2022 to January 15, 2023. Mothers and daughters (currently in 6th grade and up) are encouraged to visit  www.nationalcharityleague. org/chapter/moonvalley or  email membershipmoonvalley@nclonline.org. Visit Facebook:  NCLincMoonValley or Instagram: NCLMOONVALLEY.

Considering Senior Living?

Tips to start a Conversation.

Talking about the need for a little extra help can be a new experience for many older adults. Often people confuse additional support or care with giving up their independence. But today’s senior living communities are far different than you might think, often offering so much more than just personalized support services. The experts at La Siena recommend seniors start an open discussion with those in their life about their well-being, lifestyle preferences, their social circle of friends and loved ones and future care needs.

Here are a few suggestions to help start meaningful conversations:

Begin Early

Perhaps the most important advice offered is to start the conversation early. It is never too soon to talk about wishes, preferences, and desires when it comes to lifestyle preferences, personal care and support. Waiting until the need for help has become urgent can lead to hurried decisions and poor outcomes for everyone.

Choose a Comfortable Time and Place

Avoid having conversations in public places, like a doctor’s office waiting room or emergency room. Set a date, time and place for a conversation that is comfortable for everyone.

Talk About Records and Documents

This can be an emotionally charged conversation, but it is important that to discuss some basic information about ones’ personal affairs. Consider wills, powers of attorney, advanced directives, and other important information that might be needed if your health or the health of your loved one begins to change.

Our assisted living is about the whole family and the whole YOU.

Of course, we can help you with your daily needs. But did you know you will also have options for fitness, activities, healthy fine dining, and more?

And assisted living services are tailored to you, so you’ll get just the right amount of help you need, when you request it. No matter if you need a little help or a lot, you’ll be amazed by the difference.

It’s an Open Dialog

Use good communication skills throughout any conversation. Ask openended questions that encourage and share feelings and desires. Reflect on all aspects of their lifestyle, do they feel alone or isolated, is this impacting their appetite; it is more than just care needs. Show respect and approach the discussion as a partner, not as the person “in charge.”

You don’t have to have all the answers

No one has all the answers, but by working together you can develop solutions. Consider different options and how they align with your preferences and needs.

Ask for Help

You don’t have to do this all on your own. There are people who can help, such as family members, close friends, and senior living professionals. Learn more about the lifestyle offered at La Siena by taking a personal tour. To schedule, please call 602.635.6968 or visit LaSienaSeniorLiving.com.

Bobby D’s celebrates

Memories as a child are sometimes not so clear, or we may not have any recollection of trips and events, but my memory is so clear on the day my baby brother was born, my dad called and said it’s a “BOY”! My sister and I wanted to name him Casper!

We grew up in Trumansburg, New York, a small little burg upstate near the Finger Lakes. Being 5 years apart I moved out and away before he ever started high school, so only really knew him as my little brother, someone I had to drag around when my friends and I wanted to be out cruising the town at night, a football game, drinking in the corn fields or a swim in the lake.

I went away to college at Paul Smiths College in Saranac Lake, NY and then shortly after moved to Arizona. Scott also decided to attend Paul Smiths College and later moved to Las Vegas to finish his bachelors at UNLV.

We were finally close enough again to start visiting each other and vacationing together as adults. What fun we had, Scott was managing Pizza Huts, and I was a travel agent. We spent many weekends in Lake Havasu and holidays in Phoenix. I had my own businesses, as well as my husband and his CPA practice, we started talking and looking for the next adventure for Scott. He wanted to have his own business as well.

Bobby D’s was a short walk from our home, as well as a very old stomping ground and watering hole for my husband for the past several years. And it was secretly for sale.

The story starts here, after a few visits to scout it out, check the books and just have a beer or two, Scott decided it was something he was ready to do. The switchover was to happen December 31, 1997, Bob and Bernice Howard had owned the joint for years, the same cooks, bartenders, and a bar full of neighbors who frequented almost weekly.

Scott did not change much, just kind of slid in and started adding this and that, but never changing up the bartenders and servers. Mike, Wendell,

25 years in the Hood!

and Naomi were the glue, the team that started with Scott 25 years ago. (Naomi and Chuckie (came soon after) are still there!)

And life just kept happening, Scott got married, raised his family of three beautiful children, and became a part of the community, volunteering at the Legion, Eagles, and donating to many charitable groups in the area. He worked hard, the life of owning a bar and restaurant is not for the faint. He’s the cook, bartender, janitor, shopper, bookkeeper, and dishwasher on any given day.

