Community Cares, The Hamlet, The Park

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COMMUNITY CARES

From your neighbors, for your neighbors

Estrella Publishing

September 2020

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Home Learning Resources Elementary

Middle/High School

ABCmouse Early Learning Academy

BBC My World Media Literacy

www.abcmouse.com/teachers This program is free for teachers and offers over 800 lessons for children in preschool to 2nd grade.

education.microsoft.com/en-us/resource/939cc059 This suite of standards-aligned resources includes 10 lesson plans with curriculum extensions, 10 dynamically produced video segments from BBC World Service, and a professional development introduction video to help educators kick start the use of the My World education element in their classrooms.

AWE Learning awelearning.com/library-resources/ Printable resources for at home learning

Benchmark Education goto.benchmarkeducation.com/acton/fs/blocks/showLandingPage/ a/34723/p/p-015b/t/page/fm/0?sid=TV2:exleKYHmD Free eBook libraries and educational resources

edHelper www.edhelper.com/teacher-education/Daily-Free-Learning-Workbooksfor-Teachers-to-Share-with-Parents-while-Schools-are-Closed-Kids-willactually-do-these.htm Provides printable worksheets for teachers and homeschooling

General Tips

Carnegie Learning www.carnegielearning.com A free blend of textbook and software resources and support to help you facilitate at-home learning for your math class

Everydae SAT Prep everydae.com/signup?utm_source=weareteachers&utm_medium=list&utm_ campaign=covid_19_closures Online SAT prep program that is free while schools are closed

Hippocampus hippocampus.org Thousands of videos in 13 different subject areas with the ability to create teacher playlists.

Movement In a normal school day, kids are always on the move, but at home there is a limit to how much activity is allowed.

Encourage movement and exercise before work will break down excess nerves or jitters.

Visual Checklist For some students, having a visual, physical checklist of what is expected or their future tasks help to keep them on track. www.understood.org/en/school-learning/learning-at-home/homework-study-skills/online-learning-how-to-prepare-child

Schedule Creating a consistent schedule for your child will help structure their day and help them organize their tasks that’s reminiscent of their school schedule.

Distractions By creating a study space for your child, you can get rid of any distractions that could interrupt their learning.

This also helps develop a focused mindset while in that environment.

Source: www.weareteachers.com/free-online-learning-resources/ | education.jhu.edu/2020/04/8tipsforfocus/ | Image by Element5 Digital

Mary Ann Evans “Your Neighborhood Real Estate Specialist”

West USA Realty Direct Line 602-526-3709 info@maryannevans.com

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Estrella www.MaryAnnEvans1.com Publishing

If you are currently working with an agent, this is not meant as a solicitation. This information is deemed reliable, but not guaranteed.

September 2020 © 2020 | 08/07/20

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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

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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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13575 W Indian School Rd, Outer Suite #900, Litchfield Park Phlebotomist on site. This business is under the direction of a medical director.

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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September 2020

3

From Me To You...

Amongst other things, I believe in science.

Perhaps because I can see the proof in front of my own eyes. You pose a hypothesis, test it and see if you are right or wrong. See? Proof. I also believe in things I can‘t prove, like the innate goodness of people. I just know everyone has the ability to be good - whether they show it or not.

A disease is a harder one to prove to the everyday man. I can see why there are many people who still do not believe in the pandemic that is sweeping our world into tiny shards.

Unless someone you know has Covid-19 then who is to say it is real? Well that goes back to belief. Do you believe the scientists? Do you believe the CDC? Do you believe your neighbor who swears by Windex as a cure for everything? (Throwback reference to My Big Fat Greek Wedding. Great movie, you should watch it if you haven’t seen it already.) FYI I do not recommend using Windex for anything other than sparkling windows.

Then the recommendations from those in power are so confusing that they muddy the already cloudy waters even further. If you saw what some countries are recommending, it would make you scratch your head in wonder. For example, in Turkey there is a weekend lockdown in effect. So the virus only comes out to play on Friday night and meekly tucks itself away on Monday at 6am?

Peru has determined that to keep everyone safe they will allow men to go out on the streets on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, and women can go out on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.

