CB Living
Published by Estrella Publishing LLC, PO Box 6962, Goodyear AZ 85338. Additional copies and article reproductions can be obtained for a fee by contacting info@EstrellaPublishing.com
Catherine Uretsky, Publisher and Editor
Talia Uretsky,
Assistant Editor
Al Uretsky, Publisher and Sales Executive 623.398.5541 info@EstrellaPublishing.com
All contents © 2010-present day 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. Some content is provided by Brandpointe. Estrella Publishing is not responsible for the views of contributing writers 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.
From Me To You...
Have you ever left the house, then a few minutes later gone back to check that you did indeed turn the stove off, or tried the door handle to make sure it was locked? I know I have, and I am sure many of you have too. I recently read about an extreme case where the person who was afflicted with this particular obsession had devised an ingenious solution. She videoed herself doing all the tasks that she completed in the morning before leaving the house. That way, when her brain tried to convince her that the stove was still on, or the dog had not been fed, she was able to look at the recording and calm her nerves. Now I am not saying that we should go to that extreme, but it is an elegant solution.
We all build rituals into our lives, not usually as a response to a compulsion, but they do help us get through the day, nevertheless. Every morning, I make a cup of coffee and take it into the garden where my manic dog plays fetch with a tennis ball until he is out of breath and ready to start his daily round of napping and trying to eat everything in the house. It is a nice way to wake up and get
my day started. Some rituals are ingrained in us during childhood, sometimes we develop them as we age. I usually have a yearning for a cup of tea and a cookie around 3pm, a result of my English upbringing no doubt. It brings me comfort, and as I sip my tea, I reflect on those who introduced me to this daily habit. It connects me to my heritage in a way that is soothing and grounding.
Some rituals are life-affirming, and some are a way to maintain a connection with those we love, making the trek to Aunt Sally’s house for Thanksgiving dinner for example, or dragging yourself to a monthly Bunco with your besties, no matter how much you would rather be curled up watching a TV show at home. These things are valuable and necessary, and we should honor and cherish all the things that help to get us through the day.
Catherine Uretsky Editor, CB Living Magazine info@estrellapublishing.com
623.398.5541
Cook With Zona
Brownie Batter Protein Balls
Hello again, I wanted to say I appreciate everyone who has been reading and recreating my recipes! I am truly feeling the love from these communities! Regarding last month’s Chicken Pot Pie Noodle Skillet recipe I apologize for leaving out the measurements for the egg noodles. For all previous recipes you can visit the recipes page on Estrella Publishing’s website.
If you can’t tell by now, I am nuts about any and all things chocolate. Chocolate cake, chocolate ice cream, chocolate milk, chocolate bars, you name it! When I was a child my mother used to make me chocolate cake for breakfast. Granted, now that I think about it, probably not the most nutritious breakfast for a 13 year old, but hey look at me now! Totally fine, I only have a slight chocolate addiction, and it made me love my mother even more than I thought was ever possible! My son developed a peanut intolerance when he was 4 years old, so most dishes I make I stray away from peanut butter, and these Brownie Batter Protein Balls are amazing! If you prefer peanut butter and regular milk you can absolutely sub those in at no measurement change.
If you have any recipes you’d like to share with me I would love to try them out! Email me at ArizonaCooks71@gmail.com.
Ingredients
1 ¼ cup almond flour (or all purpose flour)
¼ cup cocoa powder
¾ cup almond butter (or peanut butter)
½ cup chocolate protein powder (protein of choice)
¼ cup maple syrup (or honey or agave)
¼ cup almond milk (or milk of choice)
¼ cup chocolate chips
Steps
• Line a tray with parchment paper.
• Mix together the almond flour, cocoa powder, almond butter, chocolate protein powder, maple syrup, and almond milk with a hand mixer or just arm muscle until a play dough like consistency forms.
• Add in the chopped chocolate chunks and mix till evenly incorporated. Use a spoon or cookie scoop to form 16-20 1.5”-2” balls. Place them on the prepared tray and freeze for 15 minutes.
