The Front Porch

The Front Porch is a free, monthly magazine produced by Estrella Publishing for the residents of Marley Park.

A magazine for Marley Park residents From Your Neighbors, For Your Neighbors The Front Porch

January 2026 1

Estrella Publishing - The Front Porch magazine

Published by Estrella Publishing LLC, PO Box 6962, Goodyear AZ 85338. Catherine Uretsky, Publisher and Editor Christie Gianetto, Assistant Editor Talia Uretsky, Assistant Editor Al Uretsky, Publisher and Sales Executive 623.398.5541 info@EstrellaPublishing.com

All contents © 2010-present Estrella Publishing LLC. All Rights Reserved. Reproduction in any form, in whole or part, without written permission from Estrella Publishing LLC is prohibited. Estrella Publishing accepts freelance contributions, there is no guarantee that materials will be used or returned. Estrella Publishing is not responsible for the content of contributing writers and advertisers and assumes no responsibility for errors appearing within. Opinions expressed are those of the writers and not necessarily those of the Publisher or Advertisers. Estrella Publishing reserves the right to restrict all advertisement to their proper classification and to edit or reject any copy at its sole discretion. Neither this publication nor Estrella Publishing is an agent of or in any way affiliated with the associated Developer nor Homeowners Association, or any of their respective affiliates. This publication has not been approved by, sponsored by, or endorsed by the associated Developer nor Homeowners Association in any way.

2 Estrella Publishing - The Front Porch magazine

January 2026

From Me To You

Welcome to your January issue! As we turn the calendar to January, there’s a natural pull to pause, reset, and think about how we want the year ahead to feel. January can be a quieter month in Marley Park. The holidays are behind us, the decorations come down, and the pace shifts. But quieter does not mean empty. In many ways, it’s the perfect time to notice what is already here and to step into community in simple, meaningful ways. This issue highlights several of the clubs and groups that help bring Marley Park to life throughout the year. You’ll find one article focused on physically active groups, whether that looks like moving your body, trying something new, or simply getting outside and being part of something shared. You’ll also find an article centered on social groups, spaces where conversation, laughter, and connection take the lead. These groups turn neighbors into familiar faces and familiar faces into friendships. They give structure to weeks that might otherwise blur together, and they offer an easy way to say yes to something.

The start of a new year often comes with pressure to set big goals or make sweeping changes. But maybe this January is about something smaller and more sustainable; showing up, trying one meeting, or just saying hello. Marley Park has always been more than a collection of houses. It’s sidewalks and parks, yes, but it’s also book clubs, game nights, shared interests, early mornings, and evening gatherings. It’s people carving out time to be together, even when life is busy. As you read through this issue, I hope you find something that sparks curiosity or feels like a gentle nudge. January might be quiet, but it’s full of possibility. Sometimes the best way to begin a new year is simply to step onto The Front Porch and see who else is already there. After all, in the words of Fred Rogers, “The best place to find belonging is right where you live.”

See you on the front porch!

Christie Giannetto, Assistant Editor, The Front Porch Magazine

PITTS 21 Brackets Tooth Contouring ♦ Gingival Laser 3-D Imaging ♦ Invisalign ♦ Braces

BEFORE & AFTER Braces & Gingival Laser

14997 W. Bell Rd #150 Surprise

4175 N. Pioneer Dr #107 Verrado

*emotional support dog on staff

www.BaileyOrthoAZ.com

January 2026 3

Estrella Publishing - The Front Porch magazine

Make a Resolution f Reliable Comft New Year New AC System! Special Call Today!