Some countries are limiting groups to less than 10 or 50 or 100 people. How does that work?

The virus only comes near if there are 101 people but knows that 99 would be a cue to stay away?

Either way it has been proven that one thing does help. Wearing masks slows the spread of 4

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Covid-19 whether you are in groups of 10, 100, or 1000, if you are male or female, and it doesn’t matter which day of the week it is.

I know there are people who believe that wearing a mask is an infringement of their rights, and I hear them. I wonder though. Is it an infringement of rights to request you wear shoes and a shirt in an establishment? The vast majority of people manage to adhere to that request without a murmur. Why is it so much harder to cover your nose and mouth? “I can’t breathe through a mask!” Ah. I know it is not always comfortable and especially in Arizona it can get hot. But. It does not stop you from getting oxygen. It does not increase your intake of Carbon Monoxide. How do I know? Science. I have watched doctors place an oximeter on their finger and measure the oxygen in their blood while wearing all kinds of masks. It does not make a difference.

So I have a request for you. Even if you do not want to wear a mask in public, or you don’t believe it will help, please prove to me that my belief in your inherent goodness will prevail and wear one anyway. Thank you.

Catherine Uretsky Editor, Estrella Publishing info@estrellapublishing.com 623-594-9283

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Our chicken & pork is all natural with no sodium, nitrates or added solutions. We also have sausage!

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September 2020

PALM VALLEY

Palm Valley 9/30/20

Estrella Publishing

September 2020

5

Online Car Buying

researching cars online, filtering your search to match those features and your budget.

Online car buying has become more popular in recent years. Instead of having to go out to visit dealer lots, car shoppers have found it’s easy to look at inventory, set up test drives, secure financing, negotiate price and complete the purchase - all online, from the comfort and safety of home. Understanding the virtual car-buying process ahead of time can help you score a great deal and make the whole experience a positive one. Here are the basics you should know.

• Get your financing squared away. “By getting preapproved for your next car loan, you’ll be in a better position to negotiate on price and get a deal that works favorably for your budget,” said Joe Pendergast, Vice President of Consumer Lending at Navy Federal Credit Union.

• Price compare and get quotes. With your financing in hand and the knowledge of the type of vehicle you’re looking for, it’s time to shop.

• Set up a test drive. Many dealerships offer online virtual tours of their vehicles. But once Set a budget. Before you start looking at you’re ready to get behind the wheel for a test vehicles, it helps to get a rough idea of what your drive, they can often bring the cars to you. Just monthly payments will be. Car-buying expenses be sure you understand and feel comfortable may include: with the test drive process, including any * down payment cleaning and safety procedures. * warranty options • Ask for the price and perks you want. With a * title, taxes and fees market value in mind, contact the dealerships * trade-in value that have the car you’re interested in and the * monthly ownership costs: financing, insurance, price you want. Keep it simple and focus on price maintenance, fuel and depreciation before talking about dealer financing or tradein. Car dealers may be willing to throw in a few Do your research. Once you know your budget, extras, too. consider any must-have features such as size, • Get your new car delivered to your door. fuel efficiency or safety scores. Then, start When it comes to actually buying the car, all the paperwork can now be done online or delivered.

Ensure you’re satisfied with the safety processes and purchasing arrangement before agreeing to buy the car. When you’re done, the dealership can bring the new car right to your door. Plus, they’ll pick up your old car if you’re trading in.

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September 2020

God Bless

Day after day we learn about heroic episodes being accomplished by the few for so many. The doctors, nurses, hospital workers, custodians, delivery people, the police, fire department, the clerks who serve us in the various areas of commerce – the lists are endless and probably incomplete – but still they carry on ensuring that our lives thrive in an atmosphere of severe difficulties.

We read and hear about “Our Heroes.” We acknowledge these defenders of our sanity, and yet, we certainly do not do enough. And then we learn that some of them perish as they march into harm’s way to ensure that we are safe and secure. I am reminded about something Albert Einstein once wrote: “Strange is our situation here upon earth. Each of us comes for a short visit, not knowing why, yet sometimes seeming to divine a purpose. From the standpoint of daily life, however, there is one thing we know: That we’re here for the sake of others. Above all, for those upon whose smile and well-being our own happiness depends, and

also for the countess unknown souls with whose fate we are connected by a bond of sympathy.

