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Celebrating Hispanic Heritage MonthQuarte r 3 - September 2024Assisted LivingMaricopaPDWhat’s New!MaricopaPDWhat’s New!

Q0507Chrystal Allen-O'Jon,Owner/PublisherKent O'Jon, Director of FinanceThis quarter, we celebrateThis quarter, we celebrate...American Hispanic Heritage...American Hispanic HeritageMonthMonthM A R I C O P A L I F E S T Y L E M A G A Z I N E P A G E 3Greetings from Publisher/OwnerChrystal Allen-O’Jon10Next quarter, we celebrateNext quarter, we celebrateNationalNational Native AmericanNative AmericanHeritage MonthHeritage MonthScience/Tech Interesting ReadingEvery Quarter, we celebrateEvery Quarter, we celebrateall americans!all americans!How to find a TherapistHanna GhabhainSeptember Featured ArtistCarlos Jimenez1516Ruby FariasArtist// Fashion Designer SpotlightPioneers of Change: Shaping the Future TogetherJoan Koczor 19Traditional Mexican Medical Practices John Donahue, D.C. 2122Maricopa PD What’s New - Chief Mark Goodman23Home BitesGayle Randolph - NID Housing Counseling Agency24Student BitesGayle Randolph - NID Housing Counseling AgencyA Journey Through Passion and PerseveranceQ&A with Sheila”Honey” Reed18Maricopa ToastmastersLisa Hardwick

H A N N A G H A B H A I NH A N N A G H A B H A I NR A V E N W R I T I N G G R O U PR A V E N W R I T I N G G R O U P G A Y L E R A N D O L P HG A Y L E R A N D O L P HH U D C E R T I F I E D H O U S I N GH U D C E R T I F I E D H O U S I N GC O U N S E L O RC O U N S E L O R SEPTEMBER CONTRIBUTORSSEPTEMBER CONTRIBUTORSL I S A H A R D W I C KL I S A H A R D W I C KM A R I C O P A T O A S T M A S T E R SM A R I C O P A T O A S T M A S T E R S J O A N K O C Z O RJ O A N K O C Z O R P R E S I D E N T O F B O T H T H E A G E -P R E S I D E N T O F B O T H T H E A G E -F R I E N D L Y M A R I C O P A C O M M I T T E EF R I E N D L Y M A R I C O P A C O M M I T T E EA N D T H E B O A R D O F D I R E C T O R SA N D T H E B O A R D O F D I R E C T O R SF O R T H E P I N A L - G I L A C O U N C I LF O R T H E P I N A L - G I L A C O U N C I LF O R S E N I O R C I T I Z E N S – A R E A 5F O R S E N I O R C I T I Z E N S – A R E A 5J O H N D O N A H U E , D . C .J O H N D O N A H U E , D . C .M A R I C O P A A 1 H E A L T H & W E L L N E S SM A R I C O P A A 1 H E A L T H & W E L L N E S SC H I R O P R A C T O RC H I R O P R A C T O RM A R I C O P A L I F E S T Y L E M A G A Z I N E P A G E 4

Welcome to our latest magazine. This quarter, wecelebrate Hispanic Heritage Month. HispanicHeritage Month is celebrated in the United Statesfrom September 15 to October 15 each year. Thisperiod recognizes the contributions and influenceof Hispanic Americans to the history, culture, andachievements of the United States.Purpose and CelebrationsHispanic Heritage Month is a time to honor thehistories, cultures, and contributions of Americancitizens whose ancestors came from Spain,Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and SouthAmerica. Celebrations typically include festivals,art exhibits, conferences, community gatherings,educational activities, and cultural performances.Key Themes and FocusThe themes of Hispanic Heritage Month oftenhighlight the diverse cultures within the Hispaniccommunity, their achievements in various fields,and their role in shaping American society. Themonth provides an opportunity to learn moreabout the rich heritage and traditions of theHispanic population and their impact on thenation's history and future.M A R I C O P A L I F E S T Y L E M A G A Z I N E P A G E 5Over the years, the recognition and celebration ofHispanic Heritage Month have grown, reflectingthe increasing awareness and appreciation of theHispanic community's contributions to the UnitedStates. The month serves as a reminder of the richtapestry of cultures that make up the nation andthe importance of embracing diversity.Hispanic Heritage Month continues to be a vitalperiod for recognizing the importance of Hispanicculture and history, fostering a greaterunderstanding and appreciation among allAmericans.P.S. I’m a proud grandma of two Afro-Latinograndsons Jaden & Sirius.Thank you! Chrystal

