SuperstitionLiving - August

SUPERSTITIONLIVING

and Ask for Cindy!

MOUNTAINBROOK VILLAGE BEAUTY!

2362 SF, 3 bdrms, 2 baths, 2 car garage STUNNING, large Palo Verde model! upgrades galore and new Arizona Room! Newer roof and AC! Tiled front courtyard, SS appliances, new interior paint! upgraded fixtures, fans, and hardware TOO MUCH TO LIST, YOU MUST SEE IT!

$649,000 Call Dawn

FABULOUS LOCATION BEAUTIFUL HOME!

1991 SF, 3 bdrms, 2 baths, no HOA, new ac in 2021, new roof in 2023, high ceilings, superstition mtn views! Kitchen island, breakfast bar, SS appliances, split bedrooms, pavers dominate back yard, private gate to walkingbiking area! Shed and oversized garage! Call Zach or Shelly $454,000

55+ MOUNTAINBROOK VILLAGE BEAUTY!

1543 SF 2 BDRMS, 2baths, 2 car gar all on a corner lot! Beautiful front courtyard offers Mountain views! Greatroom open floor plan, steel view fenced with extended patio! Garage has epoxy floor, cabinets and sink! Priced to sell! Call Erma

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Superstition Wildflowers by Tammy Keyes

LOCALEVENTS

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

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Tuesday, August 1st, from 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM - Rainwater Harvesting 101 Free Workshop | Join us for the 3rd quarterly presentation hosted by Arizona Water Company for the community of Gold Canyon. What is rainwater harvesting? It is the act of collecting and storing rain rather than letting it run off, and it can have many benefits to your landscape and utility bill! Learn more about active and passive rainwater harvesting by attending this workshop! Attend this workshop in person and enter a raffle to win a free rainwater harvesting barrel donated by Tank N Barrel!

Workshop is at Gold Canyon Mission Center at 8330 Sunrise Sky Dr. Gold Canyon 85118, the Esther Room, Please Register online at WaterMorePreciousThanGold.com. Questions? Email savewater@azwater.com

Friday, August 11th, Arboretum

After Hours - Cocktails & Conservation from 5:30 - 8pm | This month we are featuring Japan! Learn about unique Japanese plant species as well as enjoying dinner or dessert for purchase from Bento Guy food truck. Join us for Arb After Hours, Each ticket includes: one (1) complimentary drink ticket, access to the gardens*, live acoustic music, and optional activities. Enjoy the sunset and twilight in our lush gardens while cooling off with refreshing drinks and tasty eats from local food trucks, available for purchase. All proceeds help support the Arboretum’s important conservation work. Tickets can be purchased online at www.btarboretum.org/event

CONTINUED ON PAGE 7

Events Continue at Boyce Thompson Arboretum, Check the complete event pages on their website at www.btarboretum.org/events or contact the Visitor's Center at 520-689-2723. You may also Email: info@btarboretum. org.

Exciting Activities year round at the Superstition Mountain Museum, Call 480 983-4888 or visit www.superstitionmountainmuseum.org for schedule of classes and events.

Visit Lost Dutchman State Park, Check the website www.azstateparks.com/lost-dutchman/ for a schedule of events and activities. Call 480-982-4485

As a Top Agent, Terri is featured in the Top Agent Magazine; A national publication featuring top producers.

As a real estate professional, I understand that buying or selling a home is a lifechanging experience! That’s why I am dedicated to providing exceptional, personalized service.

Make a Smart Move and put Terri’s expertise to work for you!

We Understand Commitment

We Understand Commitment

At Edward Jones, we deliver candid guidance and personalized investment strategies to help you plan for and realize the possibilities of your future – for you, your family and generations to follow.

At Edward Jones, we deliver candid guidance and personalized investment strategies to help you plan for and realize the possibilities of your future – for you, your family and generations to follow.

Matthew Fliss, CFP® Financial Advisor

Matthew Fliss, CFP® Financial Advisor

5301 S Superstition Mtn Dr Suite A110 Gold Canyon, AZ 85118 480-983-1333

5301 S Superstition Mtn Dr Suite A110 Gold Canyon, AZ 85118 480-983-1333

Back on the farm where I was raised, there was a hand-dug well about 35 feet deep with rock walls for support. The water that supplied that well was the best I have ever tasted and flowed unendingly. The well supplied all the water we needed for all the humans, livestock, and every other creature on that farm. Like many other things in life, I thought that’s the way it would always be. At that early age, I could never conceive that someday mankind would have to buy water. Water flowed free everywhere or so I thought.

Someone put their finger on fast forward and here we are in 2023 with all the complexities of 21st-century water management. It is understood that water companies must ensure a sustainable water supply while maintaining infrastructure to treat and deliver clean water. Multiple factors attribute to this issue such as population growth, aging equipment, increased demand for water, and the

GREETINGS TO ALL ADOBE MEMBERS AND FRIENDS

need to invest in new technologies such as desalination plants, water treatment, and conservation.