WE OFFER FINANCING! FREE estimate for new installation AVAILABLE! NEW YEAR’S

A/C • HEATING • SALES • SERVICE • INSTALLATION RelianceAC.com 480-500-7002 Com. Lic. # ROC173907 Res. Lic. # ROC166909

4 Estrella Publishing - The Front Porch magazine

January 2026

I Solemnly Swear

Making Your Resolutions Actually Stick (No, Really This Time) January is famous for two things: credit card bills and resolutions that die faster than my houseplants. I’ve personally declared “New Year, New Me” so many times that Old Me is getting a complex. But here’s the thing, I’ve finally cracked the code and it only took me three decades of failure to figure it out. The Mindset Problem (AKA My Personal Nemesis) Most resolutions crumble because we’re excellent at finding excuses. My resolution is hitting the gym to lose weight? Flat tire. Can’t go. Obviously the universe wants me to stay home and eat crackers. Except (plot twist) I could do a home workout. I know this. You know this. We all know this. But acknowledging it means actually doing it, and that’s uncomfortable. Here’s where I’ve learned to trick myself: when I wake up thirty minutes earlier for that workout, I’m unbearable to be around for approximately twelve minutes. But then? I feel like a functional adult human who makes good choices, including working out. It’s unsettling but effective.

The Overachiever Trap (Been There, Living There) Want to know why my resolutions fail? I aim for the moon while currently sitting on my couch. “I’ll lose fifty pounds!” I declare, having just discovered last week that my gym membership expired in 2022. The secret nobody tells you: make boring, achievable goals. Break everything into embarrassingly small steps. Instead of fifty pounds, aim for one pound per week. That’s it. That’s the whole goal. In a year, you’re down fifty-two pounds. But more importantly, you haven’t quit by January 9th, which is my personal record. The Circle of Resolution Life Whatever your resolution (fitness, friendship, finances, finally learning what “networking” actually means) success requires strategy, not superhuman willpower. Because here’s what I’ve realized: I’m the same person this January who failed last January. The only difference? Now I’m older and my knees crack more. So maybe this year, I’ll just resolve to accept myself exactly as I am.

Starting February.

VETERAN ADVOCACY

New customers who purchase a complete interior, exterior, or cabinet repainting. $250 OFF

VETERAN LANG

Husband & Wife Team Kayla & Jaime Nunez Servicing Arizona’s Painting Needs for over 20 Years!

EMPATHETIC & UNDERSTANDING FLEXIBLE COST STRUCTURES DEDICATED TO VETERANS’ RIGHTS CONTACT US TODAY FOR A FREE VA CASE EVALUATION 13991 W GRAND AVE SUITE 100 | SURPRISE, AZ 85374 480.219.2101 VETERANLANG.COM • Supplemental Claims • Higher-Level Reviews • Proposed Reductions • Clear and Unmistakable Errors (CUE) • Board of Veterans Appeals Notice of Disagreements Let Lang’s Legal fight for the benefits you’ve earned! Reach out today to get started. • New and Original Claims • Increase Claims

MATTHEW LANG who is an accredited VA attorney, retired army com- bat veteran and former VA employee who spent more than 13 years federal service in multiple VA offices in various positions.

Interiors ~ Exteriors ~ Cabinets

623-975-2798 623-210-8330 www.NunezPainting.com

No money down. No upfront costs.

January 2026 5

Estrella Publishing - The Front Porch magazine

College Football 3 Universities Ripe for Football

credibility, abundant campus space, and strong school spirit. The struggling Pac-12 needs solid programs, and Gonzaga could answer that call while building an instant rivalry with Washington State University, just two hours south. The infrastructure and fan base exist—only the decision remains. Finally, New York University presents an intriguing urban challenge. As one of America’s largest universities, NYU sits in Manhattan’s heart without a football program. Imagine autumn Saturdays with purple-clad fans streaming through Washington Square Park toward a Violets home game. The fanbase potential is enormous, though Manhattan’s space constraints and astronomical operating costs present serious obstacles. Starting in the FCS division with regional competitors like Stony Brook might offer a realistic path forward. For now, these remain “what-ifs”—but with the right timing, funding, and vision, any could transform Saturday afternoons for their communities. Whether it’s GCU energizing Arizona’s college sports landscape or Gonzaga and NYU pursuing their gridiron dreams, college football’s future expansion story continues to unfold.

