SUPERSTITIONLIVING
PERALTA TRAILS
1,298 SF • 2 BD + Office • 2 BTH
Amazing Mountain Views & 1 Neighbor Location w/Open Wash On One Side & Behind! Updates & Upgrades Abound Including New Roof, New Carpet, New Garage Door, 2022 Exterior Paint, Sparkling Pool, Neutral Tile, Granite Counters, SS Appliances & More!
$419,900 - Ronelle - 480-326-7849
CLOUDVIEW AREA
3,309 SF / 3 BD / 3.5 BTH
Beautiful Custom Home on 1.25 AC Features SENSATIONAL Superstition Mtns, Sunset & City Lights Views!
Intelligent Design includes MIL Suite w/ Separate Entrance! STUNNING High End Finishes Throughout!
$1,078,000 - Dawn - 480-250-7556
SUPERSTITION FOOTHILLS!
2,344 SF • 4 BD • 2 BTH
Stunning & Immaculate 4 BD PLUS Home Office! Features Gorgeous Rear Superstition Mountain Views, Sparkling Pool 3 Car Garage, Tile T/O - NO Carpet in the Home! Granite & Corian Counters, Upgraded Appliances, Gas Fireplace, Updated Fans, Fixtures & Hardware, Designer Accent Paint, Custom Window Treatments & More!
$699,000 - Dawn - 480-250-7556
MESA DEL ORO - 3.3+ ACRES!
3,094 SF • 4 BD • 3 BTH
Sweeping Views ALL Around, Separate Guest House, Horse Property w/Barn & Arena, Newer A/C, Newly Coated Roof, New Paint In & Out, Anderson windows, granite counters, SS appliances, Solid wood beams & vegas, glass block, whole house water system & more!
$1,145,000 - Call Dawn 480-250-7556
ENTRADA DEL ORO
2,723 SF - 4 BD - 3 BTH
Private Retreat has Chef’s Dream Kitchen w/Granite Slab Counters, SS Appliances, Maple Cabinets & Stunning Backsplash!
Backyard Oasis Adds Heated Pool, Putting Green, Firepit & Extended Patio For the Ultimate in Luxury Living!
$624,500 - Arlene - 480-849-5190
PERALTA CANYON
2,291 SF • 4 BD • 3 BTH
Gorgeous Like New Home With Beautiful Mountain Views, Open Floor Plan and Loads of Upgrades Including Granite Island and Counters, Gas Stove, Stainless Steel Appliances, Designer Cabinets & More! $559,000 - Terri - 480-770-9507
SUPERSTITION FOOTHILLS!
2,299 SF • 4 BD • 2 BTH
Gorgeous Toll Brothers Home On Premium Lot Backs To Pristine Open Desert, Tile Throughout & LOADED w/Upgrades! Fully Extended Covered Patio PLUS 3 Car Garage w/Workshop Area! $699,000Zach & Shelly - 480-251-9514
TESORO TOWNHOMES!
1,421 SF • 2 BD • 2 BTH
Beautiful Single Story Townhome In GATED Tesoro Community Features Updated Kitchen with Stainless Appliances, Granite Counters, Farm Sink, Pantry & Island! PLUS Plantation Shutters, Skylights & Newer HVAC System & Hot Water Heater! $384,000 - Marsha - 480-213-7275
INSIDETHISISSUE
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This Publication would not be here if it wasnt for the support of our Local Businesses, Thank you!
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Celebrating the joy of
2024 ] VOL 8 - n 8
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LOCALEVENTS
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Submissions are due 10th of the month prior editor@mansurdesign.com
Thursday, August 8th MOMMY & ME at Mountain View Lutheran Church, from 10:00 AM – noon. Come and enjoy the company of young mothers and their children. Activities include storytelling, crafts, snacks, and games. Mountain View Lutheran Church is at 2122 S Goldfield Rd, Apache Junction. Call the church office with any questions at 480-982-8266.
Saturday, August 10th, FAMILY DAY at the Commemorative Air Force Museum, open 10am -4pm | Join us on Saturday, Aug. 10, for Family Day. The whole gang can get in for a reduced admission price. And ages 12 and under can participate in an aviation technology challenge sponsored by the Civil Air Patrol. Commemorative Air Force Base is located at 2017 N. Greenfield RD Mesa AZ 85215
Wednesday, August 14th, MVLC Blood Drive from 12:00 PM – 5:30 PM. Mountain View Lutheran Church located at 2122 S Goldfield Rd, Apache Junction, is having a Blood Drive Wednesday, August 14th, from 12:00 PM – 5:30 PM. Appointments are appreciated. Schedule online at Americanredcross.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS.
