South Mountain Villager

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Ed Pastor (Jan-Feb 2012)

Posted by South Mountain Villager on January 29, 2012

A NOTE FROM YOUR REPRESENTATIVE

By U.S. Rep. Ed Pastor, Fourth Congressional District of Arizona

A new federal program that will assist homeowners who find themselves underwater with their mortgages was announced late last year, and I am hopeful eligible constituents will take advantage of this opportunity to refinance and benefit from today’s low interest rates. The changes to the Home Affordable Refinance Program (HARP) would remove the cap on the amount a homeowner is underwater, lower some fees and loosen underwriting requirements. The program, which is being called HARP II or HARP 2.0, will be effective through Dec. 31, 2013.

There are a number of criteria to be eligible, but one very helpful change: there is no loan-to-value restriction. Homeowners who are deeply underwater will be able to refinance.

In addition, homeowners must have loans backed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac to qualify, and the mortgage must have been sold to Fannie or Freddie prior to June 1, 2009. If you are unsure whether or not your loan is held by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac, you may check on their websites: http://www.fanniemae.com/loanlookup/ or https://ww3.freddiemac.com/corporate/. It is best to check the Fannie Mae website first because it holds a larger share of the market.

There are some other eligibility changes that will help homeowners. Appraisals won’t be required in some cases, and the rules on credit checks are relaxed in some situations.

However, it is important to note that the borrower must be current on the mortgage at the time of the refinance, with no late payment in the past six months and no more than one late payment in the last 12 months.

Lender participation is optional. Homeowners are encouraged to contact a local HUD-certified counseling agency for guidance. Two local agencies are: Neighborhood Housing Services of Phoenix, 602-258-1659, or Community Housing Resources of Arizona, 602-631-9780.

While the federal government recognizes that previous programs to help homeowners have not been as successful as desired, I am hopeful that the removal of the loan-to-value restriction will allow for more homeowners to be eligible for this assistance. As homeowners begin to find relief with their underwater mortgages, I’m optimistic the program will prove to be a positive step in stabilizing our housing market.

In another proposal to stabilize our neighborhoods, a new program proposed by President Obama would build on existing efforts to help stabilize neighborhoods drowning in foreclosures. I recently became a cosponsor of “The Project Rebuild Act of 2011” that was introduced in the House of Representatives.

Project Rebuild would give Phoenix additional tools to help neighborhoods trying to rebound from the foreclosure crisis. The program was the focal point of a recent visit by Shaun Donovan, U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, to a South Mountain Village home which was rehabilitated with the help of federal funds. I was proud to host the Secretary and show him the spirit of our South Mountain community.

During the visit, Sec. Donovan got a firsthand look at the positive impact of the federally-funded Neighborhood Stabilization Program (NSP), which has granted funds to nonprofits to assist communities fraught with foreclosures. The funds are used to rehabilitate properties that have been left vacant, to be sold later to new homeowners, or used for affordable rental housing.

Project Rebuild would build on NSP by allowing the rehabilitation of commercial properties in addition to residential, and pay for property maintenance. It would also create an estimated 6,000 jobs in Arizona, Donovan said. I’m hopeful that my colleagues in the House will support this proposed legislation when it comes up for a vote.

 

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Ed Pastor (DEC 11)

Posted by South Mountain Villager on December 15, 2011

Light Rail Transit System

By U.S. Rep. Ed Pastor, Fourth Congressional District of Arizona

The light rail transit system through central Phoenix opened in December of 2008, and my faith in the Valley’s desire for more public transit was boosted when ridership soon exceeded expectations. Like many major cities throughout the West, Phoenix has been slow to jump on the public transit wagon. We often seem to be playing catch up in our sprawling city. But the need for good public transportation is strong. Connecting people with their jobs and services through public transit is important for our quality of life.

While I was successful in securing federal funding to construct the first leg of the light rail system through central Phoenix, demand is growing in many areas. My constituents and local government and community leaders have advocated for more public transit and light rail through additional communities. However, this process takes time and millions of local and federal dollars.

I was happy to hear that a $1 million federal grant was awarded to METRO and the City of Phoenix to analyze various high-capacity transit alternatives for the South Central Phoenix Corridor. This is the area on Central Avenue from Washington Street to Baseline Road. The funds, awarded by the Federal Transit Administration, will be used to conduct an Alternatives Analysis (AA), which consists of evaluating the feasibility of several high-capacity transit routes and modes, including light rail, bus rapid transit and modern streetcar.  Securing this funding was important because in these times of budget cuts and rollbacks, the grant indicates the decision-makers in the Federal Transit Administration recognize our collaborative efforts with local government and our commitment to public transit and its success.

