Main Street

Majestic Beauty Spa

MARCH SPECIALS

Catherine

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From Me To You...

They say that “March comes in like a lion and goes out like a lamb”, and we can certainly hope so. This winter has been wet and cold, and I for one am ready for some sweet, warm, lamb-like weather before we rush into the blast furnace that is summer in the desert.

It was March 2004 when we first came to Arizona to look for a house. We left the chill of a New York spring and landed in 82 degree sunshine. At the time we could not imagine it getting any hotter. We kept asking people, “How hot does it get here in the summer? Is it much warmer than this? How will we survive?” I suppose it is all relative. Now, the thought of 82 degrees makes me feel warm and cozy, I would discard my sweater for sure, but would probably not switch to shorts quite yet.

Growing up in the frigid North of England I remember a heat wave in the summer of 1976 when the thermometer made it all the way to 86 degrees! We did not have air conditioning, or even ice cubes for our drinks, but what we did have was thick stone walls and heavy curtains to

keep out the heat. I also had no responsibilities and nowhere to be, so that was a glorious summer for me.

Adapting to the severity of Arizona summers has to be the hardest part of living here. As I drove our car west that first summer, I watched the thermometer climbing and climbing, hardly able to believe it could get so hot. Now I think nothing of going for a walk, or joining a pickleball game on a summer evening when it is 104 degrees or more.

It is amazing how adaptable we are when we have to be. As someone famous once said, “God never gives us more then we can handle”and so far that seems to be true. I will enjoy as many balmy days as I can get before it heats up; and even when summer hits I can relax, knowing that no matter how hot it gets I have access to as many ice cubes as I want.

Catherine Uretsky Editor, Main Street magazine info@estrellapublishing.com 623-398-5541

Correction to February cover story. It was Laura Jirsa’s cancer journey and her story that prompted EBeauty’s formation, not Carrolyn Keller We appologise for the error.

Gymtimidation

Exercise is part of a healthy lifestyle at every age, but it is particularly important for seniors. Why? Sharlyn Green, a national trainer with SilverSneakers, says it goes beyond physical wellness. “Regular exercise can help you maintain a healthy weight, boost your memory and decrease the risk for some diseases such as Type II diabetes and cardiovascular disease,” she said. The problem is, a gym can be intimidating! To help everyone feel comfortable and confident Green recommends these steps:

Step 1: Get a tour

Have someone who works for the gym show you where everything is. Don’t expect to understand immediately what it all does or how to use it. Remember, don’t be afraid to ask questions during or after your tour. Employees at a good gym will be happy to help you.

Step 2: Request a training program

People new to gyms typically get the best results from a personalized program created by a trainer. Print out the program for reference and

to record what you do - which machines, how much weight, how many times you lift.

Step 3: Know your exercises

Work with a trainer who can guide you on proper techniques so you get the most out of your workouts and prevent accidents. Understanding the equipment and gym etiquette is important for your safety and others’.

Step 4: Learn how to adjust machines

You may need to adjust certain machines every time you use them. When in doubt, ask. It’s better to pause and use a machine correctly than go forward and risk hurting yourself or others. A trainer or gym employee can help you, so don’t be shy.

Step 5: Know how much weight or resistance to use

A good trainer will guide you in finding the appropriate weight or resistance for each exercise and share that information in your program. Use this as a foundation and adjust as needed, keeping in mind that as you progress, you’ll likely make changes to continue your health journey. Again, if something isn’t clear, ask!

Getaway 2023

With so many places to see, both close to home and abroad, it can be hard to choose. To help, here is a short list of the best travel destinations for next year.

Leap across the pond to explore the many historical landmarks of London, United Kingdom. In 2023, tourists will have the chance to experience the London Games Festival in April or Trooping of the Color in June. History buffs can take a guided tour of Westminster Abbey, experience the modern landmark at the London Eye or explore the many sprawling and luxurious rooms of the famous Buckingham Palace. After a busy day exploring, settle down at one of London’s famous high-tea cafes, or cozy up at a famous local pub. As a popular year-round travel hub, there are ample lodging options when exploring London to meet every budget and taste, making it the perfect fit for those looking for a luxurious getaway or for those looking to vacation affordably with the whole family.