Sat, Aug 10, from 8:30am-10am | Apache Junction Farmers Market hosted by Farms2table. Join us every 1st Saturday of the month at Apache Junction Farmers Market, 300 W. Apache Trail, Apache Junction 85120.
With no income or residential qualifications required, a $15 donation is asked so supporters can experience a farmers’ market like experience and shop for their nutritious rescued produce. Order online for $16 ($15 donation per produce box and $1 for the processing fee) Show your receipt at the white canopy and beat the crowd. https://www.farms2tableaz.org/ The cutoff time for online orders is Friday at Noon.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 7
Events Continue at Boyce Thompson Arboretum, Check the complete event pages on their website at www.btarboretum.org/event 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
FREQUENCY, PRESSURE OR OTHER TROUBLESOME INCONTINENCE ISSUES ARE RESOLVED WITH OUR EVIDENCE BASED TREATMENT PROGRAM!
INCORPORATION – there I said it, a gungy word to some and others exhilaration. Since the beginnings of Gold Canyon (GC) in the 1940s when Lucy and Julian King established Kings Ranch Resort until today, the word incorporation has been alive and well. Perhaps lying latent within the minds of many perchance getting ready at some point to explode.
On May 10, 1989, fifty-four residents attended a meeting at the Grace Community Church to discuss the happenings of the Kings Ranch area. During this meeting, Rosemary Shearer (ADOBE's first president), introduced the results of an “opinion survey” taken to evaluate the perspectives of GC residents. Rosemary stated there was a 3-part question in the survey asking citizens what they would like to happen to the area if the population continued to grow as anticipated. Eighty-six percent responded they wanted their own government. Before the survey results were given a show of hands vote was taken with 65% voting in favor of incorporation. The concept of annexation to the City of Apache Junction was also mentioned with that view receiving 0 votes. According to Rosemary, this was the third time the idea of annexing to Apache Junction was brought to a vote with the measure never receiving one vote. The citizens of GC back in the 1980s looked to incorporation as their governmental goal.
Between 1989 and 1995 multiple questionnaires were sent to GC residents concerning incorporation or annexation. A community meeting was held on October 23, 1995, presented by Tom Belshe, Staff Assistant for the League of Arizona Cities and Towns. Items discussed at the meeting were, What are the minimum requirements of incorporation? What services will be required? Will my taxes go up? What about schools and fire protection? Can current zoning be changed?, and What are the steps to incorporate? Citizens also learned that in the latest questionnaire, 64% of the respondents were in favor of incorporation. Allegedly, the audience gasped when they learned that to incorporate –by the law – they would need the approval of the City of Apache Junction. An exploratory committee was directed to be formed to evaluate all aspects of incorporation and what it would mean to GC citizens.
The exploratory committee was formed as agreed, led by Rosemary Shearer Chairperson. A 38-page report was released by the committee in May 1996, showing, in part, the results of a questionnaire sent to GC citizens which 487 citizens responded, 322 choosing incorporation. The Gold Canyon Ledger (a news magazine published by ADOBE) initiated a follow-up poll that showed that of the 509 respondents, 67% were in favor of incorporation. The committee then asked the Apache Junction council to place the item on their next council meeting where they planned to ask for Apache Junction's approval to incorporate.
I will continue the Gold Canyon history of incorporation in a later issue of Superstition Living. Many thanks to “Arlene’s Neighborhood News”, and “The Gold Canyon Ledger” for the information used for this writing.
Glenn A. Walp, PhD
ADOBE – “The Voice and Heart of Gold Canyon since 1989”
AUGUST EVENTS AT THE AJ PUBLIC LIBRARY
Monday, August 5, 5 p.m. YA Book Club— Teens and young adults join us for a lively discussion! This month, we are reading Rick Riordan’s Daughter of the Deep. Stop by the youth desk and ask for your FREE copy to keep!
Tuesday, August 6, 12, 19, 26, 9 a.m.noon. AZ@Work Job Search Help — AZ@ Work will be at the library to support patrons with their job search. From resumes to applications to cover letters.
