�e Hamlet® A magazine for Palm Valley residents
From your neighbors, for your neighbors Estrella Publishing - The Hamlet magazine
May 2021
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Catherine Uretsky Publisher & Editor
Al Uretsky Publisher & Sales Exec
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 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. 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.
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Estrella Publishing - The Hamlet magazine
May 2021
Estrella Publishing - The Hamlet magazine
May 2021
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Estrella Publishing - The Hamlet magazine
May 2021
From Me To You... I have always considered myself somewhat of a successful amateur gardener. As a young girl I grew plants in pots, I bred spider plants for years, taking the ‘babies’ from the parent plant and re-potting them. I lived in a house with a large garden and there were always veggies to pick and beds to weed. The fact that I was not actually growing or tending anything on a regular basis didn’t bother me at all, I was learning. Once I became a teenager there were bulbs to plant in the fall followed by the joy of seeing flowers pop up in the early spring.
As an adult I managed to conquer an entire garden of flowers and even established a raised bed of veggies. That vegetable garden was my pride and joy. I experimented with tomatoes, zucchini and herbs, learning how to use other plants as pest deterrents, and enjoying the bounty of my labors. When we moved to Arizona I set about replicating my successful relationship with the earth. It took me about 2 years of failure to realize that I was not going to be able to
garden as I had hoped. My old standbys did not thrive in this climate, or in this soil. I did have a raised bed for a while, which was mostly capable of producing crops, but the climate and my lack of consistency stymied me at every turn. I did grow the most amazing artichokes and tomatoes - but there are only so many of those you can eat in one season. In the 16 years we have been here almost all of the original plants have died and been replaced with more suitable drought tolerant varieties. The one great success I have had is something I always wanted to grow but ironically was never too successful with. A Jasmine, or Honeysuckle plant. Honeysuckle is a climbing creature that seems to be nothing more than a mass of green leaves for most of the year. Then for two glorious weeks in the spring it explodes with tiny white flowers and the smell is heavenly. I planted my Honeysuckle by the front door, and as luck would have it, that is the perfect place for it to thrive. It has shade and just the right amount of water, and I get to murmur positive words to it as I pass by everyday. Not sure what effect the words have but I am not stopping now. As I write this, spring has well and truly sprung and the Honeysuckle is in full bloom. Even though the combination of circumstances that led to this green thumb moment have very little to do with my abilities, I am still able to pat myself on my back for the next week or so. I get to believe that I can grow things out here in this unforgiving climate, at least for a little while. Of course the Arizona summer is looming and that will knock the confidence right out of me again. The desert will reassert it’s dominance, and I will have to wait another year to be proud of my green thumb.
Catherine Uretsky Editor, Estrella Publishing info@estrellapublishing.com 623-594-9283
Estrella Publishing - The Hamlet magazine
May 2021
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Pandemic Pounds Since the start of COVID-19, many children have not had access to the nutrition and physical activity they would have received in school. While childhood obesity has been plaguing the United States for years, pediatricians have seen a stark increase in abnormal rates of weight gain over the past year, and it may have lasting effects on children. If you notice any changes in your child’s weight, the first step is to determine the underlying cause. There is a difference between normal body changes that come with routine growth and development of growing children and rapid weight gain that indicates a more serious health issue. If your child suddenly gains 10-20 pounds, this may require a deeper investigation and a consultation with your pediatrician or family practice provider. Ways to keep your child active and healthy • Replace screen time with family time With the shift to virtual learning, it’s not uncommon for children to sit idle for hours staring at a screen. To combat this, set a daily limit on screen time for all members of the household. Then use that extra time to engage in activities that keep your family physically and
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mentally active. Building in “movement snacks” such as stretches, jogging in place or dancing during the school day can be a mood booster and get kids
moving. • Encourage healthy nutritional habits When kids are at home all day, they’re more prone to excessive snacking. Making healthy options visible and unhealthy options invisible using a ‘this not that’ approach such as carrots and hummus instead of chips or cookies will help set patterns and habits for building healthy choices that have the potential to last a lifetime. • Reestablish a family routine Reestablishing a set of patterns and routines in the new normals as they continue to evolve helps everyone in the household feel a sense of control and understanding of expectations. The bonus is, not only will a bedtime and meal routine help children stay focused during the day, it will also help them maintain a healthy weight. • Supporting your child - no matter what While you help your child on their journey to a healthier lifestyle, remember to demonstrate compassion and understanding to your children as well as yourself. How you approach your child’s weight challenges will ultimately define how they view themselves. Be sure to provide daily encouragement, pointing out what your child is doing well. If you maintain a positive and supportive approach, the results will follow. • Talk to your child’s pediatrician If you’re worried your child is putting on too much weight, reach out to their providers. A pediatrician will consider your child’s history of growth and development in the full context of their medical history. This can help determine if your child’s weight is in an unhealthy range and if more lifestyle changes are needed.
