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ďż˝e HamletÂŽ A magazine for Palm Valley residents

From your neighbors, for your neighbors Estrella Publishing - The Hamlet magazine

January 2021

Estrella Publishing - The Hamlet magazine

Wishing You A Happy & Healthy New Year! January 2021

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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

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Catherine Uretsky, Publisher and Editor 623.594.9283 info@EstrellaPublishing.com Al Uretsky, Publisher and Sales Executive 623.594.9283 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. Some content is provided by Brandpointe and Family Features. 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.

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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.

COVID-19 We are fortunate that both the state and federal governments have identified Pest Control as an essential service; therefore, we are able to continue keeping you safe from infestations. We take your health, seriously and will continue to utilize the accepted rules of “social distancing”.

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January 2021

From Me To You... You know that feeling you get when something bad happens, or is about to happen? The pit in your stomach. The feeling that you have a gaping chasm opening up inside and all hope is lost. A sense of impending doom. Quite dramatic I know, but about this time last year I felt that all was not well in the world. I talked to my husband about it at the time, dismissing it as worrying for no good reason. Well it turns out that maybe I did have a good reason. Not that I knew Covid-19 was going to cause a global pandemic and turn our world inside out forever. But I knew, deep down, something was ‘off’. We often have these gut feelings and as a woman I know them well. Although it took living in America to bring them out of me. Walking down a dark, deserted street at night in my youth I have felt misgivings. A sense that something was not quite right. Perhaps it was that person walking towards me or a noise behind me. I learned to trust those instincts and duck into a storefront or cross the street to a well lit area, or to just book it out of there as fast as

I could. Living in New York in the early 90’s you learned to be street savvy pretty quickly.

Now my instincts revolve more around my children. Even though they are mostly grown up and living a life away from home I still get uneasy when I know they are driving long distances, or even just driving late at night. My parental radar goes into overdrive and nothing is right until I know all my ‘babies’ are safe. Silly, right? There is nothing I could do to help them if they did get into trouble, but nevertheless I am on high alert. Perhaps it is also because my children are still in the phase of their lives where they truly believe themselves to be indestructible. The feeling that they can conquer the world and nothing can harm them. Perhaps that is because I have been in front of them, every step of the way so far, clearing the path and reducing the risks, checking for danger before they see anything amiss. Perhaps it is endemic in all young adults. Whatever the reason it is an important right of passage. Without that lack of fear I would never have blazed a trail across the world, bringing me to this country and creating the life I have now. So pay attention to that little voice in your head — but don’t let it stop you from conquering your own challenges and getting the life you want.

Catherine Uretsky

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Estrella Publishing - The Hamlet magazine

January 2021

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Estrella Publishing - The Hamlet magazine

January 2021

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Estrella Publishing - The Hamlet magazine

January 2021

Make The Most Of Your $ If you’re using a credit card, did you know there could be added perks right at your fingertips that could help you unlock even more value from your purchases? Here are some quick tips to help you take advantage of all the benefits and tools from your credit cards, so you’re not leaving anything on the table. 1. Take advantage of rewards Some card issuers offer higher rewards on certain categories, such as groceries or drugstore purchases. Pay attention to the bonus categories offered with your card to make the most of your spending. You can also try shopping through your card issuer’s rewards portal on the mobile app or website, and you might even have access to extra points with certain retailers. 2. Use points to pay for purchases Your credit card points can be just as valuable as the money in your pocket. Check your credit card rewards portal for all the redemption options that might be at your fingertips. Some, like Chase Ultimate Rewards, give you the option to redeem for gift cards, electronics and even statement

credits toward charitable contributions. 3. Activate offers to unlock more value You’ve probably heard of cash back and credit card points and miles, but did you know some cards have even more perks simply by having it in your wallet. For example, Chase’s Get More Now offers give eligible Chase credit cardmembers an easy way to unlock special perks all year long. All you have to do is go to www.chase.com/getmorenow, select your card and see the discounts and special offers available for you. You can activate or enroll and instantly start taking advantage of where you might already be using your card. Right now, eligible cardmembers can earn more rewards with Lyft, enjoy free 2-day shipping with ShopRunner and more. 4. Plan your spending Spend your money wisely over the holidays by planning how you’ll pay for your purchases in advance. Chase recently introduced My Chase Plan, a digital ‘buy now, pay later’ feature that allows credit cardmembers the option to pay off purchases over a period of time that works for them with no interest, just a fixed monthly fee. And as an added bonus, you still earn rewards on the purchase. Before you purchase, you can even use the Plan Calculator to approximate what your payment plan will look like. 5. Track spending using your mobile banking app or online credit card portal Knowing your expenses is one of the first steps to managing your money, and your mobile banking app or online credit card portal can be one of your best tools to do so. Instead of keeping physical receipts of all your purchases, log into your account to track how you’re spending money. Some apps will also give you a spending summary, so you can look at your annual spending through a customized view. Whether you’re applying for a new credit card or