The decision to seek mental healththerapy is a monumental momentin a person’s life. It’s often adifficult choice that takes courageand determination. Finding atherapist, however, can feel just aschallenging. Where to begin? First,take a deep breath andcongratulate yourself. Then,consider these suggestions fromBrianna Reinhold, licensedprofessional counselor and clinicaldirector of Northern LightsTherapy.1. Use a therapist search site likePsychologyToday.com/US/TherapistsResults can be filtered forspecific needs including thetherapist’s gender, a preference inspeciality or population focusessuch as LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC.2. Most therapists offer a 15-minute free consultation over thephone. Make use of this option toask questions.3. Your therapist should besomeone who makes you feel safe.“If you can’t talk freely to apotential therapist, you can’t openup about your trauma,” Reinholdsaid. “Just talk to them and get toknow them.”4. Ask questions about thetherapist’s process and approach.Don’t be afraid to not knowsomething. Seek clarification andunderstanding. 5.Talk to your potential therapistabout your finances and theirinsurance options, cash payoptions and policies around latecancellations or no shows.6. Do about three sessions withthe therapist to see how youconnect. Know you don’t have toopen up right away, but listen toyour gut instinct and move on tothe next therapist if needed. 7. It’s hard to leave a therapist, butit’s better to do that than to staystuck and wasting financialresources.8. Know it can take time to find theright fit for you. Don’t be afraid toshop around and meet differenttherapists. “It can take a little timeto find that right but don’t getdefeated right away becausethere’s someone out there forthem,” Reinhold said. “Don’t giveup.”M A R I C O P A L I F E S T Y L E M A G A Z I N E P A G E 7

Paid for by Julia Romero Gusse, veteran owner and operator of 5XGusse Properties, LLC

September Featured ArtistSeptember Featured ArtistM A R I C O P A L I F E S T Y L E M A G A Z I N E P A G E 1 0Carlos Jimenez, an Arizona native, is anaward-winning graphic designer, performer(singer), and an art and graphic designinstructor. Known for his "no rules" approachto the artistic process, Carlos works in a widerange of styles. His love for drawing datesback to his early school days when histeachers made a deal with him: finishassignments first, then draw for the rest of theday—a strategy that proved successful.As a painter, Carlos has developed his ownunique style, heavily influenced by PabloPicasso. His works, displayed in homes acrossNorth America, demonstrate his versatility indifferent styles and media. He primarily usesacrylics and oils for painting, favoring oils,while his illustrations often feature charcoal,graphite, and oil pastels, with graphite beinghis preferred medium.Carlos's passion for graphic design began inhigh school. He pursued this interest at CollinsCollege, where he became part of anexceptional graphic design program. Over thepast twenty years, he has worked as afreelancer and within various companies,including as a Logo Specialist for GoDaddy.Carlos has designed numerous items such asflyers, newspaper advertisements, posters,book covers, websites, and banners. Heparticularly enjoys creating logos, havingdesigned over 500 for businesses in theUnited States and abroad.The year 2023 was a remarkable one forCarlos. His artwork was featured in artmagazines and on television multiple times. carlosjimenezartist.com

A significant milestone was achievedwhen the Phoenix Suns hired him to paintportraits of team legends Alvan Adams,Dick Van Arsdale, and Paul Westphal.These large paintings are now proudlydisplayed inside the Footprint Center,home of the Phoenix Suns and PhoenixMercury. Carlos's work has gainedwidespread recognition, and his client listincludes TV and radio personalities aswell as professional athletes. His artworkand achievements have been showcasedon television programs like "GoodMorning Arizona" and "FOX Sports Night,"and in various newspaper articles. Carloslooks forward to what 2024 has in store.September Featured ArtistSeptember Featured ArtistOil PaintingsCharcoalPastels CubismLogoscarlosjimenezartist.comM A R I C O P A L I F E S T Y L E M A G A Z I N E P A G E 1 1Acrylic Paintings