At the January 2023 ADOBE Community Meeting Arizona Water Company leaders said we would never run out of water. That is, no faucets would ever be turned off. Sometime later I realized that when they stated no faucets would be turned off, they meant the Earth’s hydrological cycle within its natural climatical evaporation process and subsequent return to Earth via rain or snow will ensure the ongoing regeneration process. However, they also stated that factors like droughts, overuse of water resources, and inefficient water management practices can exacerbate water shortages. They also floated the concept of desalinated water being piped in from Mexico, but it appears some unresolved political issues are being encountered within that perspective. The bottom line is that we must conserve water

Terri Klucar Membership Chairperson 602-430-1626

Rick Hardina Vice President 480-529-1173

Lisa Bradford Secretary 480-238-0786

Bob Harris Treasurer 480-241-0681

ASSOCIATION FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF A BETTER ENVIRONMENT

Membership Includes: Monthly Meetings with Guest Speaker, Christmas Party, Annual Picnic, Voting Privileges,

Glenn Walp President 480-982-2316

for those who come after us. Water is a financial commodity, but you can’t make money on water if you don’t have water. I postulate that Gold Canyon citizens understand and get all that.

It was lucid from the water company leaders that water would get more costly; expect an increase came across at the meeting loud and clear. However, the proverbial fly in the ointment is the current effort by The Arizona Water Company to increase water rates by a staggering 34%. We all understand horse trading – ask for 100.00 dollars while being satisfied with 50.00. We can expect this to be snuck into the deck somewhere. The problem is determining what exact percentage of increase will be needed by the water company to meet the company’s actual needs. We, as citizens, must ensure that the decision on the percent increase is based upon transparency and accountability while preventing excessive profiteering. As citizens of Gold Canyon, we seek to balance the need to protect our consumer interests against adequate funding to maintain company infrastructure and water supply.

To strike this balance, ADOBE has asked Arizona Cooperation Commission Member, Mr. Keven Thompson to attend an ADOBE Community Meeting on August 18, 2023, at the Gold Canyon Best Western, starting at 7pm. The citizens of Gold Canyon will have the opportunity to ask questions of Kevin concerning the proposed rate hike. Mr. Thompson will make preliminary comments and then the meeting will be open to questions from the meeting attendees.

ADOBE is asking all citizens interested in this matter to attend the meeting to ask questions and get answers that will, hopefully, evolve into a reasonable and logical rate hike we can live with.

Glenn A. Walp

ADOBE- “The Voice and Heart of Gold Canyon since 1989”

Saturday, August 12th, Family Fun Day at Arizona Commemorative Air Force Museum | Bring the whole family to Airbase Arizona on Saturday, Aug. 12, for a discounted price. Admission is $5 per person or $10 for a family of 4 (kids 5 and under are free). Ages 12 and under can participate in an aviation technology challenge sponsored by Arizona Modelers. The Museum is open Open 10am - 4pm Wednesday -Saturday.

Saturday, August 19th, Tamale Fest at the Windmill Winery in Florence from 4-9pm | 1140 W Butte Ave #48, Florence, 85132— Come one, come all! The Windmill Winery Tamale Fest is back! Get ready to celebrate your love for all things tamales.

With your admission fee of $30, you'll get the opportunity to explore the wonderful world of tamales! You'll receive a full plate with two tamales and three sides along with chips and salsa at every table! Want more? Add another tamale to your plate for an additional $5.

Enjoy live music by The RJ Band, and drinks all evening long. The awardwinning Tucson Tamale Company will be bringing Mama Celia's recipes to the folks of Florence with their handmade traditional corn husk tamales. So, whether you’re a long-time tamale lover or just want to try some new flavors, you won't want to miss this event!

A ticket is required for entrance to this event. A limited quantity of tickets will be available at the door, so don't forget to get your tickets early! Purchase tickets online at www. TheWindmillWinery.com/wine-tastingroom

Wednesday, August 23rd, Coffee with a Cop at the AJ Starbucks from 8-10AM | You are invited to join your neighbors and AJPD for Coffee and Conversation.

Sunday, November 12th, The Day of the Cowboy Event at Gold Canyon Golf Resort | Join us for this family event that celebrates and honors the legacy and contributions that cowboys and cowgirls have made and continue to make in the American West. There will be a Cowboy BBQ dinner, Country Western music & a spectacular fireworks show. The Superstition Food Bank has agreed to partner with the Resort for this event and a portion of the sponsorship donations will benefit the Food Bank and the people that they serve. All the details have not been finalized yet and additional information will be provided as it becomes available.

Now until November 22nd, Call to Artists Applications for the GC Arts festival in January 2024 | Applications will be accepted beginning May 1, 2023 and the deadline is: November 11, 2023. Notification of acceptance will be on or about November 22, 2023. For registration and more information can be found on our website Goldcanyonarts.org

JULY EVENTS AT THE AJ PUBLIC LIBRARY

Saturday, August 5, 9:30-11:30 a.m. | Cricut Demonstration: Making Memories

Learn how to use a Cricut, along with a scanner or your phone, to turn handwriting, such as recipes and letters, and drawings, such as children’s artwork, into images that the Cricut can cut. You can use these files to make custom aprons, mugs, t-shirts and more. Watch our demonstration and learn using real-

life examples.

