Estrella Publishing - It’s A Grand Life magazine
September 2018
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September 2018
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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 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 Š 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 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.
Catherine Uretsky Publisher & Editor
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Al Uretsky Publisher & Sales Exec
September 2018
From Me To You... Technology is the answer to all our problems! We have phones that have more computing power than that with which we sent man to the moon, and devices that can turn on our lights and lock our doors. Need a phone number? Ask Siri! And that doesn’t even include the basics like appliances to wash our clothes and do our dishes. Yes we have it made in the shade.
That is until the power goes out. Anyone else hit by the latest round of storms? We were, big time. Our power was out for almost 24 hours. At first it was an adventure. I obviously needed to find a way to make coffee in the morning - but thanks to my outdoor grill I had some cowboy coffee going in under 15 minutes. Not quite as instantaneous as my 30 second Keurig and it was possibly the strongest cup of Joe I have drunk since leaving Europe. However, problem solved, I had my caffeine intake covered. Next on to more mundane tasks like work. Ah no internet. So I took the day off, it was a Saturday anyway and so what if my deadline was looming? I can play hookey for a day. What do I usually do on a day off? Well as I have already established, the internet was down so I turned to a good old fashioned book. Great. As I settled down in a comfy chair I began to feel a little uncomfortable. It was getting hot. Really hot. Oh that’s right, the air conditioning was down too. Hmm. The thermostat stubbornly refused to switch off and it mocked me as it gradually showed the temperature in the house coming level with my blood temperature.
distances by horse, cart and on foot, they also crossed what to me would be insurmountable obstacles. What made those men and women come up to the Grand Canyon or the Rocky Mountains and think, “Let’s keep going, there is something better on the other side.”? And then they did it. They crossed the obstacle and made it to the other side. Amazing. Once settled it was not easy going even then. Scorpions, snakes, not to mention the crippling heat. And they persevered. It makes me think twice about complaining when my indoor temperature spikes and my ice-cream starts to melt. Hang on, not the icecream! Thankfully we have friends who own a generator and had power, so they lent us the means to keep our fridge running until our power came back on. There was not enough juice to run the air conditioning, but I am thankful for small mercies. I am also thankful for the great ones, like the power coming back on in time to sleep in comfort. No matter how many times I fantasize about living off the grid and going back to simpler times, I know I am not strong enough to go all the way back. I could probably manage to clean my clothes and cook my meals over a fire, but I draw the line at losing Candy Crush. ;)
Catherine Uretsky
Editor, It’s A Grand Life Magazine info@estrellapublishing.com 623.594.9283
How did people survive before air conditioning? I know they did, I know that they deliberately lived in places like Arizona and Florida without the conveniences we rely on today. These people continuously fascinate me. Whenever I drive anywhere in America I marvel at the tenacity of the pioneers. Not only did they travel across great Estrella Publishing - It’s A Grand Life magazine
September 2018
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Home Sweet Home While spring is typically the busiest period in real estate, the fall months have become increasingly active for those who have more flexibility or are looking for a good deal. Many consumers are seeking real estate brokerages that make the home buying process less stressful by providing access to tech-based tools, data and the guidance of smart, local agents. “Savvy home buyers are utilizing technology and data to inform their home search, but are also demonstrating that they value working with an expert local agent who can offer on-the-ground expertise and help them get the best deal.” said Dario Cardile, Vice President, Growth Marketing at Owners.com. Cardile offers these tips for ways potential home buyers can utilize technology to simplify the real estate process. * Ensure that your finances are in order. To purchase the home of your dreams you’ll need the right loan. So before you begin your search,
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request a free annual copy of your credit report from the government-authorized AnnualCreditReport.com. Pay attention to the scores in your report, as the better your scores, the more likely you are to receive favorable terms and interest rates on your loan. * Explore the area before you get there. Whether it’s a local dog park, fun shops to visit on the weekend or a quaint bistro for a night out, your neighborhood needs extend beyond the walls of your home. And don’t be afraid to look up area attractions on social media and read some reviews. It’s a great way to learn what everyone is saying about your potential neighborhood. * Find the right agent. A great real estate agent can help you save time and money in the real estate process. An expert local agent can provide inside knowledge of the property and community, on-the-ground expertise, and help you strike the best deal to get into your dream home. The fall real estate market won’t wait for you, so start your planning now and begin your housing search with the power of technology at your fingertips.