Tuesday, August 6, 5 – 7 p.m. Open Mic Night—It’s time to strut your stuff! Thursday, July 23, is Open Mic Night at the library. Take this opportunity to share your poetry and written or spoken word in a casual, non-judgmental environment. Join us to connect with other writers in the community. Performances begin at 5 p.m.
Thursday, August 8, 10 a.m. Breathe Again: Learning to Live After Loss— Are you grieving a loss? Would you like a safe place to discuss your grief? A chance to meet new people and be with others who understand? Join us for a monthly bereavement group hosted by Barbara King, R.N., Executive Director of Supportive Hands Hospice. Free and open to adults.
Thursday, August 8, 5-7 p.m. B.U.S. Pass Orientation — Have you ever wondered how to use a 3D Printer, Cricut, or Poster Printer? Learn Basic Use and Safety (B.U.S.) of all the devices in our Makerspace and become certified to use all stations without supervision. For ages 13 & up.
The B.U.S. pass will require you to have an Apache Junction Public Library Card. Registration is required and limited to 10 participants, so visit our website or call the library at 480-474-8555 to save your spot.
Thursday, August 8, 5-7 p.m. Family Trivia: Beloved Books — Remember the Boxcar Children? How about Ramona, the Babysitters Club, and Big Nate? Bring the whole family and test your knowledge of beloved books throughout the generations. This is a trivia competition that is sure
to bring on the nostalgia! Families will compete as a team against others.
Saturday, August 10, 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 check out seeds from our Seed Library, too!
Saturday, August 10, 10 – 11 a.m. Cricut Card Making Series Intro to the Cricut— Join us for an introduction to the Cricut machine, its capabilities, and the software used for it, Design Space. If you’ve got a Cricut at home you’ve never taken out of the box, or if you’ve seen it in our Makerspace and wondered what you could make with it, this is the class for you!
Saturday, August 17, 10 a.m.–noon Basic Card Design — Join us to learn about simple card designs using the Cricut, as well as things to consider when making cards. We will make several types of basic card designs. Registration is required and limited to 20 participants, so visit our website or call the library at 480-474-8555 to save your spot.
Saturday, August 24, 10 a.m.–noon Advanced Card Designs— Join us to learn about advanced card-making techniques using the Cricut, such as exploding/ explosion box cards and waterfall cards. Registration is required and limited to 20 participants, so visit our website or call the library at 480-474-8555 to save your spot.
Monday, August 12, 6 p.m. Homemade Shower Steamers— Want to enjoy the spa-like feeling of a bath bomb without the trouble of drawing a bath? Make your own simple shower bombs! Great for gifts, too! 14 Spaces available, so visit our website or call the library at 480-474-8555 to save your spot.
Wednesday, August 14, 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!
August’s Topic is: Planning and Caring For Warm Summer Gardens
Thursday, August 15, 6:30 p.m. Books & Brews — We put the PUB in public library! Books & Brews is back! Join us for our laidback book discussion at the Handlebar Pub & Grill in Apache Junction. Bring a book that fits the monthly genre or any book you’ve enjoyed lately. Delight in discussion and libations on the bar’s patio with 10% off food and drinks. All are welcome! August’s genre is Mystery
Monday, August 19, 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Let’s Quilt—Let’s Quilt! provides a place for adults to quilt for a couple of hours. Learn more about quilting or share your current project. Be sure to bring your own supplies and enjoy the company of other quilt enthusiasts!
Tuesday, August 20, 1:30-2:30 p.m. Summer Mystery Book Club– Fox Creek by William Kent Kreuger
Wednesday, August 21, 3:00 p.m. Biblio Bites – Sourdough Starter— Have you hopped on the trend of making your own sourdough? Join us to learn how to create, feed, and maintain a healthy sourdough starter. Leave with your own starter and a sourdough sample! All supplies provided. Registration is required and limited to 20 participants, so visit our website or call the library at 480-474-8555 to save your spot. For Ages 13+.
Thursday, August 29, 5:30 p.m. Dungeons & Dragons— Adventurers, new and experienced alike, are welcome to try their hand at our Monthly Dungeons and Dragons one-shot campaigns for Teens & Adults.