Estrella Publishing - The Hamlet magazine
May 2021
Act F.A.S.T.
The sudden onset of stroke symptoms can happen to anyone at any time, making education about the signs and symptoms of a “brain attack” the first line of defense to stroke prevention. Stroke is the second leading cause of death and third leading cause of disability worldwide. Today, only 10% of stroke survivors make a full recovery and 25% recover with minor impairments. Forty percent of survivors experience moderate to severe impairments that require special care. Strokes are common and deadly, but the good news is almost all strokes can be prevented.
• ARM weakness: Is one arm weak or numb? Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward? • Speech: Is speech slurred? Is the person unable to speak or hard to understand? Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence. • Time to call 9-1-1: If the person shows any of these symptoms, even if the symptoms go away, call 9-1-1 and get them to the hospital immediately. Eighty million people have survived stroke worldwide. For more information on stroke prevention tips and treatment options, visit the Medtronic Stroke Heroes page at https://global. medtronic.com/xg-en/c/neurological/worldstroke-day.html
What is stroke? A stroke happens when the blood vessels carrying nutrients to the brain either form a clot or rupture, causing a sudden blockage in the arteries leading to the brain. When that happens, part of the brain cannot get the blood (and oxygen) it needs, so it and brain cells die. In the event of stroke: Act F.A.S.T “Every minute from the time the stroke occurs to when you receive treatment makes a difference,” said neurointerventional radiologist at St. Luke’s Hospital of Kansas City Jared Halpin, M.D. “Many types of stroke are now treatable with emergency medical interventions to either quickly dissolve or remove the blood clot or stop the bleeding that is causing symptoms.” Seek treatment, F.A.S.T. Follow the acronym below to check for signs of stroke: • FACE drooping: Does one side of the face droop or is it numb? Ask the person to smile. Is the person’s smile uneven or lopsided?
Estrella Publishing - The Hamlet magazine
May 2021
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Estrella Publishing - The Hamlet magazine
May 2021
Resale Revolution
Are you interested in finding attractive, useful and fun furniture and home goods at lower prices? Consider these suggestions for mastering the resale shopping trend and scoring great purchases to enjoy as you work, play, learn and exercise at home. Shop local when possible. Not only do you keep money in your community when you buy from people in your area, but you save money on postage or transport when you opt to pick up items yourself. Further, online payments can make local pick-ups easier and more convenient than ever. Read the fine print. Before committing to a purchase, take time to scrutinize item descriptions and enlarge provided photos so you have a clear idea of the item’s condition and appearance. Still have questions? Contact the seller and (politely) ask for more details or images. Taking that extra step could save time and frustration for both you and the seller.
Don’t hesitate to make offers. It’s OK (and even somewhat expected) to negotiate on prices when you’re buying from other individuals. But do that respectfully; instead of complaining about merchandise shortcomings or announcing that the asking price is way too high, politely ask the seller whether he or she may be willing to accept a lesser amount. Follow buying etiquette. Simply put, you should treat sellers as you would like to be treated. Ask and answer questions politely, show up on time for meet-ups and have your payments ready as promised. Thank them for their time, effort and merchandise. Let them know (with plenty of notice) if you’ve changed your mind on a purchase and/or will be unable to meet. Be mindful about safety. Conduct business through online marketplaces that keep profiles of both buyers and sellers to discourage fraud. When possible, meet up to exchange merchandise at local businesses or law enforcement centers that are busy, brightly lit and monitored by video cameras. You may also wish to make payments through online payment venues that allow for stopped payments in the event of disputes.