The AA study will develop preliminary ridership forecasts, cost ranges, engineering and community issues and economic development opportunities. The end result will be the identification of a single transit route and mode that best services the South Mountain Village community and the larger transit system. We would identify the best use of the South Central Corridor to connect residents from the south and southwest areas to locations throughout Phoenix. Because METRO had previously received $500,000 from this same grant program to initiate a preliminary feasibility study of light rail in this corridor, the study’s scope will be enhanced to complete a formal AA with a budget now totaling $1.5 million.

The study is expected to take two years to complete and is the first step in the process to compete for federal capital funds for the new transit project eventually selected. The study also will give everyone an opportunity to discuss possibilities and constraints to help put the best plan forward.

An important component of the study will include public input. Community feedback is required and really helps drive the process. After all, local residents and business owners know best what works for them and what the community needs. I urge all parties interested in this South Central Corridor to become involved when public input is solicited by METRO and the City of Phoenix.  In the meantime, should you have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact my Phoenix District Office at 602-256-0551, or email me from my website at www.pastor.house.gov and click on Contact Ed.

 

 

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Ed Pastor (OCT 11)

Posted by South Mountain Villager on September 23, 2011

Patriotism in America

By U.S. Rep. Ed Pastor, Fourth Congressional District of Arizona

As your Congressman, it has been my mission to provide services and resources to the constituents of the Fourth Congressional District, particularly when one is experiencing issues with a federal agency. One of the services I have had the opportunity to provide is assistance with U.S. citizenship and once again, it is time for my annual Citizenship Day, which will be held on Saturday, Oct. 22.

For more than 15 years, and with the help of hundreds of community volunteers, I have been able to hold an annual Citizenship Day where we have assisted more than 2,500 permanent, legal residents with filling out their U.S. citizenship application, known as the N-400. I have organized this event each year to help ease the application process and help people take this important step towards U.S. citizenship. There is no cost for this service.

If you are eligible for U.S. citizenship, please contact my Phoenix District Office at 602-256-0551, and ask about making an appointment for Oct. 22. You will be asked a few questions to determine your eligibility, and you will be mailed a list of information and documents you need to prepare and bring to Citizenship Day so that the volunteers can complete your application.

To become a U.S. citizen, a person must:

- Have been a legal permanent resident of the United States for at least 5 years, or have been married to a U.S. citizen for at least 3 years and been a legal permanent resident for at least 3 years.

- Be at least 18 years old.

- Be able to speak, read and write in English, unless you qualify for an exemption.

- Have good moral character, with no criminal problems in the past 5 years, including no DUI/DWI or other felonies.

- Pay a fee to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to process your application. The current fee is $680.

The volunteers who assist constituents on Citizenship Day have gone through training on how to accurately fill out the paperwork. In addition, we will have attorneys on hand on Citizenship Day who have volunteered to review the completed applications and check them for accuracy before they are submitted. The attorneys will address any legal issues that may be of concern in the application process.

I encourage all legal residents to embrace the opportunity to become U.S. citizens and make an appointment to receive this free assistance on Oct. 22. Please contact my office at 602-256-0551 and sign up for Citizenship Day. Appointments will be required to receive assistance.

 

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Ed Pastor (Sept 11)

Posted by South Mountain Villager on September 5, 2011

Patriotism in America

By U.S. Rep. Ed Pastor, Fourth Congressional District of Arizona

 

Like a giant U.S. flag, patriotism is one of those words that Americans like to wrap themselves up in when we talk about our love for our country and its ideals. We hear the word whenever we pay tribute to veterans and when politicians campaign for office. While the word echoes through the halls of government every day, I wanted to take a closer look at the meaning of patriotism.

Patriots are defined as people who love and zealously support our country. Patriotism is often measured by military service to our country, making America’s military men and women some of our truest patriots. My office recently had the privilege of recognizing one of our veterans who fought in the Korean War. Mr. Raymond Savedra, 82, a Phoenix resident, was 22 years old when he was drafted into the Army and spent two years overseas. He also served five years in the Army Reserve, but never had been presented with the five military medals he earned for his service. My office presented the medals on June 17 in front of his family and friends. We are grateful for Mr. Savedra’s service to our country and the patriotism he has shown by defending the ideals of our founding fathers.

In addition to those who serve or have served in our military, I believe those who are in public service, such as government employees, also are proud American patriots. Public service employees in low-wage jobs often work tirelessly and demonstrate true dedication to serving others and our country. As a former Maricopa County Supervisor and now as a member of Congress, I can personally say that I have seen thousands of dedicated Americans, at all levels of government, who have chosen to serve out of a love of our country and our American way of life.