Monday, August 7-Friday, August 11 | Mobile Library Route Library staff take our Mobile Library vehicle on its current route the first full week of the month. We provide books, media, and internet access across Apache Junction. Our current route includes Assisted Living facilities, RV parks, preschools, and more. Visit ajpl.org/mobile-library for a detailed list of our Mobile Library stops and a map.

Saturday, August 12, 10 a.m.–noon | Ask a Master Gardener

Do you have a garden problem? Need help with your landscape plants? Don’t know what to plant when? Want to start a vegetable garden, but don’t know where to start? Dig into these questions and more during this come-and-go Q&A with local Superstition Master Gardeners. Don’t forget to checkout seeds from our Seed Library too!

Wednesday, August 16, 3 p.m. | Biblio Bites – Homemade Pop Tarts

Join us live or online. If you loved (and still love) pop tarts, be prepared to have your mind blown by the homemade version. Learn how to make these buttery, flaky, and zingy cherry pop tarts in your very own kitchen. Watch our demo and checkout from our wide variety of cookbooks, with samples available too.

Wednesday, August 16, 4 p.m. | Seed Up Meet Up

Help us fill our seed packets for the seed library, hear from Superstition Master Gardeners, ask questions about your home garden, & learn about Earth Heart Park and Community Garden! In August there’s no class topic, we’re just packing seeds.

Thursday, August 17, 6:30-8:00 p.m. | Books & Brews

We put the PUB in public library! Our Books & Brews book club is back on the 3rd Thursday from 6:30–8:00 p.m. This laid-back book discussion at the Handlebar Pub & Grill in Apache Junction will focus on a specific genre and anyone is welcome to join us to discuss any book that fits the genre (or any book they’ve enjoyed lately). Books & Brews participants can even enjoy 10% off food and drinks! Find us on the bar’s patio for lively discussion and libations. All are welcome! August’s genre is “Nonfiction!”

Thursday, August 31, 6 p.m. | Sunflower Wreath Craft Night

Looking for a fun late Summer craft project that also works for Fall? This easy sunflower wreath uses a round wreath form, yellow bandanas, and some rope. All supplies provided. Teens and Adults welcome! Only 30 seats available, so go to ajpl.org to register or call the library at 480-474-8555 to save your spot.

Staff Picks Of The Month

FROM APACHE JUNCTION PUBLIC LIBRARY

Opie and Cleigh by Gary Nine, recommended by Trish

Maame by Jessica George, recommended by Tracie

Maddie finally takes the steps to have a life of her own since her mother plans to come home again from Ghana to take care of her father who is suffering from advanced stage Parkinson’s. Maddie struggles at work, being the only Black person at a meeting and trying to meet the insufferable demands of a tyrant boss. She moves in with two other women and jumps into learning how to be a friend, online dating, how to be alone, and being dumped, all while trying to distance herself from her overbearing and demanding mother. The death of Maddie’s father changes everything.

Stone Blind by Natalie Haynes, recommended by Meg Stone Blind by Natalie Haynes is a compelling and thought-provoking novel that delves into the myth of Medusa, challenging the perception of her as a monster. Set against the backdrop of a picturesque Greek island, the story follows three generations of women as they navigate family dynamics, secrets, and the quest for forgiveness. Haynes' skillful storytelling and evocative prose create an emotionally resonant and captivating narrative, leaving a

lasting impression on readers. With its exploration of identity, mythology, and the power of storytelling, Stone Blind is a must-read for those seeking a fresh perspective on ancient legends.

The Crash by Catherine Miller, recommended by Amy

A split-second decision can change everything. Susan and Mike are on their way back from a trip to revive their relationship and the song that brought the high-school sweethearts together on a dance floor 40 years ago comes on the radio. A stolen glance as their memories wash over them causes their car to get in a crash.

After a near-fatal accident, it’s a miracle that Zack survived, and with a life-long heart condition, Chloe didn’t think she would make it past her twenties. But that day, Chloe and Zack’s lives are saved when they each receive a heart. They don’t know it, but they are inseparably linked. Until Chloe and Zack find one another – two hearts searching for their missing part – their new lives can never begin… Will they be able to find each other before it’s too late?

This was such a beautiful and heartwarming book about a tragedy that led to an amazing love story. It leaves you with a big smile on your face when you finish it. I highly recommend it!

Odder by Katherine Applegate, recommended by Megan C.

From the author of beloved children’s fiction like The One and Only Ivan, Katherine Applegate will enchant readers of all ages with Odder. Follow the young otter pup Odder as she teaches about ocean ecosystems, otter personalities and preservation, as well as Monterey Bay Aquarium’s otter surrogacy program – all from an otter’s point of view. Although this book is educational, Odder oozes empathy and cheer, while also being entirely written in free verse poetry! A story that will make all ages smile!