Many times, a day I realize how much my own outer and inner life is built upon the labors of my fellow men, both living and dead, and how earnestly I must exert myself in order to give in return as much as I have received.”

I could not help thinking as I read these words how much of an impact, we have on the lives of those we come in contact with each and every day. We will probably never know to what extent we truly comfort those in need or help those looking for togetherness.

The men and women who march into the fray to relieve the pain and suffering, to offer comfort and solace, are the heroes to whom we owe so much. They take their obligations and oaths seriously without concern for themselves, they isolate themselves from family and friends to ensure that we are safe and secure with no concern for their own safety.

I have witnessed first-hand these messengers from God, these healers and soothers. I have seen the results of their efforts as I speak to those afflicted and comforted. Can we do enough, can we do more, to express our gratitude? Perhaps we will never sufficiently be able to thank them, but we MUST try. When this nightmare is over, we should join together in our respective houses of worship to congratulate all who helped us through these difficult days and months. Now, however, when we see someone who is in the forefront of combating these tragedies, stop and thank them. It is a small gesture, but one that will give them pride in knowing they mean something to us.

God bless all of them. Surely God has blessed us by sending these angels of mercy.

Submitted by Rabbi Irwin Wiener, D.D.

Estrella Publishing

September 2020

7

Sports Drills

While this has been a challenging year with many youth sports leagues and activities at limited capacity or canceled entirely, the good news is there are still plenty of ways kids can stay active and healthy. Here are three exercises to move and have a ball amid today’s new normal: Toss Challenge: Enhance hand-eye coordination by scoring as many points as you can. * Find 5 balls and 5 containers (boxes/buckets). * Line up containers. Assign each container a specific number of points. * Stand away from containers. * Toss the ball underhand into one container.

See if you can reach the farthest container. * Repeat until you’ve thrown 10 times. Keep track of your points! * How many points did you score? Try again to see if you can score more points with 5 throws. If you’re right-handed, try throwing with your left.

If left-handed, try throwing with your right.

Throwing Drill: Improve strength and agility by throwing consistently and with purpose. * Set up a target in an open space, like a

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backyard or park. You can use colored tape to make an X on the ground or wall. * Throw your ball 15-30 feet away from your target. If the ball reaches your target, your throw is accurate, and you should continue practicing the same way. * Increase distance by 15 feet once you can accurately hit the target five times in a row. * Make it harder by trying to throw the ball while running forward, backward or shuffling sideways.

Catching Drill: Perfect speed, agility and coordination all in one fun drill. * Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent. Hold your ball in your hands in front of your chest. * Throw the ball several feet up into the air. * Catch the ball as it falls back toward the ground. As you catch it, tuck it into your body as though preparing to run with it. * Increase the height of your throw gradually. As you improve, make it harder by throwing the ball up and away from you. This makes you run for the ball, just like in a real game.

Set activity goals and be your own champion, so when it’s time, you’ll be ready to highlight your new and improved skills.

September 2020

Yum Yum

Nothing says summer better than sipping a fresh, cocktail while you relax with family or a few friends. Here are a few cocktails you can try making and enjoying at home: Fresh from the Market The classic combination of fresh strawberries and mint is super refreshing on a hot day.

1.5 ounces Gin .5 ounce honey syrup (1:1 honey to water) .5 ounce fresh lemon juice 2-3 strawberries (halved) 3-5 fresh mint leaves 2 ounces sparkling water Add honey syrup and strawberries to a shaker and muddle. Add the gin, lemon juice, mint and ice, then shake. Fine strain over ice and top with sparkling water.

Add simple syrup and blueberries to a shaker and muddle. Add the remaining ingredients and ice, then shake. Fine strain over ice, or serve neat. Garnish with basil leaves and blueberries.

It’s Pepper Thyme For a unique flavor with a refreshing burst of lime, pick up a yellow bell pepper or two and create this one-of-a-kind cocktail.