I also like to think that most of my fellow Americans are patriots. While the word patriot has been connected recently to political movements, the true meaning of the word should not hold political connotations. Patriotism doesn’t belong to the right or the left. If our nation was being attacked on its own soil, wouldn’t most of us fight to defend our country? If a levee was about to break and flood our Valley, wouldn’t we all come together to fill sandbags and build dams to avoid the destruction of our neighborhoods? Our country expects and demands that we come to its aid in time of need, and I believe most Americans would do so. Not only do we help when required, but many times Americans volunteer their time and energy to help their neighbors and their communities. By serving each other, we serve our country patriotically.

To be patriotic is to love the ideals on which our country was founded. But patriotism also calls for constructive and civil criticism of our government when we see it failing our fellow Americans. It is through civil discourse where we as a country can decide together what works for America and which is the best course to be taken.

While there are many faces of patriotism, including total adherence to our government’s policies, we cannot deny that constructive patriotism gives birth to political involvement and associated behaviors. When we care about our community and help lift one another, we are taking on a sense of responsibility for each other and working to improve our country and make it strong. We are pursuing our rights to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.

But I should caution that our patriotism should not give us a sense of superiority as Americans. Our nation’s sense of values and beliefs should never stop at our borders. As citizens of the world, our freedom does not free us of responsibility and respect for our fellow human beings. As a proud American patriot, I value the words in the Declaration of Independence that read “All men are created equal.” All of us in America and the world are on this earth together and I believe we all share the same dreams and hopes for our families. Our patriotic emotions for our fatherland and its flag are shared by all mankind. Patriotism bonds us more than it divides us.

I hope you will take time to demonstrate your patriotism by recommitting yourself to improving our democracy.

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Ed Pastor (Aug 11)

Posted by South Mountain Villager on August 7, 2011

MEDICARE
Part II
By U.S. Rep. Ed Pastor, Fourth Congressional District of Arizona

(Continued from July 2011)  In contrast, the Republican plan would eliminate Medicare for everyone less than 55 years of age.  Under their proposed voucher system, seniors would receive a fixed payment to cover the cost of a private insurance plan rather than receive their current guaranteed benefit package.  The amount of this voucher would be standard and would not increase in the event of a medical emergency or onset of an illness, meaning that seniors who need more health care than the voucher covers will be on the hook to pay out-of-pocket.  The non-partisan Congressional Budget Office estimates that this would result in a $6,000 increase in seniors’ health costs the first year the plan takes effect.  Additionally, because this voucher plan is not designed to keep up with the rising cost of health care, those out-of-pocket costs would double to $12,000 within just 10 years.  These increased out-of-pocket costs would also have a dramatic effect on retirement, as a study by the Center for Economic and Policy Research shows that someone 44 years old today will need to save an additional $287,000 to cover the increased medical costs.

Republican supporters of this radical plan claim that because the voucher plan will not take effect for 10 years, leaving those 55 years and older in the current Medicare system, current beneficiaries and those about to be eligible will not experience any changes.  Looking past the fact that current Medicare beneficiaries would be unfazed at the prospect of denying their children and grandchildren the same benefits they currently receive, it is a wholly untrue statement.  Under their plan, the Republicans would immediately cause an increase in prescription drug costs by eliminating the provisions in health reform that provide seniors rebates on drugs in the “donut hole” (and will eliminate the donut-hole entirely by 2020).  Additionally, the Republican plan would seek to force seniors to pay out-of-pocket for preventive services such as annual check-ups and cancer screening procedures that were made free under health reform.

The value of a society is measured by how it cares for those who came before and sacrificed to lay the foundation for generations to follow.  Medicare is more than a health care system; it is a reflection of our shared belief that seniors and the disabled should be able to live free from the fear that they will be denied vital health care due to lack of their ability to pay.  Medicare was created a generation ago to provide this guarantee to all future generations.  It is imperative that we continue to place value on keeping this promise not only to our parents, but our children, too.  While I stand firmly committed to reducing the nation’s deficit, I do not and will not support efforts to do so on the back of future generations by dismantling Medicare.

Please feel free to share your comments with me by contacting
Phoenix District Office at 602-256-0551.

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Ed Pastor (July 11)