The Teachers: A Year Inside America’s Most Vulnerable, Important Profession by Alexandra Robbins, recommended by Megan S.

In this nonfiction work, author Alexandra Robbins profiles three teachers across the United States over the course of one year. We get to know a middle school math teacher, a special ed teacher, and an elementary school teacher, while the perspectives of quite a few other instructors are shared after each chapter. Each of the teachers struggles with challenges related to their jobs, whether it is a lack of support from administrators, abusive parents, or lack of personal time. Robbins comprehensively explores K-12 education in this book, illustrating why we are facing a shortage of public schoolteachers. You’ll come away with a greater understanding of what teachers face every day, but also how devoted they are to their students.

When the Corn is Waist High by Jeremy Scott, recommended by Dennis

A small rural town in Indiana is experiencing a series of unexplained murders. Town sheriff and Catholic priest Solomon Lancaster oversees the investigation until the FBI shows up and takes charge. Father/Sheriff Lancaster continues the investigation, hoping to solve the case before the FBI does, but he discovers that even the innocents in this town have secrets to hide, him included. No one wants their secrets revealed.

CALL TO ARTISTS FOR

THE 23RD ANNUAL GOLD CANYON ARTS FESTIVAL

Applications are open now until November 11, 2023. Notification of acceptance will be on or about November 22, 2023. Applications are through the ZAPP website –https://www. zapplication.org/event-info.php?ID=11357

The Gold Canyon Arts Festival is a 1-day event held on the 4th Saturday of January each year. Many of our participating artists call our Festival the best 1-day show in the state based on turnout and sales. The sponsor of the event is the Gold Canyon Arts Council in co-operation with the Artists of the Superstitions. This year’s Festival will again be held on the grounds of the United Methodist Church at 6640 S. King’s Ranch Rd. in Gold Canyon, AZ 85118.

This venue offers good parking and drive-by visibility. Typically, 85-90 artists are accepted to show their work. Previous year’s attendance was about 4,000 during the festival hours of 9 AM to 4 PM. Reserved artist spaces are 10 ft. X 10 ft. (tents are encouraged but not required.) Your cost is a $25.00 nonrefundable Application fee and if selected by the jury, a $125.00 Artist fee, plus the contribution of a piece of your art to support the Gold Canyon Arts Council’s Arts Education programs.

Artist Hospitality volunteers are available to help you find your assigned space and “tent sit” during the day to allow you to take breaks. Restrooms are available inside the church. The festival also features food vendors and musical entertainment throughout the day.

All artists will be juried into the show. Categories: Your submitted work will be juried in one of the following categories: Painting/ Drawing, Glass art, Photographic art Wood art, Clay art, Jewelry, Metalwork artNatural products (e.g., gourds, seeds), or Other

You may submit up to two categories but you may sell your work only in the categories approved by the jury. No brokered/ factory produced or imported items are allowed.

More info at our website goldcanyonarts.org

AugustFairwell

By Marcia Nelson

Have you ever noticed how summer colors seem to fade as the monsoon’s moisture creates August’s humid haze?

But these hot summer months will have their final say as these storms stockpile the rain for the drier winter days.

Finally though, just watch, as the day comes to a close. The sky turns gloomy clouds into an amazing neon glow!

So be thankful for these sunsets as they paint the evening sky. We’ll watch the heat of summer bid us a beautiful “Good-bye!

THE DAY OF THE COWBOY EVENT Returns

to Gold Canyon

By Susan Sharp

The Day of the Cowboy Event is returning to Gold Canyon! After a 10-year hiatus, the Gold Canyon Golf Resort & Spa will once again host this popular family event that celebrates and honors the legacy and contributions that cowboys and cowgirls have made and continue to make in the American West. The Gold Canyon Chamber will co-host the event. There will be a Cowboy BBQ dinner, Country Western music & a spectacular fireworks show.

The event will take place at the Resort on Sunday, November 12, 2023. The Superstition Food Bank has agreed to partner with the Resort for this event and a portion of the sponsorship donations will benefit the Food Bank and the people that they serve. All the details have not been finalized yet and additional information will be provided as it becomes available.

Sponsorships are available for Community businesses/members that wish to participate. For further information regarding sponsorships please contact Susan Sharp - email Susan@gcgr.com or #480-671-5589. Visit the website for updated event information. www.

DayOfTheCowboy.com

The Importance of Preplanning for Funeral and Cremation Needs

By Justin Wagner, Preplanning Advisor and Cemeterian

Death is an inevitable part of life, and while it is not an easy subject to discuss, preplanning for funeral and cremation needs is a crucial step in ensuring peace of mind for both individuals and their families. By making decisions ahead of time, individuals can relieve their loved ones from the burden of making difficult choices during a time of grief. This article explores the importance of preplanning for funeral and cremation needs, highlighting the benefits and considerations associated with this proactive approach.

