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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 Talia Uretsky, Assistant Editor Al Uretsky, Publisher and Sales Executive 623.398.5541 info@EstrellaPublishing.com
Well, we finally made it! As you read this, we will be days away from one of the most contentious elections this country has ever seen. Whichever side you are on, I sincerely hope you use your voice and vote on or before November 5th. It matters. You can be happy or sad at the final tally, but if you do not vote then you have no right to voice an opinion about the results.
As a UK citizen I am not able to vote in this country, but due to a recent rule change I was able to cast my vote for the first time in the latest UK elections. I cannot tell you how thrilled I was to finally be able to have a say in the future of my country.
I am always amazed at the people I talk to who say they don’t vote. They think their vote does not count. Or assume they know the outcome, so they don’t bother to go to the polls. I can tell you with certainty, that is not true. As Lenny Kravitz famously sang, “It ain’t over ‘till it’s over.”
Cast your mind back in time to the late 1990’s, a blockbuster movie was set to hit the screen — Titanic. I resisted the ads and trailers. Pushed back at the people who swooned over Leo and Kate’s love story. Mocked those who called it the best movie they had
DROWSY DRIVING IS IMPAIRED DRIVING. STAY AWAKE! STAY ALIVE!
seen in years. Why would I want to go to all the effort of driving to the theater, fighting the crowds, (remember when there were crowds at the movies?), pay for a ticket and watch something, when I knew how it would turn out? I knew that the boat was touted as an unsinkable vessel. I knew that there was a class war on board and that the majority of those saved were from first class. I knew that in the end the majority of the characters would die a horrible death — so why bother?
Well I eventually did see the movie and I was wrong about so much. It was a fantastic story, well acted, beautifully told and stunningly filmed. And I loved it. I cried my eyes out but it was worth the effort.
Do you see the parallel I am making here? I am not saying that the future of our country is as trite as a movie, but it is something you should make the effort to participate in. For your future.
Catherine Uretsky Editor, Main Street Magazine info@estrellapublishing.com
623.398.5541
On Our Cover
InsideOut Cleaning was born from a vision to transform homes from the inside out, much like the way we believe God transforms lives. The name InsideOut Cleaning perfectly encapsulates this mission. My name is Naya, and my family and I have called Verrado home for over six years now. We relocated from Seattle, WA, seeking sunshine and the warmth of being closer to family. In Seattle, I balanced a corporate job while being part of InsideOut Cleaning.
With two young children, including a four-month-old baby, and a new home, I hadn’t planned on launching InsideOut Cleaning in Arizona immediately. However, after experiencing unsatisfactory results from various cleaning services, my business partner and I decided it
was time to bring our expertise to Verrado. In March 2019, InsideOut Cleaning officially opened its doors here, committed to providing top-notch cleaning services that truly make a difference.
Our experienced and background-checked teams provide customizable services, tailoring cleaning plans to fit your specific needs. Plus, with our 100% satisfaction guarantee, we promise to return and make things right if you’re not completely happy with our work. At InsideOut Cleaning, you have nothing to lose and a beautifully clean home to gain. Come experience the InsideOut Cleaning difference! We would love to serve you and your family!
~ Naya Croghan, Owner of InsideOut Cleaning, Verrado resident
Porcelain Veneers/Cosmetic Bonding
Tooth-Colored Composite Fillings
All Crowns & Dentures Made Using A High-Quality, LOCAL Laboratory
Ortho Provided By Olson Orthodontics
Implants Placed By Periodontist
Philips ZOOM!® In-Office Whitening
VELscope® Vx Oral Cancer Screening
Certified Invisalign™ Office
Laser Dentistry & Gum Therapy
Convenient Appointments
Flexible Financing
Kid-Friendly Office
Cook With Zona
Maple Bacon Brussel Sprouts
Thanksgiving is a wonderful celebration, filled with traditions that bring families and friends together to enjoy what we love most of all…FOOD! While the star of the feast is undoubtedly the turkey, the side dishes often take a backseat, despite their crucial role in creating a memorable meal. These often-overlooked accompaniments deserve more recognition. This Thanksgiving, we’re going to shift our focus and make our side dishes a star! Our goal is to have your family and friends begging you to bring this dish to every family event in the future! The combination of maple syrup and bacon is one of the most underrated pairings of all time. Your friends and family will be drooling over these brussel sprouts, so be prepared to forward them this recipe! If you have any recipes you’d like to share with your community email me at ArizonaCooks71@gmail.com to be featured in the magazine!