Saturday, August 31, 11:00 a.m. Biblio Bites – Pet Treats—Join us for a special Saturday edition of Biblio Bites to create easy, homemade pet treats! Perfect for dogs, cats, and horses!
All supplies provided. Registration required and limited to 20 participants, so visit our website or call the library at 480-474-8555 to save your spot. Ages 6+ (Teens & Adults too). Please register each participant individually. (Peanuts and peanut butter will be present at this event)
We Understand Commitment
We Understand Commitment
At
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
MCDONALD OWNER - SMILING DOG
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a process used by modern pest control professionals to solve pest problems while minimizing risks to humans and the environment.
Shortly after World War II, when synthetic insecticides became widely available (remember DDT?), entomologists developed the concept of “supervised insect control”. Insecticide applications were supervised by qualified entomologist and based on conclusions reached from periodic monitoring of pests and their natural enemy populations, rather than calendar-based programs.
This program allowed growers to make applications of insecticide in more efficient and targeted ways, saving money and causing less damage to the environment, while minimizing pests from developing resistance to chemicals.
By the 1970’s, IPM concepts had been applied to all pests, everything from bedbugs to weeds to fungi and all tactics to control them from ladybugs to hoeing weeds to genetically pest resistant crops. Chemicals were applied only as a last resort, under closely monitored conditions by licensed pest professionals. The EPA was tasked with regulating the pesticide industry.
The IPM program includes the following principles.
Monitor for pests and damage regularly, then identifying pests to be managed.
Establish how much damage your crop can take before you take any control action. For example, one fly in a hospital O.R. is unacceptable but one fly in a barn is fine. This is called the Economic Injury level, the point at which pesticide damage exceeds the cost of treatment of the pest.
Preventing pest problems involves a combination of strategies, such as biological (using pest resistant crops), cultural (practices that produce healthy crops that can resist pests), mechanical (hoeing weeds) and chemicals as the last resort.
Continue to monitor to assess the effectiveness of management. IPM is science based, and its use represents a safe, reliable, and environmentally friendly approach to pest control, making it a superior alternative to traditional pest control methods. Remember that DDT?
LIVE AN INSPIRED LIFE
We all have people in our lives who inspire us. Friends, co-workers, family members, strangers or famous historians can be the inspiration that fill us with enthusiasm and make us want to do more with our lives. It is not unusual to spontaneously remember what or who has inspired you to be a better person, taking a moment to consciously contemplate if you are living an inspired life is very important to live your best life.
It seems that we may think more often about the inspiration and influence of certain individuals in our lives, but did you know that inspiration can also be as simple as hearing a song, a bird sing, or reading a devotional. For some, it may be a stranger that was kind, even a book or a movie that speaks to your heart. Whatever or whoever inspires you needs to be recognized and celebrated.
Recently, I have had the opportunity to spend several months with my 94-yearold mother. It occurred to me that my mother is truly my greatest inspiration in creating my best life. She faced a lot of adversity in her life, losing her mother at a young age and then widowed at 32 with 4 young girls. She worked extremely hard to provide for us, but I rarely, if ever, saw her complain about her fate. I admire her kindness, her enthusiasm for life, and the ability to adapt gracefully to changing conditions. We were talking about how she inspires me, and I asked her who inspired her, and she replied that from a young age and still yet today, she endeavors to be like her gentle, giving and kind father. Truely, I think, I will be a better person by following her example and to strive every day to be an inspiration to others.
What does it take to be an inspiring person yourself and how can you become an inspiration for those around you? It
begins with living your best life guided by people who inspire you to leap out of bed and greet the day with a zest for life. It means living a life that generates the potential to motivate and empower others around us. You can learn how to inspire others with your courage, drive, creativity and passion for life. Inspiration can take innumerable forms from a gentle nudge at a crucial moment to providing sustained encouragement over time.
The absolute best way to inspire others is to lead by example. To be the behavior you wish to see in others; challenge yourself to take risks, be bold, and be willing to learn from mistakes. Show dedication to excellence through actions rather than words. Demonstrate resilience even when the results differ from those expected or desired. Whether you know it or not, your words, actions, and demeanor are being observed by others. Practice kindness, acceptance, generosity, patience and love. Empowering others with positivity is essential to inspiring others.