Emotional Relief for Loved Ones — One of the most significant advantages of preplanning for funeral and cremation needs is the emotional relief it provides for loved ones. When a person passes away, family members and friends are often left grappling with intense grief and a wide range of emotions. By preplanning, individuals can alleviate the additional stress of making important funeral and cremation decisions, allowing their loved ones to focus on coping with their loss and finding solace.

Personalized and Meaningful Services — Preplanning offers individuals the opportunity to create personalized and meaningful funeral and cremation services that truly reflect their unique lives and personalities. It enables them to outline their preferences for burial or cremation, choose the type of memorial service they desire, specify music, readings, and any other elements they wish to incorporate. By doing so, they ensure that their final farewell aligns with their values and provides comfort to their family and friends.

Financial Considerations — Preplanning also allows individuals to address the financial aspects of their funeral and cremation needs. Funeral costs can be substantial, and preplanning enables individuals to explore different options and make informed decisions based on their budget. By securing prepayment for these expenses, individuals can ease the financial burden on their loved ones and ensure that the desired funeral or cremation arrangements can be carried out without financial strain.

Going Back Home — A large number of our population in the eastern part of the valley, have plans for themselves “back home.” Another important facet of preplanning is being able to plan to get your remains back home, should you pass away while in Arizona. Many people think that the plans they have, back home, are sufficient to cover the cost and logistics of getting them there. This is a very simple and avoidable mistake when preplanning with your local funeral home here in the great state of Arizona.

Ease of Logistics and Legalities — Preplanning allows individuals to handle logistical and legal matters associated with funeral and cremation arrangements in advance. This includes selecting a funeral home or crematorium, providing necessary documentation, and specifying the desired disposition of remains. By taking care of these details ahead of time, individuals can streamline the process, reducing the administrative burden on their loved ones and ensuring that their wishes are properly executed.

While contemplating one’s funeral and cremation needs may be an uncomfortable topic, preplanning is a responsible and considerate choice. It provides emotional relief for loved ones, allows for personalized and meaningful services, addresses financial considerations, prevents family disputes, and simplifies logistical and legal aspects. By making these decisions in advance, individuals can ensure that their final arrangements align with their desires and provide solace to those they leave behind. Preplanning for funeral and cremation needs is a proactive step towards easing the burden on loved ones during a challenging time and ensuring a dignified farewell.

TIPS & HINTS ON LANDSCAPING TOMMCDONALD OWNER -

SCORPIONS

SMILING DOG LANDSCAPES

One night recently I woke up to an insect crawling on my upper arm. I swept whatever it was off to the floor. I never swat insects on my body when I can’t identify them because it might be a scorpion. I’ve been stung by scorpions many times in the past and I know from experience that the stings are quite painful. It is best to sweep them off quickly and deal with them on the floor. It took a few minutes to realize that I had been stung and to recognize the pain as a scorpion sting. I eased out of bed, got my ultra-violet scorpion light out and searched the room. No scorpion, just the cat under the bed and I hoped he had killed the creature.

In my previous encounters with scorpion stings, while very painful at first, the pain would subside within a few hours, leaving only a little numb spot at the injection site. This time things were going to be very different.

Shortly my hands and feet felt like they were connected to 220-volts, and they really flared if I moved. I thought that I should do research on scorpion stings but quickly realized that I could not read, the words were jiggling. I looked at the clock and the numbers were doing a little square dance. I hobbled

to the kitchen for a drink of water, and it tasted like brine. I got another glass and the same thing, salt water. Things were getting serious. I had been stung at 11:30pm and it was now 9am. Time to head to the emergency room. I had to have help walking, not only because my feet and hands were electrified with every step, but I was also unsteady on my feet.

At the emergency room, I was quickly put on an IV and given scorpion anti-venom. Within 30 minutes the symptoms started to recede and by 3pm I was back to normal.

The scorpion that stung me was most likely an Arizona Bark Scorpion, the most toxic of the 3 common species of scorpions in our area. The accompanying photos of these three species should help you recognize the Arizona Bark Scorpion and encourage you, if stung by one and experiencing the above symptoms, to head to the emergency room quickly.

We never found the scorpion, probably thanks to the cat. You go Mr. Kits!

HEALING NATURALLY

Dr. Tina Marcantel, Naturopathic Doctor 480-738-1647 | DrMarcantel.com

6589 S. Kings Ranch Road, Gold Canyon

I first became interested in learning more about collagen supplementation when I discovered its benefits for weight control. Collagen is a protein and consuming protein helps to curb appetite cravings. When you combine that knowledge with the important health benefits collagen provides, it seems only natural that we would want to boost the amount of collagen in our bodies as we get older.

QUICK FACTS ABOUT COLLAGEN

Roughly 30% of the protein in our bodies is collagen and it’s essential for maintaining bone, joint, skin, hair, and nail health. The amino acids contained in collagen also help build muscle mass and support an active lifestyle. While it is produced naturally in our bodies, the older we get, the less collagen production there is, which can lead to less mobility and increased joint pain, muscle loss, brittle nails, increased wrinkles and sagging skin, and digestive issues.