Posted by South Mountain Villager on July 2, 2011

MEDICARE
Part I
By U.S. Rep. Ed Pastor, Fourth Congressional District of Arizona

Medicare began providing benefits to older Americans on July 1, 1966, and for 45 years has become the key health insurance provider for Americans over the age of 65. It is recognized as one of the most important pieces of social legislation in America’s history.
Before Medicare was signed into law in 1965, concerns over how to obtain health care had been increasing for a generation. By 1959, according to a report prepared by the Department of Health, Education and Welfare, a larger proportion of America’s senior citizens had to turn to public assistance for payment of their medical bills, or rely on free care from hospitals and physicians. As the number of American seniors was steadily increasing, uncertainty about how to obtain health care and pay for it, was also increasing. It was because of this growing need to address seniors’ health care that the federal government’s role in helping provide this care came to the foreground.
Six years after the report highlighting the growing health care problem was released, Congress created the Medicare program and provided seniors with access to quality, affordable health care. Because seniors tend to require more health care and are most likely living on fixed incomes, they are seen by the insurance industry as too risky and too costly. As such, seniors have a very difficult time qualifying for health insurance at all, much less at affordable rates. Medicare, however, provides guaranteed coverage for eligible seniors and provides guaranteed benefits, meaning many seniors have been able to maintain their standard of living and rest easy knowing that their health care needs would be met. Without the security provided by the guaranteed benefits under Medicare, many of my senior constituents would be living in poverty or risk losing everything in the face of medical bills.
Republican leaders in Congress, however, want to replace Medicare with a voucher system, which some have dubbed “Vouchercare.” The contrast between the current Medicare program and the radical overhaul envisioned under the Republican plan could not be starker. Today, Medicare is a guaranteed benefit program available to seniors over the age of 65 that provides beneficiaries with health coverage for the full array of health care needs – such as visits to the doctor or hospital, stays in skilled nursing facilities, and home health care – from the doctor of their choice. Because Medicare pays health providers directly, seniors are not held responsible for the cost of their health care above their premiums, and strict protections are in place that ensures older Medicare beneficiaries do not have to pay higher premiums.

Part II Continued in August 2011

Please feel free to share your comments with me by contacting
Phoenix District Office at 602-256-0551.

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Foster Child (May 2011)

Posted by South Mountain Villager on April 27, 2011

Foster Child May 2011

Takoda, 13, is a sweet and charming young man who enjoys drawing, video games, hanging out with friends and basketball.

Being in the Boy Scouts is another passion of Takoda’s, and he demonstrates some of the values of scouting with his polite and outgoing manner.  Takoda is quick to show you all of the Merit Badges he has earned thus far.  “I only need 5 more to get my rank,” he says, with a proud grin.  He especially enjoys camping and being active.

When asked what he would like to be when he grows up, Takoda doesn’t hesitate.  “I want to go to college and then enter the Air Force.”

Takoda is a good student.  He is in the 8th grade; he likes to read and is curious about many things.  Takoda receives above average grades, although he struggles a bit with math.

When it comes to movies, Takoda likes action movies such as The Hulk, Back to the Future and The Karate Kid.  Takoda enjoys music as well.  His eclectic list of current favorites include: Rascal Flatts, Eminem and the Glee soundtrack.

“Pizza, Subway and the Macaroni ‘N Cheese at Red Robin,” replies Takoda, when asked about his favorite foods.

More than anything else, Takoda would like a family to call his own. He would like to have a mom, a dad and perhaps a brother near his own age — someone to hang out with. Takoda states that he may be open to a single parent as well.

For more information about Takoda or any of Arizona’s children in foster care, please care 1-877-KIDS-NEEDU (1-877-543-7633) or visit www.azkidsneedu.gov.

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Ed Pastor (May 2011)

Posted by South Mountain Villager on April 25, 2011

Transportation issues and district happenings

I wanted to share information on some of the recent activities in the Fourth Congressional District.

Last month, I was able to host the timely visit of Peter Rogoff, the Administrator of the Federal Transit Administration, who came for a visit to learn more about our Valley Metro light rail and transit systems.

At a time when it takes $50 to fill up our gas tanks, I was happy Administrator Rogoff accepted my invitation to review our rail transportation system and meet with local leaders to learn more about our successes in addressing our Valley’s transportation needs, and our hopes for the future.

During the visit, Mr. Rogoff rode the light rail from Phoenix to Tempe, then Mesa, and met with Phoenix officials including Mayor Phil Gordon.  I specifically discussed with the Administrator the importance of the light rail extension project into south Phoenix and west Phoenix.  We also met with Tempe Mayor Hugh Hallman, and Mesa Mayor Scott Smith.  Finally, officials from the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) and I expressed our support for a commuter rail project between Phoenix and Tucson, one of the fastest growing areas in the United States.

When we address quality of life issues for the Valley, transportation is one of the major challenges we face every day. If we can improve public transit systems for residents traveling home, to work or for recreation, we are able to help residents save money and reduce pollution, among other benefits.

On another note, I was proud to join the employees ofE BAE Protection Systems in South Mountain Village recently to mark the production of their one millionth hard armor insert, also known as the Small Arms Protective Inserts plate. This insert is used by the Department of Defense to help protect soldiers’ lives, as it guards vital organs. It’s remarkable to know that these protective plates are being produced in our district and used by the Army, Marine Corps and the Defense Logistics Agency. And the BAE systems employees take great pride in their product and deserve recognition. They are helping protect the lives of our soldiers so that they can return home safe to their families.

