Main Street 12 17

Main Street

December 2017

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From Me To You...

Welcome! to the December edition of Main Street magazine!

‘Tis the season of Joy and Giving. Anyone else feel like ‘tis the season of stuff? Buying stuff, giving stuff, getting stuff. So. Much. Stuff.

The winter season, whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Festivus or nothing at all should be all about spreading joy and love.

Seems to me it has become a season of how much you can buy. There were a few years when people fought back, forcing retailers to delay or even cease Thanksgiving Day sales.

Now we are back to selling as much as possible as soon as possible. This year the Black Friday sales started at the beginning of November!

How about this for an idea? Instead of giving things to kids who will love the present for a moment then push it aside for the next gift, giving an experience? Something as simple as tickets to a movie or as elaborate as a tip to a far off destination. Those are the gifts that will leave memories that will last a lifetime.

If your family is anything like mine there is nothing these children need. Oh there is plenty

they want, don’t get me wrong. But nothing they need.

Now if you have smaller children I understand the need to have something to open and play with immediately. Those young ones will not appreciate or even remember the experiences anyway.

My youngest son recently asked when he could visit relatives in Europe and I pointed out our 3 month trip there in the past. He made the case that as he was only 4 he had no real memories of that trip. I have vivid memories of him on that trip myself. Him having a tantrum in a field in Scotland, him having a tantrum in the Louvre, him having a tantrum at the Tower of London. OK I see his point. So there is one thing I need to start saving miles for.

You don’t need to push the boat out that far.

Some of our favorite family memories revolve around inexpensive activities. Apple picking at a local farm, hiking up Piestewa Peak, participating in packing food for the homeless events... you get the idea.

This month I challenge you to find gifts that keep giving. It is certainly easier to go online and click your way through the season, but the rewards of memories shared with loved ones is certainly worth that extra time and effort.

All of us here at Estrella Publishing wish you a happy and healthy holiday season. Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Blessings to one and all!

Catherine Uretsky

Editor Main Street magazine info@estrellapublishing.com 623-594-9283 Don’t forget to visit our website for puzzle solutions, restaurant reviews, coupons and business directories! www.EstrellaPublishing.com

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December 2017

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.

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

Main Street

Al Uretsky Publisher & Sales Exec

December 2017

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De-Stress

For many, the pressure of the holiday season can be enough to wear away the glitter and magic. Some 62 percent of American adults define their stress as “very or somewhat” elevated over the holidays, says research cited by Harvard Medical School’s Department of Neurobiology. But that old chestnut doesn’t have to be true for you. When you plan and keep your expectations reasonable, the season can unfold at an even and enjoyable pace, making room for new, happy memories.

That’s doubly true when you’re entertaining. When you’re well-prepared, your event can create holiday cheer and goodwill and even strengthen bonds between friends and family. Consider how these entertaining tips can help you stage a minimalstress, maximum-impact event at which your guests can relax this holiday season.

spirit of the season, consider hiring younger family members to help with the more grueling tasks.

3. Bring on (then freeze) the figgy pudding. Let’s face it, many dishes taste just as good or better when prepared ahead of time and frozen or simply kept in the fridge until they’re ready to serve.

4. Save time on sides. Instead of diverting your time peeling and mashing potatoes or shredding cheese, turn to refrigerated side dishes.

5. Deck the halls simply. Fresh, sweet-smelling pine boughs tied with red ribbon can be tucked into containers throughout your home, while inexpensive or vintage colored glass bulbs look festive when wound with strings of white twinkle lights and placed in translucent bowls.

1. Make your list, check it twice. Assign tasks to different days leading up to the event so you can stay on task.

6. Tidy the workshop. Assign one room to be the catch-all when company is coming, then keep that door closed while entertaining.

2. Enlist elves. It’s likely unrealistic to expect yourself to single-handedly master all the cooking, cleaning and mingling your event will involve. In the

When you make a conscious attempt to reduce the busywork, you’re more apt to feel warm and happy about the memories you’ve created.

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December 2017

On Our Cover

Our team is the Killer Bees. We are a club youth flag football traveling team. I started the club team as a way to get closer to my son Lucas, we were looking for ways to spend more time with each other. So when I saw a chance to engage in an activity that he already liked I jumped at the opportunity. After spending four seasons coaching him in a local flag football league I figured it was time to see what else could we accomplish. I had a really good team at the time and I wanted to play better teams outside of our league. I went to a flag football tournament at the Cardinal’s Stadium back in April 2016 to check out the teams. Flag Football tournaments are typically held in September, November-January, and March-June timeframes.

These tournaments are held in various locations around the Phoenix area and there are a few that are held in in nearby states of Californian and Nevada. Age groups are from 6U, 8U, 10U, 12U, 14U year old divisions (coed). Some tournaments separate the age divisions into competitive and recreational divisions based on skill and experience of the team. Dozens of some of the best teams in the nation participate.