Spend a cozy weekend nestled in the Rocky Mountains of Bozeman, Montana. Celebrated for

its picturesque scenery and rich history inspiring a new hit TV show, Bozeman will undoubtedly be another hotspot for travel in 2023. While it is known as a “home base” destination for those planning to take in the sights of Yellowstone National Park, the city itself also has so much to offer. Whether it is taking in the views on a nearby hike, experiencing one of the city’s bars or restaurants, or heading to Yellowstone for a guided tour of the Old Faithful Geyser, Bozeman offers a range of activities, ensuring there’s something for every traveler.

Immerse yourself in new cuisine, culture and experiences in Tokyo, Japan. In October 2022, Japan reopened its borders to independent international travelers, making this an exciting hotspot for 2023 tourism. Tokyo, the bustling capital of Japan, is known for its remarkable skyscrapers and breathtaking public gardens, all while offering luxury, modern and boutique hotel options for every type of traveler. Visitors can take in the famous Mount Fuji from hotel rooftops or check out the Sumida River that ripples through several Tokyo neighborhoods. Additionally, exciting nightlife buzzes in Shinjuku, Roppongi and Shibuya.

Blessed AND Depressed

Many people feel so blessed in their lives, so fortunate, yet they also feel depressed and they don’t know why. Some feel guilty about it, others are confused. Guess what? Gratitude and depression are NOT mutually exclusive. Here’s why:

1. Just like our parents can pass on their eye color or their predisposition for diabetes, they can pass on depression and other mental health conditions. Your life may be great, but you still have to contend with genetics that aren’t within your control.

2. Just because there are many good things in your life doesn’t mean there aren’t also bad things, too. Maybe you live well, but you’re lonely. Maybe you have a happy marriage and healthy kids, but you also have an incurable illness. Maybe you have a good life and support system, but you just lost your spouse of many years.

3. Even though you are very blessed now, it doesn’t mean that you haven’t had a rough childhood or life before now that’s left an indelible impact on your mental health.

4. We face a very real enemy. Satan’s job is to keep us away from God. He tries to make us doubt God and the plan He has for us, including putting thoughts in our heads that are dark or depressive.

5. Human nature is to focus on the negative. The brain processes negative emotions more thoroughly than positive ones. For every negative comment we hear, it takes at least five positive comments to counteract it.

6. Things aren’t always as they seem. Just because someone has a good life on the outside doesn’t mean that things are good behind close doors. Maybe they secretly live with an addict, maybe they’re being abused, maybe they’re in so much debt they can’t see straight. The cover of the book may be beautiful, but the content really sucks.

Submitted by Jennifer Bellingrodt, Psy.D., Licensed Clinical Psychologist. Material

Creative Surface Solutions is part of the Younger Brothers Family of Companies

Don’t Wait To File

Tax season can be a stressful time of year. However, if you qualify for a tax refund, it can be used to pay off bills and debt or add to your savings for a rainy day.

“For the past 40 years, Jackson Hewitt has advocated for hardworking Americans, and we know the current economy has impacted many. We understand people are worried about money and rising costs, along with the potential of receiving a lower tax refund this year, since all the pandemic government benefits have ended,” said Kim Hudson, SVP and Chief Marketing Officer at Jackson Hewitt Tax Services. “Now more than ever, every dollar matters, so don’t wait to file.”

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is now accepting and processing 2022 tax returns. While you can wait until the April 18 deadline, here are four reasons you should file your tax return early.

1. Get your refund early

Some people put off filing because they don’t believe they’ll get a refund. However, according

to the IRS, over two-thirds of American taxpayers are typically entitled to a refund. That means the earlier you file, the earlier you’ll get your money and avoid processing delays.

2. More time to pay

A popular myth about filing taxes is that you must pay what you owe when you file. In fact, if you file early, you do not have to pay until the return due date of April 18 this year. The benefit of filing early when you owe money to the IRS is that you will know what you owe in advance of the payment due date, giving you more time until April 18 to set aside those funds or spread the cost over the next few months, which means less financial stress.

3. Protect your personal information

Tax season is a busy time for fraudsters. With just a few pieces of your personal information (your name, birthday and Social Security number), they can submit a fraudulent tax return to get your refund and steal your identity. Many taxpayers won’t realize their personal information has been compromised until they attempt to e-file their taxes and find that someone has beaten them to it. By filing early, you’re locking your personal data and preventing scammers from stealing your refund and identity.