Estrella Publishing - The Hamlet magazine

January 2021

Yum Yum Stuffed Mushrooms Servings: 10 Time: 30+ minutes Ingredients: 6 slices Whole Grain Bread, cubed 1-2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more to drizzle 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder 2 tablespoons butter 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped 20 button mushrooms, stemmed and chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced 1/4 cup roast turkey, chopped 1 1/2 cups spinach, chopped 1 (5.2-ounce) block herbed cheese 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, plus more for sprinkling 1/2 cup grated Parmesan Pinch salt Pinch pepper

and set aside. Turn oven up to 350 F. In a large skillet, melt butter. Add onion, mushroom stems, garlic and turkey. Once onion is translucent, add spinach and cook just until wilted. In a small bowl, mix together herbed cheese, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan and mushroom stem mixture. Season with salt and pepper. Stuff mushroom caps with bread mixture, sprinkle with more breadcrumbs and drizzle with olive oil. Bake until mushrooms are deeply golden and cooked through (approximately 20 minutes).

Directions: Preheat oven to 300. Combine bread cubes, olive oil and garlic powder in a food processor and pulse into fine crumbs. Arrange on a baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes. Toss carefully and bake another 5 minutes. Remove

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Estrella Publishing - The Hamlet magazine

January 2021

Home Ownership

Are you dreaming about owning your own home? If so, you’re not alone. And, whatever your timeline, it’s never too early to start planning. Bank of America’s 2020 Homebuyer Insights found that 89 percent of prospective buyers remain motivated to buy their first homes, and four in five consider saving for it a priority. More than half are either on pace or actively accelerating their home purchase plans. That’s not surprising, given today’s favorable interest rates. Despite this optimism, some challenges remain. “Some would-be buyers self-select out of homeownership, assuming they can’t afford a monthly mortgage payment or the upfront costs,” said AJ Barkley, Neighborhood Lending Executive at Bank of America. She added, “Other potential buyers simply don’t know where to start. No matter what stage of home buying process you are in, there are various solutions to make homeownership affordable and sustainable, such as innovative low down payment mortgages, significant down payment

and closing cost grants and thought-provoking financial education tools.”

So what are the steps to take if you’re ready to start pursuing homeownership? Here are suggestions to get you started. Learn How Home Financing Works Bank of America’s First-Time Homebuyer Online Edu-Series can take away the mystery of the home buying journey and provide you with actionable guidance. The free series, available in English and Spanish, reviews topics from preparing your finances to making an offer on a home to applying for a mortgage. In the series, you’ll hear from a first-time homebuyer as he shares his experience with using down payment and closing costs programs to help him realize the dream of homeownership. Answer the Question: Are You Ready To Buy?

First-time homebuyers may be holding off for the “right time,” but there is no such thing because home buying is such a personal decision. While there is no secret formula to assessing emotional and financial readiness, these Come see us resources can help you determine at our new store! how close you are to becoming a homeowner and equip you to move forward. After all, the more informed you are about the home buying process, the better prepared you are to find the best q u a l i t y P A T I O F U R N I T U R E options. OUTDOOR WALL ART Southwest decor c u s t o m c u s h i o n s Assess Your Finances sling repair

Not sure where to start? The Homebuyer Insights found 80 percent of first-time homebuyers needed help understanding what they could afford. Begin by asking yourself, “How much should shop local 13800 W Mcdowell rd | Goodyear | 623-299-8000 I borrow?” instead of, “How by spencers and black angus

Estrella Publishing - The Hamlet magazine

January 2021

Business 411 When A Recession Comes, Don’t Stop Advertising.