September Featured ArtistSeptember Featured ArtistThe ProcessM A R I C O P A L I F E S T Y L E M A G A Z I N E P A G E 1 2

Ocean Kent is a world-class coach anddeveloper of Fortune 500 companies, withover 35 years of experience identifying andcultivating talent. Her impressive trackrecord of bottom-line growth and employeeretention rates speaks for itself, a testamentto her innate talent for identifying anddeveloping top-performing leaders,individuals corporations'.Along with her education in communication,she holds multiple certifications inDiversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) andLife Care Coaching, making her aninvaluable asset for any organizationseeking to promote these values. Beyond her corporate work, Ocean is deeplycommitted to philanthropy and wellness.Her extensive engagement with thecommunity has given her profound insightsinto the importance of diversity, equity, andinclusion, as well as the need to perseverethrough adversity. In response, she has developedtransformative programs like "A Wave ofInspiration" and "A Wave of Diversity, Equity,and Inclusion" that empower individuals,families leaders and originations to reach theirfull potential. Through her organization, Ocean trains othersto recognize their true essence and live withdirect intent and accuracy, inspiringorganizations to reach new heights andunleash their full potential under her expertguidance.With her impressive credentials andunwavering commitment to excellence, Oceanis undoubtedly one of the most sought-aftercoaches and developers in the industry, and apowerful ally for any organization seeking toachieve unprecedented success.Contact Oceans Industries today for your freeconsultation at 520 - 216 - 7748 or email us at Oceansindustriesllc.com. Greatness is yourReach out and grab it!M A R I C O P A L I F E S T Y L E M A G A Z I N E P A G E 1 3

Ruby Farias - Artist/Fashion DesignerIn Her WordsAs one of eleven children bornto a close knit Hispanic family, Ibegan my life as an artist withmy senses immersed in theloving whirlwind of my dynamic“familia”. The reason I do what Ido today and who I am, is rootedin some of my earliest memories.My mom was always crafting andshe loved her garden andflowers. I stuck by her side tolearn as much as I could. Shetaught me to sew and to lovenature. Of course, the fact that Iwas the youngest of 7 girls andthere were hand-me-downs wasone thing but there were timeswhen my Mom would createdresses for me and I will say thatI absolutely loved that she madethem just for me. It was in the7th grade that I ventured tomake something of my own. Icreated my own pattern for apair of bell-bottom pants... and Iwas very proud, especially withthe smiley face I embroidered byhand at the bottom of one of thepant legs. I laugh when I thinkabout that...In high school I was touched byart and began producing largeabstract murals on walls andceilings in my home and those offriends. When I moved back tothe mid-west, I began toseriously study drawing andpoetry while working as a modelin Chicago.Arizona Costume InstituteBoard MemberArtlink Artist CouncilMemberCharter 100 MemberF.A.B.R.I.C. FoundingMemberwww.rubyfariasdesigns.comM A R I C O P A L I F E S T Y L E M A G A Z I N E P A G E 1 4A move to Boston,Massachusetts, took me to therenowned cultural enclave ofthe east coast, and it was therethat my artistic life began toflourish. I opened my firstbusiness, Ruby Heart Jewelry,showing my handcrafted beadedjewelry in a number of art fairsthroughout New England. I alsoproduced fashion shows inBoston while maintaining a pulseon my art. It was during thisperiod that I traveled to Europeand visited a number ofinfluential museums andgalleries to feed my soul. In highschool I was touched by art andbegan producing large abstractmurals on walls and ceilings inmy home and those of friends.When I moved back to the mid-west, I began to seriously studydrawing and poetry whileworking as a model in Chicago. In my mid-twenties I decidedthat it was time to find aprofessional career and after anumber of years that ideabrought me to Phoenix, Arizonawhere I received my Bachelor ofScience in BusinessManagement degree. After a 15year hiatus from my art, whileseeking a new businessopportunity, I decided topurchase some canvas andpaints to see what wouldhappen.