Finally, the winners of our Fourth District’s Congressional Art Competition, were announced. Apollo high school senior Adrienne Ontiveros placed first with her acrylic painting entitled “Toe 2 Toe.”  The piece will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol for a year and she will be flown with a guardian to Washington in June to be recognized at the “An Artistic Discovery” event on Capitol Hill. In addition to the airline tickets, Ontiveros received $1,200 to cover lodging and other expenses while in Washington. The Art Institute of Phoenix also awarded her with a $10,000 scholarship. Central High School’s Flor Cardenas received honorable mention.

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Lowmans (May 2011)

Posted by South Mountain Villager on April 22, 2011

Greetings fellow Villagers.  Happy Mothers Day to all of you “gifts from God”.  We know in our hearts that this is what all of you are.  I, as well as many, have asked myself; “Where would I be without my mom?”  Naturally, without God and the uniting of our mom’s and dad’s, we simply would not “be”.  (If your home life was not of the “social norm”, please hold in your heart that “God doesn’t make mistakes” and no matter what your circumstances, you are here for a reason.)  But how often do we really grasp the value and greatness of the gift of our moms (and dads) and the phenomenal role they play, (played), in each of our lives? Many families have shared with us the question of; “Why does it take the loss of this great gift to genuinely appreciate their irreplaceable and unmistakable impression and role they played in each of our lives?” or “Why must we wait until we loose our parents before we can verbally express our appreciation for them?

I’m truly thrilled that we have these special days, (Mothers and Fathers Day), to honor them while they are alive and still amongst us.  It is sad, at times, to think that we “need” a special day to truly reflect on their importance in our lives, yet, who, next to God, could be more deserving of a special day?

In this politically correct environment, one of the few terms I have personally embraced is the term “domestic engineer”.  While typing death certificates, under the field of “occupation”, if the woman of the household did not work outside of the home, she is “classified” as a homemaker.  Isn’t the term “domestic engineer” much more accurate of a classification?  Think about it, as children, our moms were nurses, psychologists, mentors, problem solvers, easers of mental and physical pain, teachers, artists, cheerleaders, encouragers, cooks, cleaners, organizers, “taxi” drivers, and the list goes on and on.  I’ve never been much of a fan of the “politically correct” as I have always known that if we all truly embraced love, respect, empathy, and acceptance of each other and our differences, our vocabulary and thought process would already be in check and “political correctness” would not be a concept of this world.

Serving in the funeral industry, we are fully aware that funerals are for the living.  They serve an important role in allowing us to trigger and go through the mourning process, giving us closure with the goal of being able to continue living our lives in a healthy and functional manner.  Although we realize that life will never be the same once we lose a loved one, it is healthy and beneficial for all of us to honor those that have been called home to be with God.  Funerals help us to recall and embrace the gifts and values our loved ones have blessed us with, allowing us to honor them with our memories and stories, helping us to realize the importance of continued traditions that would be lost if we, ourselves, don’t keep those family traditions alive.

Fundamentally, we are aware of one problem with a traditional funeral: our loved one is no longer among us to hear all of the wonderful things and memories shared and said about them.  Wouldn’t it be great if they could hear the unforgettable and treasured lessons they taught us and how much they were loved and valued before they go home to be with God?

I believe that these special days are opportunities for us to do just that.  I’ve read many articles on how some families have created “living funerals”.  The psychology behind a “living funeral” is so that they and their loved ones have the opportunity to part ways without any regrets. Regrets of perhaps not having the chance to properly say goodbye, to forgive any past misunderstandings, or to thank them for what they have meant to us and/or to thank them for the many lessons they have taught us with the results of enriching our lives.

It would be an ideal world if we were all mindful of this on a daily basis, however, we all seem to get so “wrapped up” in the “here and now” that we sometimes lose sight of who and what is truly important.

Our prayer is that all of you Moms (and Dads) out there know in your hearts how special you truly are and the phenomenal role you continue to play in your children’s’ lives.  We also pray that you all give yourselves permission to share how much you cherish and value your loved ones and friends.  Again, Happy Mothers Day!!

Thank you for taking the time to read this article.  As always, Bill and Ingried Lowman are available 24/7 at (602) 276-3601, toll free (877) 276-3601, fax, (602) 276-1889 or on our website, lowmansarizonafuneralhome.com.

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Ed Pastor (April 2011)

Posted by South Mountain Villager on March 30, 2011

Arizona Leads the way – Part 1 of 2

By U.S. Rep. Ed Pastor, Fourth Congressional District of Arizona

I was recently pleased to learn that Arizona is leading the nation and making great strides in one area that helps our community, and I wanted to share this information with you.