There have been a number of studies going back nearly one century that point out the advantages of maintaining or even increasing ad budgets during a weaker economy. Those advertisers that maintained or grew their ad spending increased sales and market share during the recession and afterwards. As a popular adage says, “When times are good you should advertise. When times are bad you must advertise.” There are several reasons to advertise during a slowdown. • The “noise level” in a brand’s product category can drop when competitors cut back on their ad spend. • Brands can project to consumers the image of corporate stability during challenging times. • Studies have shown that direct mail advertising such as community magazines, can provide greater short-term sales growth, increases during a recession.

• When marketers cut back on their ad spending, the brand loses its “share of mind” with consumers, with the potential of losing current and future sales. An increase in “share of voice” typically leads to in an increase in “share of market.” An increase in market share results, with an increase in profits. Another strategy used by marketers is using short-term price incentives to match the economic climate with consumers who are seeking a good deal. Another creative strategy is pointing out the value the brand provides. Although the natural inclination for advertisers is to cut back on advertising during a recession, those brands that maintain their ad budget and/ or change their messaging can get a long-lasting boost in sales and market share. Perhaps the best quote about advertising in a recession came from Sam Walton, the founder of Wal-Mart. When asked, “What do you think about a recession?” he responded, “I thought about it and decided not to participate.” -----------------------------We at Estrella Publishing are open for business and here working overtime to support our clients and potential future clients with their marketing

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Estrella Publishing - The Hamlet magazine

January 2021

Estrella Publishing - The Hamlet magazine

January 2021

Shop Local

The COVID-19 pandemic has been difficult on small businesses. Whether it’s a local eatery, service provider, retail store or another type of business, when you shop small, you’re supporting a real person who is striving to keep his or her entrepreneurial dream alive. “Small businesses are the heart of our country and at the heart of Ball brand home canning products,” says Kris Malkoski, CEO of the Food Business Unit at Newell Brands. “We have been moved by the love our small business customers have shown their communities this past year. Still many small businesses are facing hardships, and this holiday season, they need our support more than ever.” You can personally help make a difference by considering 10 simple ways to support small businesses: Shop now: No need to wait for a sale or special event. By shopping now you’re putting muchneeded funds into a small business that is

depending on income each month to make ends meet and keep doors open. Reverse shopping: Rather than thinking of the recipient and then where to shop for a gift, think of the shop first and then the recipients that would most like items from that particular business. Go online: For small businesses that offer e-commerce options, be sure to consider online orders that ship directly to your home. This is a safe and convenient way to support your favorite businesses. Shop in person: For businesses with physical locations, visit shops in person if you can use proper safety measures. If you know what you want, many businesses let you order ahead and opt for curbside or doorway pickup as well. Consider gift cards: Not sure what to buy? Gift cards are always one of the most desired gifts, so if you need to send a little love to a loved one, wrap up a gift certificate in a beautiful card and feel good about your present choice. Leave reviews: Online reviews can make a big difference for small businesses in expanding clientele. Go online and leave rave reviews for your favorite stores and why others should support them as well to help spread the word.

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Estrella Publishing - The Hamlet magazine

Be vocal: In addition to online reviews, talk up your favorite small businesses among friends. From independent restaurants to local service providers, use your voice as a powerful tool to build their reputation and support growth. Partnerships: Look for small businesses who partner together to offer products or services that complement each other in packages, such as a gift basket bundle featuring your favorite local January 2021

Adopt A Pet

One good thing about 2020? More people are fostering and adopting pets who need homes. And during the holidays, pet adoption increases even more because families have more time away from work and school. Before you foster or adopt - and especially when considering a pet as a gift - it’s best to make sure you’re ready not just for the fun and companionship pets can bring, but also for the responsibilities. Preparing thoughtfully in advance will ensure you and your new pet are happy and comfortable at home. “This year has been so unexpected, but one constant is that animals always bring positivity and comfort,” says veterinarian Dr. Marty Becker, founder and CEO of Fear Free, in partnership with BISSELL. “If you’re preparing to adopt or foster a pet, it’s important to ease their transition into your home.” Here are questions to ask before bringing a new furry friend home. 1. Does your living situation allow pets? If you live in a rental, there are likely animal rules. Even if pets are allowed, additional fees might be added to help pay for possible damage or cleaning. Be sure to identify any such limitations before adopting or fostering a pet. Also, make sure there’s room for your pet to have their own space. “One immediate change you can make in your home is to create a dedicated space for your new pet with bedding, food, water and toys to help them feel safe,” recommends Becker. Estrella Publishing - The Hamlet magazine