I wanted to take my team to one of these tournaments. However, I learned very quickly that the teams in these tournaments were really good and that I needed to supplement my team with more talent. That is when I started reaching out to other kids from our league and eventually throughout the west valley (predominately Buckeye, Goodyear, and Litchfield Park). I even had other coaches join in the venture. Three people in particular, Coach Rob Tolliver, Coach Vern Kahalehoe, Coach Matt Hunt and Paula Williams, have been instrumental in the success of our team and this program. Our first official practice as a club was in June 2016 and our first tournament was in September 2016 where we placed 2nd in the 12 and under (12U) recreational age group.

The kids that play on our team are from various sports programs. We have kids that currently play in volleyball, baseball, basketball, flag and tackle football leagues. All of them play with us because they love football. We take advantage of this love to drive them to excellence; not just in the skillset, but in being good teammates and friends.

The comradery alone is what keeps these teams together. That chemistry they build is that unseen factor that is crucial to the teams achieving success out on the field.

Last season our 12U teams were purely recreational. We lost a lot of games, but our kids kept getting better and better. This lead to our kids Main Street

and coaches gaining much experience; more than what we ever gained in league play. It paid off.

For the first tournament of the 2017/2018 season, 7000FT Tournament in Flagstaff in September 2017, our 12U team won their first tournament in the 12U recreational division! That team has now been upgraded to a competitive team that will play in the much harder competitive 12U divisions in tournaments. I am very proud of what the kids, coaches and this organization has achieved in such a very short period of time.

As an organization, we continue to grow. We currently have a 14U, 12U comp team and we have started another 12U recreational team. I would love to have a team in all age groups. We are always looking at bringing in new players and coaches, and entire teams to play with us.

Flag football is becoming very popular as it is a non-contact sport, but a means to still play football.

It is also a good program to help transition and prepare kids for tackle football. Some parents put their kids immediately into tackle when they are clearly not ready skill wise. This can lead to the kid getting discouraged from the game and/or hurt. I encourage parents with kids that have never played tackle football to play in a flag football league first.

I also encourage parents whose kids currently play in a tackle league to play flag as it is an excellent arena to sharpen their receiving or quarterback skills while not having to worry about getting hit (tackled). Especially if your kid is on a tackle team that does not pass much or running the ball is the majority of their game.

So how do you start? If your kid is interested in playing in flag football tournaments, either 5 on 5 or 7 on 7; if you are interested in coaching on one of our current teams or interested in starting a team in a different age group, contact Coach Donnell at 623-826-4630 or email me at dlcrush@aol.com

December 2017

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The Doctor Is In Cancer and Inflammaging

Chronic inflammation and cancer go hand-inhand. The older we get, the more inflammation we develop, the greater our risk of cancer. Normal inflammation is a healthy response to repair tissue or fight infection, but in many people this process is disrupted. Aging is associated with low-grade chronic inflammatory state referred to “inflammaging”, which is abnormal and unhealthy and does not occur secondary to any chronic infection.

Our understanding of inflammaging is coming into focus. A variety of things we have done to improve and prolong life have inadvertently triggered the chronic inflammatory process responsible for triggering illnesses associated with aging.

Alterations in our food supply, exposure to medical therapies, and other environmental factors are believed to be major sources of the inflammaging that fuels the risk of cancer as well as other ageassociated disorders.

Interestingly, a loss of biodiversity of intestinal bacteria and an imbalance of intestine bacteria (called SIBO) further worsens inflammaging through a variety of mechanisms (bacterial translocation, altered parasympathetic function, autoimmunity). Medical interventions such as antacids and antibiotics, general anesthesia, and even colonoscopies increase the likelihood of developing inflammaging from SIBO.

There is a dramatic increase in the development of breast (3.5), prostate (36), lung (28) and colorectal cancer (12-fold increase) after age 70 compared to before age 50.

One source occurred with the industrialization of the global foods. Grain-fed meats, farm-raised fish, and vegetable oils (soy, corn, safflower and sunflower oils) in food resulted in an inflammationproducing imbalance of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids.

Fortunately, much can be done to lessen inflammaging and the risk of developing the diseases of aging such as cancer. Start by switching to grass fed meat and wild fish, avoid foods containing vegetable oils, supplement with omega-3 (fish oil, nuts), seek treatment for overgrowth of intestinal bacteria, and limit antibiotics and medical procedures to the minimum necessary. © 2017. Nemechek Consultative Medicine, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Submitted by by Dr. Patrick M. Nemechek, D.O. Verrado resident

Inflammaging is the primary process for triggering virtually all aging related disorders (cancer, diabetes, heart disease, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, degenerative arthritis), and blood markers of inflammation (CRP, IL-6) correlate with the risk of developing these conditions. Without inflammaging people would not develop these conditions as they age.

90% of cancers are felt to be the consequence of inflammaging, such as breast cancer also has a strong connection between inflammation and malignancy. High inflammation (measured by IL-6) increases the risk of developing of breast cancer, risk of progression, developing metastatic disease, and a poor prognosis.

The inflammation accompanying aging is the most significant risk factor for cancer development, with the majority of cases diagnosed after the age of 65.