When it comes to providing services for people with special needs and disabilities, Arizona is very progressive. The best example of our state’s advancement in this area is the Arizona Disability Empowerment Center campus, the first of its kind in the nation. This 62,000 square-foot campus houses a dozen non-profit organizations that decided to come together to better serve people with disabilities. The agencies offer a variety of medical, counseling and employment programs, among other services. And the center will soon house a fitness center for accessible sports, such as wheelchair basketball and soccer, and three swimming pools, including a therapy one.

This center is such a gem, representatives from the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation, who recently met with me in Washington, couldn’t stop talking about it. It’s a great example of how the community can collaborate to bring their programs together to one accessible, convenient location, and it’s a model for the nation to follow, they said.

While we may have great resources, they’re only helpful if people know about them. That’s why I wanted to bring you information about the Disability Empowerment Center (DEC), which serves the Phoenix metropolitan area. It is conveniently located on the Phoenix Metro light rail system at 5025 E. Washington Street, and more information about the available services can be found here:   www.abil.org/disability-empowerment-center-information.  Arizona Bridge to Independent Living, or ABIL, Arizona’s largest center for independent living, also is housed in DEC and helped lead the building project.  With 465,000 people in Arizona living with disabilities, ABIL has worked aggressively to empower people with disabilities and provide resources to them. Some of the organizations housed in the center include Arizona Autism United, Inc., Raising Special Kids and Valley Center of the Deaf.

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Lowmans (MAR 2011)

Posted by South Mountain Villager on February 25, 2011

Lowmans Arizona Funeral Home, Inc.

“Worth Repeating”

Greetings fellow Villagers!  We’ve written about the importance of pre-planning, living wills, trusts, getting affairs in order, as well as the grieving process itself.  We thank all of you for your feedback, compliments and encouragements as we continue to strive to become the best in serving you, the community.  We have also addressed much of what is contained in this article; however, we still come across a phenomenal number of families that find themselves in the following situations, so we would like to address, again, a hodgepodge of information that has been shared with us by families we’ve served.  We believe that you will find this information valuable as well.

Many of us get married and it’s just a natural thing, to have all of the utilities put in one name.  This doesn’t seem, at the time, that this could become a problem.  WRONG!!  We have learned that there is much wisdom in putting the electric, gas, telephone, and cable bill in both names.

Why?  Because even if you have been married to the deceased for 1-60 years, once the person named on the utility bills die, there is a “turn off” fee, a “turn on” fee and a “security deposit”.  Because none of the statements were in the survivor’s name, no credit with the utility or Telephone Company has been established by the survivor.  Needless to say, this adds insult to injury, especially at a time of loss.  So for the last 5 years we’ve been encouraging families, that come in to pre-plan, (or anyone that will listen), to take a look at how they are being billed from these companies.  If both names are not on the bills, we strongly encourage you to get that accomplished.  It can be done simply by having the person that is named on the bill, contact the company by phone and have the spouse added to the statement.  This simple call will save you a few hundred dollars.  Especially in today’s economy, many, out of financial need, leave the utilities in the decedent’s name.  With Arizona being #1 in identity theft, (and it worsens with the economy), we always encourage our families to get the name and social security number of the deceased out of circulation.  Failure to do so can attribute to undue added “grief”.  This concept should also be exercised with the credit cards.  If a spouse never worked outside the home, or never had credit in his/her name, life, after a death occurs, can be even more devastating.

Other valuable pieces of information that have been called to our attention are to turn in both the driver’s license and the voter’s registration card of the deceased to the Department of Motor Vehicles.  This can be done when a family member brings in the car titles to have them changed after a death has occurred.  Much of the “junk mail” we all receive is acquired from these to lists.  Although it will not completely stop the junk mail from coming in the deceased name, it will help to minimize the amount of junk mail the surviving family will continue to receive.  For many, it is a bit unsettling to get mail in the name of the deceased.  This happens a lot but it is usually because the several “mailers” have not been contacted and informed that the death had occurred.

When I lost my uncle in August of 2008, I learned that we even must be ‘leery” of the Social Security office!  Please know that you only give the Social Security office your social security number if you are the beneficiary of the Social Security benefits.  In other words, only a surviving spouse or a dependant child’s social security number should be shared with the Social Security office.  If you are an adult child, niece, grandchild, uncle, aunt, grandparent, friend, significant other, etc.., do not give your social security number to the office you are reporting the decedents information.

Yes, even though this is the field in which we serve, we continue to learn on a daily basis. Our prayer is that this information will save many from added heartache at an already difficult time.

Thank you for taking the time to read this information.  We value your comments and feedback, as well as ideas.  As always, Bill and Ingried Lowman are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at (602) 276-3601, toll free (877) 276-3601, and fax (602) 276-1889.

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Ed Pastor (MAR 2011)

Posted by South Mountain Villager on February 19, 2011

Guest column by U.S. Rep. Ed Pastor, D-Ariz.

