• Featured Home - Single-story home in Sun City Grand
• What Will Happen to Your Home?
• Along the Same Lines of Preparedness (is your paperwork in order?)
• Our October recipe - of course Pumpkin is involved!
• Al's tips

October 8/Monday - COLUMBUS DAY (banks and post offices are closed) to commemorate the arrival of Christopher Columbus in the Americas in 1492.

October 8/Monday - Desert Ridge Ladies Night Out at the Modern Margarita on High Street

October 28/Sunday - first of the year - now weekly FARMER'S MARKET on High Street in Desert Ridge. 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

October 31/Wednesday - Happy Halloween - so get ready for those little goblins.  Be extra cautious when driving.

WARNING: New scam - do not respond to calls inviting you to see a new Customer Service Center in Chandler to get free Southwest Airline tickets.  HANG UP!  Do not engage.

Thank you so much for the referrals - they warm our heart.

Al and Jean

Sun City Grand single-story, 2 bedrooms, 1.75 baths, 1184 square foot home by Del Webb:

Whether you’re seeking a new year-around or winter home, or an investment in an active-seniors community, this one is for you.  It’s located in Surprise, AZ (right here in Maricopa County) in a community called SUN CITY GRAND in the Patagonia community. This home is adjacent to a wonderful walking path on a quiet cul de sac. The exterior has just been painted and a new Air-Conditioner has recently been installed. Direct access from the 2-car garage into the laundry room (appliances included).  Great room concept! Good storage. The kitchen features oak cabinetry, a pantry and includes all of the appliances. The kitchen and dining areas overlook the back yard with block wall fencing for privacy – with a 20’ x 10’ covered patio for relaxing or dining out.  Easy maintenance desert landscaping front and back. Sun City Grand comes with spectacular amenities from golf to pools to clubs and every activity you can think of.

Check it yourself on this link:

https://tinyurl.com/y78qewzz

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR ALL!

Most young people don’t think about legal documents – but no matter what your age, it is very important to have essential directives giving your loved ones your preferences in case something happens.  Everyone... of every AGE... who owns anything at all...needs to be prepared to help the person who will be handling your affairs.

We are by no means giving legal advice, merely giving some suggestions for your own research.  Go to an attorney who specializes in Wills & Trusts or check out Legal Zoom for an inexpensive solution if your life isn’t complicated (single, no children, minimal assets). Perhaps a hand-written Will is legal in your state - ask.

No matter your age, be certain you have:

•  A Will or a Trust
• Durable Power of Attorney (authorizing who can make financial and other decisions should you be unable to do so in your own behalf.
• Living Will – your directive to a hospital/doctor should you be in an emergency situation.  Your choice may be DNR (do not resuscitate) if there is no hope for quality of life. Your family should know your preferences.
• Health Care Power of Attorney: Who do you want to make medical decisions for you if you can’t speak for yourself? Spell it out.

There are alternatives for you to research if you own real estate. 

• A Beneficiary Deed: Per USLEGAL.com, "A beneficiary deed is a type of real property deed used to transfer property. By signing and recording a beneficiary deed, an owner of an interest in real property may cause the owner's interest in the real property to be conveyed to people or entities on the owner's death. The interest in real property conveyed by a beneficiary deed does not take effect until the death of the owner, at which time that interest transfers automatically by law to the designated grantee(s) named in the beneficiary deed. A beneficiary deed takes the property out of the probate process as ownership is transferred upon death and no longer part of the decedent's estate that might go through probate or pass under a will."
• Joint Tenancy With Right of Survivorship (JTWROS): "JTWROS is one version of co-tenancy that gives co-owners the right of survivorship. This means that if one owner of the property dies, his ownership stake will pass to the surviving owners. This avoids probate, which is the legal process where a person's Will is proven in court and accepted to be a valid legal document." Ask your Attorney for advice if more than one other person, other than a spouse, is involved.
• Personally, we have our assets in a family Trust which avoids the Probate process. The surviving Trustee distributes assets according to the stated instructions in the Trust. By the way, our Financial Advisor pointed out that Rollover IRA’s cannot be put in a Trust so be sure you keep your beneficiary wishes current.

No matter what your assets or health or age – be sure a family member has a copy of the above referenced documents but there are many other pieces of information a trusted family member or friend needs to have. Don’t put it off – do it now.  It’s an act of kindness for whomever will one day be handling your affairs.

We are not trying to sound like the Grim Reaper but rather to remind our friends and family as to the importance of organizing your life so your chosen representative won't be blindsided if they need to take over.

Often older folks appear to be doing fine but are they paying their bills? Do they maintain their home?  Should they be driving?  Sometimes the child needs to become the parent.  We’ve told the kids to take our keys away or suggest moving into a retirement place if the time comes where we don’t understand the need.  That sort of decision could be difficult to assess for yourself. We both gently guided our mothers into the necessary next step and both loved independent living without having to cook or grocery shop.  They both made friends and participated in activities making their last few years enjoyable instead of lonely. By the time Assisted Living was the next step, they were already comfortable in their surroundings.