1.5 ounces Gin .75 ounce fresh lime juice .75 ounce yellow bell pepper syrup Fresh thyme leaves (optional) Add all ingredients to a shaker. Add ice, shake and strain over ice. Garnish with a lime wedge or slice, and fresh thyme leaves (optional).

Enjoy the warm days of summer with the perfect cocktails for any occasion.

West Valley Rock

Basil Blues Blueberries and basil are a surprisingly tasty duo that melds beautifully with the flavor of the gin.

1.5 ounces Gin .75 ounce fresh lemon juice .75 ounce simple syrup 5 blueberries 3 fresh basil leaves

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September 2020

9

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 strategy. Call / text 623-594-9283 with any questions.

Family & Primary Care

“Changing Healthcare One Patient at a Time”

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We will sanitize the following with our pH7Q Dual hospital grade disinfectant: • Sanitize Hand Rails • Equipment Controls (Electronics etc) • Cabinet & File Drawer Knobs / Handles • Chair Arms • Mouse, Keyboard • Dresser knobs • Remotes • Door Knobs • Handles • Light Switches • Bathroom Counters • Front door handle • Doorbell

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Accepting New Patients All Insurances Welcome 13355 W. McDowell Road, Suite 205, Goodyear

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September 2020

Retirement Plans

As the ongoing coronavirus pandemic continues to present health and economic challenges, it is difficult to focus on anything other than the present. In the past, the years leading up to retirement have been a time of hope and optimism. We’ve looked forward to fulfilling our dreams of doing the things we might have missed while working, such as dedicating more time to family and friends, checking items off a bucket list, or even pursuing a meaningful second career. However, many of the traditional assumptions about this phase of life have been challenged over the past decade, including the idea that we’ll retire at 65.

What’s behind this change? Perhaps one of the most significant reasons is the decline in company-financed pensions. Many companies have shifted from defined benefit, or pension, plans, which promise retirees a monthly income benefit for life, to defined contribution (DC) plans. DC plans, such as 401(k)s, are the main source of retirement savings for most workers.

While employers often make contributions to these plans, workers are primarily responsible for their retirement security. With this in mind, there are three key steps you can take now to prepare for the years after you finish working.

1. Create a plan to eliminate debt.

Whether you carry a balance on a credit card, have student loans or a mortgage, start paying off your debts now. Reducing your monthly expenses not only allows you to save more for retirement, but also gives you more flexibility with how you spend money after you stop working.

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2. Make retirement savings automatic, and don’t miss out on “free money.”

Many employers offer a retirement savings plan, such as a 401(k), to their employees. The sooner you begin saving, the sooner your savings can begin to build up over time. Help your nest egg grow even faster by contributing enough to take full advantage of any matching contributions your employer offers. For example, your company might match 100% of your contribution, up to 6% of your salary. In other words, if you earn $50,000 a year and save at least $3,000, your company will match that amount by contributing $3,000 to your retirement as well.

3. Understand how your retirement savings translates into income.

Take the time during your working years to understand how much income you might receive in retirement based on your retirement savings.

The U.S. Department of Labor offers a simple retirement income projection tool that can help you get started. If you see that projections are falling short of where you think you might need them to be, consider filling the gap by increasing the amount you are saving. Additionally, if you are over the age of 50, you can make catchup contributions to your 401(k) or individual retirement account.

Having a predictable income can make a big difference and fortunately relief may be in sight. While many employers don’t yet offer guaranteed retirement income options in their 401(k) plans, a new law passed at the end of 2019 could change this. That’s good news, considering that 95% of workers and retirees say it’s important for retirees to have a source of guaranteed retirement income they cannot outlive.

September 2020

11

Eye Health

If you are one of the many people now working or attending school from home, you know that there are many challenges involved. One of the major changes to your life may be how much time you’re now spending staring at a screen for hours at a time. If you’re feeling the effects of increased eye discomfort and/or eye dryness, you’re not alone. The impact of those additional hours on your computer or tablet - at the same time allergy season is kicking into high gear can take its toll on your eyes.

Optometrist Dr. Whitney Hauser, OD, FAAO explains that eye dryness can be caused by many different factors, and that sometimes more than one factor can be affecting someone’s eyes at the same time.