Inspiration can be a powerful force for both the giver and the receiver. For those who inspire others, it can be an invaluable way to learn compassion, foster connection, motivate action, and strengthen relationships. For those on the receiving end of inspiration, it can be incredibly uplifting as it brings renewed hope and fosters resilience in the face of adversity.
Inspiring others is one of the most rewarding things you can do in life. It feels great to know that you made a positive difference in someone else’s life, and it is even better when that person inspires others as well.
So go out there and start making a difference today — the world needs more inspiring people like you!
RUSSET!
PET OF THE MONTH
Apache Junction Animal Control
By Alice Edwards
This is Russet, we named him that because he’s just a cute little potato. We think he’s a pug mix. He’s an active little guy that gets the zoomies and needs a fenced yard.
He came to us as a stray so, we don’t know about his past. He gets along with most dogs, if you have a dog a meet and greet will be required with your dog. Please come down and meet him.
If you’d like some more information on Russet or any of our other animals available for adoption you can visit the city website www.apachejunction.gov under the Pets section.
Apache Junction Animal Control; Open Tuesday - Saturday, 9am to 3pm, located at 725 E Baseline Ave, Apache Junction.
HEALING NATURALLY
Dr. Tina Marcantel, Naturopathic Doctor
480-738-1647 | DrMarcantel.com 6589 S. Kings Ranch Road, Gold Canyon
Leaky gut syndrome is a condition in which the intestinal tract has been compromised, possibly causing increased permeability that allows toxins and bacteria to “leak” into the bloodstream.
Inside your gut are food, bacteria, and toxins. As food passes through your gut, it’s broken down so the body can absorb the nutrients it provides. An essential part of the intestines is a lining of mucous and the intestinal lining. This barrier serves as a filter that allows nutrients to pass through to enter the bloodstream and nourish the cells, while preventing bacteria and toxins from entering the blood.
When the intestinal lining becomes inflamed this barrier can break down, forming microscopic passageways for bacteria and toxins to enter the bloodstream. This triggers the body’s immune system, resulting in inflammation in the body that can affect all the systems, including the brain
Signs and Symptoms
Signs and symptoms related to this condition can vary greatly. Many people complain of GI problems including constipation or diarrhea, bloating, gas, heartburn, and irritable bowel syndrome. But with toxins entering the bloodstream the symptoms can become much more widespread.
Inflammation of the skin can show up in the form of eczema, dermatitis, and acne. There can also be chronic respiratory problems such as sinusitis, asthma, and bronchitis. Joint and muscle pain can sometimes be traceable to a compromised gut, and some patients who complain of “foggy brain” have seen these symptoms diminish or disappear after we addressed the gut issues.
WHAT IS LEAKY GUT SYNDROME?
Many factors can contribute to leaky gut syndrome. Chronic stress is often a cause of GI problems. An imbalance of good and bad bacteria inside your digestive system is another. Intolerance to particular foods can also be a major source of intestinal inflammation.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Leaky gut is described as a “syndrome,” not a disease— meaning that it may be identified by a group of symptoms that consistently occur together. For that reason, diagnosis starts with a thorough history of a patient’s signs and symptoms to trace the roots of the problem.
If a patient’s symptoms are consistent with intestinal inflammation, I may recommend a food sensitivity panel. This blood test measures the body’s reaction to specific foods. In this test, foods are introduced to a sample of the patient’s blood in the laboratory to determine if the foods trigger an immune response that can lead to inflammation. The doctor and patient can then plan a good rotation diet to start the healing process.
A strong probiotic to help re-establish good flora in the gut is another good step. Along with the probiotic I sometimes recommend a supplement that contains immunoglobulins that help to repair the mucosal lining so the bacteria and toxins will be blocked from passing through to the bloodstream.
Although we don’t often associate intestinal issues with things like rashes, foggy brain, and joint pain, it’s amazing how some basic and natural treatments can have huge effects on our well-being!
Staff Picks From July FROM AJ PUBLIC LIBRARY
The Library of Borrowed Hearts by Lucy Gilmore, recommended by Leah Love. The librarian in me is cringing with all the writing inside of books, but the reader in me is thriving. Such a fun read! Lucy Gilmore writes about intergenerational relationships so beautifully. I really appreciate the friendships that Lucy writes. I think they feel real, wholesome, and always unlikely. If you’ve read Gilmore’s other novel Lonely Hearts Book Club, you might find some similarities to this title. Even with those similarities I still felt this book was worth the read. Highly recommend!