During Covid he did his best to stay busy, keep the staff employed and decided it was time to finally renovate Bobby D’s and update the bar and dining area. Of course, with any renovation project – one thing leads to the next and before you know it the whole place becomes a whole NEW establishment.

Bobby D’s is the corner bar, the place neighbors meet neighbors, a great meal is shared, cold beers and whiskey shooters are downed, and stories and gossip run wild. If you are looking for wings, they are coined as the “best in the hood” for sure! “Scotty-D” as many refer to him can be found there just about any day of the week.

Scott has built a very popular, fun, and sustainable establishment, a community landmark. As the “big” sister, (I know many believe he is the older brother) I am most proud! 25 years and counting- Congratulations on this HUGE achievement, keep making the “donuts”!

Bobby D’s is located on the Northwest corner of Cave Creek Road and Peoria.

Congratulations from the Moon Valley Tattler!

Dawn Trapp

Thunderbird NJROTC Participated in the John S. McCain JROTC Leadership Competition

Excellence continues at Thunderbird High School as their NJROTC participated in the John S. McCain JROTC Leadership Competition, hosted by the American Legion Post 41. 10 schools from all across Arizona and representing all branches of the military service competed in athletic events, exhibition drills, and a citizenship test. Thunder bird NJROTC scored third place in the Citizenship competition, second place in drill, and third place overall. The cadets receive a $1,000 check.

Thunderbird NJROTC Clean Local Street

Excellence in service continues at Thunderbird High School as the NJROTC conducted an Adopt A Street clean up. The cadets cleaned up 19th Avenue and Thun derbird Road. In addition, they cleaned up around the Thunderbird campus.

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

BUYING A HOME DURING THE HOLIDAYS

BY JULIE PEK

If you’re buying a home during the holidays, get familiar with the pros and cons.

Some of the pros may include: (1) less compe tition – not everyone is crazy about buying a home right now; (2) more negotiation power – your offer could look really good to a seller who wants to close before the end of the year; (3) potential to get a low er price or concessions – this is especially true if a home has been on the market for a while; (4) tax benefits – if you need more deductions in this tax year, this can help.

Some of the cons include: (1) fewer homes to choose from – many sellers don’t want to worry about having their home on the market when it’s the season; (2) less available lenders, inspectors, ti tle companies, and other professionals – they are hustling to get things done and may be out for the holidays; (3) possible delays – offices observe holiday hours which could delay a closing; (4) upfront costs during an already expensive time could be stressful.

Currently there are about 70 active homes on the market in the Moon Valley area, ranging from $250,000 condos to $1.8 million luxury homes. If you’re looking to get into a new home before the year is out, contact me. (602) 316-1875

Wishing you all a Happy Holiday Season!

Rookie Mom: A (Yummy) Slovak Holiday Tradition from My Family to Yours

BY BRIGHID CONSTABLE

This time of year, I am never one to shy away from all the tasty goodies.

It’s just filled with warmth and nostalgia that I can’t say “no” to.

That’s why I want to share this family recipe dating all the way back to my Slovak ancestors from the late 1890’s.

This was actually my grandmother Claire Tomasik’s recipe. She lived in Virginia while I was growing up and would always mail these walnut-filled kolacky that beyond delicious.

I’m really not exaggerating.

At any rate, if you’re open to trying something new and nostalgic, here’s the exact recipe. Enjoy!

Holiday Frozen Kolacky:

1 Pound Sweet Butter

6 Egg Yolks

¾ Cup Powdered Sugar

1 Teaspoon Vanilla

½ Cup Sweet Cream

2 Teaspoons Baking Powder

1 Teaspoon Salt

1 Pound of Flour

1. Measure and sift half of the flour and butter into a mixing bowl. Mix with egg beater. Place this base dough in the refrigerator.

2. Create a second dough with the rest of the flour together with salt, sugar, and baking powder. Blend together until smooth. Then add cream, vanilla, and egg yolks. Mix well until blended.

3. Remove the first dough from the refrigerator, roll out, andplace on top the

second dough. Roll out dough and refrigerate 3 times for every 30 minutes.

4. The next day, roll out the dough and cut into small squares. Then, fill with walnut filling and roll into crescents.

5. Bake at 350 degrees for 15-20 minutes.

6. Sprinkled Powdered sugar on top while hot

Walnut Filling:

1 cup butter, softened

1 package or 8 ounces of softened cream cheese

2 and ½ cup flower

3 large egg whites

2/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract (though I am super liberal with the vanilla here) ⅓ cup sugar

3 and ½ cup walnuts (I like them chopped)

1. Beat egg whites and vanilla on medium speed until foamy.

2. Gradually add sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, beating on medium after each addition until well blended.