Causes for eye dryness include: * Medications you may be taking * Aging * Ophthalmic surgery * Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), which especially affects post-menopausal women * Contact lens wear * Allergies * Environmental factors like air dryness * Use of digital devices “It’s important to note that all eye dryness is not the same,” says Hauser, “and establishing the specific type of eye dryness a person has is important for creating a customized treatment plan.” She recommends identifying what factors may be exacerbating your eye discomfort by trying some of the strategies below.

How can you help relieve the discomfort and dryness your eyes are experiencing?

1. Take frequent breaks from screens Take periodic breaks not just to look away from the screen or shut your eyes briefly to rest them, but to actually get up and walk around, looking

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at objects at different distances and directions to relieve eye strain. Set a timer on your phone or computer to remind yourself to take breaks every 15 to 20 minutes.

2. Blink frequently Even more regularly, remind yourself to blink slowly and gently. Blinking throughout the day helps to keep your eyes moisturized. Close your eyes gently a few times in a row as often as you can, to help keep your eyes from getting too dried out as you stare at your computer screen.

3. Keep the air clean Change your HVAC filter frequently to help reduce potential allergens in your home.

Consider also using an indoor air filter in the room where you work, especially if you know that you suffer from allergies.

4. Try artificial tears Use lubricating eye drops to help relieve temporary eye dryness, irritation and discomfort.

5. Avoid rubbing While you may be tempted to rub your tired eyes for temporary relief, rubbing can actually irritate your eyes in the long run. Instead of rubbing your eyes when they feel itchy or discomfort, reach for artificial tears or eye drops to help provide relief from your symptoms.

Be sure to contact your health care provider or eye doctor if you experience eye pain or discomfort that does not go away using these tips, as it can be a sign of a more serious issue.

September 2020

Travis Bones

Imagine your joy watching your son celebrate his 4th birthday with his closest friends and favorite foods at the Litchfield Park Aquatic Center. Now imagine six days later, your always healthy son suddenly develops a high fever. Three medical professionals you consult all dismiss it as simply the flu. Your child has never been so sick. As you’re buckling him in his car seat to take him to Phoenix Children’s Hospital, he passes out.

You call 911. Your mom runs to the neighbors, who immediately start CPR. First responders arrive and rush your child to the nearest hospital.

Within the hour, you receive news no parent should ever hear, “We’re so sorry, we were unable to restart your son’s heart.”

In 2018, this is what happened to Travis Joseph Bones. Travis had an oversized personality, a megawatt smile and a great joy for life. He was over-the-moon excited to be turning four, and told his mother Allison “Next year, I’ll be 5, then 6, then 7…” counting to 10. Travis was a smart, funny, energetic, sometimes opinionated and always happy little boy. None of the more than thirty people who attended his birthday party could have imagined what would happen days later.

Leaving the hospital in a state of shock, Allison had no reason for Travis’s death. During an autopsy, the medical examiner discovered the reason: Travis was born without a functioning spleen. This rare genetic birth defect Isolated Congenital Asplenia (ICA) causes a child to have a compromised immune system. Without his spleen, Travis couldn’t fight a bacterial infection.

He developed sepsis and died within hours.

Losing Travis just months after her husband’s death, Allison channeled her grief into preventing Travis’ ultrarare disease from claiming another child. With the help of supportive friends, she created the 501(c)3 nonprofit, Estrella Publishing

T.E.A.M. 4 Travis (Together Ending Asplenia Mortality).

Their mission is to prevent childhood death from ICA. They provide awareness and education and support the medical researchers who study the genetic mutation. Currently there is no Newborn Screening for ICA, which T.E.A.M. 4 Travis hopes to change. They are members of the Everylife Foundation’s Newborn Screening Working Group, advocating for more comprehensive screening for ICA and the over 7,000 rare diseases impacting approximately 15 million American children. To promote Newborn Screening Awareness Month in September, they will participate in advocacy events.

To learn more, please visit their website at www. team4travis.org.