College football season transforms campuses into electric celebrations of school spirit with marching bands, tailgating traditions, and packed stadiums. Yet several universities with passionate student bodies remain on the sidelines, dreaming of their own Saturday traditions. Three schools stand out as prime candidates to join the gridiron glory. Right here in Arizona, Grand Canyon University represents perhaps the most compelling case. GCU’s explosive growth and investment in athletics have created one of the nation’s most energetic college sports atmospheres. Basketball games regularly sell out, and the school’s facilities continue expanding. With the restructured Pac-12 seeking new members, GCU could seamlessly join the conference and immediately create intense rivalries with NAU, ASU, and U of A— keeping travel costs manageable while delivering the high-stakes matchups fans crave. Across the country in Spokane, Washington, Gonzaga University brings a different dimension to the conversation. Already renowned for its powerhouse basketball program, Gonzaga has established athletic

6 Estrella Publishing - The Front Porch magazine

January 2026

A small-town chorus girl lands her big break in this tap-dancing spectacle full of Broadway glitz, showbiz charm, and underdog triumph.

azbroadway.org | 623.776.8400 JANUARY 16 THROUGH FEBRUARY 27, 2026 The Musical that Defined Broadway

January 2026 7

Estrella Publishing - The Front Porch magazine

SET YOUR BUSINESS UP FOR SUCCESS IN 2026! Call/text for details - 623.398.5541 INFO@EstrellaPublishing.com ESTRELLAPUBLISHING.COM

8 Estrella Publishing - The Front Porch magazine

January 2026

Home Sweet Home

To Sell, Or Not To Sell?

According to Realtor.com, 45.2 percent of homeowners have lived in their home for more than 15 years, and one in four have been there for over 25 years. If that applies to you, the impact of long-term appreciation and years of payments can be substantial. Research from Realtor.com shows just how meaningful that equity can be. Homeowners who bought in the mid-1990s may now have over $400,000 in equity. Those who purchased in the early 2000s could have more than $330,000, even after the housing crash. Buyers from 2015 may have already built nearly $285,000 in equity in about ten years. Your exact number will vary, but many homeowners are sitting on far more equity than they realize. That equity can help offset higher rates, fund a strong down payment, or even allow for a cash purchase. If you have not reviewed your home’s value recently, now is a smart time to do so. You do not have to sell, but knowing your equity gives you clarity and options.

A question I hear constantly right now is, “Is it even a good time to sell?”

For many homeowners, the answer may be surprising. For a lot of people, it is still a very good time to sell, largely because of one important factor that often gets overlooked: equity. If you have owned your home for a while, you already know you have equity. What many homeowners do not realize is just how much equity they may have built, and how powerful that number can be when thinking about a move. Homeownership builds wealth quietly over time. Every mortgage payment reduces your loan balance and increases your ownership stake. At the same time, home values generally rise over the long term, increasing the overall value of your home. Together, those forces steadily build equity year after year. This is especially true for homeowners who have been in their homes for a long time, which is a large share of today’s market.

Submitted by Christie Giannetto, REALTOR®, ΓEAL Broker

REACH OUT TODAY! The consultation is always FREE and without obligation. You should know what your home is worth in today’s market! Christie Giannetto | REALTOR ® Christie@AZLifestyleTeam.com SurpriseMatters.com

602.740.2313

January 2026 9

Estrella Publishing - The Front Porch magazine

Cook With Zona At this time of year my mind goes to soup. Here is an easy, satisfying recipie that is sure to please. Enjoy! Chicken and Stars Soup Yield: 4 people/Prep Time: 20minutes mins/Cook Time: 25minutes

• 3 tablespoons fresh parsley, plus more for topping • parmesan cheese, for topping • lemon wedges, for spritzing Instructions 1. Heat the butter in a large stock pot over medium- low heat. Add onion, carrots, celery and garlic with a big pinch of salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften. Stir in the garlic cloves, poultry seasoning and chicken. 2. Add in 7 cups of chicken stock and the parmesan rind. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce it to a simmer. Stir in the star pasta. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente - about 8 minutes. 3. Add in the lemon juice and fresh parsley. Taste the soup and if it needs more salt and pepper, add it. If the parmesan rind didn’t melt entirely, you can scoop it out at this point. You can also decide if you’d like to add the additional cup of chicken stock here - it depends on how hearty or how brothy you like your soup. The pasta will soak it up as it sits! 4. Serve immediately with a lemon wedge for sprinkling, parmesan cheese for topping and parsley sprinkled on top.