• Transfer to an airtight container and store in the fridge or freezer.
Enjoy!
We love to see our neighbors’ delicious creations, so send us a picture of your Brownie Batter Protein Balls or tag us on social media @EstrellaPublishing.
Date: November 2nd, 2024
Time: 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm
Location: Heritage Swim ParK
The Bug Guy
Scorpions, Crickets, and Cockroaches, Oh My!
A Guide to Surviving Phoenix’s August Pest-ocalypse
As the mercury soars and Phoenicians retreat into their air-conditioned sanctuaries, there’s a sinister uprising brewing in the shadows. August in the west valley isn’t just about melting steering wheels and sidewalks hot enough to fry an egg – it’s prime time for the creepy-crawly residents to stage their annual takeover attempt. Picture this: You’re enjoying a refreshing iced tea, basking in the artificial chill of your living room, when suddenly – and you see something scuttle across your floor, looking like it’s on a mission from the underworld. Welcome to August in the west valley, where your home becomes the frontline in the war against nature’s tiny terrors.
But fear not, brave desert dwellers! With the right tactics, you can turn the tables on these miniature invaders. First up: scorpions. These little arachnids are like the ninjas of the pest world – stealthy, potentially painful, and oddly attracted to your shoes. Pro tip: Invest in a blacklight flashlight. At night, scorpions glow like tiny, eight-legged ravers, making them easier to spot and evict.
Next on the hit list: crickets. August is when these noisy nightclub singers decide to host their nightly concerts in your yard. While their chirping might seem charming at first, by day three, you’ll be ready to call security. Combat these unwelcome musicians
by keeping your yard uncluttered and eliminating standing water. No stage, no show!
Let’s not forget the cockroaches – the ultimate survivalists. These critters could probably outlast a nuclear apocalypse, but they won’t survive your strategic cleaning spree. Seal up cracks, keep food in airtight containers, and maintain a spotless kitchen. Remember, a clean home is a roach’s worst nightmare.
As you wage war on these tiny terrorists, remember that prevention is key. Seal entry points, declutter your yard, and consider professional pest control services. After all, in the battle against bugs, sometimes you need to call in the cavalry.
So, as you hunker down this August, keep your eyes peeled and your flip-flops at the ready. With vigilance, a sense of humor, and perhaps a slight case of paranoia, you’ll make it through the west valley’s pest season unscathed. And remember, when the temperatures finally drop in September, you can proudly declare victory – at least until next summer’s invasion.
Submitted by Larry Cash, of Estrella Mountain Pest Control
Furry Friends
Adopting a Pet?
Bringing a pet into your home is one of the best decisions you can make to enrich your life, with three quarters of pet parents reporting mental health improvements from pet ownership. With more than six million animals currently in rescue agencies or shelters in the U.S., adopting a pet will open your home to an animal in need and bring you untold amounts of joy and well-being. It’s easy to fall in love with an adorable dog or cat, but as tempting as it is to take home the first sweet face you see, it’s not a decision to make lightly. According to a study by the National Institutes of Health, 40% of adopted pets are returned to shelters within the first year. Here are four things to consider to help you find a companion that is the perfect match:
1. Compatibility with your Lifestyle: Before you choose a pet, think about your lifestyle and choose a pet with a temperament and personality that fits. Are you looking for a cuddle buddy for movie nights or a running partner? A young, active husky might not be the best choice for someone who is away most of the day, while an older cat might enjoy quiet and solitude.
2. Preparing for Expenses: Budgeting for pet care is the best way to make sure you’re not surprised by the expenses necessary to keep your new family member healthy and happy. Think about vet visits, yearly vaccinations, food, day care, dental cleanings, grooming and more. There’s also a chance pet parents could face surprise costs like treatment for an injury or surgery.
3. Puppy or Kitten vs. Adult Pet: Young animals need a lot of supervision, training and attention as they discover the world - and get to know you and your household. It takes time and attention to help them grow into well-mannered adults. If you don’t have those, consider adopting an adult pet that’s already house trained, crate trained, leash ready or can manage being alone.