September 2020

13

Stay Cool

Quarantine and social distancing means spending more time at home. This has inspired renewed interest in home improvement and DIY projects. While warm-weather months are ideal for many projects, it also can bring high temperatures and dangerous heat. Heat-related illnesses include heat stroke, heat exhaustion, heat cramps, sunburn and heat rash. In extreme cases, overexposure to heat can cause death.

To avoid heat-related illness and injury, it is important to take precautions to stay safe. Here are some tips for staying safe and cool while tackling home improvements in hot conditions: Be sun smart - Being in direct sunlight not only heats your body faster due to solar radiation, but it’s a risk for sunburn. When working on projects, choosing a shaded spot is optimal. If starting in the early morning, be sure to account for sun position within your working time. Set up umbrellas and other coverings ahead of getting started so you won’t be tempted to work through the hot overhead sun. Additionally, remember to wear sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and to reapply every few hours.

Take breaks and hydrate - Sometimes you get so focused on a project you don’t realize you have not hydrated enough or have pushed yourself too far until it’s too late and you feel sick. That’s why prioritizing regular breaks is essential.

Consider a work/rest schedule. For example, when doing moderate work at 100 degrees, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends you should work for 45 minutes and then take a 15-minute break. Use this time to drink extra water to stay hydrated. Above all, always listen to your body. If you feel dizzy or sick, don’t wait to take a break.

Check the forecast - Before diving into a project, check the weather forecast first. Check the heat index expected when you work and plan around the hottest times of the day. Try to work earlier in the morning when it’s cooler and your energy is fresh. If you can’t finish the project before the heat peaks, take a break and finish when the sun goes down or the next morning.

It’s smart to jump on the DIY wave and add important home improvements to boost your home’s livability and value. While you’re working hard to reach your goals, be sure to use these heat safety steps to stay comfortable and healthy. come see options not found anywhere else in the valley

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September 2020

Hand Washing

Before COVID-19, you probably didn’t put much thought into washing your hands. A bit of soap and a quick lather seemed adequate. Now, hand washing is center stage as a main step to fight the spread of the virus and help people of all ages stay healthy. This not only helps with the COVID-19 virus, but also helps protect you from other viruses, such as cold and flu germs.

COVID-19 is efficiently killed with soap and water, which is why the CDC recommends scrubbing your hands several times a day.

However, parents and caregivers may struggle with getting their kids to wash their hands the right way. From impatient toddlers to distracted teens, hand washing may not be happening correctly.

To help your family wash their hands the right way and have fun while doing it, the health experts from Colgate offer some simple steps to consider: Step 1: Have a family meeting Talking about hand washing casually won’t

make a lasting impression. Hand washing is important, especially during the pandemic, so give it the attention it needs by calling a family meeting. Talk about how hand washing kills germs and stay positive, saying how your family wants to be a part of the solution in preventing the spread of COVID-19.

Step 2: Discuss proper hand washing Proper hand washing is simple once you know how to do it. First, wet hands with clean water.

Apply soap and scrub the entire hand for at least 20 seconds, including between the fingers.

Finally, rinse and air dry or use a clean towel.

Step 3: Make it fun What’s typically the hardest part of proper hand washing is the length of time. To make hand washing fun, sing a tune for that length of time.

For example, sing “Happy Birthday” twice to hit the mark. Or, customize a favorite nursery song and sing it for that length. To the tune of “Row your boat” sing: “Wash, wash, wash your hands.

Wash them every day! Scrub with soap, rinse it down, wash those germs away!”

Step 4: Praise and rewards Make hand washing a part of children’s responsibilities, much how they are expected to make their bed and read daily. You may want to add posters and other reminders to help the family remember the importance of hand washing. Remember, positive reinforcement and recognizing a job well done goes much further than scolding when stressing new habits. You may even decide to set up a rewards program; for instance, young children get a sticker every time they wash their hands.

Step 5: Be a role model When encouraging your family to adopt healthy habits, it’s best to lead by example. Wash your hands regularly using the correct procedures.

Sing loud and proud so people know you’re doing it for 20 seconds. Show it’s a priority for you so your family knows it should be a priority for them.