3. Stir in walnuts.

Giving Back & Going Forward

Linda Campion and her husband John have been friendly fixtures at Moon Valley Chiropractic for more than eight years. What began as a four-month temporary fill-in position to support the office through a transition period, blossomed into a long-term role. Linda first arrived as a patient herself, then spontaneously stayed on, developing close relationships here. She has felt thoroughly blessed and fulfilled sharing many joyous and heartfelt moments with Dr. Reichow (and Dr. Grover before him) and the patients she dearly treasures.

This month Linda officially retires from managing the bustling chiropractic office and will devote her abundant energy more fully into her many decades running ministry called GriefShare. Linda and John both know grief intimately, each having their own tragic widow stories. They feel a divine calling to serve those experiencing loss. Going to a GriefShare gathering is like ‘having warm arms wrapped around you” and provides a unique opportunity to be surrounded by those who understand the deep sorrow you feel.

November 18th Linda led her annual ‘Surviving The Holidays” seminar offering loving comfort and guidance through a group experience including a dinner, book, and memory ornament. The ministry serves year-round, offering another series beginning February 26, 2023. If you’ve lost a spouse, child, family member or friend, you may struggle to find people who understand. We invite you to reach out to Linda at 623.878.1709 for hope and direction.

Linda will be dearly missed at Moon Valley Chiropractic, yet we have a feeling she will make a few cameo appearances going forward. She moves into this next stage with many wonderful memories of hearing patient stories, enjoying the lobby conversations, making lifelong connections; watching children grow into adults, get married and have children of their own. During this cherished season, Moon Valley Chiropractic wishes you Good Health, Warm Memories, and Glad Tidings! Call us at 602.298.0292 to schedule your chiropractic appointment.

young adult beneficiaries who aren’t yet old enough to serve as executors or trustees, it can be a struggle to decide who will be in charge of their estate on incapacity or death. Know that all of these issues can be worked through. Se lecting an experienced attorney who has addressed these same issues with other clients can really help. Don’t let your uncertainty about some aspect of the estate planning waylay you. The answers may be easier to find with discussion and guidance from someone experienced with estate planning.

Give yourself a reward. Rewards and celebrations give us the encourage ment and motivation to keep moving toward accomplishing your goal. If you make that estate planning appointment, maybe you can plan a date night or afternoon movie after the appointment as an award. The reward for getting the estate plan in place might be to sit down and finally really plan that trip to Hawaii or overseas.

A first step to getting your will or trust in place can be to learn more by booking a free initial consultation or 10-point review of your current plan with our office. Call us at 602-375-6752 or visit our website at www.libbybanks.com

The key to Preserving

Muscle?

BY NICHOLAS WARNER, DC

We lose muscle mass as we age, pure and simple. In fact, there’s a name for it: sarcopenia , and it starts earlier in life than you might think – 3-8 percent loss per decade after age 30. And once you celebrate your 60th birthday, the rate of decline accelerates.

Preserving muscle is important from a health perspective because low mus cle mass means more weakness and mobility issues, which can increase fall / fracture risk. Depending on your age, a fall / fracture can be a serious health complication; in fact, falls are the #1 cause of death in adults over the age of 65, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Preven tion (CDC).

So, what’s the key to preserving muscle mass? According to new research, it could be as simple as in corporating more activity breaks into your day after eating, especially if you’re a chronic sitter due to a desk job ... or just a sedentary life style. Study participants spent nearly eight hours sitting, interrupted every half hour by short episodes of walking (two minutes per break) or body-weight squatting (15 repetitions per break). Doing so appeared to increase the efficien cy of dietary amino acids, which are utilized to synthesize muscle protein.

In other words, periodic activity (which the researchers aptly called “ac tivity snacks”) improved the body’s ability to build muscle, particularly after a meal, when dietary protein synthesis occurs. Findings appear in the Journal of Applied Physiology. If you’re a chronic sitter, schedule periodic “activity snacks” throughout the day on your smartphone. The older you get, the more you – and your muscles – will appreciate it.

bine the t wo power f ul healing ar ts, y and Chiroprac tic C are, to achieve er las ting results

BY FROSTY KROENING

October 12th, the Black Mountain Community Alliance brought leaders of the “helping” organizations together with the Interim Police Chief, Michael Sullivan, and the Assistant Chiefs, Sean Connolly and Steve Martos. Darren Viner, Precinct Commander, caught us up on crime statistics.