September 2018
Peace On Earth
New Beginnings
“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens” (Ecclesiastes 3:1) Weather changes and season changes go together. The summer monsoons signal a relief from the heat, and at the same time bring the awesome power of the winds and the rains that quickly become a deluge. It is a treat to witness the power of this weather in our valley. We are drawn to our windows and step out on our patios to watch the fury of the wind and lightening while praying there will be no damage. And isn’t the rain a relief? I love how it revives the desert. The rain washes away the desert dust from the shrubs and restores the green. There is a sense of cleansing and refreshing. Along with this change comes the beginning of the new school year. Having been a teacher in my first career before becoming a pastor, I think I’ll always consider the start of school as the beginning of the year. January always felt like midyear to me. I find that people in the valley seem to have this same mindset. With the break in the heat, people emerge from their air-conditioned homes like they’ve been in a summer heat hibernation. The communities come alive. People are out walking, and children are riding bikes, skate boarding, and shooting baskets.
Estrella Publishing - It’s A Grand Life magazine
When John and I first moved to our community in June of 2010, it felt like we’d come to a ghost town. Where was everyone? Instead of prayer-walking the neighborhoods, I prayer-drove. After all, it was hot. The prompts for prayer increased when it cooled off and school started. I prayed for the people I saw out and about, for the children playing or waiting for buses, for the schools and the teachers, for traffic safety, for the clubs and classes beginning, and activities resuming. There was new life with new relationships and connections forming. There is a season for every activity. We’ve had a season of rest (heat hibernation) and we’re invited into a new beginning, a new normal. It’s more than weather change – it’s a lifestyle change. Will you make the most of it? Will you take hold of the opportunities of the season? People resolve to start, stop, or change things at the start of a new year. How about now? There is a similar new beginning. It’s a great time for changes in routine, decisions to learn something new, to join a new activity, to reconnect with friends, start a lunch club, or volunteer to serve. May God bless you in this new season. Submitted by Valerie Fairchild, pastor of Spirit Song church in Vistancia
September 2018
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Stay Active
You are never too old to take part in activities that enrich your physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. No matter your age, there is no better time than now to start. To help do just that, consider these tips from the Administration for Community Living: Be Well * If you don’t usually exercise, choose a lowimpact activity that you can do a little at a time. Walk for 10 minutes in the morning, sign up for a tai chi class or learn gentle stretches. * Exercising is less of a chore when you do it with people you enjoy. Gather a group of friends or join a class. * Good nutrition is vital. Keep an honest record of what you eat. If you have a condition like diabetes, consult your doctor before changing your diet. * Eating healthy foods and staying active may reduce physical health risks, and you also can exercise your mind by reading, playing games, taking a class or simply being social.
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Reinvent Yourself * Second or even third careers can be personally and financially rewarding. Determine whether you have the skills needed for something new. If not, seek out classes or training, and remember to ask whether financial assistance is available. * Express yourself through the arts. Learn to paint or draw, dust off those dancing shoes, take an acting class or finally write that novel. * Keep expanding your knowledge and growing by learning a new language or taking a computer class. Or, if you’re more an adventurous type, maybe you’ve always wanted to travel. Give Back * Consider using your experience to serve others. Volunteers meet a range of community needs, from mentoring at-risk youth to helping families recover from disasters. * Pick service activities that match your skills and interests. If you enjoy working with kids, contact a local school to talk about ways you can help. * If you want to help others more informally, consider helpful tasks like driving neighbors to appointments, babysitting for working parents or tutoring kids in your neighborhood. Visit oam.acl.gov to find more information and resources to engage at every age.