Ruby Farias - Artist/DesignerRuby Farias Designs Continued...I painted, loved every momentof it and questioned myself whyI had ever stopped. That year,2001, was one of the toughestyears of my life, but I vowed tomyself that I would never put mybrush down again.I have returned full-circle to myoriginal love for painting andfashion. It is a dream come trueto create my work-of-art onclothing and accessories. Icreate custom pieces of clothingfor those who want to stand outin the crowd, are bold and wantsomething especially made forthem. In high school I wastouched by art and beganproducing large abstract muralson walls and ceilings in my homeand those of friends. When Imoved back to the mid-west, Ibegan to seriously studydrawing and poetry whileworking as a model in Chicago.M A R I C O P A L I F E S T Y L E M A G A Z I N E P A G E 1 5I believe it’s important to giveback to the community and havegiven my time and talent to anumber of non-profitorganizations in the Valley of theSun. History:Ruby Farias Designs Umbrellas(2008)Ruby Farias Designs Pillows(2009)Original Artist and Founder 'MeThe Artist' (2011)Relaunch Ruby Farias Designs toinclude clothing & accessories(2014)Launch Custom DesignedTextiles using original paintingsby Ruby Farias (2018)Launch new Clothing Line usingcustom designed textiles (2018)Launch Home Goods usingcustom designed textiles (2018) Launch UpCycled PaintedCanvas Goods (2019)

Pioneers of Change: Shaping the Future TogetherHispanic Heritage Month isobserved from September 15to October 15, 2024. as a wayto promote the history,culture, and contributions ofHispanic-Americans —specifically, those whoseancestors came from Spain,Mexico, the Caribbean, andCentral and South America. Atime to appreciate andcelebrate the colorful cultures,rich histories, and diversity ofthe American Latinocommunity.This year’s theme, “Pioneersof Change: Shaping theFuture Together” highlightsthe significant contributionsand forward-thinking spirit ofthe Hispanic community.The national observationbegan in 1968, as HispanicHeritage Week, underPresident Lyndon Johnsonand was expanded byPresident Ronald Reagan in1988 to cover a 30-day periodstarting September 15 andending October 15 of eachyear. It was enacted into lawon August 17, 1988.The history of Latinas andLatinos has been shaped by thestruggle for justice.Latino groups have fought forfair labor practices, educationaccess, safe housing, immigrationand criminal justice systemreform, and LGBT rights,among other issues. The Latino population in theUnited States is over 60 million,making up 18.9% of the totalpopulation, according to thelatest Census. As the largestethnic minority, the Latinocommunity is an integral part ofthe identity of the United States.Latinas and Latinos are athletes,entrepreneurs, scientists, publicservants, and more, and havemade significant culturalcontributions. From introducingnew forms of music and dance toleading Fortune 500 companies,members of the Latinocommunity have been drivers of change and innovation. Most older Latinos andHispanics take strength fromtheir family bonds. Many Latinoshave held on to their native andunique customs, beliefs, music,food, social values, faith, familyties and language. Although theSpanish language is shared bymembers of the Latinopopulation, the dialect is differentamong the varied groups, makingboth oral and writtencommunication difficult. If olderadults are not able to expresstheir feelings, memories, views,health care history, and basicneeds in the language they arecomfortable speaking, they willnot be able to be servedappropriately. From an article inUS AgingLatino/HispanicHeritage Month: Hispanic Heritage Monthprovides an opportunity toexplore the incredible impactLatinas and Latinos have had onthe United States for generations.The Latino presence in Americaspans centuries, predating Spain’scolonization of what is now partof the United States, and theyhave been an integral part ofshaping our nation since theRevolutionary War. NationalMuseum of the Latino AmericanM A R I C O P A L I F E S T Y L E M A G A Z I N E P A G E 1 6