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December 2017

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Main Street

December 2017

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December 2017

Life As A Caregiver Being someone’s caregiver means more than just taking care of them. Oh sure, preparing their meals, keeping them clean & healthy, administering meds, working to keep their minds active… those are all very important duties. And can be exhausting. But being someone’s caregiver also means being their advocate. Fighting for their rights if those have been lessened or diminished in some way. And constantly staying current on the latest discoveries or ‘remedies’ that can improve their life. It is up to the caregiver to BE that advocate for them. Their voice.

~ Everyone is at a much higher risk if their immediate family member (mother or father) had it and by the year 2040, it is projected that over 100 million people will have the disease throughout the world! Dementia is NOT a disease. It is a group of symptoms that are associated with a decline of thinking, reasoning and/or remembering. It is an “umbrella” over other memory-related issues.

I belonged to an Alzheimer’s support group in my community when I first arrived in Arizona (where I live full-time). It was helpful in the beginning, but once I discovered I was further along in my preparations than most of the others (legal affairs, doctors, daily routine, knowledge), I found I could get more specific help and information in other places. But….in starting this journey it was VERY helpful and I highly recommend to everyone that they start with a local support group first.

Through this Rotary effort, my hope is to bring about awareness of the disease(who is at risk, why, what can be done to prolong the onset, what can be done to manage the affects, etc) and to raise money for continued research such as ongoing clinical trials and medical breakthroughs.

One of the local agencies that specialize in services for individuals with Alzheimer’s and dementia in Arizona has become a favorite of mine: Benevilla.

Not only did my mom attend day care services from them when I first moved here, but I have since supported them financially and as a volunteer because of the extraordinary work they do. And the network of caring and knowledgeable people there provide a great deal of support for someone like me. Giving back to them was something I could do for the good of the good.

But the thing I am most proud of is my involvement in Rotary and our Rotary Alzheimer’s/Dementia Initiative project that I started in my community.

Arizona certainly has the demographic for being at the forefront of Alzheimer’s research and specialized programs. And as we baby-boomers age, the population of those afflicted with Alzheimer’s and dementia will soar in the next 20+ years! Here are just some of the staggering statistics:

Alzheimer’s IS a disease and is the most common form of dementia. It is most-often hereditary and sadly, to date, is terminal and without a cure!

But my concern and focus are also on the future.

MY future….and hopefully yours! I want very much to know all that I can so that my chances of having Alzheimer’s are kept at a minimal since I am in that high-risk group. It is also important to recognize that there are dangerous and false medicines within the world of pharmaceuticals…things you see and hear on tv and at the drug store that declare “this” will improve memory or “that” will cure memory loss. Be careful!! Farma stands to make a ton of money from those supposed wonder drugs.

In my last article, I shared with you natural supplements and vitamins that have been PROVEN to delay symptoms if taken as part of a healthy overall diet and lifestyle.

Unfortunately, there is no quick fix or wonder pill to take for Alzheimer’s. Not yet. But we mustn’t give up. Not EVER!

- Submitted by Kathy Linton, W Valley resident

~ According to the Alzheimer’s Association, 5.4 million people have been diagnosed with the disease in the United States to date ~ 27 million have been diagnosed world-wide ~ Approximately 1-in-10 people over the age of 65 now suffer from Alzheimer’s ~ Women have a much higher risk than men…almost 2-3 times higher Main Street

December 2017

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Furry Friends With the Holiday season now upon us, here are some creative and thoughtful ways in which you can save time, enjoy the season and support animal rescue…

1. If you love the Holidays but don’t care for wrapping gifts, Community Paws can help! Our talented team of Santa Paws helpers will gift wrap your precious parcels with perfection. To learn more, please visit www.CommunityPaws. org or email info@communitypaws.org and we can arrange a time just for you!

2. Are you looking for that special gift for the animal lover in your life? Just in time for the Holidays, Community Paws will be releasing our very own Coloring Book! This heartwarming book will feature beautiful photos of our rescue dogs and their courageous stories.

Stay connected with us on social media for our anticipated release date.

3. Shopping on Amazon this Holiday season?

Consider selecting ‘Community Paws’ as your charity when you shop through Smile.Amazon. com. Amazon will donate a percentage of each purchase to support our animal rescue work in the community.

4. When you shop at Fry’s Food Store for your Holiday events and dinner parties, you can also support animal rescue. Simply create an online account at Fry’s and select ‘Community Paws’, (or enter 61760), as your designated charity under the Community Rewards tab. Each time

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you shop at Fry’s using your rewards card, Community Paws will receive a donation.

5. Looking for a thoughtful gift to bring to a Holiday party this season? Community Paws has partnered with La Fortuna Vineyard​to create our own private label wine collection. All wines are 100% organic and vegan friendly as well.

Perfect for Holidays parties and gifts. You can order directly from Community Paws website under the ‘Other Ways to Help’ tab.

We would like to take a moment to express our gratitude for the many ways in which your kindness, generosity and compassion have made a difference in our lives and within the lives of rescue animals. We wish you, your loved ones and all of your furry friends, a happy and healthy Holiday season and a peace-filled New Year!