Prep time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 25 mins | Total time: 35 mins | Yields: 6-8 servings
Ingredients
8 slices of thick-cut bacon
2 lbs brussel sprouts
⅛ tsp smoked paprika
⅛ tsp cayenne pepper
½ cup dried, unsweetened cranberries
¼ cup chicken stock
¼ cup maple syrup
Salt and pepper to taste
Blue Line Painting
Steps
1. In a large cast-iron skillet, cook the bacon oven medium-high until crispy, 6 to 8 minutes. Remove the bacon from the skillet and drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Once cooled, rough chop the bacon into chunks.
2. Wash the brussel sprouts, trim the stem, and cut in half lengthwise. Remove any yellowed or blemished outer leaves.
3. Add the Brussels sprouts to the skillet, stirring well to coat with the bacon grease. Reduce the heat to medium and cook, without stirring, until the sprouts start to brown and caramelize, about 6 minutes. Stir in the salt and cayenne, and continue to cook until the Brussels sprouts are just tender, 6 to 8 minutes more.
4. Stir in the cranberries, chicken stock, and maple syrup. (If you don’t have a big sweet tooth, I recommend adding the maple syrup, little by little.)
5. Cook for 3 minutes, stirring to coat the Brussels sprouts. Add the cooked bacon and stir to combine. Serve immediately. Enjoy!
We love to see our neighbors’ delicious creations, so send us a picture of your sweet and spicy Maple Bacon Brussel Sprouts or tag us on social media @EstrellaPublishing.
The Bug Guy
Turkey Day Terrors: When Pests Crash Your Phoenix Feast
As Thanksgiving approaches in the West Valley of Phoenix, residents are gearing up for a day of gratitude, family gatherings, and enough food to feed a small army. But while you’re busy basting that bird and whipping up grandma’s secret stuffing recipe, uninvited guests may be plotting their own holiday invasion.
Welcome to the wild world of Thanksgiving pest control, where the battle between man and critter reaches its annual crescendo. In the West Valley, where the desert meets suburbia, our creepy-crawly neighbors are always looking for a reason to party – and your perfectly roasted turkey might as well be a billboard screaming, “All you can eat buffet!”
Local pest control expert, Barry “The Bug Buster” Johnson, has seen it all. “Last Thanksgiving, I got a panicked call from a lady in Goodyear. She’d just pulled her pumpkin pie out of the oven when a family of scorpions emerged from her oven mitts, doing the macarena. Talk about spicing up dessert!”
But it’s not just scorpions getting in on the action. Ants have been known to form conga lines from your backyard to the kitchen, each carrying a microscopic “We’re Thankful for Leftovers” sign. And let’s not forget the rats, who’ve been spotted in homes wearing tiny pilgrim hats and attempting to carve the turkey with their incisors.
Even the birds are getting bold. One Litchfield Park resident reported a flock of pigeons tapping on her window in perfect rhythm to “We Will Rock You,” presumably demanding their share of the corn bread.
So, what’s a West Valley resident to do? Larry suggests a few pre-feast precautions:
1. Inspect your oven for scorpion squatters before preheating.
2. Set up a decoy turkey in the backyard to distract wandering wildlife.
3. Train your dog to bark “gobble gobble” to scare off potential pest invaders.
Remember, folks, in the West Valley, we don’t just give thanks – we defend our feasts with the ferocity of a Phoenix sun in July. So this Thanksgiving, as you gather around the table, raise a glass to family, friends, and the pest control heroes keeping your stuffing safe from six-legged saboteurs. And if all else fails, there’s always next year’s traditional Thanksgiving takeout.
Submitted by Larry Cash, of Estrella Mountain Pest Control
Sports Desk
The Heisman Blind Spot
In the glimmering world of college football, one award stands above the rest: The Heisman Trophy. Given yearly to the most outstanding player in NCAA football, the Heisman is meant to recognize excellence across all positions. Yet, a closer look at its recipients reveals a startling bias – quarterbacks have become the de facto favorite, which often overshadows equally deserving players in other roles.
The Heisman has been awarded 87 times. Of those, 35 have gone to quarterbacks, including 18 of the last 22 winners. This means that since the year 2000, the award has gone to a separate position 3 times. This favoritism raises questions about the award’s true representation of overall excellence in the sport.
The reason behind this quarterback centric approach is multi-faceted. Quarterbacks often accumulate the most impressive statistical records, throwing thousands of yards and dozens of touchdowns each season. They are the focal point of most offensive plays, making their contributions highly visible. Moreover, the media tends to spotlight quarterbacks making them the face of their teams and, by extension, top candidate for the individual honors.