Mobile office brings Congressional services closer to you

U.S. Rep., Ed Pastor

Dear Fellow Arizonans,

I’ve written in the past about the importance I’ve placed on constituent services in my Phoenix District Office. As your representative, one of my most important jobs in Congress is to represent you and help my constituents resolve problems they may have with federal agencies.

For this reason, my Phoenix District Office staff is ready to provide you with assistance in dealing with any needs, problems or complaints you may have with federal agencies.

However, to give constituents easier access to our congressional services, I also have a staff member travel throughout our district as part of our Mobile Hours program.

This year, a representative from my office will hold mobile hours in South Mountain Village at the South Mountain Community Center, 212 E. Alta Vista, Phoenix. My representative will be available from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. on the first Tuesday of every month:  March 1, April 5, May 3, June 7, July 5, Aug. 2, Sept. 6, Oct. 4, Nov. 1 and Dec. 6.

Please feel free to drop by and visit with my staff member should you have any issues with federal agencies, or simply want to leave your comment about a current federal issue. No appointments are necessary.

Most of the federal problems we address involve Social Security checks, benefits and appeals; workers’ compensation claims, hearings and appeals; military service problems, such as a hardship discharge from the service; veterans’ benefits, medical care and home loan guarantees; immigration problems; and other appeals for help.

If you contact my office, a staff member will ask you for information to fully understand the problem. In order for me to make inquiries on your behalf, the Federal Privacy Act requires your written authorization which would give me or my staff permission to inquire into the matter for you. Therefore, a staff member will most likely ask you to sign a Privacy Release Form, where you also will explain what type of assistance you are seeking from my office. More information on casework and the privacy release form are available on my Congressional website at www.pastor.house.gov under the “Services” link.

While we can assist you in bringing your case to the attention of the proper officials and guide you through the process, we cannot direct an agency to decide a matter in your favor. But I am committed to help analyze the nature of the problem and generate the most expeditious and just  resolution.

Responding to constituents’ needs and problems gives me an opportunity to review how programs and executive agencies are functioning. It also helps me flag areas where congressional oversight or new legislation may be needed. It’s a privilege to serve you and I hope you will feel free to phone my office at 602-256-0551, or visit my mobile office, and give me the opportunity to assist you.

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Ed Pastor (Feb 2011)

Posted by South Mountain Villager on January 23, 2011

Rep. Pastor’s statement on resolution honoring Congresswoman Giffords and victims of tragic shooting in Tucson, Arizona

U.S. Rep., Ed Pastor

“Mr. Speaker, It is with great sadness I rise today to pay tribute to six innocent and precious Arizonans who, while participating in a public event designed to strengthen our democracy, so tragically lost their lives in a senseless act of violence last Saturday.

“I also want to pay tribute to those fourteen Arizonans, including our dedicated and beloved colleague, and my personal friend, Gabby Giffords, who were wounded.  These Americans, all dedicated to freedom and all loving our country so much that they chose to use their Saturday morning to participate in a public event to make their government better, are recovering at different paces and with unique and different needs.  The City of Tucson, Pima County, and the entire State of Arizona stand poised to assist and welcome these brave heroes back into our communities once they have recovered.

“Gabby continues to literally fight every minute for her life, and we are all reaching toward our God through prayer, contemplation, and silent whispers, in our unified effort to bring about her quick recovery and return to us here in the House of Representatives.

“Those who perished, Phyllis Schneck, Dorothy Morris, Gabe Zimmerman, Christina Taylor Green, Dorwin Stoddard, and John Roll will be missed by their families, their colleagues, their friends, and all Arizonans.

“Phyllis Schneck was described by her New Jersey hometown paper as a ‘lifelong conservative.’  Yet, she was there to see Gabby because she admired her.  This is the perfect example of someone who wanted to step beyond the current vitriol in modern day politics and bring us together.

“Dorothy Morris was married to a former Marine Corps pilot, who was also wounded and recovering.  We all know the patriotism and love of country every spouse of a Marine exhibits, and she was no exception.

“Gabe Zimmerman was one of us.  A dedicated staff member to Gabby, it is said that he literally lived to serve his community.  Sadly, he perished, but he perished fulfilling his calling and doing what he loved – helping the people of his town.

“Christina Taylor Green was just starting her political career.  She had just been elected to her school’s Student Council, and she wanted to come see it done at the highest level.  She wanted to see a pro, so she came to see Gabby.  She was a special little girl who kept reaching for the stars – in politics, dance, baseball, whatever her heart desired.

“Dorwin Stoddard died shielding his wife, who was also wounded but is expected to recover.  Following their regular Saturday outing, Dorwin brought his wife, Mavy, to see Gabby, because reportedly she wanted to tell Gabby what a good job she was doing.  High school acquaintances, who reconnected after many years apart, they were a pillar of their church community, and we know Mavy will continue on, saddened and burdened, but hopefully not broken.