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Estrella Publishing - The Hamlet magazine
May 2021
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Childcare Costs As summer break approaches during what is proving to be another crazy year, at home childcare seems to be a hot topic in our community. Do you need a babysitter? Or should you invest in a live-in Nanny? Maybe a part time daily childcare provider who can help with some light housework? Whatever your needs are there are some important factors to take into consideration.
The two most important things to think about are what you expect from the person you hire, and what your budget is? And you need to be realistic about combining these factors. If you just want someone to make sure the kids eat lunch and don’t completely destroy the house while you’re gone then a babysitter is what you’re looking for, and what you can expect to pay for. The house will probably be a mess when you get home, the kids will likely have spent the day watching TV or playing video games, they will have eaten more snacks than you might usually allow, you will have to make dinner and get them ready for bed. And there is ABSOLUTELY nothing wrong with this. It’s summer. Its hot. They will be just fine. Boredom is actually good for kids!
screen time and tidy up after the children? This is going to cost more. You’re asking someone to do much more than just ‘be there’. They have to be organized, plan ahead, employ time-management skills, have a clean driving licence. Need more than that? Maybe what you’re looking for is actually a qualified and experienced Nanny. And a good one is worth their weight in gold! They will completely manage anything and everything to do with your children. And I do mean everything. But they do not come cheap, nor should they. Cash costs can be reduced if you are willing to offer a live-in position, but this requires even more finesse in the way of negotiations, boundaries, and a good solid contract. Whatever method of childcare you choose this summer, may it be fun filled and full of joy. Submitted by A. Childsmith
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Estrella Publishing - The Hamlet magazine
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Water Damage There’s nothing quite like owning a home. There’s the pride of achieving a financial goal and the comfort of having a sanctuary and space of your own in which to build a lifetime of memories. Occasionally, as many homeowners can attest to, there’s also the element of surprise when things suddenly break. Water damage is the most common - and unwanted - surprise for homeowners. Show your home a little TLC to protect against water damage by inspecting these three areas in and around it. 1. The bathroom • Periodically check the pipes underneath the bathroom sink for cracks or leaks. A leaky pipe can be a sign of a larger issue that might eventually cause your pipes to burst, like high water pressure or corrosion.
• The seal created by the caulk around your sink, tub and shower helps prevent water from seeping into spaces where it doesn’t belong, but it won’t last forever. Ensure the caulk isn’t worn or cracked, and apply a new layer if needed. • If water leaks from the base of your toilet, or it wobbles when you sit, it’s time to replace the wax ring. Wax rings help form a watertight seal between the bottom of a toilet and the sewer pipe. The ring usually lasts the life of the toilet, but it’s possible for it to dry out and fail so pay attention to malfunction signs. 2. The kitchen • Just like in the bathroom, the pipes beneath the kitchen sink need to be checked regularly for leaks and cracks. • Kitchen appliances with hoses that connect to your water supply are another potential source for leaks. Rubber hoses can wear out, blister or crack, and will need to be replaced over time. Consider replacing this type of hose with a steelbraided version as these are less likely to fail. • Your washing machine probably isn’t in your kitchen, but be sure to inspect its hose as well. The hose connection can loosen during wash cycle vibrations, so check to ensure it’s tight. 3. The home’s exterior and roof • Holes, cracks and gaps can be entry points for unwelcome water, which can cause rot or structural damage. Walk the perimeter of your home to look for imperfections in its facade. Inspect the condition of the weather stripping on your windows and doors to ensure they are properly sealed to keep out the elements. Also, look for damaged, missing or loose roof shingles, which can be seen from proper vantage points on the ground.