September 2018
Date Night
Most relationship experts agree that making time for date night is important, whether it’s the early days of a blossoming romance or decades into a comfortable marriage. Spending that valuable time together doesn’t have to be expensive as long as you take the time to make it special. Plan your next date with these ideas for low-cost experiences with the one you love: Share time outdoors. Except in the most extreme conditions, there’s always something to do outside and most of those activities are either free or relatively inexpensive. Whether it’s taking a stroll hand-inhand or planning a picnic at a scenic location, the exercise and fresh air can be good for your body and mind.
Dine on a dime. Although the days of a nickel burger are long gone, there are ways to curb your spending when you eat out. Many restaurants offer menus with smaller portions as well as promotional nights with discounts geared toward certain audiences. Some restaurants even offer daily discounts, as high as 10 percent off your total bill for AARP members. If you are not a member, it’s simple to sign up online. Master the movie schedule. Prime time at the theater can be pricey, but if your calendar is flexible, you can catch a show earlier in the day for a steep discount. Enjoy special engagements. Whether it’s a local sporting event or a musical performance by a group visiting your town, sharing a pastime that you’re passionate about is a good way to share a piece of your life and interests to help establish a deeper connection with a loved one. Don’t let ticket prices dissuade you. Take advantage of offers that may be available to you. Explore more tips and ideas to make the most of your relationships and everyday life, too, at AARPAdvantages.com.
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September 2018
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Furry Friends Despite the fact that cats are more prevalent as pets than dogs, only about one cat per every five dogs receives regular veterinary care. In fact, some research suggests that as many as 50 percent of cat owners don’t take their cats to the vet. There are a number of factors that contribute to limited veterinary visits for cats. According to a survey by Royal Canin, two-thirds of cat owners simply believe cats have fewer health issues than dogs. However, according to the American Association of Feline Practitioners, routine check-ups are vital for giving cats long and healthy lives. Cats age more rapidly than humans, and they are quite adept at hiding sickness and pain, making it difficult to know if there is something wrong that requires veterinary attention.
For example, up to one-third of cats over the age of 12 have some form of kidney disease. Managing the progression of the disease, if caught early, can be accomplished with a proper diagnosis and reduced-phosphorous diet. Obesity is also a common problem for cats that can lead to more severe health issues down the road. In fact, multiple studies indicate that more than half of the nation’s domestic cats are carrying more weight than they should. Another common cat ailment is urinary stones, which can be extremely painful and cannot normally be detected without professional evaluation. Regular visits to the vet can help assess your cat’s risk for developing stones and determine nutritional changes that may help prevent a problem. Vet visits are also an opportunity to let your veterinarian know about any behavior changes and implement preventive care measures, which can be more effective than reactive care once a problem is revealed.
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September 2018
Dem Bones
Overwhelmingly, people say that they want to stay independent and in their own home as they age. One way to ensure they can is to learn about fall risks and make changes to reduce their chances of falling. Because, while one in four older adults falls each year, there are ways to be prepared for the changes of aging in order to prevent falls. To prevent falls, follow these six simple steps. For additional advice about preventing falls, visit www.ncoa.org/FallsTips. Step 1: Find a good balance and exercise program As you age, it’s important to maintain balance, strength and flexibility. Contact your local senior center or Area Agency on Aging for information on programs that can help you achieve these goals. Review your options and find one that appeals to you. Step 2: Talk to your health care provider Have an open conversation with your health care provider about your fall concerns. Share your history of falls and ask for an assessment of your risk of falling again so you can come up with a plan proactively.