So in addition to the above....

If something happened to you, has this been done?

1. Have you prepared a list of friends/family to be notified if you become ill or pass?
2. Do you have a designated emergency contact - someone who has all of your information and knows your wishes?
3. Does that person have a list of your doctors/medical records?
4. Does someone have a key and/or alarm code to your home?  Note: we suggest you purchase a "contractor’s lock box" at your local hardware store holding a house key (on a fence or water pipe)– then let your chosen person know how to access your home. Not only handy if you accidentally are locked out but it provides emergency access if needed.
5. If you’re a couple, are your vehicles in both names? We have both names and the word ‘OR’ so either one of us can sell them if necessary.  If not, it can make selling one much more difficult.
6. SUPER IMPORTANT – our life history (from banking to investments to addresses and more) is on our computer.  Are your passwords in a safe place so your family can access your computer if you’re unable to do so?  We save ours in a commercial-grade CLOUD that our son (Trustee) can access if need be.Or keep it in a safe or safety deposit box but be sure you do this.
7. Also, as we get older, ask if anyone wants any of your treasurers. If so, label and list them now to avoid conflict later. If not, write down any specific requests you have.  They can sell the rest.

We felt it important to share these thoughts because we've witnessed too many situations where no information was readily available to those needing it.  OK, we'll stop preaching now.

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. Grease 9 x 13 pan
3. Blend together Pumpkin, Evaporated Milk, eggs, sugar, spices.
4. Spread into pan
5. Sprinkle cake mix over top
6. Sprinkle nuts on top
7. Drizzle melted butter on top
8. Bake for 50 minutes
9. Cut into squares to serve
10. Top with Whipped Cream

Never drive in the rain with cruise control.

While you may believe that driving at a consistent speed in the rain will increase your safety, driving with cruise control when the roads are wet is actually more dangerous. According to The National Safety Commission (TNSC), cruise control may cause your car’s tires to lose contact with the pavement and hydro-plane, even at speeds as low as 35 mph.

During heavy rain, TNSC recommends that you take your foot off the gas pedal to slow down your car. Unless you have anti-lock brakes, you should never apply the brakes until your car’s speed is reduced. Because cruise control can only be disabled when you apply your brakes, it is best to turn it off before the roads are wet to avoid a potentially dangerous situation.

Tire Pressure.

Be consistent in checking your tire pressure. As the temperature cools, your tire pressure may go down below optimal levels

Travel With Extra Power.

Labor Day, the first Monday in September (9/3/2018), is a creation of the labor movement and is dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers. It constitutes a yearly national tribute to the contributions workers have made to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of our country.  Many families gather to celebrate the final days of summer, school starting and the welcoming of the Fall season.

Henry Winkler, "The Fonz," "I LIVE on tenacity and gratitude."  He said you must have tenacity to achieve your goals; and then you should be very grateful for the good that has come your way. We couldn't agree more.

Darlene Love: (back-up singer to many famous singers including Elvis) "I love to be happy."  She explained that when you look at life expecting to be happy while spreading that happiness, it helps you get through life’s bumps in the road – which we all have. Give a smile - you'll get one back!  We're also proponents of happiness and laughter.  In fact, we think one of the primary ingredients to a happy marriage/relationship is laughter.

Have a wonderful month – and if you have anyone you know who is buying or selling, we would very much appreciate a referral.  Please feel free to forward this newsletter to them by clicking on the left side (SHARE THIS NEWSLETTER).

Al and Jean

602-680-2791 (Al) or 602-228-0756 (Jean)

Food spoilage dates are confusing. In general, perishable foods such as meat, poultry, eggs and dairy get dates. But those dates aren’t always about spoilage. Some dates simply inform retailers when products are at their best for freshness, taste and texture.

The label types vary:

• The "Sell by" date indicates how long a store should display a product on its shelves. But foods are still flavorful and safe to eat several days after this date if you store them properly.
• The "Best if used by" date comes straight from manufacturers. The product will be freshest and have the best taste and texture if you eat it by this date. But this date does not refer to food safety.
• The "Use by" date also comes from manufacturers. It’s the last date for peak quality. After this date, taste, texture and quality may go downhill, even if food safety does not.
• The "Expiration" date is the only packaging date related to food safety. If this date has passed, throw the food out.

How long will it last?

Still confused or concerned? Use the following rules of thumb for foods in your fridge or pantry.

• Milk is typically safe for two to three days after the "use by" date. Keep it in the back of the fridge, where temperatures are typically coldest.
• Butter will keep for two to three weeks after purchase
• Eggs are safe for three to five weeks after purchase. Keep them in the back of the fridge, where temperatures are typically coldest, rather than in the door.
• Chicken, ground meat and ground poultry will last for one to two days after purchase.
• Pre-cooked poultry should keep for three to four days.
• Fish will last one to two days in the refrigerator after purchase.
• Luncheon meat is safe for two to three weeks when it remains unopened. Use within three to four days after opening.
• Dry pasta will last for one to two years after purchase.
• Canned fruits and vegetables will last indefinitely. However, that rule goes out the window if they’re exposed to freezing temperatures or temperatures above 90°F. And be wary of damaged, dented or rusty packaging.