Ingredients • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter • 1 sweet onion, diced • 3 carrots, peeled and diced • 2 celery sticks, diced • 3 garlic cloves, minced • kosher salt and pepper • ½ teaspoon poultry seasoning • 1 ½ cups cooked, shredded chicken

• 7 to 8 cups chicken stock • 1 parmesan cheese rind

• 1 cup uncooked stelline pasta, mini pasta stars • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

10 Estrella Publishing - The Front Porch magazine

January 2026

Resolutions

A new year often brings renewed energy and a desire to move more, try something new, or simply get out of the house and connect. In Marley Park, residents have several active groups that offer both physical movement and a strong sense of community. Whether you are looking to stretch, learn a new skill, or enjoy friendly competition, these groups are a great way to start the year. Capoeira meets every Wednesday evening from 6:30pm to 7:30pm in the Multi-Purpose Room. Adrian Nuñez is the contact person for the group. Capoeira blends martial arts, dance, music, and acrobatics into a unique and energetic practice. Rooted in Brazilian tradition, it emphasizes rhythm, agility, and coordination while fostering a welcoming, supportive environment. It is an engaging option for those who want something more dynamic than a typical workout and are interested in learning a cultural art form. For early risers, Ultimate Marley Park Frisbee meets every Sunday morning from 8:00am to 10:00am at the City Park baseball fields. Organized by David Redpath, this group offers a fun, fast-paced way to

get moving outdoors while meeting neighbors of all skill levels. The atmosphere is friendly and inclusive, making it easy for newcomers to jump in, even if they have not played before. If your New Year’s goals include slowing down and focusing on wellness, Marley Park Yoga meets every Wednesday morning from 9:00am to 10:00am in the Multi-Purpose Room. Instructor Deb Davis leads a thoughtful, accessible practice that emphasizes strength, flexibility, and mindfulness. The class is suitable for a wide range of experience levels and provides a calm, grounding start to the day. As January sets the tone for the months ahead, these groups offer simple, consistent ways to build healthy habits while connecting with the Marley Park community.

January 2026 11

Estrella Publishing - The Front Porch magazine

Keeping the Magic

January Joy for Arizona Families The decorations are packed away, the last of the cookies have been eaten, and suddenly January stretches before us, long, ordinary, and a little empty. For Arizona families, the post-holiday slump can feel especially pronounced when the rest of the country is cozying up with snow days while we’re still wearing shorts. But here’s what I’ve learned as a mom: magic doesn’t have to end with the holidays. Sometimes the sweetest family moments happen in the quiet weeks that follow, when we stop rushing and start simply being together. Reclaiming Our Desert Winters Yes, our January evenings might be fifty degrees instead of freezing, but that’s actually perfect. Grab some blankets, make hot cocoa (because hot drinks taste better outside, even in Arizona), and spread out in the backyard to stargaze. Our desert skies are spectacular, and kids love learning to spot constellations. No special equipment needed - just you, them, and the universe above. And speaking of outside, when was the last time you made s’mores? A simple backyard campout transforms an ordinary Saturday into an adventure. Pitch a tent, tell stories,

let the kids use flashlights past bedtime. It costs almost nothing but creates memories that last. Bringing Winter Inside For little ones missing “real” winter, try creating window frost using Epsom salt dissolved in warm water. Paint it on windows with sponges or brushes, and suddenly your Arizona home looks like a winter wonderland. It’s messy, it’s imperfect, and the kids absolutely love it. Let them add glitter if you’re feeling brave. (It washes off, I promise.) Turn it into an art afternoon, frost the windows, sip cocoa, play music. These unstructured hours together matter more than we realize. The Gift of Ordinary Magic January doesn’t need elaborate plans or expensive outings. It needs presence. It needs permission to slow down after the holiday chaos. The pressure we put on ourselves to be perfect parents and provide constant entertainment melts away when we remember that what our children want most is simply us. So here’s to January. To backyard adventures and messy art projects. To hot cocoa under desert stars. To finding magic in the ordinary, together.