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Maricopa PD - What’s New!In Maricopa, Arizona, the Police Departmentserves as a pillar of safety and communityengagement, led by Chief Mark Goodman andCaptain Stephen Judd. Supported by dedicatedleaders such as Lieutenant Kathy Elliott -Detectives, Lieutenant Sean Marchese - SpecialServices, Lieutenant Gary Gatzke - Patrol, andLieutenant Leonard Perez- Patrol. This teamexemplifies commitment and professionalism. Maricopa Lifestyle Magazine (MLM) had theprivilege of a private tour of the department'snew 32,000-square-foot facility, showcasing athoughtfully designed space equipped withadvanced resources to meet the city’s growingneeds, including a jail, administrative offices,and a 911 center. The modern design reflects thedepartment's forward-thinking approach to lawenforcement and community service.Community Engagement:The Maricopa Police Department engages inseveral community-focused initiativesdesigned to strengthen the relationshipbetween law enforcement and residents(Maricopa Police Foundation, n.d.; City ofMaricopa, n.d.).The department also actively participates inoutreach events like neighborhood watchprograms and public safety workshops, oftensupported by the Maricopa Police Foundation,which helps fund these efforts. Additionally,the department organizes special events suchas the annual "Swinging for Safety GolfTournament" to promote safety andcommunity involvement .The community is encouraged to attendCoffee With a Cop, Cops and Cones, and Pizzawith the Police events. Says Chief Goodman,“We will also be attending the ever popularKids Day that will take place on September21st at Maricopa Wells Middle School. ThePolice Foundation golf tournament will takeplace on September 28th at The Duke”. Peopleinterested in the golf tournament are welcometo get in touch with Chief Goodman via emailat mark.goodman@maricopa-az.gov or viaphone at 520-316-6909.M A R I C O P A L I F E S T Y L E M A G A Z I N E P A G E 1 9Chief of Police MarkGoodman is known inthe community for hiswarmth and sincerecommunityinvolvement. But makeno mistake, he is hereto keep the communitysafe and worksdiligently to do so. Hisefforts are paying off.Prior to joining MPD,Goodman spent 29years serving in variouscapacities with thePasadena PoliceDepartment. Photo Credit: www.maricopa-az.govPhoto Credit: www.maricopa-az.govMaricopa remains in the top five for safest cities in Arizona while at thesame time is in the top 10 fastest growing cities in the nation based onpercentage of growth. While Maricopa has outpaced the population of allother Pinal County cities, it remains a very safe place to live, work, andplay. This is due not only to the efforts of the Police Department but alsothe efforts of community members who partner every day with thedepartment to assist in keeping Maricopa safe.

MLM Celebrates Family BusinessFelix Appliance Heating Air Local Family Owned and Operated In-Home Cooling, Heating and ApplianceRepair Company Heating, Ventilating & Air Conditioning ServiceMaricopa, AZ, United States, Arizona - (480) 406-7487robert@felixappliancerepair.net - felixappliancerepair.netAll LocalMaricopaBusinesses areinvited toparticipate. The Rotary Clubpays the intern -you provide theopportunity.Contact: Kent O’Jon @kentojon@gmail,or Antonia Presume’ @antoniapresume@gmail

As we celebrate Mexican American Heritage Month, we take a moment to honor andappreciate the rich cultural heritage that has significantly shaped the fabric of our society. Oneaspect of this heritage is the traditional Mexican medical techniques that have been passed downthrough generations. These practices reflect a deep understanding of natural remedies, holistichealth, and the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit.Traditional Mexican Medical PracticesCuranderismo Curanderismo is a holistic system of traditional healing practices rooted in theindigenous, African, and Spanish traditions of Mexico. Curanderos (healers) use acombination of herbal remedies, spiritual practices, and physical therapies to treat variousailments. They believe in treating the person as a whole, addressing physical, emotional, andspiritual health.1.Herbal Medicine Herbal medicine plays a significant role in traditional Mexican healing. Manyplants and herbs native to Mexico are used for their medicinal properties. 2.For example: Aloe Vera (Sábila): Used for skin conditions, burns, and digestive issues. Epazote:Commonly used to treat digestive problems and parasites. Chamomile (Manzanilla): Known for itscalming effects and used to treat anxiety, insomnia, and digestive issues.Do your own research and get familiar!M A R I C O P A L I F E S T Y L E M A G A Z I N E P A G E 2 1