You can help your body make collagen naturally by eating a well-balanced diet full of healthy foods. A well-balanced diet includes chicken, beef, fish, dairy, eggs, beans, leafy greens, other vegetables, whole grains, and citrus fruits. You can also boost your intake of this important protein with a high-quality collagen supplement.

Potential benefits of collagen supplementation

• Provides essential amino acids and proteins

• Supports muscle health

• Supports skin elasticity and skin health

• Helps minimize the appearance of fine lines

• Supports joint health

• Supports hair thickness

• Supports strong nails

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A COLLAGEN SUPPLEMENT

When looking for a collagen supplement that’s right for you, you’ll want to consider a few things. You can choose tasteless and odorless products that make them easy to add to other foods and beverages without altering the flavor. You’ll want to find a brand that has been third party lab tested for purity and potency to assure that it is a highquality product. If possible, choose grass-fed pasture-

COLLAGEN: THE STRUCTURAL SCAFFOLDING OF OUR BODIES

raised bovine or sustainably sourced food collagen, which usually indicates “hormone free.” You’ll also want a supplement that contains a combination of collagen types (i.e., I, II, and III) to target hair, skin, joints and nails and mixes well in hot or cold beverages and foods. If the product is labeled as “hydrolyzed collagen peptides,” it means that the amino acids have been broken down for easier digestion and absorption.

I prefer using collagen powder because it gives food and beverages a creamy texture. I add it to such foods as

• Hummus

• Oatmeal

• Coffee and tea

• Cooked vegetables (add it to the liquid of cooked vegetables)

• Smoothies

• Soups

• Salad dressings

Most studies see skin and joint benefits after taking collagen supplements for 3-4 months. Studies looking at bone health don’t see the benefits until after 12 months of use. Adding a collagen supplement to your diet is an easy way to help promote long-term health benefits.

Friendship is important because it helps us build connections with people who share our values or interests. Friends help us prevent loneliness or isolation and are supportive companions as we work toward living purposeful lives. They can also encourage us to pursue our passions and dreams and offer support or advice in challenging times.

Our friendships help our mental health and overall happiness. We build human connections in our professional lives and personal lives. And over time, those connections may grow. We might make friends with people temporarily, depending on where we go to school or work. Some friendships last for life though, regardless of where you meet these people.

When we are faced with uncertainty, our friends are there to provide the positive encouragement that we need to embrace new journeys or face tough times. Our good friends can also notice and let us know that we are becoming consumed with work or another problem in our lives and need to take a break.

Our social support is right beside us throughout the various stages of our lives. Friends keep us grounded and help us remember what we value and want to achieve in life. True friends stand by us when we’re adjusting to a new change. They remind us of our potential, relieve stress, recognize our comfort zones, and prevent us from feeling lonely.

We know that exercise is great for our minds and bodies, but sometimes it is challenging to maintain interest. That is why exercising with a friend can be a huge benefit. Here are a few great reasons for exercising with a friend.

• It is more fun exercising with a friend

• You will feel more motivated and likely to succeed in your fitness goals

• You may become more adventurous and be willing to try something new

• You can build new friendships.

Joining an exercise class can be a fantastic way to meet people, get to know them better, and make new friends. Exercising with someone you do not know well provides an opportunity to build a new friendship. You will be starting with a shared interest – improving your health – which can make it easier to share other opportunities together.

Since August 13th – 19th is recognized as Friendship Week, Live it Well is celebrating Friendship Week by offering your first-time class absolutely free. If you already come to class, please bring a friend with you, or if you are new to Live it Well, just come in for a class and be sure to bring a Friend with you.

The Live it Well Place in Gold Canyon is committed to providing our community with healthy, fun, and friendly opportunities. The movement classes, Yoga, Pilates, Joyful Fitness along with the Restorative and Therapeutic sessions offer a supportive and safe environment for your fitness goals.

Having solid friendships is important as they make life more enjoyable. We get to share the beautiful aspects of life with people who we love, which can enrich our everyday experiences. True friends are one of our greatest blessings. To let them know how special they are to you, show appreciation by sending a small handwritten card, buying a small gift or flowers, or joining an exercise class. So, for the 3rd week in August, put in some time to nurture, build, and maintain your great friendships because true friends are what make our lives better.

LORIBLANK

BROKER/OWNER LORI BLANK & ASSOCIATES, LLC

When it comes to home improvements, you might envision lengthy renovation projects or a significant investment of time and money. Not all home improvements have to be big projects. There are many quick and simple changes you can make to transform your space without breaking the bank or disrupting your daily routine.

Fresh Coat of Paint:

One of the most effective and budget-friendly ways to revitalize any room is by applying a fresh coat of paint. A new color scheme can completely transform the ambiance, making it brighter, cozier, or more sophisticated. Choose colors that align with your desired mood and consider using accent walls to create focal points. Painting is a relatively simple DIY task that can be accomplished in a weekend, and the impact it has on your home is significant.