4. Reduce stress

If you’re rushing to get your taxes filed before the deadline, chances are you’ll forget to include essential information and documents. By preparing to file early, you’ll have more time to gather your documents, review your tax return, and speak with your Tax Pro - helping you feel more confident and less stressed. If you wait until too close to the April deadline, you could make a mistake requiring the filing of an amended income tax return or subject yourself to paying penalties and interest.

There’s no reason to wait until April 18 to file your taxes. Submit your tax return early and reap the financial rewards and peace of mind.

Teen Drug Trends

Understanding the Risks and Prevention

Drug abuse among teenagers is a growing concern worldwide, and it is imperative that parents, grandparents, teachers, and community leaders take an active role in preventing it. Substance abuse can lead to a host of health, social, and legal problems, and it is important to educate young people about the dangers of drugs.

Teens’ most commonly used drugs include marijuana, prescription drugs, and e-cigarettes or vaping devices. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), nearly 30% of high school seniors have used marijuana in the past year, making it the most widely used illicit drug among teens. Prescription drugs, such as opioids and stimulants, are also commonly abused by teenagers, often obtained from friends or family members who have legitimate prescriptions. E-cigarettes have gained popularity in recent years, with the NIDA reporting that over 20% of high school seniors have used them in the past month. Consequences of Drug Abuse

Drug abuse among teenagers can lead to a range of negative consequences, including addiction, impaired judgment and decisionmaking, and increased risk of accidents and violence. Additionally, drug abuse can cause physical harm, such as damage to the brain, heart, and other vital organs. Furthermore, using drugs can also lead to legal problems, including arrest and imprisonment.

Preventing teen drug abuse requires a multifaceted approach, including education, parental involvement, and community involvement.

Parents play a key role in preventing drug abuse by talking to their children about the dangers of drugs, monitoring their behavior, and setting clear boundaries. Educating teenagers about the risks of drug abuse and its effects on their health, relationships, and future prospects are also important. Community organizations such as the Way Out West (WOW) Coalition and schools can also provide educational programs and resources to help prevent drug abuse among teens.

Finally, addressing the root causes of drug abuse among teenagers is important, such as stress, peer pressure, and underlying mental health issues. By addressing these underlying issues, providing support, and educating young people, we can help teens make healthy choices and live drug-free lives.

Submitted by Larry Tracey, Youth4Youth,WOW Coalition Program Director.

For additional information, visit www.Youth4Youth.org or http:// www.wowcoalition.org

Gardening Adventures with Your Children

Four Ways to Encourage STEAM Learning STEAM learning (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) has become a vital part of early childhood education. STEAM concepts help prepare children for life in the 21st century. After all, STEAM-related jobs make up one of the fastest growing segments of the U.S. economy. This is expected to increase over time as children eventually join the workforce. Here are four ways you can encourage STEAM learning at home.

1. Take a field trip. Museums, zoos, aquariums, libraries and even public parks provide many opportunities to introduce STEAM subjects. Be sure to engage your child, ask them what they would like to see and ask whether they would like to learn more about what they have seen.

2. Watch STEAM-related TV shows and movies. While screen time should not be solely relied upon for education, there are many

ways it can help enhance your child’s learning experience. Things like documentaries and educational programming may strengthen your child’s understanding of STEAM subjects.

3. Conduct experiments. Many fun and easy science experiments can be done at home with simple household items. You can also help your child keep a journal of the experiments they complete and record what they learn from each one.

4. Encourage questions. Children are naturally inquisitive, often asking “why?” or “how?” Following this thread of curiosity may lead to a STEAM subject which interests your child. If you don’t know the answer to your child’s question, research the topic with them.

Enroll today!

Submitted by Nicole Bigham, On-site Owner, The Goddard School in Buckeye-Verrado

The Goddard School® uses its play-based F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) to introduce STEAM concepts (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) to help children develop a strong foundation for their future education and a passion for STEAM learning.

Colorectal Cancer

Every year the month of March is recognized as Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. It’s your annual reminder that screenings can be life-saving. Colon cancer is one of the most common cancers in the Unites States, and the third-leading cause of cancer deaths in the U.S. During the pandemic, many put off their annual screenings, and now is a great time to get back on track.

Nearly all colorectal cancers start with a polyp, which is small area of unchecked growths on the inner lining of the colon. Polyps and colon cancers rarely create symptoms such as pain or bleeding. Early detection and treatment, even before symptoms appear, results in improved survival rates, according to doctors at Abrazo West Campus.