Meet Dr. Ronnie MannsLocal Counseling ServicesA J O U R N E Y T H R O U G H P A S S I O NA N D P E R S E V E R A N C E Q & A W I T H M A R I C O P A C O M M U N I T Y M E M B E RWhere are you originally from? How long have youlived in Maricopa? I am a true Phonecian, Born and raised in theSouth Mountain area. Although I moved to otherstates when I reached adulthood I returned toArizona in 2004 and moved to Maricopa in 2008. What’s you chosen profession & why?I chose mental health after experiencing aSociology course in my Bachelor's in BusinessManagement program. The concept of Emotionalintelligence resonated with me and was a conduitfor helping me think about ways I could supportothers with this concept and psychologicalflexibility. Name one obstacle you faced to get to thepresent.It's difficult to say there is just one obstacle toarriving at the present juncture.When I initially shifted from corporate America Iaccepted a 22,000-a-year pay cut to follow mycommitment to help others. The other challenge isnot being able to provide holistic care. At thebeginning of my career, I was working for aprovider that focused on billing rather thantherapeutic services along with barriers to carerelated to insurance coverage.Any future goals or projects?Currently, I am pursuing Independent licensure toone day have a private practice that focuses onthe whole person. My vision is to have a practicethat is a one-stop shop for what the client needswhether it's individual & group therapeuticservices, a nutritionist, massage therapist, Yoga,natural medicines, books, and even a meetingspace. M A R I C O P A L I F E S T Y L E M A G A Z I N E P A G E 2 2Sheila”Honey” Reed

“STUDENT BITES”Over the summer, Gayle with NID Housing CounselingAgency, had the opportunity to hang out with the studentsat Central Arizona College and engage them in discussionsabout money, budgets, saving habits, and how to handleimpulse spending. They also talked about their dreams ofmoving into their first apartment soon. These financialwellness conversations were about imparting knowledgeand helping students reflect on their own money stories—how their cultural background and upbringing haveinfluenced their financial behaviors.1. Dispute Charges: Consumers have the right to disputecharges related to BNPL loans. If they encounter any issueswith a transaction, they can request a review and resolution.2. Refund Requests: After returning a product purchasedusing a BNPL loan, consumers can demand a refund fromthe lender. This ensures consistency with the protectionsavailable for credit card purchases.Students affectionately know Ms. Gayleas "G Money." Her passion for helpingstudents understand and manage theirfinances is making a lasting difference intheir lives. By connecting with them on apersonal level and addressing theirindividual money stories, Gayle ensuresthat the financial principles she teachesare theoretical and applied in a way thatresonates with each student’s uniquebackground and aspirations.If you are interested in taking a Free 8-hour HUD Certified Home BuyingWorkshop Contact: Gayle Randolph,HUD Certified Housing Counselor. www.nidhousing.com/branch-offices/nid-hca-phoenix-randolph-serving-maricopa-county-and-pinal-countyM A R I C O P A L I F E S T Y L E M A G A Z I N E P A G E 2 3

THE NEW NAR SETTLEMENT& HOW IT AFFECTS HOMEBUYERS!“ H O M EB I T E S ”B Y G A Y L ER A N D O L P HThe New NAR Settlement was reached onMarch 15, 2024, and the practice changes wentinto effect on August 17, 2024. The settlementintroduces a significant change in the realestate landscape, particularly affecting first-time and first-generation home buyers whonow bear the responsibility of paying their realestate agent's commission. With the new rule,how do realtors get paid, and who pays them?This shift can present financial challenges, butthese challenges can be effectively managedwith the right strategies and guidance.Strategies for Navigating the New NARSettlement:1. Financial Planning and Budgeting: **Budget for Agent Commissions**: First-timehome buyers should adjust their financial plansto include the cost of agent commissions. Thismay require saving more upfront or reallocatingfunds from other parts of their budget. **Explore Down Payment AssistancePrograms**: Programs that help with downpayments might allow buyers to free up fundsto cover agent commissions.2. Negotiation Strategies: **Negotiate Commission Rates**: Buyers cannegotiate with real estate agents to lower theircommission rates. Understanding that thesenegotiable fees can empower buyers to seekmore favorable terms. **Request Seller Concessions**: In some cases,buyers can negotiate with sellers to cover a portion of the agent'scommission as part of the closing costs.3. **Using Financial Assistance Programs**: **Access to Grants and Loans**: Buyers shouldexplore grants, low-interest loans, and otherfinancial assistance programs that can helpoffset the additional costs.**Leverage State and Local Resources**: Manystates and local governments offer programsspecifically for first-time and first-generationhome buyers, which can provide crucialfinancial support.4. **Working with a Hud- Certified HousingCounselor**: **Personalized Financial Counseling**: GayleRandolph, a HUD-Certified Housing Counselorwith NID Housing Counseling Agency, canprovide personalized financial counseling tohelp buyers create a realistic budget thatincludes agent commissions and other home-buying expenses. **Navigating Assistance Programs**: She canguide buyers through the process of applyingfor financial assistance programs, ensuring theytake full advantage of available resources. **Advocacy and Education**: Gayle caneducate buyers on their rights and the home-buying process, empowering them to makeinformed decisions and avoid potential pitfallsin the changing real estate landscape. RegisterFor Gayle’s Free HUD Certificate 1st Time HomeBuyer Workshop. Down payment & closing costassistance programs are available for thosewho qualify.By working with a knowledgeable professionallike Gayle Randolph, with NID HousingCounseling Agency, first-time and first-generation home buyers can better navigatethe challenges introduced by the new NARsettlement. This support can make the dreamof homeownership more accessible, even in amore complex and potentially costlyenvironment!M A R I C O P A L I F E S T Y L E M A G A Z I N E P A G E 2 4