Upgrade Lighting:

Lighting plays a crucial role in the atmosphere and functionality of your home. Swap out outdated light fixtures with modern alternatives to instantly update the look and feel of a room. Additionally, consider installing dimmer switches to adjust the lighting intensity and create a more versatile environment. For a quick fix, change your light bulbs to energy-efficient options or opt for warmer or cooler tones to suit your preference.

Declutter and Organize:

A cluttered and disorganized space can make your home feel chaotic and stressful. Dedicate some time to decluttering and organizing each

QUICK AND SIMPLE HOME IMPROVEMENTS: TRANSFORM YOUR SPACE WITH EASE

room, creating a more streamlined and serene environment. Get rid of items you no longer need, organize your belongings into designated storage solutions.

Enhance Curb Appeal:

The exterior of your home makes the first impression, so enhancing its curb appeal is a quick way to boost your property’s overall appeal. Trim overgrown bushes, mow the lawn, plant colorful flowers, and add welcoming elements such as a new doormat or house numbers.

Replace Hardware and Fixtures: Often overlooked, updating hardware and fixtures can significantly elevate the look of your home. Swap outdated doorknobs, cabinet handles, and faucets, with more contemporary options to instantly modernize your space.

Add Mirrors:

Mirrors are a versatile and effective tool for making any room feel larger and brighter. Place mirrors strategically to reflect natural light, create an illusion of more space, and enhance the overall aesthetics of the room.

Transforming your home doesn’t always have to involve elaborate projects or substantial investments. By implementing these quick and simple home improvement ideas, you can achieve remarkable results with minimal effort. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your tools, and get ready to give your space the upgrade it deserves.

MARSHADORRIS

ITALIAN STUFFED CHICKEN BREASTS

INGREDIENTS:

• 3 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• Spinach leaves

• Sundried tomatoes (bagged or jarred), thinly sliced

• 12 fresh small mozzarella cheese balls

• Carton of sweet cherry tomatoes

• ½ c shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½ c shredded parmesan cheese

• 8 garlic cloves

• Salt & pepper

• Italian seasoning

• Extra virgin olive oil

• Aluminum foil

FLOURLESS PEANUT BUTTER CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES

This is one of the easiest and quickest cookies you’ll ever make! These delicious cookies are flourless!!

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)

• 1 large egg

• ¾ c of brown sugar OR ½ brown sugar and ½ white sugar

• ½ tsp baking soda

• ¼ tsp sea salt

• ½ c chocolate chips + extras to add on top of cookies

Preheat oven to 375 degrees and line a cookie sheet with parchment paper. In a mixing bowl add the peanut butter, egg, sugar, baking soda and sea salt. With a wooden spoon, mix everything together until a thick, sticky dough forms. Add in the chocolate chips until well incorporated. Roll the peanut butter dough into balls and place them

on the cookie sheet at least one to two inches apart from one another. (I wore food safe gloves to roll the cookies into balls). Gently press the cookie balls down to create flat discs. Press about 4 additional chocolate chips into the tops each cookie. Makes about 15-18 cookies depending on the size of the balls you make.

Bake on the center rack for about 12 minutes, turning sheet around after 6 minutes for even baking. Cookies are done when the edges are just slightly brown and have set up. Do not over bake. Cool completely before removing them from the cookie sheet. Store cookies in a zip lock bag at room temperature for up to 3 days or in an airtight container in refrigerator for up to a week. Also can freeze for up to 3 months.

Courtesy of ‘The Roasted Root’.

Rinse and pat dry the chicken breasts. With a sharp knife, cut a deep slit from almost the very top to almost the very bottom on the top side of each chicken breast. Season generously the inside, top and back of each chicken breast with salt, freshly ground black pepper and Italian seasoning. Cut 3 sheets of aluminum foil and crumble up to fit into the cut on each chicken breast to keep it open. Make sure it is ‘fat’ enough to hold open the cut and is level with the top of the chicken.

Any questions or comments please contact Marsha at Marsha.Dorris.Realtor@gmail.com

Heat about 4 tablespoons of the extra virgin olive oil in a large frying pan. When hot, add the 3 chicken breasts and cook until lightly browned for about 10 minutes. Then with tongs, turn the chicken over so the side with the aluminum foil is now down and brown for about 10 minutes. With tongs, hold the chicken breast and sear the sides. When finished put the chicken in a lightly oiled 9” x 13” glass baking dish. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Remove the foil from each chicken breast and discard. Spread open the slit and layer in about 8 spinach leaves. Next top with some of the sliced sundried tomatoes. Top with 4 mozzarella cheese balls, then add some of the cherry tomatoes. Cut in half if too big. Sprinkle with a little of the shredded mozzarella cheese and then the shredded parmesan cheese. Take some more of the spinach leaves and put around the bottom of the baking pan. Add the rest of the cherry tomatoes and the peeled garlic cloves. Drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil over all the veggies. Put in the oven and bake for 20 minutes. Check chicken with meat thermometer and bake to a temperature of 165 degrees.