Did you know? During the hustle and bustle of holiday season, volunteering can give you peace of mind. There are lots of ways in which you can give back to our Community and make a difference in the lives of rescue animals.

One Lump or Two? We are hosting a special Holiday English Afternoon tea on Sunday, December 10th from 2pm – 4pm. If you are curious about this British tradition, you won’t want to miss this funfilled event! For more info, please visit: www.

CommunityPaws.org.

Submitted by Kristin Robinson, of Community Paws, Verrado resident.

December 2017

The Bug Guy Could Your Home be at Risk for Termites?

Chomp, chomp, chomp. You will never hear it, but at this very moment thousands of termites may be eating their way through your home - unseen and unknown until it’s too late. Termites are known as “silent destroyers” because of their ability to chew through wood, flooring and even wallpaper undetected. As a result of their stealth nature, termites cause $5 billion in property damage each year; damage, which is typically not covered by homeowners’ insurance.

As the ground warms in spring, termites, much like every insect in nature, begin stirring and coming out of their overwintering spots in search of food. In the case of termites, they are looking for new structures to settle their million member colonies. Before a colony finds an appropriate structure, their search team will investigate available options. Swarmers are winged young queen and king termites that show up inside homes in early spring and are typically the first sign of a termite problem. Because they can be mistaken for flying ants, many homeowners may dismiss them as such and leave a potential termite infestation untreated. Discarded wings near windowsills and doors signify that swarmers have already found their way in.

Termites are present in 70 percent of countries across the world and their population outnumbers human beings on a ratio of ten to one. The most

common termite species found in Arizona are subterranean termites. Subterranean termites live in underground colonies or in moist secluded areas aboveground that can contain up to 2 million members. They build distinctive “mud tubes” to gain access to food sources and to protect themselves from open air. Subterranean termites are by far the most destructive species of termite as they eat 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This ravenous eating can severely compromise the structural stability of a home as they chew their way through important support beams. Due to the ravenous nature of this species, most lender’s require new homes to be covered under warranty for 5 years.

Termites are destructive and can cost a lot of money in unexpected home repairs if left untreated.

Here are a few tips to prevent termites from wreaking havoc on your home: · Repair leaking faucets, water pipes and AC units which are on the outside of the home. · Routinely inspect the foundation of your home for signs of mud tubes (used by termites to reach a food source). · Direct water away from your house through properly functioning downspouts, gutters and splash blocks.

If you suspect a termite problem, contact your local exterminator right away to confirm whether or not a problem exists and determine the best course of action.

Submitted By Larry Cash, of Estrella Mountain Pest Control, West Valley Resident

Main Street

December 2017

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Bugs! Bugs! Bugs!

You don’t have to live with them.

A maintenance program can reduce or stop an infestation in its tracks!

Call Larry Cash, to schedule your inspection today! 623.680.6619

For Verrado Residents www.estrellamtnpest.com Your full service Pest and Termite control company Ask for your new customer discount today!

Check out “The Bug Guy” article in Main Street Magazine!

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December 2017

Health & Wellness

You hear about it on the news. You see the signs in the pharmacy windows. Even your friends and coworkers are talking about it. The flu shot is a highly discussed topic, and for good reason!

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, on average, 5 to 20 percent of the U.S. population gets the flu, and tens of thousands of people are hospitalized every year because of it. Further, the flu can strike anyone, and adults aged 18-64 years old are the most likely to get ill, accounting for 60 percent of flu-related hospitalizations.

“Flu-related illnesses are already trending twice as high in 2017 as they were in 2016, and we are seeing an uptick in flu-related visits across the country,” said Dr. Jason Tibbels, MD, board-certified family physician and director for quality programs at Teladoc, the largest and most trusted telehealth provider in the world. “This year, officials want at least 70 percent of Americans to get a flu shot; however, fewer than 50 percent were vaccinated against the flu last season.”

How can you protect yourself and your loved ones from the annual flu outbreak? The first step is to understand the benefits and any potential risks of flu vaccination and then - if it’s right for you - go get the flu shot.

It’s also important to understand that while the vaccine is the best defense in protecting against flu, there’s still a chance that with it, you could get sick.

We asked Teladoc’s Dr. Tibbels why the flu shot is so important this year. Here are his top reasons: 1) It keeps you out of the emergency room. The flu shot reduces the risk of hospitalization due to flu by approximately 50 to 60 percent.

2) It reduces sick days.

Missed time at work due to flu-related illnesses causes an additional $16.3 billion in lost earnings annually.

3) It promotes overall health. The flu vaccine is a helpful tool for people with chronic health conditions. Flu vaccination is associated with lower rates of some cardiac events among people with heart disease, and is also proven to have reduced hospitalizations among people with diabetes and chronic lung disease. Further, vaccination helps protect women during and after pregnancy, reducing the risk of flu-associated acute respiratory infection by about 50 percent. And getting vaccinated also protects the baby several months after birth.

4) If you do get sick, it may decrease the severity.