Julia Romero Gusse is of HispanicHeritage, first generation Veteran (UnitedStates Air Force), first generation American(parents are Mexican Immigrants),and firstgeneration College graduate (Graduatedwith a Masters Degree from the Universityof Arizona). She served as the first and onlyLatina on the City of Maricopa City Council,she served as the first female veteranDirector of the Veterans Upward BoundProgram at Arizona State University, servedas a Senior Advisor for the Biden HarrisAdministration with the Department ofVeterans Affairs and most recently is theLegislative Liaison for the ArizonaDepartment of Veterans Services. Assisted LivingHoneymilk offers an all-inclusive experiencefocused on compassionate care. With adiverse team of qualified professionals fromvarious medical fields, they ensure eachresident receives personalized attention.Located in the sunlit landscapes ofMaricopa, AZ, Honeymilk is a privatelyowned senior haven, providing a cozy,intimate environment for just six residents.This allows for truly personalized care and agenuine sense of home, with their dedicatedteam delivering compassionate,individualized support.Services provided include:Personalized 24/7 CareNutritious Meal PreparationVariety of Diverse ActivitiesSafety & Security EnsuredDedicated Full-Service StaffMedication AdministrationThey can be contacted for moreinformation at 855-464-5525, orinfo@honeymilkassistedliving.com.Their website with more details ishoneymilkassistedliving.com.W H I M S I C A L W I N G SS E P T E M B E R 3 , 1 0 , 1 7 , & 2 43 : 0 0 P . M .S T E P I N T O A R E A L M O FW O N D E R A S B U T T E R F L YW O N D E R L A N D ' S E D U C A T I O NS P E C I A L I S T S R E L E A S EE X Q U I S I T E T R O P I C A LB U T T E R F L I E S I N T O T H EC O N S E R V A T O R Y . C A P T U R E T H EE N C H A N T I N G M O M E N T O NC A M E R A A S T H E S E G R A C E F U LI N S E C T S T A K E T H E I RI N A U G U R A L F L I G H T . F E E LF R E E T O E N G A G E W I T H T H ES P E C I A L I S T S , A S K I N G A N YQ U E S T I O N S T H A T M A Y P I Q U EC U R I O S I T Y . T H I S C A P T I V A T I N GE V E N T I S I N C L U D E D F R E EW I T H A D M I S S I O N .9 5 0 0 E . V I A D E V E N T U R A , A 1 0 0 , S C O T T S D A L E , A Z 8 5 2 5 6 | P4 8 0 . 2 9 1 . 8 2 1 8 | C 8 1 3 . 9 6 6 . 7 5 5 0 | A Z B O A R D W A L K . C O M| K G A L L O @ A Z B O A R D W A L K . C O MM A R I C O P A L I F E S T Y L E M A G A Z I N E P A G E 2 5