The Book of the Unnamed Midwife by Meg Elison, recommended by Jason
A dark and unsettling post-apocalyptic tale, it follows the Unnamed Midwife as they try to persist in a world where a plague has wiped out most of the population, and very few women have survived. It is not for the faint of heart. Mature audiences only.
Expiration Dates by Rebecca Serle, recommended by Megan C.
From the bestselling author of In Five Years and One Italian Summer, Rebecca Serle returns with a gripping new romance, with just a dash of magical realism. For 20 years, every time Daphne Bell meets a man, she also meets a slip of paper with his name and the amount of time they’ll be together. From 3 days to 3 months, Daphne can’t help but hope for a paper without an expiration date. But when a blind date arrives with a paper that only lists his name, Daphne finds herself doubting the paper’s prediction. This heartbreaking novel explores what it means to be single, in search of love, and how to define yourself, your future, and your expectations.
The Women by Kristin Hannah, recommended by Diana
This book tells the story of Frances “Frankie” McGrath, a young nurse who serves in the United States Army Nurse Corps during the Vietnam War during 1965. The story shares the sacrifices of all women that chose to give their lives and nursing skills to save our solders. Frankie decides to join the Army Nurse Corp and is shipped out to serve in the Viet Nam War along with her brother. The war was harsh and she finds herself in the middle of chaos and destruction. Upon coming home she finds herself and the women that served as nurses being belittled and dismissed. Some with the same emotional and physical issues as the men fighting this war suffered. Many being denied medical assistance being told, “Women did not fight in Viet Nam!” I found this book to be riveting.
The Old Neighborhood by James Frie, recommended by Lisa
The Old Neighborhood by local author James Frie tells the story of two childhood friends who grew up to be on opposite sides of the law. When Dickie Darling escapes from prison and begins a crime spree, it’s Dan Maxwell, an investigator with the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, who takes on the case and soon realizes it’s his childhood friend who is responsible. This story ends with a surprising bang and cliffhanger that is keeping me waiting for the sequel.
Staff Book Club Pick: The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek by Kim Michelle Richardson
We felt that this month’s book, which follows a packhorse librarian in a rural community, really showed how books and libraries make a connection and affect people in different ways. We enjoyed learning about this time period. While we wanted more from the ending, we loved how this book demonstrated that libraries are “a place of equal access for everyone!”
REAL ESTATE FOR YOU LORI BLANK
ASSOCIATE BROKER LORI BLANK & ASSOCIATES, LLC
When you purchase a home within a community governed by a Homeowners Association (HOA), you’re committing to a unique set of rules and responsibilities. Understanding HOA documents is crucial to ensure you’re fully aware of your rights and obligations as a homeowner. Here’s what you need to know and when to ask questions.
WHAT ARE HOA DOCUMENTS?
HOA documents, also known as governing documents, include several key components:
Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs): These are the rules that dictate what you can and cannot do with your property. They cover everything from architectural guidelines to pet restrictions.
Bylaws: These outline how the HOA operates, including the election of board members, meeting procedures, and how rules are enforced.
Articles of Incorporation: This document establishes the HOA as a legal entity.
Rules and Regulations: These are specific rules set by the HOA board, which can be more detailed than the CC&Rs.
Financial Documents: These include budgets, financial statements, and reserve studies, providing insight into the HOA’s financial health and how your dues are being utilized.
KEY POINTS TO UNDERSTAND
1. Restrictions and Permissions — Read through the CC&Rs to understand the restrictions on your property. These might include limitations on exterior modifications, landscaping, and even parking. Knowing these rules beforehand can prevent future conflicts and unexpected fines.
WHAT EVERY HOMEOWNER SHOULD KNOW ABOUT HOA DOCUMENTS
2. Financial Obligations — HOA dues are a critical aspect of living in a managed community. Review the financial documents to see how much you’ll be paying, what the dues cover, and how often they might increase. Ensure the HOA has a reserve fund for major repairs and emergencies.
3. Enforcement and Penalties — Understanding how the HOA enforces its rules and the penalties for violations is essential. Check the bylaws, rules, and regulations to know what actions can lead to fines or legal action.