The flu vaccination does not guarantee protection against the virus; people who get the shot are still at risk of getting sick. However, if you do get sick, the flu vaccination can make your illness milder. If you start to experience symptoms - whether or not you’ve had the flu vaccine - it’s important to see a doctor. Many people have 24-hour access to boardcertified and licensed physicians seven days a week via telemedicine from home, work or on the road through a phone or tablet, making it easier than ever to get a diagnosis and start treatment.

5) It helps stop flu from spreading. Did you know that the flu virus can be spread to people within three feet of a sick patient when that patient coughs, sneezes or talks? Getting vaccinated doesn’t just help protect you from the flu; the flu shot is the responsible choice for protecting those around you. Vaccination is especially important for protecting more vulnerable populations, such as babies and young children, the elderly, and people with certain chronic health conditions, like cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

“When it comes to the flu, it’s not wise to take a wait-and-see approach,” said Dr. Tibbels. “Talk to a doctor! We’re available all day, every day, all through flu season and beyond.”

Main Street

December 2017

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December 2017

Oh Tanenbaum

Here comes Santa Claus ... and a sleigh full of confusion about Christmas trees. Better to buy real or better to buy artificial? Popular myths are that real trees are bad for the environment, artificial trees make more financial sense and real trees are just a hassle, but read on for some facts that will set the record straight and some thoughts that might turn your head on some of the more subjective sides of the debate.

If your No. 1 concern is the environment, your No. 1 choice should be a real tree. Growing, using and recycling real Christmas trees is good for the environment. Research shows that when compared on an annual basis, the artificial tree has three times more impacts on climate change and resource depletion than the natural tree. Real Christmas trees are biodegradable and can even be recycled or reused for mulch, and every year the circle of life continues. Artificial trees are petroleum-based products and most are imported from overseas.

Many are thrown away seven to 10 years after they’re purchased, and every year the landfills where they will stay (literally for centuries) get a little bit bigger.

Still don’t like the idea of cutting down a tree?

Remember that just like the Halloween pumpkin you carve with your kids or the fresh-cut flowers you buy for a loved one on special occasions, real Christmas trees are farmer-planted and hand-harvested specifically for people to

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enjoy. And, for every real Christmas tree harvested, a new tree is planted.

If it’s your wallet that worries you, keep in mind that it’s no surprise that artificial things frequently cost less than real things. True, not everyone agrees “you get what you pay for,” but there’s a second economic case to be made for buying a real Christmas tree: Real Christmas trees provide real business for real farmers. Fully 100 percent of real Christmas trees sold in the U.S. are grown in North America.

Every choice is a trade-off. What you gain with the ease of an artificial tree, you lose in the experience of a real tree. To be fair, this is subjective. But years from now, which do you think you’ll remember more warmly: assembling a plastic tree you pulled out of the attic that looks exactly the same year after year, or bringing home and decorating a real tree that you enjoyed hunting for with your friends and family? Selecting a real Christmas tree makes memories. The hunt for a real Christmas tree can create an experience - everything from the scent to the search - that simply can’t be manufactured and that no artificial tree can replace.

Ultimately, with all of the myths aside, a real Christmas tree is a choice you can be proud of.

Whether you prefer to shop at a neighborhood store, local farm, seasonal lot or even online, there’s a real Christmas tree available for everyone.

December 2017

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School Zone Public, private, charter, virtual and more - deciding what school is best for your children can feel overwhelming. You want them to have an education that prepares them for a challenging world while fitting their unique learning styles. How do you know the best option to ensure they thrive?

“The right school will not only help your child learn essential skills but instill a lifelong love of learning,” says Carol Lloyd, award-winning educational writer and editorial director for GreatSchools, a nonprofit school guide. “Bottom line: The school you choose for your child does make a difference.”

Student progress: Test scores don’t tell the whole story. It’s important that no matter where students start on the educational spectrum, they make progress and continuously learn as time passes.

Equity: Look at how students from all backgrounds are doing. Is there a big achievement gap between different groups? This helps you understand how schools are serving disadvantaged student groups.

Lloyd knows making educational decisions isn’t easy. That’s why she offers her advice on the most important things to consider when researching schools.

Advanced coursework: To understand the academic rigor of a school, research the advanced courses offered. How many students are enrolling in those courses? What’s the average number of advanced courses a student takes at the school? All these details can paint a picture about whether the students are getting the classes they need for college and beyond.

Testing scores: How does the school perform on state assessments across grades and subjects?

Look at the percentage of students who score at or above proficiency. How are students like your child doing?

Discipline and attendance flags: Does the school have high chronic absenteeism? Do they suspend some groups of students far more often than others? This might be a red flag that you should consider.

To check out schools in your area and learn more about school ratings and data, visit www. greatschools.org. You can quickly view this information and easily compare it against other schools you’re considering, helping you save time while providing you the necessary information to make a confident decision about your child’s education.

The Church at Litchfield Park “A House of Prayer for All People”

Celebrate the Christmas Season with us!

Sunday Worship Services 8:00, 9:15 and 10:45 a.m.

Christmas Eve Candlelight Services NEW LOCATION 15350 W McDowell Rd. Goodyear, AZ 85395 • 623.925.1815 www.osbornejewelersinc.com

Sunday, December 24 5:00, 7:00, 9:00 and 11:00 p.m.