2. Do you have everything you need? With pets come supplies: food and dishes, toys, bedding, litter boxes (for cats), leashes (for dogs), plus cleaning supplies. Make sure you’re prepared with enough funds to support the ongoing needs of your four-legged pal. 3. Will you have time to spend with your pet? Now it may feel like you have plenty of time to take walks, play with pets and cuddle, especially while family members are working and learning at home. However, since we might not always be remote, it’s important to plan for changes in schedules down the road. 4. Can you create a relationship with a veterinarian? If you don’t already have a veterinarian in mind, start looking for one in your area. Ask pet-loving friends, neighbors and family for recommendations. Neighborhood social media groups often have great suggestions, too. Once you find a vet, call ahead to inquire about wellness visits, and establish a relationship so you’re prepared. Becker offers tips during this time when vet offices are not allowing pet parents to enter with pets: “As you’re preparing for any of those first veterinarian appointments, I recommend bringing a comforting toy or blanket from home to help reduce anxiety.” Spending time preparing now will create more time to relax and play with your new best friend later. Being a pet parent is a rewarding gift especially now - because it offers opportunities to increase your capacity for responsibility, compassion and play. And if you’re fostering, you’ll have the special opportunity to prepare a pet for their future forever home. January 2021

Puzzles & Games

Name ____________________________________

US STATE Capital Cities Scrambled Letters Word Search Puzzle #02 CAPITALS WORD SEARCH

Find the words hidden in the grid. There are 2 steps to this puzzle. First, unscramble the letters in the list. If there are two words in a Capital City, then there should be a space in the clue. Next, locate the name hidden in the grid. Words can go vertically, horizontally, diagonally both forwards and backwards.

Q X V Y W U P Y C U C Q U W O

A R V Y B S V K Z G A A L Y R

P S B Q I S L F T X M P N A A V D U O I L L S B G O Q V N I M L O W T R V U A T S M G Q S

I S X R X R K P D H C O I O Y

W X B Z C C Z G E C W I H X MU T G N K E R F K B M T K T I

LECNHSTAOR CLMAUBIO RIODCHMN XPOIENH PIRREE OOCIAHATKLYM

J Z F B S D L P G J R N U G C

X J V P C G X A M E C H K F E S Y P G N E I A R L O D Y A M

J H U R I A N R N T P F C B O

H O Q X G R A E I U N S M J H

Q E Z R S L Y O N C C O S G A

P G N I A Y C I C H E S X U Y W U U C K H O L M MQ Z W L K

N X J C B T T J B I U Y O G O

J B D A Q O S A N T A F E N Y

Y N H W I N D I Y Z G H P M D

EYNECHEN SE AFANT A ULTSP NSIOADM ORMITELPNE NFFORTARK

January 2021

Samurai Sudoku for January Samurai Sudoku Puzzle #10

Samurai sudoku puzzles consist of five overlapping sudoku grids. The standard sudoku rules apply to each 9 x 9 grid. Place digits from 1 to 9 in each empty cell. Every row, and the every 3 and x 3 help box develop shouldlogic contain of are each digit. This samurai sudoku puzzle is aevery great column, way to engage brain skills.one There 5 overlapping grids with one unique solution. Each ofGood 4 corners are Solutions shaded. To solve this Samurai puzzle use standard sudoku rules for every 9x9 grid: each Luck! are on our website www.EstrellaPublishing.com digit from 1 to 9 can only appear once in every row, column and 3x3 box.

5 7

4 6

9 1

5 7

4 8

4 9

4 2

6 6

Samurai sudoku grid, symmetric, beginner No 10 Estrella Publishing - The Hamlet magazine Created: https://www.sudoku-puzzles-online.com

3 1

1 4

4 8

2 3

3 3

4 1

9 3

6 2

5 8

3 1

7 4

6 5

7 8

8 1

4 4

9 1

9 3

5 3

January 2021

8 1 15

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Estrella Publishing - The Hamlet magazine

January 2021