However, this focus on quarterbacks overlooks the invaluable contributions of other positions. Explosive running backs, game-changing wide receivers, and dominant defensive players can profoundly impact their team’s success. An example of this is star Running Back on Boise State, Ashton Jeanty, who might as well be called “Mr. 1st down” after averaging 10.8 yards per carry thus far in the season.
Or take the case of Ndamukong Suh in 2009. The Nebraska defensive tackle had one of the most dominant seasons in college football history, recording 12 sacks and 24 tackles for loss. Despite single handedly altering opposing teams game plans, Suh finished fourth in Heisman voting behind 3 (you guessed it) quarterbacks.
The Heisman’s QB bias not only diminishes the accomplishments of non-quarterback players but also perpetuates a narrow view of football excellence. It sends a message that only those under center can truly be considered the “most outstanding” players in college football. Until such changes are implemented, the Heisman Trophy risks becoming little more than a “best quarterback” award – very different from the comprehensive recognition of excellence it was intended to be.
Submitted by Ross Uretsky
DISCOVER SENIOR LIVING AT ROBSON RESERVE
At Robson Reserve at PebbleCreek, an award-winning independent and assisted living community, you’ll discover a redefined retirement lifestyle. Come experience our resort-style amenities, hospitality, and exciting events and activities. Join us for a personal tour and a complimentary lunch! Call 623.471.5665 to make your reservation. Host your next club meeting with us! Call 623.471.5665 for details.
The Doctor Is In
Ask Dr. Jen:
The #1 Ingredient for Success, Part 2
Last month, we talked about using lack of confidence as an excuse for lack of success. This month, we’re discussing where fear comes from and how to reframe it to get out of your own way.
Fear is a feeling, and feelings ALWAYS come from thoughts. Some people feel fear when they see a spider; others don’t. The difference is the thoughts that occur to them when they see the spider. Those thoughts lead to feelings, which then generate behavior in response to the spider. But fear is just a feeling, not a fact, and you have to learn to put a different feeling in its place: Confidence. Fear happens when your brain plays tricks on you. It starts with your underlying self-limiting beliefs, which generate objections in your mind. You have to CHOOSE to see things differently. Instead of letting fear stop you, reframe it as “False Evidence Appearing Real.” Fear is a liar. Think about it: most of the things we worry about never actually happen.
Believe it or not, you were born with a decent amount of confidence. How do I know this? How did you
learn to walk, talk, ride a bike and tie your shoes? You did those things because you had some level of belief in yourself that you could. Otherwise, you would have never even tried. Somewhere along the way, you lost some of your confidence. To overcome this, you have to change the way things occur to you.
The truth is we don’t have control over the thoughts that pop into our heads. For example, if I said to you, “Hey, I’ll give you $1,000 if you do NOT picture a pink elephant in your head right now.” What did you just envision? It’s the same with negative automatic thoughts. They’re like unwanted guests: You may not be able to control when they pop in, but you can decide when they leave. It’s how we sort and dispose of our negative thoughts that makes or breaks us.
Have a question for Dr. Jen? Email it to AskTheDoc@EstrellaPublishing.com.
DISCLAIMER: Material is for informational purposes and not intended to be a substitute for evaluation or treatment by a licensed professional. Material is copyrighted and may only be reproduced with written permission of Dr. Bellingrodt.
Submitted by Jennifer Paweleck-Bellingrodt, Psy.D. Licensed Clinical Psychologist
Money Matters
With the presidential election just a few weeks away, the public is naturally interested in not just the outcome but what the results will mean for issues of national importance. As a citizen, you likely share these concerns — but how about as an investor? After the votes are counted — or even before — should you make some moves in anticipation of possible changes in policy?
Let’s look at the big picture first, through the lens of history. The financial markets have performed well — and at times, not so well — under Democratic and Republican presidents alike. And the same is true about which party controlled Congress.
While it might be an overstatement to say that decisions made in Washington have no effect on the markets, it’s not always so easy to draw a direct line between what happens there and how the markets perform. For one thing, political candidates often make promises that are not fulfilled, or, if they are, have different results than intended. Also, other institutions can have a significant impact on the markets. For example, the Federal Reserve, which controls shortterm interest rates, can certainly affect many market sectors. And there will always be external events, such
as foreign conflicts and even natural disasters, that can make short-term impacts on the investment world. So, rather than making changes to your portfolio in anticipation of what might happen if certain candidates get elected, or even in response to actual policy changes, look to other factors to drive your investment decisions.
These factors should include the following:
• Your goals – You probably have short- and long-term goals you’d like to achieve.