“The updated school profiles on GreatSchools display information parents need, and provide support to help them take action,” says Lloyd.

“This empowers parents today and in the future so their children can receive the education they deserve.”

300 North Old Litchfield Road (623) 935-3411

www.churchatlitchfieldpark.org

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December 2017

On Your Table

Every holiday season, you invest hours planning and preparing the perfect menu for each celebration you host. While easy and fun may be the name of the game for buffet-style events, when it’s a sitdown soiree, the delightful cuisine you produce deserves a presentation worthy of your efforts. A beautifully set table can elevate your holiday dinner from just great to simply perfect.

“Table-setting is an art form anyone can learn to execute beautifully,” says Mary Bernardo, director of product development at Princess House. “Simple touches like elegant holiday plates, colorful linens and an eye-catching centerpiece ensure a holiday table looks as inviting as the food smells.”

Bernardo and the table decor experts at Princess House offer these tips for creating a beautiful holiday dinner table: Tablecloths, placemats, table runners and chargers not only help protect your table from spills and scrapes, but they also create a lovely backdrop for dishes, glasses, stemware and - of course - the food. Layering these items adds depth and interest to the tabletop.

Even the simplest table setting can feel festive when you add holiday-specific touches, like napkin rings in jewel green or red, a centerpiece filled with evergreen or holly and twinkling candles.

For a centerpiece that’s festive and practical, consider using your favorite holiday serving bowl, such as a crystal bowl, for the foundation. Then add holiday decor items, like mini Christmas packages, your favorite Christmas tree decorations or a pillar candle in a holiday hue like red, green or snow white. Top with a few sprigs of evergreen, holly or fresh flowers and you have an easy, elegant DIY centerpiece.

Finally, don’t overlook the opportunity to extend the table’s festive atmosphere to the chairs as well.

You can add to their elegance by adding simple decoration such as a mini-holiday wreath strung on a piece of ribbon and looped over the back of the chair.

“The dinner table is where holiday magic occurs,” Bernardo says. “With a few special touches, you can set a holiday table that’s perfect for the festive and welcoming spirit of the season.”

Consider starting off with a simple white or red tablecloth, and then add either placemats in seasonal patterns or a festive runner. If chargers take up too much room on the table (or too much of your holiday budget), you can layer dinner and lunch plates to create the same effect. For example, place a Pavillion Berry Dinner Plate from Princess House beneath a Poinsettia Lunch Plate.

The solid deep red of the dinner plate is the perfect complement to the elegant creamy background and poinsettia pattern of the lunch plate.

“It’s been said simplicity is the soul of elegance, and that’s certainly true when you’re setting a holiday dinner table,” Bernardo says.

Choose dishes with a basic white or cream background accented with a traditional holiday motif. Flatware should also be simple; if your everyday collection is in good condition, feel free to use it for your holiday celebrations. If you don’t have enough pieces, supplement with basic flatware that’s free of embellishment or heavy designs.

Glassware should also be simple and, whenever possible, multi-functional. For example, stemless wine glasses can be used for soft drinks and water, as well as wine.

Main Street

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Positive Parenting It’s no surprise that teen drivers get into more traffic collisions than their older counterparts, but why? Some reasons include less driving experience, a higher willingness to take risks and passenger distraction.

Forty-six states and Washington, D.C., limit teens from driving with passengers other than immediate family members until they receive full license privileges. Most often, they’re restricted to only driving with one passenger for the first six months.

However, NHTSA teen fatal accident data reveals that 16-year-olds drive with the most passengers, averaging 2.7 occupants who were involved in fatal accidents compared to 2.5 for 17-year-olds; 2.2 for 18-year-olds; and 2.1 for 19- and 20-year-olds.

“Passengers can be a huge distraction in the car, especially for young drivers who may not have the same reaction time as more experienced drivers,” said Randy Petro, Mercury Insurance’s chief claims officer. “Graduated driver’s licenses exist for a reason and parents need to be diligent with their teens to ensure they’re adhering to these rules and not driving around with their friends before the law says they can. Even then, it’s important to keep their focus on the road.”

Passenger distractions aren’t the only causes of teen driving accidents. Here are a few more of which you should be aware.

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* Time of day: 342 accidents and 394 fatalities happen at 6 p.m., respectively. * Day of the week: Weekends are the worst time to drive, but more accidents happen on Saturdays (1,007 accidents and 1,191 fatalities). * Speeding: 1,505 accidents were directly related to speeding.

Mercury Insurance created the Drive Safe Challenge to provide a platform for parents and teens to have serious discussions about driving. Its goal is to reduce the number of teen crashes and fatalities, and it includes tips to help parents communicate with their kids about appropriate driving behavior, as well as useful information and videos to assist teens with being safe behind the wheel. It has recently been updated to include common causes for teen driving accidents by state. Texas teens, for example, experience the most teen driving crashes with 709, while Washington, D.C., has the fewest at 2.

Be sure to talk to your kids and set ground rules before they get in the car, because being a good driver may even qualify them for an auto insurance discount.