“The colon is the lowest part of the intestine, also called the large intestine. Its inside lining where growths called polyps can appear, and some polyps can grow into colon cancer. Through colonoscopy, doctors can inspect the inside lining of the colon and remove polyps

which helps prevent cancers from forming,” explained Dr. Sushil Pandey, a colorectal Surgeon at Abrazo West.

It’s important to find cancers early or find them as polyps and have them removed, he said. The incidence of colon cancer is increasing among younger people, and the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends that screenings begin at age 45.

“The risk of developing colon polyps and cancer increases as one ages. The majority of colon cancer is found in patients without any symptoms or a family history of colon cancer. We all need a colonoscopy starting at 45 years old unless you have a first-degree relative with colon cancer or polyps, where one should consider being tested earlier than age 45,” said Dr. Carlos A. Esparza, a colorectal surgeon on medical staff at Abrazo West Campus.

If you think you are at increased risk for colorectal cancer, speak with your doctor about when to begin screening, which test is right for you and how often to get tested.

Submitted by Abrazo Health

COMMUNITY CARNIVAL

Sunday, March 5 | 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Redmond Field

Preregistration & wristbands required. Open to Verrado residents only.

CONCERT ON MAIN STREET

Saturday, March 4 | 5 – 9:45 p.m.

Village Green

Headliner: Jerrod Niemann

Supporting act: Reid Haughton

Concert schedule:

· 5 – 9:30 p.m. | Beer, seltzer & mixed drinks available for purchase from West Valley Mavericks

COMMUNITY GARAGE SALE

Saturday, March 4 7 a.m. - 12 p.m.

BBQ RIB COMPETITION

· 6 – 6:30 p.m. | Western-themed contests

· 7:30 – 8:10 p.m. | Reid Haughton

· 8:30 – 9:45 p.m. | Jerrod Niemann

Sponsored by Tara McKenna of KW Realty Elite

Sunday, March 5 | 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. | Founders Park | Register by Feb. 26

Proud of your exceptional barbecue skills? Have the best secret sauce? Then compete in Verrado’s Founder’s Day BBQ Rib Competition.

Choosing A Therapist

For those seeking a mental healthcare provider, finding the right one can feel much like dating - overwhelming to find someone who shares the same values, meets your needs, and with whom you feel a connection. However, finding an attentive, caring and knowledgeable therapist can pay dividends on your mental well-being. Here are a few simple things to keep in mind that can help you find the right match:

1. Understand your needs first

Determine whether you need a psychiatrist or therapist. Psychiatrists are doctors who can diagnose psychiatric conditions and prescribe medication, while therapists are licensed providers who can assess and support emotional or behavioral health concerns through talk therapy. Doing the research upfront to determine compatibility at the base level will help minimize unexpected issues later.

2. Location doesn’t have to be a dealbreaker

Virtual care has become an increasingly popular option for mental health services, as it provides

private and convenient access to quality care in a timely manner. Building an ongoing relationship with a virtual therapist or psychiatrist is just as meaningful as it would be with an in-person provider.

3. Dig deep on the first date

Just like on a first date, you may be apprehensive of asking a ton of questions, but doing so can lead to a trusting and healthy relationship in the long run. Some questions that may help gauge your compatibility include: What is your training and background? Do you have experience with the issues I am facing? How can we work together to achieve my goals? What does a typical session look like?

4. Recognize when it’s time to move on Sometimes, a provider isn’t the right fit; and that’s OK. If you find that sessions aren’t making you feel better generally, it might be time to find a different provider. No one should be forced to settle in a relationship, romantic or otherwise, if it doesn’t feel quite right.

5. Breaking up isn’t hard to do

There are many fish, er, mental health providers in the sea, so you shouldn’t feel pressured to stay with one simply because you chose them originally. When you do feel it’s time to cut ties with your therapist, it’s important to be transparent - simply explain to your provider that you plan to end your treatment with them in your next session. This offers an opportunity to evaluate your work together and may also help you reflect on what you might need in a future provider.

Recognizing your wants and priorities in a mental healthcare provider can help make the process of finding the right therapist a bit more seamless.