We are a family-owned taqueria that strives to serve the authentic and emotive food of Mexico City while delivering outstanding quality and hospitality. We serve margaritas, micheladas, beer, and wine! Visit our www.tacoschilango.com and

Instagram @tacos.chilango for updates & live events. We look forward to serving you!

Please join us for Happy Hour in the bar and patio, Mon-Fri 2-5 PM

CALL TODAY FOR HIGH QUALITY WATER

19425 W. Indian School Rd. Unit 103 14220 W. Elm St. Ste 109, Surprise

ROC#246437 - Licensed, Bonded, & Insured for your protection. www.AlsPlumbingLLC.com

12 Estrella Publishing - The Front Porch magazine

January 2026

Get Together A new year often brings renewed energy and a desire to move more, try something new, or simply get out of the house and connect. In Marley Park, residents have several active groups that offer both physical movement and a strong sense of community. Whether you are looking to stretch, learn a new skill, or enjoy friendly competition, these groups are a great way to start the year.

Redpath, this group offers a fun, fast-paced way to get moving outdoors while meeting neighbors of all skill levels. The atmosphere is friendly and inclusive, making it easy for newcomers to jump in, even if they have not played before. If your New Year’s goals include slowing down and focusing on wellness, Marley Park Yoga meets every Wednesday morning from 9:00am to 10:00am in the Multi-Purpose Room. Instructor Deb Davis leads a thoughtful, accessible practice that emphasizes strength, flexibility, and mindfulness. The class is suitable for a wide range of experience levels and provides a calm, grounding start to the day. As January sets the tone for the months ahead, these groups offer simple, consistent ways to build healthy habits while connecting with the Marley Park community.

Capoeira meets every Wednesday evening from 6:30pm to 7:30pm in the Multi-Purpose Room. Adrian Nuñez is the contact person for the group. Capoeira blends martial arts, dance, music, and acrobatics into a unique and energetic practice. Rooted in Brazilian tradition, it emphasizes rhythm, agility, and coordination while fostering a welcoming, supportive environment. It is an engaging option for those who want something more dynamic than a typical workout and are interested in learning a cultural art form. For early risers, Ultimate Marley Park Frisbee meets every Sunday morning from 8:00am to 10:00am at the City Park baseball fields. Organized by David

info@sadd.org

www.sadd.org

SADDNation

January 19 - 26, 2026

You’re not just along You’re not just along for the ride. Passengers protect lives. for the ride. Passengers protect lives.

January 2026 13

Estrella Publishing - The Front Porch magazine

Puzzle Time Numbers, Numbers, Numbers! All the puzzles this month involve numbers, have fun and as always the solutions are on our website www.EstrellaPublishing.com Easy Sudoku

EASY SUDOKU #3

5x5 NUMBER CROSS EASY Cross out numbers in each grid so that each row and column of the grid sum to the specified numbers written outside the grid.

Number Search Find each number in the grid below. Numbers can be oriented horizontally, vertically, or diagonally. Numbers may also overlap one another.

EASY PUZZLE 1

EASY PUZZLE 2

Number Cross Cross out the numbers in each grid so that each row and column add up to the specified number written outside the grid. EASY PUZZLE 3