4. Allergies in Your Household: If someone in your home is allergic to dogs or cats, careful consideration should be made. However, there are certain breeds that are hypoallergenic that might be the ideal fit.
Considering all the elements of pet ownership before you bring your furry friend home will help ensure it’s a perfect match from the start - and for a lifetime.
Out & About
Navigating the Seas of Cruise Booking: 4 Essential Tips
Embarking on a cruise can be an exciting and relaxing way to explore new destinations. However, the process of booking a cruise can sometimes feel overwhelming. With countless options for itineraries, ships, and amenities, how do you ensure you’re making the best choice? Here are four essential tips to help you navigate the waters of cruise booking and set sail on your dream vacation.
1. Time Your Booking Strategically
The timing of your cruise booking can significantly impact the price and availability. Generally, booking well in advance (6-12 months) or at the last minute (1-2 months before departure) can offer the best deals. Early bookers enjoy perks like cabin upgrades or onboard credit, while last-minute bookers might snag deeply discounted fares. However, if you have specific preferences for cabin type or location, booking early is your best bet to secure exactly what you want.
2. Research and Compare Cruise Lines
Each cruise line has its own personality, target audience, and specialties. Research different cruise
lines to find one that aligns with your travel style and expectations. Read reviews from past cruisers and compare amenities, dining options, and onboard activities to ensure you’re choosing a ship that suits your preferences.
3. Consider the Itinerary Carefully
While the ship itself is important, don’t overlook the ports of call. Consider how much time you’ll spend at each destination and what activities are available. Some cruises offer longer port stays or overnight stops, allowing for more in-depth exploration. Also, pay attention to the number of sea days – if you love onboard activities, more sea days might be appealing, but if you’re eager to explore multiple destinations, look for itineraries with more frequent stops.
4. Understand the True Cost
The advertised cruise fare is rarely the final price you’ll pay. Factor in additional costs such as gratuities, alcoholic beverages, specialty dining, shore excursions, and Wi-Fi. Many cruise lines offer beverage packages or all-inclusive options that can provide better value if you plan to indulge. Always read the fine print and calculate the total cost before booking to avoid surprises and ensure the cruise fits your budget.
By following these tips, you’ll be well-equipped to book a cruise that meets your expectations and provides the vacation experience you’re seeking.
Happy sailing!
Fitness Tips
How to stay safe and stay fit
Staying fit may be one of your top wellness goals, but how can you exercise during a heat wave? Concerns about the heat are justified, as seniors are more likely to suffer from the effects of high temperatures. As you get older, your body’s ability to regulate temperature decreases, making you vulnerable to the effects of overheating. You also sweat less - which is a main way your body cools you down. At the same time, your thirst impulse may be dulled, so you may not feel thirsty until you’re dehydrated. Various health conditions can also be exacerbated by high temperatures, and many medications may also increase your risk of heat exhaustion or heat stroke. For all these reasons, seniors are more vulnerable to heat, so it’s crucial to take the risk seriously and not overdo it when it is hot outside.
It’s vital to know when you may need immediate help to cool down. Heat can cause mild symptoms like heat rash (resembling small blisters) or heat edema (when ankles and feet swell during high temps), but it can also cause much more serious conditions. Heat exhaustion can occur when your body overheats. It’s important to take action quickly, to prevent progression to heat stroke. Symptoms include:
* Wave of weakness or fatigue
* Headache
* Decreased urine
* Profuse sweating
* Thirst
* Lightheadedness
* Rapid pulse
* Irritability
Heat stroke is the most dangerous condition, which occurs when your body can no longer control its temperature. Without emergency medical treatment, heat stroke can lead to permanent disability or death. Symptoms of heat stroke include:
* Confusion
* Elevated body temperature
* Hot, dry skin or profuse sweating
* Loss of consciousness
* Seizures
* Slurred speech
If you think you or someone you’re with is experiencing heat stroke, act immediately: Call 911 and use water or ice to cool the body down while waiting for an ambulance.