Each awardee explained a bit about the organization he or she serves. Awards were presented to the following leaders of organizations:

Michele Dunn (Arizona Association for Foster and Adoptive Children), Connor Callahan (Open Closets), Malinda Cardina ( Angels on Patrol), Conner (Callahan Cares), Charlie, Ashleya and Mom (Charlie’s Heroes), Cleo Lewis (Cleo Lewis Ministry), Jerome Parker (Healthy Giving and Give Smart), D. J. Cruz (IdentiFree), Angel Bishop (True Pursuit), Members (Phoenix Neighborhood Patrol), Pamela (Phoenix Rescue Mission), Selu (Poly Praise), and Niene (Thrive Phoenix). These dedicated individuals serve thousands of individuals who need different kinds of assistance.

Sometimes when police officers see kids who are bored and likely to get into trouble, they try to learn something about the children. Sometimes these kids and many foster kids are given a free bicycle and other assistance. If a family is in financial trouble, many kinds of help can be provided short term. Police officers sometimes need help, too. Charlie, and her sister, Leah, and Mom provide special appreciation and an ear for police officers because their jobs are so important but can be extra challenging at times. Various kinds of identification are important tools to keep track of kids. Hats for Tots and First Things First books are so helpful for kids.

The Board of Directors of the Alliance thought it was time to honor the heroes who every day help our police officers assist people in so many ways. The Alliance urges residents in the Black Mountain Police Precinct to find ways to support these groups in building strong neighborhoods and an empowered community through action.

People who help others seldom seek praise. But, we especially give thanks this season to every “angel” who steps up to create a caring community. www.IdentiFreed.org | www.polypraise.org | angelsonpatrol.org www.phxmission.org/outreach | www.mytruepursuit.org www.AZAFAP.org | www.phoenixrescuemission.org

SAYING THANK YOU

BLOCK WATCHER BY BLANCHE LUKES

This is the perfect time of the year to be saying Thank You. We have so much to be grateful for, don’t we! I am particularly saying a special Thank You to the Moon Valley Women’s Club and their annual service project. For over twenty years a committee from the club has provided gifts, toys and shoes for families in need.

MVWC Service Project is the 501(c)(3) nonprofit arm of the organization. This group distributes money and purchased goods to deserving local activities that improve the quality of life for everyone in our community.

Grants are awarded in the spring to small community groups like parent/ teacher groups, scouts and other neighborhood organizations. Larger grants are awarded in the fall to other nonprofit organizations to support a specific project. All grant recipients are recommended and sponsored by a member of the Moon Valley Women’s Club. Opportunities to volunteer include serving on the service project board, shopping for clothing and toys for our holiday adopt-a-family program, and filling shoe boxes with toiletries and making deliveries to a local shelter.

A special Thank You to Sandi Kogan who has chaired the project , it seems like forever. We appreciate her and her committee/helpers.

Despite the troubles in the world it is wonderful to see all the good that is going on too. BlancheLukes.com, The Block Watcher

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. The cost for paper shredding is only $.55 per pound or a minimum fee of $15 if the weight is less than

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Humble beginnings of the Moon Valley Christmas light Contest

by

Moon Valley Neighborhood Association President Drew Hutchinson

I was surprised to find out that the Moon Valley Christmas Light Contest actually started as a Decoration Contest, and not all about lights. Each year at Christmas, prizes were awarded for the Most Outstanding, Most Original, and Best overall Front Entry or Door. Since those early days the contest has grown and expanded from just the entryways to now cover every inch of some residents’ yards. I’d like to thank the early efforts of Dale and Lela Payne for their work getting this contest going and I hope they are proud of what it has become.

Let’s move on to our Moon Valley Christmas Light Decorating Contest. Voting for this contest will run from Thursday, December 1st until Wednesday December 7th. Judging criteria for all awards are posted on the MVNA website www.moonvalley.org and all voting will be tabulated from our MVNA App, www. app.moonvalley.org

We have a total of 32 individual Holiday decorating awards and 1 Block Award this year! The awards break down like this : Classic 12 homes of Christmas, Spirit Awards (multiple year winners) and 8 Specialty Awards:

Jingle Bell Rock – Best multi-media display of lights and music

Santa’s Helper – Best display that includes spectator interaction

The Night before Christmas – Best child related theme in the display

It’s a Wonderful Life in Moon Valley –Best traditional holiday display

White Christmas Award

Most compelling monochromatic (white lights) holiday display

Spirit of Moon Valley – Best holiday display that includes hospitality and neighborly celebration

GRISWOLD - Best display using as many holiday decorations and lights as possible. The lights may even be visible from outer space.