Yum Yum

Stuffed Peppers - Serves 4-6

Ingredients:

1 pound lean ground turkey

1/4 pound lean ground deli ham

1 cup of white or brown rice, cooked

6 large bell peppers (any color)

3/4 cup of onion, diced

3 teaspoons of garlic, minced

1 cup of cooked white rice

1 teaspoon of salt

14 ounces canned diced tomatoes

4 ounces of tomato sauce, divided

1/4 cup of golden raisins

1/4 cup of toasted slivered almonds

1 teaspoon of salt to taste

1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper

1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon of dried leaf oregano

Chopped cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

* Preheat oven to 350 degrees

* Bring a large pot of water to a boil

* Cut the tops off your peppers and set aside.

Carefully pull out the seeds and membranes, creating a cavity inside

* Dip the peppers into the boiling water, letting them cook for just 1 1/2 to 2 minutes, and drain on a paper towel

* Meanwhile, saute the onion and garlic in 2 tablespoons of oilil in a skillet for 5 to 7 minutes until translucent

* Toss in the cooked rice, half of the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, raisins, toasted almonds, seasonings, salt and pepper

* Stir to combine and cook until just heated through

* Lubricate a casserole dish by using a paper towel and a tablespoon of oil to prevent sticking

* Place the peppers in the casserole dish and spoon the meat and vegetable mixture into each of the prepared peppers

* Top each pepper with about a tablespoon of the tomato sauce

* Sprinkle with a little oregano and chopped cilantro, and cover the dish with foil

* Bake for 10 minutes, remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes

* Carefully remove from oven, let cool and enjoy!

The Bug Guy

Wow! Can you believe spring is right around the corner bringing warmer weather and more visibility to spider activity. For many, the mere sight of a creepy crawly spider scaling a wall or lurking in a webbed corner gives people the heebie-jeebies— but why? Over time, many myths and misconceptions about spiders have evolved, resulting in a multitude of terrified reactions.

While spiders can be a nightmare for homeowners, most species are nothing more than a source of unexplained fear. Here are a few well-known legends about this eight-legged arachnid and detailed the truths behind them.

Myth #1:

The average person swallows about eight spiders a year when sleeping: This urban legend has become one of the most widespread rumors –it’s false. In reality, it’s highly unlikely for a person to swallow even one live spider when sleeping.

Myth #2:

Daddy longlegs are one of the most poisonous spiders, but their fangs are too short to penetrate human skin: This myth is false. How can a spider inject venom into the human body if they are too short to pierce skin tissue? Arachnologists at the University of California said, “There is no reference to any pholcid spider

[read “daddy-long-legs”] biting a human and causing any detrimental reaction… Furthermore, there are no toxicological studies testing the lethality of pholcid venom on any mammalian system.” Simply put, there no facts to support this legend.

Myth #3:

All spiders are dangerous: Spiders have lived around us for centuries and most aren’t harmful to humans; in fact, many species are beneficial to the environment. Spiders are predators, feeding mainly on insects, so they help to reduce the number of pests in homes and gardens. While it’s true that all spiders have a venomous bite, only a few species are medically dangerous. In Arizona, only the widow spiders pose a health threat. And, contrary to popular belief, most tarantulas are harmless.

If you believed any of these myths, you’re not alone. There are many misconceptions about spiders, however, we encourage homeowners to take preventative steps to keep spiders from gaining access to your home. Consider storing clothes and shoes in plastic containers, sweeping away webs, and remove clutter from garages. If you suspect a spider infestation, contact a licensed pest professional for treatment.

Submitted by Larry Cash, of Estrella Mountain Pest Control

Social Media Dangers

Protecting your child’s safety and exposure to illicit drugs can be challenging when the world is at their fingertips. Social media can be an easy outlet for young people to find and sell drugs, and teenagers are particularly vulnerable to social media drug trafficking because of their high social media usage. Platforms, such as Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, and Facebook are being utilized by drug trafficking networks in establishing new clientele and meeting the demand more directly and discreetly.

How are drug traffickers using these platforms to market and sell drugs? There are many ways, here are some common ones to be aware of:

• They follow youth on social media platforms and use direct messages and comments on posts/stories to market drug products by using code words or emojis

• They market their products using their own platform to post stories showing drugs and promote drugs through sharing photos of money, expensive clothes and jewelry, etc. to upsell drug product

• They use encrypted communication apps, such

as WhatsApp or Telegram to set up meet times, deliveries, and payment for drugs.