Heading outside? Check the weather forecast first, not just for the actual temperature, but the “feels like” heat index, which takes humidity into account. If you’re planning to head outside to exercise when it’s hot, make sure you:
* Bring cool water and sip often
* Seek shade
* Choose cooler hours, like morning or evening
* Pace yourself - reduce exercise intensity and duration, like taking shorter, slower walks
You can stay fit no matter the temperature by exercising safely indoors. Gyms, community centers and other indoor fitness locations can also help you beat the heat and remain active.
Stay Vigilant
Join Silent Witness in Keeping Our Community Safe
Silent Witness is a community-oriented program fostering a unique partnership between police departments in Maricopa County and its communities. Established in 1979, Silent Witness works diligently to highlight felony cases that impact the safety of our neighborhoods. By collaborating with victims’ family members, community partners and law enforcement, we aim to solve these cases through social media and traditional media platforms, encouraging the public to provide crucial tips that help solve felony crimes. The goal is to provide an easy opportunity for citizens to give the police information about felony criminal activity with a guarantee of anonymity and cash rewards as an incentive.
Our program offers rewards of up to $2,000 for tips leading to arrests or indictments, with specific cases such as homicides eligible for the maximum reward. These rewards are funded through private contributions and sponsorships to our 501(C)(3) nonprofit organization. Additionally, family members or private donors can contribute extra rewards to specific cases through contingency contracts.
In 2023, Silent Witness paid over $20,000 in rewards, was responsible for 34 felony arrests and helped solve 107 crimes in Maricopa County.
If you recognize a suspect or have information about a crime, call 480-WITNESS (480-TESTIGO for Spanish) or visit silentwitness.org to provide a tip. Additionally, you can download our mobile app at p3tips.com to send in tips. Calls are answered by a live person 24/7, and online or mobile tips are accepted at all times. For urgent or in-progress information, please call 911 and follow up with a call to Silent Witness to advise on the information you provided. Remember, you must contact Silent Witness before an arrest or indictment to be eligible for any reward.
We encourage all readers to follow us on social media and be part of the solution by visiting silentwitness.org and view the different cases that are still unsolved.
Olympic Games
I hope everyone has cleared their schedule because the 2024 Summer Olympic Games have commenced! There’s an event for everyone in the family to enjoy; from Gymnastics and Swimming to Skateboarding and Breaking. This summer we’ll see 10,500 athletes from 206 countries compete in 329 events across 32 sports in.
Yet, the Olympics we know and love today weren’t always the same. The first Olympic Games took place in 776 BC in Athens, Greece and began as part of a religious Greek festival honoring Zeus. The first recorded Olympic Games in 776 BC featured only one event: a 192-meter foot race called the stadion. All free Greek males were allowed to take part, from farm hands to royal heirs, although the majority of Olympians were soldiers. Women could not compete or even attend.
In 393 AD, the Olympic Games were canceled by Emperor Theodosius I, a Roman ruler and Christian. He banned the Greek Olympics as he considered it a pagan festival, due to the religious element of the celebration. So, that was the end of the Olympics until 1896, when Baron Pierre de Coubertin adapted the Games. He called this new event the ‘Modern
Olympics’ - which became the specatcle we know today.
From 1921-1948, artists also participated in the Olympics - painters, sculptors, architects, writers, and musicians took part in the games! They competed for medals by creating works of art that often celebrated the sporting successes going on at that time. While artists stopped officially competing in 1948, many still design posters and other merchandise for the Games.
The Olympic Games are arguably the biggest and most prestigious sporting event on earth. And while competitive spirit is important, the Modern Olympic Games aren’t just for our entertainment and about athletes competing for their country and gaining medals while setting records. The International Olympic Committee was founded on the belief that sports can contribute to peace and the harmonious development of humankind. The Olympic Movement continues to use sports to contribute to building a peaceful and better world by educating youth through sports practice without discrimination of any kind, and in the Olympic spirit, which requires mutual understanding with a spirit of friendship, solidarity, and fair play.