December 2017

Yum Yum

butter before your creation hits the grill or pan.

* Nine-Layer Dip: If you’re a fan of the classic seven-layer dip (chopped layers of pepper jack cheese, refried beans, avocado, corn and pickled red onions), you’ll love this savory concoction sprinkled with cilantro and grilled between buttered bread slices. Cook up a warm, gooey batch for the gang gathering around the TV for the next big game.

Grilled cheese options take comfort food to the next level It’s time to turn our thoughts to all the good things that come with the season, including the warm comfort food.

A longtime cool-weather favorite is the classic grilled cheese sandwich in all its crisp, meltingly gooey varieties. These days, restaurants and athome chefs are serving up the deeply satisfying American concoction with scrumptious toppings designed to pair in perfect gourmet harmony with the flavors of the bread and cheese. The sky is really the limit when it comes to devising new takes on the classic dish. That may mean pairing traditional favorites with seasonal choices such as sliced apples, pumpkin or even holiday dinner leftovers.

* Pumpkin Mac: Whip up your favorite mac and cheese recipe, season it with pureed pumpkin, top it with gouda and bacon, add slices of bread and get busy grilling. The sweetness of the pumpkin balances the bacon’s saltiness for a gourmet treat that may well become your family’s new favorite. * Gooey Gobbler: Optimize that mouthwatering leftover turkey by spreading it with cranberry jam, sage butter and gouda slices, perfecting your dream sandwich on the griddle and enjoying every balanced, blended bite.

Here are a few grilled cheese recipes to kick off the season: * Apple Picker’s Harvest: Thinly sliced freshly picked apples, brie and some smoked ham onto your bread, slathering on a bit of honey and thyme

Concrete Coating

Desert Rose Izzo Family 623-853-9051 www.thedesertrose.com

ROC Lic# 203136 Main Street

Residential / Commercial December 2017

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WHERE YOU START THE JOURNEY CAN MAKE ALL THE DIFFERENCE.

>

CALL TODAY!

Tour your local Goddard School and experience why it’s the best preparation for social and academic success.

Goddard Systems, Inc.’s program is AdvancED accredited.

BUCKEYE • 623-255-3290 GoddardSchool.com

-----------LEARNING FOR FUN. LEARNING FOR LIFE.® ------------

The Goddard Schools are operated by independent franchisees under a license agreement with Goddard Systems, Inc. Programs and ages may vary. Goddard Systems, Inc. program is AdvancED accredited. © Goddard Systems, Inc. 2016

20 Main Street

December 2017

Money Matters

Time to Review Your Investment Strategy for the Year

As the year draws to a close, it’s a good time to review your progress toward your financial goals.

But on what areas should you focus your attention?

Of course, you may immediately think about whether your investments have done well. When evaluating the performance of their investments for a given year, many people mistakenly think their portfolios should have done just as well as a common market index, such as the Standard & Poor’s 500. But the S&P 500 is essentially a measure of large-company, domestic stocks, and your portfolio probably doesn’t look like that – nor should it, because it’s important to own an investment mix that aligns with your goals, risk tolerance and return objectives. It’s this return objective that you should evaluate over time – not the return of an arbitrary benchmark that isn’t personalized to your goals and risk tolerance.

Your return objective will likely evolve. If you are starting out in your career, you may need your portfolio to be oriented primarily toward growth, which means it may need to be more heavily weighted toward stocks. But if you are retiring in a few years, you may need a more balanced allocation between stocks and bonds, which can address your needs for growth and income.

So, assuming you have created a long-term investment strategy that has a target rate of return for each year, you can review your progress accordingly. If you matched or exceeded that rate this past year, you’re staying on track, but if your return fell short of your desired target, you may need to make some changes. Before doing so, though, you need to understand just why your return was lower than anticipated.

For example, if you owned some stocks that underperformed due to unusual circumstances – and even events such as Hurricanes Harvey and Irma can affect the stock prices of some companies – you may not need to be overly concerned, especially if the fundamentals of the stocks are still sound. On the other hand, if you own some investments that have underperformed for several years, you may need to consider selling them and using the proceeds to explore new investment opportunities.

Whether it is the performance of your portfolio or changes in your life, you will find that you always have some reasons to look back at your investment and financial strategies for one year – and to look ahead at moves you can make for the next.

Submitted by Wayne Polk, of Edward Jones Investments, Verrado resident

Investing is about more than money.

VERRADO RESIDENT

At Edward Jones, we stop to ask you the question: “What’s important to you?” Without that insight and a real understanding of your goals, investing holds little meaning.

Contact your Edward Jones financial advisor for a one-on-one appointment to discuss what’s really important: your goals.

K&R DESIGN CONSULTANTS Kim Rasmussen

Wayne Polk, AAMS® Financial Advisor MKD-8652A-A

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4252 N Verrado Way Suite 202 Buckeye, AZ 85396 623-386-2821

Main Street

www.edwardjones.com

Member SIPC

I N T E R I O R D E S I G N C O N S U LT I N G S E R V I C E S PROJECT MANAGEMENT

623-399-3491 kimrasmussendesign@gmail.com

December 2017

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Puzzles & Games Cryptogram

Sudoku for December Numbers from 1-9 must appear only once in each row, column and box. Good Luck!