Estrella Publishing

September 2020

15

Positive Parenting According to a recent survey commissioned by General Mills’ Big G cereals, 70% of parents say the biggest morning challenge is to sit down and have breakfast as a family.However, with the pandemic shaking up the usual morning routines, 73% of parents with school-aged children now report they have been able to spend more time together as a family before starting their work or school day. In fact, the survey indicates eating breakfast as a family has become less challenging (70% before pandemic vs. 48% during pandemic).

mornings a week or your favorite home-cooked meal for dinner.

During these challenging times it is important to remember what matters most, and even a simple bowl of delicious cereal can make the morning a win. Here are a few recommendations for how you can prioritize family mealtime as we head into the new school year.

Breakfast counts as a family meal The benefits of families eating meals together are well documented and can promote sensible eating habits and positive family dynamics, as well as improved nutritional health.[2],[3] But it doesn’t have to be an elaborate dinner to count.

With the change of pace families are making the most of quality breakfast time with 53% of parents using breakfast time to discuss what’s going on in the world. Make the commitment to have at least one meal each day with your family at the kitchen table, whether that is a bowl of cereal a few

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Choose a breakfast food that parents and kids love Is there a breakfast that parents and kids both love? If you ask many busy parents, any meal their children will eat and enjoy is a success.

“When it comes to breakfast, it’s hard to beat all the nutrition packed into one bowl of cereal for about 50 cents on average, with milk,” says Amy Cohn, RD, senior manager of nutrition and external affairs for General Mills cereal division.

“Cereal is an ideal breakfast centerpiece that naturally attracts other nutrient-rich foods, like milk and fruit. A cereal breakfast with milk and a banana delivers really good nutrition, while also being accessible and affordable to families nationwide.”

With so much out of our control, committing to family breakfast can help you re-center and connect with your family to start the day - even if it is a quick meal. Remember, family time has no time requirements.

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Estrella Publishing

September 2020

Help Your Children Cope Parenting is hard. Parenting during a pandemic can feel especially challenging as you balance changes in work, home and school. Here’s how you can provide support and reassurance, whatever your child’s stage of development.

If your children appear anxious, angry or sad, encourage them to talk about it. Share how you’re feeling, too. Establish a weekly “checkin” dinner where everyone has a turn to express their feelings.

Limit media exposure - It’s easy to become overwhelmed by negative news. Stay with your children during news reports and encourage them to ask questions. Limit your own exposure too, as it can affect your mood.

Include children in chores and activities that give them a feeling of control. Let them assume responsibilities like folding laundry or cleaning, offering choices about what activities they prefer.

Consider your child’s stage of development Babies and toddlers won’t understand what’s happening, but they respond to emotional cues.

Though it’s not always easy, if you can stay calm and positive, they’re more likely to relax.

Maintain routines - Knowing when to expect meals, playtime and bedtime helps them feel more safe and secure.

This period is hardest for teens who derive energy from peer interactions. Show empathy by saying, “This must be so disappointing for you.”

Help them find creative ways to make this time memorable and connect with peers who practice social distancing. The weekly family dinner may be the perfect time to listen to your teen and problem-solve together.

Keep your explanations simple - Discuss the virus as being like a very bad cold or flu when explaining why everyone is wearing masks or why they can’t go on play dates.

Let your children connect with others safely Make video calls to relatives or socialize with a small group of neighbors outdoors while practicing social distancing. Help your child write letters to friends.

Estrella Publishing

September 2020

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Puzzles & Games

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Unscrambled Back To School ScrambledWord WordSearch Search Puzzle #12

Find the words hidden in the grid. There are 2 steps to solving the puzzle. First, unscramble the words. Then, locate the words hidden in the grid. Words can go vertically, horizontally, diagonally both forwards and backwards.

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September 2020

Samurai Sudoku for September Samurai Sudoku Puzzle #25

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, every column, and every 3 x 3 box should contain one of each digit.

This samurai sudoku puzzle is a great way to engage the brain and help develop logic skills. There are 5 overlapping grids with Good Solutions are our website one unique solution. Each of 4Luck! corners are shaded.

Toon solve this Samuraiwww.EstrellaPublishing.com puzzle use standard sudoku rules for every 9x9 grid.

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Estrella Publishing

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September 2020