take medications as prescribed. Second, make sure you know the risks and take precautions when necessary. Step 4: Get vision and hearing checked annually Your eyes and ears are key for keeping you safely on your feet. Getting your vision and hearing checked each year by a health care professional is important, so you can update vision prescriptions and take any necessary measures to correct hearing loss. Step 5: Secure your home To keep your home safe you need to remove any tripping hazards like loose rugs or free cords. You should also increase lighting to improve visibility indoors and outdoors. Pay particular attention to stairs and consider installing grab bars or railings. Step 6: Talk with family members Falls affect all demographics and various ages. Talk with family members about your risks and concerns. Enlist their help as needed to secure your home and keep you safe. “A few simple steps can dramatically reduce your risk for falling no matter your age,” says Cameron. “By being proactive, you can live healthy and independently for longer.”
Step 3: Review medications with the pharmacist Some medications have side effects that can make it more likely for you to fall. First, always
Estrella Publishing - It’s A Grand Life magazine
September 2018
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Nutrition
Just about everyone feels like they could use a little extra pep in their day, that surge of energy to get things done and enjoy their favorite activities. This is especially true as we age. However, very few people actually feel as if they have the energy they need. The stress of modern life, poor sleep habits, consuming processed foods and less than optimal digestion are triggering a perfect storm for a human energy crisis. There are several simple ways to tune up your nutrition and lifestyle habits so you can feel better than ever. A great place to start is with your diet. “A healthy diet that is rich in plant foods, whole grains and lean proteins is always the starting point in reaching optimal health,” says Dr. Jacob Teitelbaum, an author and internist. “However, it is very difficult for us to get all of the nutrients we need from food alone. ” In addition to movement and a healthy diet, Teitelbaum shares things people in their 50s and 60s need to know to optimize their health and feel good. 1. Your digestive system changes as you age, so make sure it’s getting support. A healthy digestive tract is crucial for overall health. As we age, our digestive systems often need more support in order to properly break down food and absorb the nutrients our bodies need to function optimally, according to a study published in Oncotarget. To get the most nutrition from the food you eat, Dr. Teitelbaum recommends talking to your doctor about adding a plant-based enzyme supplement to support your digestive health.
best absorbed in the body when taken with a fat source, Dr. Teitelbaum suggests talking to your doctor about a supplement that has a combination of omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D. Also, be sure to talk to your doctor about other heart-healthy habits you can incorporate into your life. 3. Is your energy lagging? It may be a simple deficiency. As we age, we tend to accept at face value that having less energy just comes with the territory. Sometimes the solution is a simple matter of meeting our bodies’ nutritional needs. For example, one mineral that helps the body convert nutrients into energy is magnesium. When levels get low, it can interfere with your body’s ability to access its energy stores, causing the body to work harder, as shown in a study published in the Journal of Nutrition. To address your needs and support your health, always talk to your healthcare practitioner about adding nutritional supplements to your daily routine.
2. Small things can make a big difference for heart health. Getting an adequate supply of omega-3 fatty acids along with vitamin D may support cardiovascular health. Because vitamin D is 12 Estrella Publishing - It’s A Grand Life magazine
September 2018
Make it Med
Just like forward-thinking culinary artists, many at-home chefs seek out the next trendy flavor to provide friends and family gathered around the table. When pondering which trend you’ll dive into in the future, consider incorporating tastes from an especially influential international location - the Mediterranean Sea region. Considered by the experts at Les Dames d’Escoffier International in the organization’s 2018 Trends Report to be one of the most influential parts of the world on the American food scene, flavors from the Mediterranean Sea focus on a diet heavy on fruits, vegetables, grains, beans, seeds and nuts. Because the fare is typically lighter, small bites and salads such as this Tomato, Feta and Basil Salad provide easy-to-prepare versions of Mediterranean cuisine. Incorporating vegetables (tomatoes and basil) along with the salty, milky flavors of feta cheese makes the salad a distinctly Mediterranean dish.