• Your risk tolerance – All investments carry some type of risk, but you need to be comfortable with the overall risk level of your investments.
• Your time horizon – Where you are in life is an important consideration when investing.
• Your needs for liquidity – As you invest, you’ll need to maintain an adequate amount of cash and cash equivalents in your holdings.
In any case, when it comes to investing, you may want to pay less attention to what names are on the ballot — and instead “vote” for the longer-term strategies that reflect your needs and goals.
Submitted by Brian Polk, Financial Advisor, of Edward Jones, Verrado resident
Casita, Gourmet Kitchen, 55+
Open Enrollment
The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) which runs from October 15 to December 7 is here, and with it comes a wave of changes that could make this year one of the most challenging yet for beneficiaries. But navigating AEP doesn’t have to be stressful. Here’s how you can prepare and make the most of this crucial time:
1. Review Your Current Plan
Start by reviewing your Annual Notice of Change letter, which arrives in September. It will outline key changes to your current plan, including costs, doctor, pharmacy networks and other additional benefits. Knowing these changes can help you decide whether your current plan still meets your needs.
2. Compare Your Options
Medicare Advantage and Part D prescription drug plans can vary significantly. Use this time to compare plans and assess how they meet your prescription needs, preferred doctor networks, medical facilities and budget. Doing so could save you money and ensure you’re getting the coverage that best fits your health and financial situation.
3. Use Available Resources
If comparing plans feels overwhelming, there are resources available to help. Platforms like eHealth provide easy-to-use tools that allow you to compare a wide range of plans from top insurance companies, both online and over the phone. According to a recent study of 67,884 user sessions nationwide, eHealth found that Medicare Advantage enrollees who compared their current Medicare Advantage plan with available 2024 plans using eHealth’s platform could be saving an average of $1,100 per year on medical bills and prescription drugs with a lower cost plan.
4. Get Help from a Professional - For Free
Licensed insurance agents can provide personalized assistance at no cost to you. They’re knowledgeable about different plans and can help match you with one that suits your needs. An eHealth survey of more than 2,100 Medicare Advantage enrollees conducted in March found that beneficiaries who work with an agent feel more confident in their choice, with 66% feeling “very confident” in their plan selection. And remember, agents are paid the same for similar plan types and there is no obligation to enroll. Their goal is to help you find the best fit for you.
5. Don’t Procrastinate
It’s tempting to delay deciding, but waiting until the last minute can lead to rushed choices that may not be in your best interest. Schedule time early in the AEP period to review your options, consult with an agent if needed, and make a confident decision.
This year, tackle your insurance plan coverage with confidence. To learn more, compare plans and find help from a professional licensed insurance agent and benefits advisor please visit eHealth at www.ehealth.com or call 844-373-9751, TTY 711
Hometown Dentist
Dear Dentist - I was diagnosed with sleep apnea but I don’t want to wear a CPAP machine. Are there any other options?
Answer:
Sleep apnea is a potentially serious sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts, which decreases the quality of restful sleep and REM sleep. Sleep apnea is commonly thought to be related to mostly overweight men, but it affects both men and women of all body types and even children. This is due to the fact that our craniofacial growth is crucial to keeping our airway the proper size and shape.
The short term effects are daytime sleepiness, headaches, decreased libido and problems focusing. Long term effects are increased rates of hypertension, stroke, heart disease, and even death. The average person that fails to treat sleep apnea can expect to live
10-15 years less on average. CPAP machines create a positive air pressure while sleeping to stop sleep apnea and are extremely effective, however the compliance is very low. (In the case of central sleep apnea, which is occurring due to a nuerological issue, ONLY a CPAP is effective.)
Alternatively, dentist can offer two types of appliances that are easy to wear consistently. The first is a mandibular advancement appliance that gently keeps the lower jaw postured forward keeping the airway open. Two examples of these appliances are made by Prosomnus and Somnomed. Next is a specialized orthodontic appliance designed to encourage remodeling of the upper jaw and face, thus permanently treating sleep apnea. These can be successfully used in adults and children as well. Two examples of these appliances are made by Homeoblock and Vivos.
Training in treating sleep and airway is not commonly offered in dental schools, so please look for a dentist with experience in these areas.
Submitted by Dr. Matthew Kennedy, Mainstreet Dental
Puzzle Time
This samurai sudoku puzzle is a great way to engage the brain and help develop logic skills. To solve this Samurai puzzle use standard sudoku rules for every 9x9 grid: each digit from 1 to 9 can only appear once in every row, column and 3x3 box. Solutions are on our website www.EstrellaPublishing.com