EASY PUZZLE 4

Sarah Carter | @mathequalslove | mathequalslove.net |

14 Estrella Publishing - The Front Porch magazine

January 2026

Money Matters

Your 2025 Financial Refresh: Simple Steps for a Stronger Year As we settle into 2025, we have a valuable opportunity to strengthen our financial foundations. January offers the perfect moment for a financial check-up, not because resolutions demand it, but because fresh starts make establishing new habits easier. Before changing everything, identify what’s already successful. If your current savings strategy is building your emergency fund consistently, keep it going. If certain investments are performing well, consider maintaining or gradually increasing those allocations. The key is recognizing and reinforcing positive patterns rather than overhauling a system that works. For those new to investing, even modest contributions to retirement accounts or diversified funds can compound significantly over time, providing greater financial security down the road. Trim the Excess Review your monthly subscriptions with fresh eyes. Many people discover they’re paying for streaming services, apps, or memberships they rarely use. That $25 monthly subscription might seem minor, but

it adds up to $300 annually, money better directed toward savings or family activities. Don’t hesitate to pause subscriptions for a few months. If you genuinely miss a service, you can always resubscribe. Meanwhile, check for duplicate subscriptions across different email accounts or family members’ devices. These often go unnoticed but drain resources unnecessarily. Budget for Clarity, Not Restriction Effective budgeting isn’t about deprivation, it’s about clarity. Understanding where your money flows each month creates confidence and control. When you know exactly what’s coming in and going out, unexpected expenses become manageable rather than catastrophic. Start simple: track one month of spending to establish your baseline. Then allocate funds intentionally across necessities, savings, and discretionary spending. This visibility helps you make informed choices aligned with your goals, whether that’s building an emergency fund, saving for your children’s education, or planning that family vacation you’ve been postponing. Small adjustments now can significantly impact your financial comfort throughout the year. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s progress and peace of mind.

January 2026 15

Estrella Publishing - The Front Porch magazine

SOLD

SOLD FOR FULL PRICE

12540 N 154th Ave

14372 W Aster Dr

14640 W Dahlia Dr

Sold Price ...................... $335,000 Sq Ft ...................................1,517 Lot Sq Ft..............................4,913 Amenities ..........Huge Front Porch

Sold Price ...................... $465,000 Sq Ft ...................................1,929 Lot Sq Ft..............................5,760 Amenities .............Three Bedrooms ................................................. Den

Sold Price ...................... $472,000 Sq Ft ...................................1,921 Lot Sq Ft..............................5,760 Amenities .............Three Bedrooms ................................................. Den

SOLD

SOLD FOR FULL PRICE

SOLD FOR $15K OVER LIST PRICE

14196 W Georgia Dr

15289 W Valentine St

15432 W Corrine Dr

15170 W Corrine Dr

Sold Price ...................... $591,750 Sq Ft ...................................3,220 Lot Sq Ft..............................9,104 Amenities ................3-Car Garage

Sold Price ...................... $670,000 Sq Ft ...................................3,637 Lot Sq Ft............................11,139 Amenities ..............................Pool ................................4-Car Garage

Sold Price ...................... $480,000 Sq Ft ...................................1,907 Lot Sq Ft..............................6,600 Amenities ...Pool and Owned Solar

Sold Price ...................... $565,000 Sq Ft ...................................2,928 Lot Sq Ft..............................7,084 Amenities ..............................Pool .................................Owned Solar

SOLD 12961 N 151st Dr

14925 W Dreyfus St SOLD 14196 W Georgia Dr

SOLD 12744 N 146th Ln

SOLD 15359 W Corrine Dr

SOLD 15457 W Corrine Dr

Sold Price ...................... $675,000 Sq Ft ...................................3,541 Lot Sq Ft............................19,139 Amenities ........Pool and Huge Lot Buyer Represented by Christie Giannetto

Sold Price ...................... $475,000 Sq Ft ...................................1,465 Lot Sq Ft..............................3,720 Amenities ..............................Pool Homestead at Marley Park

Sold Price ...................... $510,000 Sq Ft ...................................2,470 Lot Sq Ft..............................7,542 Amenities ..............................Pool

Sold Price ...................... $460,000 Sq Ft ...................................2,198 Lot Sq Ft..............................8,400 Amenities ..............................Pool Buyer Represented by Christie Giannetto

Sold Price ...................... $412,000 Sq Ft ...................................2,085 Lot Sq Ft..............................6,600 Amenities ..........Three Car Garage

16 Estrella Publishing - The Front Porch magazine

January 2026

Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16

Made with FlippingBook Online newsletter maker