Be Prepared
Dementia & Extreme Heat Precautions
Practitioner & Founder of Hearts for Dementia The excessive heat warnings we’ve had recently can have a significant impact on safety, but these conditions can be even more stressful for those with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. If you’re a caregiver, there are certain precautions to help your loved one during the summer.
Expect Mood Changes: Any kind of discomfort, like excessive heat, can trigger altered behaviors in dementia patients. It can also increase confusion. Dementia patients often like routine, such as outdoor walks. But morning or evening walks can be disrupted due to heat. This change can trigger anxiety and agitation. Prepare to see mood changes and make a plan.
Offer Hydration Without Asking: Refrain from asking if they’d like a glass of water. Instead, help them increase water intake by offering more water regularly. Be aware that some medications and dementia-related illnesses can make dehydration worse, and often they’ll forget to drink.
Provide Sunblock: Provide proper sunblock every day, as you would for a child. Without help, those suffering from memory loss are particularly at risk for dehydration, heat stroke, and sunburn. Also, make sure they have light clothing, sunglasses and a hat.
Check A/C Units: Make sure you are checking A/C units or hire professionals. Many dementia patients cannot regulate their body temperature. Some find it too cold, while others will say it’s too hot. Make sure they are comfortable and safe.
Increase Wellness Checks: If you regularly visit once a day, increase your visits to monitor well-being. If a patient tends to wander, stay calm and follow the path of their dominant hand. If they are righthanded, they might exit the premises to the right. This is a general rule. Wandering can be life-threatening during extreme heat. Have recent photos and medical information ready for emergency responders.
For more information: www.HeartsForDementia.com
Submitted by By Lolita Tramel, Family & Psychiatric Nurse
Eating Well
Eating healthily on a budget
As temperatures soar and wallets shrink, maintaining a healthy diet can seem like a daunting task but with some creativity and planning, you can eat nutritiously without breaking the bank or sweating over a hot stove.
Embrace no-cook meals
When it is too tiring to cook, turn to refreshing nocook options. Try overnight oats for breakfast, loaded with fruits or nuts. For lunch and dinner, experiment with hearty salads, veggie-packed wraps, or cold sandwiches.
Frozen is your friend
Do not underestimate the power of frozen fruits and vegetables. They are often cheaper than fresh, they last longer, and retain most of their nutrients. Use frozen berries in smoothies or frozen veggies for quick stirfries for that nutritious boost.
Hydrate!
Stay hydrated without resorting to expensive, sugary drinks. Infuse water with sliced cucumbers, citrus fruits, or herbs for a refreshing twist.
Bulk up on staples
Buy nonperishable staples like rice and pasta in bulk.
These items are cheap and can form the base of many meals. Combine them with seasonal vegetables for balanced, affordable dishes.
Seasonal and local produce
Take advantage of Arizona’s local produce. Visit farmer’s markets or join a community supported agriculture (CSA) program for fresh, affordable fruits and vegetables.
Meal prep and portion control
Dedicate a few hours each week to meal prep. Cook larger batches and portion them out for the week. This not only saves money but also helps control portions and reduces the temptation for unhealthy snacking.
Snack smart
Keep healthy, budget friendly snacks on hand. Think carrots and hummus, apple slices with peanut butter, or homemade trail mix. These options are nutritious and can help curb cravings for expensive, processed snacks.
Remember, eating healthy on a budget is all about planning, creativity, and making the most of what is available. With these tips, you can nourish your body and mind without emptying your wallet, even during the hottest months of the year. Stay cool and eat well!
Puzzle Time
This samurai sudoku puzzle is a great way to engage the brain and help develop logic skills. To solve this Samurai puzzle use standard sudoku rules for every 9x9 grid: each digit from 1 to 9 can only appear once in every row, column and 3x3 box. Solutions are on our website www.EstrellaPublishing.com
Spot 10 Differences
Useful Numbers