Also, remember that if you freeze something, it will last indefinitely, even if not at peak freshness, taste or texture.

Above all else, let common sense — and your senses —be your guide. If something smells rotten, curdles or turns a suspicious color, toss it in the trash.

By: Cleveland Clinic Health Essentials

 In the past month, we received two horrific scam emails so you have to be on your toes.  One was represented as being from Bank of America asking us for personal information so they could send us a receipt.  We don’t bank there. The other was from a foreign name and email offering us a great deal - at least for them if they got our information.

Anytime you receive an email about receipts or with a link about a purchase that doesn’t look or sound familiar or sounds questionable – check the email address carefully.  One letter off can mean a trap or a scam. Never open a link from someone you don't know.  A bank is never going to need to verify your information or ask for fees online. Here's what you should do: 

Forward unwanted or deceptive messages to:

• the Federal Trade Commission at [email protected]. Be sure to include the complete spam email.
• your email provider. At the top of the message, state that you're complaining about being spammed. Some email services have buttons that allow you to mark messages as junk mail or report them spam.
• the sender's email provider, if you can tell who it is. Most web mail providers and ISPs want to cut off spammers who abuse their system. Again, make sure to include the entire spam email and say that you're complaining about spam.

Then block the sender.
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Newcomers Club

A friend of ours remarried about 18 months ago and while they’ve each lived in the area a while, they thought it would be fun to meet new people together.  They became active in the NEWCOMERS CLUB of SCOTTSDALE.  She explained that members are from all over the area – Desert Ridge, Cave Creek, north Phoenix, Scottsdale and beyond..  All are welcome.  They have luncheons, social events and a plethora of activities to suit varied interests.  Here’s a link for more information: https://newcomersclubofscottsdale.com/
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Maricopa County is The Fastest Growing County in the Nation:

Click on this link from the Phoenix Area Association of Realtors (PAR): https://paronline.com/maricopa-county-is-fastest-growing-in-nation-according-to-u-s-census-data/
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VENDOR OF THE MONTH:

Most people look to Realtors for recommendations relating to services for their homes – and we’re delighted to help.

All-Pro Carpet & Tile Cleaning – owned by Thomas Uhlenberg:  We met Thomas years ago at the SAAR (Scottsdale Area Association of Realtors) monthly broker caravan meetings.  He was then, and still is a sponsor.  Not only have we personally used their services, they have done magnificent work for our clients and friends.  We don’t run into smoke odors often these days but pet odors are not uncommon – they can handle that.  All-Pro does a great job!  In addition to carpet and tile grout cleaning, they also specialize in area rugs – and are the rare company that does Oriental Rugs.

Their prices are fair, they show up when they say they will and have made old carpet look fresh again.  They offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee and are approved by the BBB (Better Business Bureau).  And NO, of course we don’t get "kick-backs" when we recommend a service but we do get the satisfaction of knowing we’ve shared a valued service with you  - so tell Thomas that Al and Jean sent you and give them a try.

 We’re always interested in learning about valued services; we appreciate it so much when you send us names of people you’ve used – plumbers, electricians, handymen and so forth.  If you know of a wonderful service in the Phoenix area, please email the information to us at:  [email protected]

http://allprocarpetandtilecleaning.com/    480-239-1759
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Karen's Words to Live By:

"Live your life without regrets."

"When you make a mistake, admit it – fix it – move on."

"Always be honest, straight-forward, candid and kind."

"Never pay retail."

This genius idea came from one of my "Curves-Girls" who brought it to one of our weekly coffees.  So Lynne, hats off to you. 

1)    Mix the brownie mix according to the directions (Lynne says to add an extra egg).

2)    Prepare pan (PAM); spread out half of the batter in the pan

3)    Unwrap (and try not to eat) about a dozen Andes thin mints – line them up on top leaving some space in between.

4)    Spread the remaining batter on top of the mints.

5)     Bake according to directions on the box.

It’s light and delightful with a hint of mint….and super easy.

 Oh go ahead - take this to your Labor Day event...be a hero, bring something homemade - but easy!

Note: You can buy a 6-pack of the brownie mix at COSTCO.

Our friend, Mary, asked if we’d ever had an incident with Pyrex or any Corning products. We haven’t!  She said the older products that say MADE IN THE USA should be perfectly safe but apparently there are concerns about newer products made with a different formula off-shore.  Check this website to be sure you’re following the directions carefully.  Mary was about to pull a Taco Pie in a glass dish out of the oven when it exploded - fortunately inside the oven. How frightening – and what a close call. Seconds later she could have been embedded with hot glass and food. Be careful out there.