Solution is on our website www.EstrellaPublishing.com

1

3

8

6

2 8

5

7

3

1

2

7

3 6

5 4

3 6

4

Break the code to solve the holiday phrase.

Two letters have been provided for you. Solution is on our website www.EstrellaPublishing.com

7 5

2

22 Main Street

9

2 2

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6 8

December 2017

Business Directory AUTOMOTIVE Desert Princess Car Service Litchfield Auto Repair

602.300.7076 623.882.8700

EDUCATION The Goddard School

623.255.3290

FINANCIAL SERVICES ACEA Accounting Allstate Insurance Bergen Financial Edward Jones - W Polk Estrella Partners Group Kramer Legacy Documents Mahoney Law Office State Farm Insurance -Caler State Farm Insurance-Gremillion

623.251.0821 623.208.6922 800.915.2502 623.386.2821 623.594.9283 623.974.2272 623.518.3513 623.327.1685 623.386.7556

HEALTHCARE & BEAUTY Active Life Pain Center Dr. Nemechek Healthy Life Family Medicine Majestic Beauty Spa Permanent Make Up by Kari Skincare Extraordinaire

623.535.9777 623.208.4226 623.889.3477 623.986.5790 602.295.7373 623.826.3726

HOUSEHOLD 5 Dog Electric Al’s Plumbing Century Glass and Mirror Cluff Mechanical Heating & AC Deb’s Creative Interiors Desired Handyman Estrella Mountain Pest Control General Exterminating

623.313.5685 623.329.5170 623.444.6204 602.765.COOL 623.594.6415 623.910.5183 623.680.6619 623.977.2100

Main Street

J & H Appliance Repair K & R Design Consultants The Window Cleaner AZ Younger Brothers Exterminating

623.925.5427 623.399.3491 623.738.6064 623.487.3147

LANDSCAPING / POOL CARE Buckeye Desert Landscape Desert Rose Concrete Estrella Owner Services Landscapes Jackrabbit Nursery Pool & Landscapes AZ

602.527.2818 623.853.9051 623.693.5695 623.386.4700 480.999.3348

REAL ESTATE Main Street Lofts Main Street Property Management Main Street Properties - A King Realty One Group - Budge Team Verrado Realty - Redfield/McGinty Verrado Realty - T Klimek Verrado Realty

623.215.4788 602.672.7182 480.363.6301 623.694.3907 203.912.3995 623.688.4447 623.792.5900

RECREATION Eleutheria Wellness Center

623.986.5110

RELIGION The Church at Litchfield Park

623. 935.3411

RETAIL Budget Blinds of Goodyear Estrella Ordnance Foot Solutions Osborne Jewelers Pure Patio Steel Shield Security Doors

480.629.8854 623.262.2154 623.536.6676 623.925.1815 623.299.8000 623.977.3277

December 2017

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Your Hometown Real Estate Experts, Located on the corner of Verrado Way and Main Street in the Heart of Verrado.

ASHTON WOODS HOMES – $274,900 20923 W Wycliff Dr.– Verrado 1,915 Sq. Ft. • 3 Beds – 2 Baths Listed by: Pat Redfield & Holly McGinty

CACHET HOMES – $279,900 3545 N Hooper St. – Verrado 1,994 Sq. Ft. • 2 Beds • 2 Baths Listed by: Tim Klimek

ASHTON WOODS HOMES – $312,000 21027 W Court St. – Verrado 2,542 Sq. Ft. • 3 Beds • 3 Baths Listed by: Diane Simpson

PULTE HOMES – $365,000 2936 N Point Ridge Rd. – Verrado 2,975 sq. ft. • 4 beds • 3.5 baths Listed by: Joe Russ

MARACAY HOMES – $489,000 20990 W Mariposa St. – Verrado 1,915 Sq. Ft. • 2 Beds • 2.5 Baths Listed by: Chuck Disney

SALCITO CUSTOM HOME – $1,200,000 4180 N Golf Dr. – Verrado 4,032 Sq. Ft. • 4 Beds • 4.5 Baths Listed by: Tim Klimek

Your neighborhood experts focusing on New Homes, Resale Properties, Custom Homes and Homesites.

Dedicated to providing exceptional real estate services in this extraordinary community.

Tim Klimek

Pat Redfield

Aaron Lighter

Diane Simpson

Pam Disney

Jennifer Cline Designated Broker

Brennen Kent

Bette Popiel

Tessie Davis

Holly McGinty

Chuck Disney

Joe Russ

24 Main Street

N VERRADO WAY

Call 623.792.5900 or visit VerradoRealty.com to buy, sell or lease property at Verrado Located in the center of Verrado on the corner of Verrado Way and Main Street 4236 N. Verrado Way, Suite 102 Buckeye, AZ 85396 Monday - Saturday 10am - 5pm - Sunday 11am - 4pm

MAIN STREET

December 2017

GREEN STREET