Serve with broccoli or your favorite vegetable. I also tried it with a drizzle of Rao’s Spaghetti sauce on the chicken which was very good. (Next time, I am adding sliced mushrooms in the baking dish).

Recipe was found on Facebook

Louie!

PET OF THE MONTH Apache Junction Animal Control

By Jenny Flood

Meet Louie, He is as 4 year old Belgium Sheepdog that loves people and can be an independent pup. He would enjoy a big back yard to run in and a family to play ball with. Louie has been in the shelter since March 11th.

You can see him, and his other adoptable friends, Tuesday - Saturday, 9am to 3pm at Apache Junction Animal Control; located at 725 E Baseline Ave, Apache Junction, 480-983-4405.

FINANCIAL FOCUS MATTRUPPERT

Most investors are aware of the different types of stocks: bigcompany, small-company, technology, international and so on. And it may be a good idea to own a mix of these stocks as part of your overall investment portfolio. But the importance of diversification applies to bonds, too — so, how should you go about achieving it?

To begin with, individual bonds fall into three main types: municipal, corporate and government. Within these categories, you’ll find differences in the bonds being issued. For example, government bonds include conventional, fixed-rate Treasury bonds as well as inflation-protected ones, along with bonds issued by government agencies, such as the Federal National Mortgage Association (or Fannie Mae). Corporate bonds are differentiated from each other by several factors, but one important one is the interest rate they pay, which is largely determined by the credit quality of the issuer. (The higher the rating grade — AAA, AA and so on — the lower the interest rate; higherrated bonds pose less risk to investors and therefore pay less interest.)

Municipal bonds, too, are far from uniform. These bonds are issued by state and local governments to build or improve infrastructure, such as airports, highways, hospitals and schools. Generally, municipal bonds are exempt from federal tax and often state and local taxes, too. However, because of this tax benefit, municipal bonds typically pay lower interest rates than many corporate bonds.

SMART WAYS TO INVEST IN BONDS

How can you use various types of bonds to build a diversified bond portfolio? One method is to invest in mutual funds that invest primarily in bonds. By owning a mix of corporate, government and municipal bond funds, you can gain exposure to much of the bond world. Be aware, though, that bond funds, like bonds themselves, vary widely in some respects. To illustrate: Some investors may choose a low-risk, low return approach by investing in a bond fund that only owns Treasury securities, while other investors might strive for higher returns — and accept greater risk — by investing in a higher-yield, but riskier bond fund.

But you can also diversify your bond holdings by owning a group of individual bonds with different maturities: short-, intermediate- and long-term. This type of diversification can help protect you against the effects of interest-rate movements, which are a driving force behind the value of your bonds — that is, the amount you could sell them for if you chose to sell them before they matured. When

market interest rates rise, the price of your existing, lower-paying bonds will fall, and when rates drop, your bonds will be worth more.

But by building a “ladder” of bonds with varying maturities, you can take advantage of different interest-rate environments. When market rates are rising, you can reinvest your maturing, shorter-term bonds at the new, higher rates. And when market rates are low, you’ll still have your longer-term bonds working for you. (Generally, though not always, longer-term bonds pay higher rates than shorter-term ones.)

A bond ladder should be consistent with your investment objectives, risk tolerance and financial circumstances. But if it’s appropriate for your needs, it could be a valuable tool in diversifying your bond holdings. And while diversification — in either stocks or bonds — can’t always guarantee success or avoid losses, it remains a core principle of successful investing.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. — Edward Jones, Member SIPC.

OUT & ABOUT

PHOTOGRAPHY FROM AROUND THE AREA

Friendly little Screech Owl visiting our bird bath by Jeanne Jones

Stallion Solitude By Jennifer Koselke Javelina getting cool by Laura Day

Momma and two kids by Gordon Cox

WHAT

Papa Dove sitting on egg By Edd Lopez

Peach Faced Love Birds by Melissa J. Vasquez

DO YOU SEE? by Denise March

Happy Bee in a Barrel Cactus Blossom by Karin Hetsler

Striking a Pose by Ken Walker

Bobcat trying to stay cool by Sandra Gordon

Serenity at Saguaro Lake by Elaine Tegovich

Just wakin' up by John Soper

“Backyard Visitor” By Marcia Stankiewicz

"Nursery" Baby owls by Bridgett Zehnder

Texas Longhorn by Sherry Worden

Sunset by Katie Gooch

Superstitions By Lisa Helt

Delex Realty

Jill McFadden (480) 244-6172

Gold Canyon Realty LLC

Michael Cowan .......... (480) 689-3812

Just Selling AZ

Jody Sayler ................. (480) 209-6226

Keller Williams Integrity First Realty

Robin Rotella ............. (480) 225-7445

Lori Blank & Associates

Lori Blank ................... (480) 983-8383

Terri King.................... (480) 770-9507

Sam Roberts Real Estate LLC ................................... (480) 729-9080