Estrella Publishing - The Hamlet magazine
May 2021
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The Bug Guy
or death. The professional-grade pesticides are more powerful and effective than consumer products. They begin to kill and/or repel pests quickly, often within a few hours. 3. Professional pesticides last longer. They Top 8 Reasons Why You Should Hire a Pest provide residual protection for as much as six Control Professional weeks to five years, depending on the type of pesticide applied. While pest control professionals are well 4. An exterminator can identify the pest that known for their bug-zapping abilities, many has invaded your home and create a treatment homeowners attempt to handle pest infestations program to target that exact pest. Some species by themselves to save money. This is a mistake of ant, for example, are attracted to proteinbecause there are many reasons why hiring a based baits but will totally ignore sweet baits. professional exterminator from the start is the 5. Some pests pose a danger to humans through smart choice. bites or stings. Professional exterminators wear protective clothing that prevent bees, fire ants, 1. You may save money in the long term. Many rodents, or other pests from coming into close do-it-yourselfers purchase treatment after contact with them. A homeowner may not treatment – sprays, dusts, and baits in every be aware of how to protect their safety when shape, size and color – in a vain attempt to applying treatments. eliminate pests. Individually the treatment costs 6. Professional pest control companies often may be low, but the total amount spent often provide an effectiveness guarantee that their exceeds the cost of an exterminator visit. treatment efforts will keep pests at bay for at 2. Professional exterminators are trained to least 60 days. If pests should return during that safely use chemical pesticides. All chemicals, time, the exterminator will come back and treat whether available to consumers or only to the home again at no charge. professionals, carry certain hazards and risks. If 7. When dealing with chemical pesticides, pesticides are applied or stored improperly, it accidents may sometimes occur and damage to can lead to property damage, ill health effects, property can result. A professional exterminator carries insurance to cover potential damages. 8. Using the services of a pest control professional saves you time and effort. Applying liquid insecticides, placing baits and setting traps are all time· Open every night from 5 pm to 1 am consuming endeavors. Call your · Every child seen by a pediatrician · Faster than the emergency room pest control professional and let · Online registration to get into queue us take care of the work so you or register for telehealth visit can attend to the people and · Telehealth visits from anywhere in AZ · AHCCCS and most major insurance activities that matter most to you. accepted, cash pay rates available · Easy access off 101 and I-10 · Rapid COVID testing available
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Estrella Publishing - The Hamlet magazine
May 2021
Drive Safe 7 tips to avoid distracted driving
It is estimated that 81% of drivers read and type text messages while driving, 70% use social media while driving and 50% say their smartphone is essential for getting around, according to AT&T It Can Wait. What can you do to keep the roads safe by limiting distractions?
3) If it’s an emergency, pull over: No call is worth jeopardizing the safety of you and your passengers. 4) Recruit a navigator: If you’re driving with a passenger, enlist them to perform navigation and other tasks like climate control and audio selection. 5) Hands on the wheel: Resist personal grooming, eating and drinking while driving. 6) Leave pets at home: If you must travel with your pet, don’t let them roam freely in the car.
1) Use your phone’s built-in tools: Set your phone to Do Not Disturb, and avoid phone calls even if they are hands free. Preset your navigation and any preferences.
7) Utilize technology when it makes sense: Telematics programs like the USAA SafePilot App can bring undesirable driving behaviors like phone handling to light, and encourage safer driving by offering auto insurance savings.
2) Don’t cut corners: Avoid texting or using your phone in stop-and-go traffic or at lights.
For additional information on the USAA SafePilot App, visit usaa.com/safepilot.
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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623.680.6619
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www.estrellamtnpest.com Estrella Publishing - The Hamlet magazine
May 2021
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Puzzles & Games
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Estrella Publishing - The Hamlet magazine
May 2021
Samurai Sudoku for May Samurai Sudoku Puzzle #03
This samurai sudoku puzzle is a great way to engage the brain and help develop logic skills. There are 5 overlapping grids with one unique solution. Each of 4 corners are shaded. To solve this Samurai standard rules every each digit logic fromskills. 1 to There 9 canare only appear once This puzzle samurai use sudoku puzzle issudoku a great way to for engage the9x9 braingrid: and help develop 5 overlapping gridsin with one unique solution. Eachand of 4 3x3 corners areGood shaded.Luck! To solve this Samurai puzzle standard sudoku rules for every 9x9 grid: every row, column box. Solutions are on ouruse website www.EstrellaPublishing.com each digit from 1 to 9 can only appear once in every row, column and 3x3 box.
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Samurai sudoku grid, symmetric, beginner No 3 Created: https://www.sudoku-puzzles-online.com Estrella Publishing - The Hamlet magazine
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Estrella Publishing - The Hamlet magazine
May 2021