Handy Dandy Classifieds Form

PATRIOTIC - Best display that incorporates a patriotic theme into its display.

Ollie the Trolley is back! The MVNA is offering a free (with food donation) Ollie the Trolley tour of the Moon Valley Lights on December 2nd. This tour is for voting for the best lights/ decorating displays in Moon Valley. Join us for a fun night touring Moon Valley. If interested, reserve your seat here www. moonvalley.org/contact-us

Food for Lights Turns 9! Once again, MVNA is sponsoring the “Food-ForLights” food drive to support the Desert Mission food bank in Sunnyslope.  This combines our wonderful tradition of Christmas Light Contest and the spirit of giving to others. Let’s show how Our Moon Valley Spirit shines brighter than our lights by supporting families in need by donating non-perishable food items.

Dates / Times of Collection: Wednesday December 1, 2022 through Monday January 2nd, 2023. Look for collection boxes near the award winners. Drop box locations will be identified on the Holiday Decorating app www.app.moonvalley. org.

January Annual MVNA Meeting : Please mark your calendars for the January Annual meeting –now slated for Thursday, January 12th at Lookout Mountain Elementary School’s Cafeteria – more info will be shared as we get closer. New board members will be voted on and the board will select officers for 2023.

If you have questions or comments regarding any of this or just want to get more involved, please contact the Moon Valley Neighborhood Association at board@moonvalley.org or myself at president@ moonvalley.org. We would love to hear from you and we are here to help. Thanks for taking the time to read this and we look forward to seeing your holiday lights this year!

Drew Hutchinson MVNA President Moon Valley - Neighbors helping Neighbors

M&T Solutions Tech Tip of the Month

By Mike Ortiz

As the holidays are quickly approaching, we will be gather ing with friends and family not only to celebrate but to partake in family traditions. Whether it be watching old Christmas movies, singing, dancing, or playing games on phones/devices, this is a good time to make sure all your devices are up to date to make sure they will work properly when needed this holiday season.

If a device provides applications such as Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, etc…, more than likely it runs an operating system and can be updated (if available from the manufacturer). Windows devices receive updates from Microsoft every 2nd Tues day of the month. Apple will release updates for their devices as needed to either fix an issue or resolve security vulnerabilities in the affected devices. You should receive a notification from Windows or macOS/iOS when an update is available/ installed or a reboot is required to complete the installation.

Kindle Fire and Roku streaming devices should update automatically if they are connected to the Internet. If you are having any issues always do a manual check for updates as this could resolve any app related issues. Smart TV’s should also automatically update to the latest versions to help alleviate any streaming issues. If it does not, please review the manufacturer’s website to see how to per form a manual update.

One of the most important devices to keep up to date is your Wireless Router. Most consumers are not aware that the router’s firmware (Operating System) can be updated. These firmware updates can fix a wide range of issues on the device as well as increase performance. The wireless router is the central hub for all your devices, so if it is either outdated or running a bad firmware version, it could affect the performance of all your devices. Steps to perform these updates can be found on the manufacturer’s website.

These are just a few devices that you may have in your home that require updates. M&T Solutions always recommends updating your devices not only for performance reasons but also for security reasons. Many bugs and security issues are resolved in these updates. At the end of the day your online safety and information security is most important.

If you do not know how to update your device or do not feel comfortable do ing it, M&T Solutions would be more than happy to help. We are fully commit ted to keeping our customers safe, secure, and fully operational. If an emergency arises during the Holidays, we will make ourselves available to assist in any way possible. M&T Solutions wishes everyone a safe and happy Holiday season.

The Golden age of e-bikes is here

BY LEON TRY ME BIKE SHOP

These bikes are being sold in huge numbers all over the world. Prices have been dropping for the last year or so. Now could be the perfect time to buy one are two. E bikes are heavier than a regular bike so when the battery dies 10 miles from home. It can be a long hard pedal home.

Bike prices seem to be about 7 hundred to 5 thousand. More money gets you more miles on a charge plus lighter weight. Parts like batteries an controlers are more available for the higher end bikes. E bike batteries can cost 200 to 800 dollars. They seem to last about 200 to 2000 miles. Not using them in about 3 years an they are shot. E bikes seem to be every where now could be the time to buy one. For now I will just pedal.

Ride more, live more.