“Finally, Judge Roll had been working with Gabby and several of us in the delegation for the past several months trying to make the courts in Arizona more efficient and more responsive to both the victims and the accused.  I knew him to be fair, dedicated, charming, professional, and loyal.  He loved his family, his profession, his job, his community, and his country.  Arizona and the nation will be a different place without him.

“Again, I am encouraged by the reports concerning all the wounded.  These individuals are the perfect example of the strength of Arizonans and all Americans.  They will recover, we pray, and they will not shy from continuing to serve their community.

“This is most true for Gabby.  Gabby is special among us here in Congress.  We all know that.  We all love her pragmatism, her bipartisanship, her willingness to learn, her dedication to give, her compassion for her job and for each of us, and her spirit to continually strive to make the Eighth Congressional District, Arizona, and America a better place to live and work.  “Hopefully, it won’t be long much longer until we see her here, her smiling face with us again, doing what she loves, and working hard for people of our country.

“Our prayers go to Gabby, all the victims, and the families of the deceased.”

 

 

 

 

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Joequan (Feb 2011)

Posted by South Mountain Villager on January 15, 2011

Joequan

Joequan, 11, can put a smile on anyone’s face. Spending time with him at the park, it quickly becomes apparent that smiling is one of his favorite things to do.  When meeting Joequan, he is quiet and shy at first, but will soon warm up once he gets to know you.

Playing sports is a motivator and a strength for Joequan.  He keeps his focus on keeping his grades up so he may qualify to play sports for his school.  Joequan is in the 6th grade and is doing very well in school.

Joequan also enjoys crafts.  His foster mom explains that Joequan makes beaded lanyards for his friends and foster family.

Shopping is also a favorite pastime for Joequan.  He appreciates nice shoes and clothing.  Joequan is not a picky eater.  He likes spicy food, Subway and hot sauce.

It’s easy to see Joequan’s social side. His foster dad describes that Joequan enjoys going to the park for a game of pick-up basketball.  In fact, Joequan likes all sports and will play football, soccer and hopes to run track in the spring for his school.

For a family of Joequan’s very own, he would do best as the youngest child in a family with parents who can shower him with structure, a calm environment and provide a strong male role model.   Joequan is open to all ethnicities, but would prefer a forever family with both a mom and a dad.

For more information about Joequan or any of Arizona’s children in foster care, please care 1-877-KIDS-NEEDU (1-877-543-7633) or visit www.azkidsneedu.gov.

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Ed Pastor (JAN 2011)

Posted by South Mountain Villager on December 21, 2010

Guest column by

U.S. Rep. Ed Pastor, D-Ariz.

Representing the Fourth Congressional District of Arizona

Constituent Services

Ed Pastor

As we begin a new year, it becomes apparent that many of the challenges we faced in 2010 will be following us into 2011. In Washington, I will be working with my colleagues to make job creation and the economy a priority. But I wanted to remind you about the main function of my Phoenix District Office, which is to offer assistance to constituents, particularly those experiencing issues with federal agencies.

I have two offices: one in Phoenix and one in Washington, D.C. The Washington office focuses more on legislative activities; but in the Phoenix home office, constituent casework is the heart of the activity. I want to impress upon you that one of my most important jobs in Congress is to represent you and help my constituents resolve problems they may have with a federal agency. Staff in my Phoenix District Office is on hand to provide you with assistance in dealing with any needs, problems or complaints you may have with federal agencies.

Most federally assisted casework involves problems regarding Social Security checks, benefits and appeals; workers’ compensation claims, hearings and appeals; military service problems, such as a hardship discharge from the service; veterans’ benefits, medical care and home loan guarantees; immigration problems; and other appeals for help.

If you contact my office with a problem, a staff member will ask you for information to fully understand the problem. In order for me to make inquiries on your behalf, the Federal Privacy Act requires your written authorization which would give me or my staff permission to inquire into the matter for you. Therefore, a staff member will most likely mail you a Privacy Release Form, where you also will explain what type of assistance you are seeking from my office. More information on casework and the privacy release form are available on my Congressional website at www.pastor.house.gov under the “Services” link.

While we can assist you in bringing your case to the attention of the proper officials and guide you through the process, we cannot direct an agency to decide a matter in your favor. But I am committed to help analyze the nature of the problem and generate the most expeditious and just resolution.

Responding to constituents’ needs and problems gives me an opportunity to review how programs and executive agencies are functioning. It also helps me flag areas where congressional oversight or new legislation may be needed. It’s a privilege to serve you and I hope you will feel free to phone my office at 602-256-0551 and give me the opportunity to assist you. During 2011, my office also will have a staff member available at the South Mountain Community Center each first Tuesday of the month, from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. The Center is located at 212 E. Alta Vista, Phoenix.

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