4. Dispute Resolution — The documents should outline procedures for resolving disputes between homeowners and the HOA. Familiarize yourself with these processes to be prepared if issues arise.
5. Community and Board Meetings — Participation in community and board meetings is vital. The bylaws will indicate how often meetings are held and how homeowners can get involved. Active participation can give you a voice in community decisions.
WHEN TO ASK QUESTIONS
Before Purchasing: Always request and thoroughly review the HOA documents before finalizing your home purchase. If anything is unclear or seems concerning, ask your real estate agent or a legal professional for clarification.
When Changes Occur: If the HOA proposes changes to the governing documents or rules, review them carefully. Ask questions about how the changes will affect you and the community.
Upon Receiving Notices: If you receive a violation notice or a fine, don’t hesitate to ask for specifics on what rule was violated and what steps you need to take to rectify the situation.
Budget Increases: When there is a proposed increase in HOA dues, request detailed information on why the increase is necessary and how the additional funds will be used.
Before Major Projects: If the HOA plans a major project, such as road repairs or building upgrades, ask for a copy of the project plan and budget to understand how it will impact the community and your finances.
Understanding HOA documents is essential for a smooth and enjoyable living experience in a managed community. Taking the time to read and ask questions about these documents can prevent misunderstandings and ensure you are well-informed about your rights and responsibilities as a homeowner.
We bid farewell to Glenn F Reynolds AJ Mounted Ranger
Glenn was a long-time volunteer for the AJ Mounted Rangers and will be missed by his fellow Rangers. Several of us became close to the man, despite his private nature. I was fortunate that he attended a recent party at our home, and I managed to capture him waving goodbye on the entry camera as he left. Although he was shy about being photographed, I took pictures of him at our AJMR events and put them on the ajmountedrangers.org website.
Glenn also volunteered for the Good Shepherd Healing Horse Ministries in Apache Junction. I’m sure the horse, Quinn, whom he sponsored and spent weekends with, will miss him. As will his 2 Cornish Rex cats, Abby and Charlotte. He passed away unexpectedly at home on Sunday, June 2, 2024, from natural causes at age 78. He did not answer his friend’s weekly call, and the authorities
were called for a wellness check. They found him surrounded by his two cats.
Even though you may not have known Glenn, you may have used one of the miracle drugs he co-invented. He was a scientist and a chemist for Merck, held 15 drug patents, and contributed to more than 25 articles in professional publications. He invented the prostate drug Proscar (Finasteride), which treats baldness, acne, psoriasis, and female seborrhea (excess hair in unexpected places), as well as treatments for benign prostatic hypertrophy and carcinoma.
Glenn requested no formal service be held, but the AJ Mounted Rangers will include him in our memorial for fallen Rangers in the fall. He is predeceased by his wife Marianne DelliSantis and survived by his children William Matthew, David Glenn, and Wendy Joy.
FINANCIAL FOCUS®
MATTRUPPERT
ARE YOU AFRAID OF OUTLIVING YOUR MONEY?
Do you worry about running out of money during your retirement years? If so, how can you help prevent this from happening?
In the first place, if you have this type of fear, you’re far from alone. Consider this:
58% of retirement savers from all age groups, including current retirees, say that outliving their assets is their greatest retirement fear, according to a study by Cerulli Associates, a financial services research organization.
This type of fear can certainly affect your quality of life when you retire. Still, there’s no need to panic – because you can take steps to help prevent the running-out-ofmoney scenario.
Here are a few to consider: Know how much you’ll need during retirement. You need to get a clear picture, or at least as good an estimate as possible, of how much money you’ll need to support your retirement lifestyle. Once you do retire, some costs, such as transportation or other work-related expenses, might go down, while others –medical expenses, in particular – will likely go up. The fear of running out of money, like many fears, is caused largely by what you don’t know, so having a good sense of how much you’ll need in retirement can help reduce your anxieties.
Build financial resources before retirement. You’re probably at your peak earning capacity in the years close to your retirement, so consider contributing as much as you can afford to your IRA and 401(k) or other employer-sponsored retirement plan.
Maximize your Social Security payments. You can start collecting Social Security as early as 62, but your monthly benefits will be larger if you can afford
to wait until your full retirement age, between 66 and 67. (Payments will “max out” at age 70.)