Estrella Publishing - It’s A Grand Life magazine
Tomato, Feta and Basil Salad Servings: 15-20 8 medium size tomatoes, sliced into 1/8-inch strips 1 block (8 ounces) feta cheese, sliced into 1/8inch pieces 2 small packages fresh basil, leaves picked off stems 3 teaspoons sea salt 2 teaspoons fresh ground pepper 1/4 cup olive oil On large platter, arrange slices of tomato and feta so they overlap. Place basil leaf between each tomato and Feta slice. Repeat. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Drizzle with olive oil. Serve immediately.
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Legal Advice HEALTH CARE POWERS OF ATTORNEY
The medical healthcare power of attorney identifies an agent, such as a trusted family member or friend, who can give consent to medical treatment if you cannot. If insurance requires transfer to a skilled nursing facility before going home from the hospital, your agent can arrange that for you. Different from other states, the Arizona allows you to authorize your health care agent to follow your instructions for burial or cremation. Otherwise, when there is no surviving spouse, all of the children or other family members may have to be consulted.
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Another difference from other states is the mental healthcare power of attorney which helps avoid costly court intervention when there is mental illness, brain injury, dementia or Alzheimer’s. If a person does not have these healthcare powers of attorney, the court must give authority to act. An attorney is needed for the patient and a different attorney for the petitioner. After a court investigation, a hearing is held in open court— in about 45 days after a petition is filed. Time, money and privacy is saved by appointing an agent through healthcare powers of attorney. Sharon Ravenscroft, Esq., The Cavanagh Law Firm, PA, Sun City and Phoenix offices, (623) 815-7451 or Sravenscroft@CavanaghLaw. com. Sharon’s practice focuses on Wills, trusts, domestic partnership agreements and premarital agreements, probate and trust administration. For more information www.sharonravenscroft.com. Submitted by Sharon Ravenscroft, Esq.
September 2018
Puzzles & Games
Sudoku for September
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Sudoku Solution 8
Numbers from 1-9 must appear only once in each row, column and box. Good Luck! Solution is on our website www.EstrellaPublishing.com
On Our Cover
we have Hank the runner-up in our Cutest Pets in Sun City Grand competition. Congratulations on your cover Hank! Next month we will have the competition winner on the cover, so stay tuned.
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September 2018
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DIY Tools
which present safety hazards. Inspect batteries regularly for signs of damage, such as crushing, cuts or punctures.
Lithium-ion batteries have become quite common due to their efficiency, energy storage capacity, durability and safety. These batteries’ higher energy potential in a smaller battery makes them ideal for cordless power tools, but higher energy density also means higher potential for damage when misused. While they offer great versatility and portability, batteries also need to be handled properly to prevent potential dangers. Before operating a battery-powered tool, heed this advice from the experts at the Power Tool Institute. 1. Know that batteries are not interchangeable. It’s important to only use batteries and chargers from the original power tool manufacturer. 2. Aftermarket batteries may not be tested to the same standards as original manufacturer batteries and therefore come with additional hazards that can result in fire, property damage or personal injury. 3. Avoid contact with metal objects, such as keys, coins, screws and nails, and liquids,
4. Never modify, disassemble or tamper with a battery. The performance of damaged or modified batteries can be unpredictable and dangerous. 5. Be mindful of abnormal battery behaviors such as failure to fully charge or hold a charge, overheating, a noticeable drop in performance, liquid leakage from the battery or melted plastic anywhere on the pack. These are indications of an internal problem. 6. Do not immerse the battery or allow any fluids to flow inside. Conductive liquid ingress can cause damage resulting in fire or explosion. Store your battery in a cool, dry place, away from combustible and flammable items. 7. When disposing of a lithium-ion battery, never throw it into the trash or a municipal recycling bin, as it can become a fire hazard. Instead, take it to a local recycling center or place it in a receptacle specifically designed for recycling batteries. For more information on safe battery use, storage and disposal for power tools, visit TakeChargeOfYourBattery.com
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September 2018
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September 2018
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