M A R I C O P A L I F E S T Y L E M A G A Z I N E P A G E 2 6 The City of Maricopa in partnership with theCultural Affairs and Arts Advisory Committee(CAAAC) will conduct a "Call to Artists"approximately 3-4 times per year in order for localartists to have the opportunity to submit their work tobe on display in one of our public facilities.Each gallery will be tied to a specific themedetermined by the CAAAC. For more informationincluding submissions guidelines, we invite you toview the Cultures on Display Policy (@city website).Gallery ThemesAutumn Festivities: Good Times of FallBook Titles: Can’t Judge a Book by its CoverBon Appetit: Yummy in my Tummy...therefore we will always list art events from the city website and that of local artisansplease submit your events to chrysallenojon@aol.com.MLM is a proud supporter of all things ART!www.maricopa-az.gov/departments/community-enrichment-departmentPlease see below for the current display schedule:Call to Artists7/1/202411/1/20244/4/2025Submissions8/5/20241/6/20255/5/2025Jury8/19/20241/27/20255/19/2025Deliver & Install8/22/20241/30/20255/22/2025Gallery Display DatesSeptember - December 2024January - April 2025May - August 2025Remove & Pick Up1/30/20255/22/20259/18/2025Y O U T A L K W E L I S T E N , @ 1 : 0 0 P M . C R I M E S A G A I N S T S E N I O R S & S T A Y I N G S A F EW I L L B E P R E S E N T E D B Y S G T . J O H N S O A N E S , M A R I C O P A P O L I C ED E P A R T M E N T @ M U S D A D M I N . B U I L D I N G 4 4 1 5 0 W . M A R I C O P A - C A S A G R A N D EH I G H W A Y N O T E : E N T R A N C E I S T O T H E L E F T O F T H E M U S D B U I L D I N G .P A R K I N G I S A V A I L A B L E .C O P A S E N I O R M E E T I N G , T H U R S D A Y S E P T E M B E R 1 2 , 9 : 3 0 A M @ T H EC O M M U N I T Y C E N T E R L O C A T E D A T 4 1 6 1 4 W . S M I T H E N K E R O A D , S T E 1 1 0R I B B O N C U T T I N G C E R E M O N Y F O R M I K E I N G R A M H I S T O R I C W A L K W A Y @ T H EM I K E I N G R A M H E R I T A G E P A R K , 4 4 2 4 0 W M A R I C O P A - C A S A G R A N D E H W Y ,M A R I C O P A , A Z , 9 : 0 0 A M . P A R K I N G I S A V A I L A B L E I N T H E S C H O O L D I S T R I C TP A R K I N G L O T A D J A C E N T T O T H E P A R K .A M E R I C A N L E G I O N A U X I L I A R Y P A N C A K E B R E A K F A S T F U N D R A I S E R @ 7 : 3 0 A M- 1 1 : 0 0 A M . P A N C A K E S S A U S A G E S C O F F E E W A T E R $ 7 . 0 0 P E R P E R S O N $ 3 . 0 0P E R C H I L D U N D E R 1 0 $ 2 0 . 0 0 P E R F A M I L Y M A R I C O P A V E T E R A N ’ S C E N T E R –S M I T H E N K E 4 1 6 1 4 W . S M I T H E N K E R O A D , S T E 1 1 .

Constance Hunsberger Jackson,PresidentInvites All Voices To Be HeardPinal County NAACP Branch #1012-B naacppinalco@gmail.com44977 W. Hathaway Ave.,44977 W. Hathaway Ave., churchoffice@gccmaricopa.orgchurchoffice@gccmaricopa.orgChurch of Celebration Maricopa Arizona(520) 494-7714office@churchofcelebration.comchurchofcelebration.comWalk By FaithEmpowerment CenterButterfield Elementary School43800 W. Honeycutt Ave.,Maricopanormawashington.org(520) 494-2001Our Lady of GraceOur Lady of GraceCatholic ChurchCatholic Church Bishop Edward JBishop Edward JWeisenburgerWeisenburger18700 N. St. Gabriel18700 N. St. GabrielWay, MaricopaWay, MaricopaL o c a l B u s i n e s s e s a n d F a i t h C e n t e r sMaricopa Faith DirectoryM A R I C O P A L I F E S T Y L E M A G A Z I N E P A G E 2 7(480) 640-7864Boone@bigdudeautocare.comblazeministries12@gmail.comGospel Music Fest Coming Early 2025Gospel Music Fest Coming Early 2025(all ministries welcome)(all ministries welcome)