Re-enter the workforce. Going back to work in some capacity is one way to possibly help build retirement resources and delay taking Social Security. If you have a particular area of expertise, and you enjoyed the work you did, you might be able to go back to it on a part-time basis or do some consulting. You could boost your cash flow, and potentially extend your contributions to an IRA and to an employer’s retirement plan.
Cut costs during retirement. Possibly the biggest cost-cutting measure is downsizing – are you willing and able to move to a less expensive area or scale down your current living space? Of course, this is an emotional decision, as well as a financial one, and downsizing isn’t for everyone, but it might be something to at least consider. As for the lesser ways of reducing expenses, take advantage of senior discounts, which are offered in many areas, including entertainment, public transportation, restaurants and retail establishments. And look for other opportunities, such as cutting out streaming services you don’t use.
Look for more income from your investments. As you get closer to retirement, and even when you do retire, you might want to adjust your investment portfolio to provide you with more incomeproducing opportunities. However, even as a retiree, you’ll want some growth potential in your investments to help keep you ahead of inflation.
Ultimately, the more you can bolster your financial security before and during retirement, the less fear you may have of outliving your money.
Escape!
By Marcia Nelson
It’s another hot, humid August as the summer trudges on. But there is a cool solution if you’re willing to be gone.
This Arizona option is North not far away. You can stay all summer or come just for the day.
The air feels light and crisp as it whispers through the trees. Yes, this canopy of green, sure to refresh and please.
The dry dusty fragrance of the Ponderosa pines replaces the steamy haze when the desert temp climbs.
Rent a cabin or a room and enjoy the streams and lakes. Maybe you will soon forget how much the desert floor bakes.
But come mid October, memory of this heat will melt away and we’ll again enjoy Happy Hour outdoors on a sunny day!
IN THE KITCHEN WITH MARSHA MARSHADORRIS
CHICKEN MARSALA
This is easy to make and sophisticated enough for a formal dinner or fast enough for a weeknight dinner!
INGREDIENTS:
• ¼ c all-purpose flour for coating
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp ground black pepper
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• 2 medium skinless, boneless chicken breasts cut in half lengthwise and pounded to ¼ in thick
• 3 Tbsp Butter
• 3 Tbsp Olive Oil
• Parsley for garnish - optional
DIRECTIONS:
In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, salt, pepper and oregano. Coat the chicken pieces in the flour mixture. In a large skillet, melt butter in the olive oil over medium heat. Place chicken in pan and lightly brown on each side. When chicken is done, remove from pan and place on a plate and cover with foil to keep warm. Wipe out pan.
SAUCE:
• 8 Tbsp Butter – Divided
• 1 lb cleaned and thinly sliced baby portabella mushrooms
• 1 shallot minced
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 1/3 c Marsala wine
• 2/3 c chicken stock
DIRECTIONS:
Heat 6 tablespoons of butter over medium heat in skillet until it foams. Stir in the mushrooms, shallots and salt. Simmer until liquid evaporates and mushrooms begin to brown, about 10-15 minutes. Stir in the flour, cooking and stirring for about 5 minutes. Add the Marsala wine and chicken stock; cook until reduced by half. Remove from heat and swirl in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until melted.
Place chicken breasts on each plate and spoon Marsala sauce on top. Or you can put the chicken in the pan with the Marsala sauce to warm a couple minutes and then plate adding more sauce on top. Sprinkle with parsley if desired.
I like to serve it with a side of spaghetti with Marinara sauce.
Any extra Marsala sauce can be stored in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat over medium-low heat and thin the sauce with a little wine and/or chicken stock.
This recipe was a combination of two different recipes. ENJOY!!
OUT & ABOUT
PHOTOGRAPHY FROM AROUND THE AREA
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Owlet by DeAnn Peterson
Purple Passion by Tammy Keyes
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Photo of Spring Wildfire by Les Walker
Freedom by Billy McDaniel
A Tale of Two Owlets by Clif Bryson
Lost Dutchman State Park by Patricia Cyr
Gila Monster by Lee Baroldy
Horned Owl at Sunset by Clif Bryson
Here's looking at you by Bridgett Zehnder
Dogs stay out-it’s a quail bowl now by Cathy Harper
Family Outing by John Soper
Bobcat at Birdbath by William Christian
ALLURING APACHE LAKE by Denise March
Summer Bloom by Christine Sabo
Superstition Sunset by Frank Burrows
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