What precautions can parents and caregivers take to protect their child?

• Know the dangers of counterfeit drugs and stay up to date on language/emojis around drug trafficking; Fentanyl is currently being referred to as “skittles,” “popcorn,” “confetti,” and “blues” (see the above infographic for common emojis used for drug trafficking).

• Talk with your child about safety features and privacy settings on social media platforms; some include turning off location and map features on Snapchat, setting all profiles to private, deleting messages from unknown numbers in encrypted messaging apps, and blocking/reporting any profiles that are unfamiliar or come across as scams

Michelle Sambrano is director of Prevention Programs for Southwest Behavioral & Health Services. For more information and resources, visit https://www.sbhservices.org

Money Matters

Now that we’ve put winter behind us it’s time to do some financial spring cleaning and put your financial house in order. Here are a few suggestions:

• Dust off your investment strategy. As you look around your home, you might find that many items could benefit from a good dusting. And, once you’ve accomplished this, you’ll get a clearer view of all these objects. Similarly, your investment strategy needs to be “dusted off” every so often, so you can see if it’s still working to help you move toward your financial goals, such as a comfortable retirement. Over time, your personal circumstances and risk tolerance can change, and these changes may lead you to reexamine your future financial and investment decisions.

• De-clutter your portfolio. if you took a survey of your home, would you find duplicates or even triplicates of some things — if so, it may be time to do some de-cluttering. And the same could be true of your portfolio — you might have several identical, or substantially identical, investments taking up space. If so, you might want to replace these redundancies with investments that can improve your diversification. While diversification can’t guarantee profits or protect against losses in a declining market, it may help reduce the impact of market volatility on your holdings.

• Get organized. If your closets are overstuffed, with clothes and miscellaneous items crammed on shelves and the floor, you may well have trouble finding what you’re looking for — but with a little straightening up, your searches will become much easier. And when you’re trying to locate financial documents, such as investment statements or insurance policies, you’ll also benefit from having everything organized in one central location. Even if you get most of these documents online, you can save what you

need and keep them in a file on your desktop, laptop or tablet. (And it’s also a good idea to tell your spouse, adult child or another close relative how these documents can be accessed, just in case something happens to you.)

• Protect yourself from dangers. If you look around your garage, shed or other storage area, you may well find some objects — such as gardening tools, paint thinners, engine fluids and leaning ladders — that could be dangerous if they aren’t stored properly. As part of your spring cleaning, you’ll want to remove these hazards to safeguard yourself and your family. But have you addressed the various financial risks that could threaten your loved ones? For example, if something were to happen to you, could your family members maintain their lifestyle? Could your children still go to college? To guard against this risk, you may want to discuss protection strategies with a financial professional.

Spring cleaning can pay off — in a cleaner, safer home environment and in helping ensure your financial strategy continues to work hard for you.

Submitted by Wayne Polk, AAMS, Financial Advisor, of Edward Jones, Verrado resident

Furry Friends

Community Paws appreciates the support this community gives us throughout the year and all who have volunteered your time and money through our various fundraising events and Animal Assistance Program.

One thing we always need more of is foster families. Can you open your home and heart to help an animal short term? We have six puppies that desperately need your help, either as foster or adoptive parents. There are three girls and three boys that are about 8-9 weeks old and all will be large dogs and look to be a husky/ shepherd mix. There is no cost to the foster; we provide everything your pup will need, including veterinary care. If interested, please fill out an adoption application on our website at CommunityPaws.org.

There is still time to sign up at CommunityPaws. org for our Rattlesnake Avoidance Training on March 18. The course will be held at Verrado’s Crescent Park and uses proven techniques to

teach your dog to avoid rattlesnakes and warn you of their presence. Not only could this training save your dog’s life, but it could also save yours. This is only offered once a year, so take advantage of this opportunity to participate and sign up today.

March is also Poison Prevention Awareness Month. Make sure your pet stays safe by educating yourself on items that could be harmful to them, such as chocolate, rat poison and human medications. Since animals can’t communicate with us, learning to identify poisoning symptoms is vital. Breathing irregularities, diarrhea, agitation and heart issues are all possible signs requiring intervention.

You know your pet better than anyone. Call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 if you think your four-legged companion may have ingested a potentially poisonous substance.

Submitted for Community Paws by Lyndie Mason Warner, Verrado resident.

Samurai Sudoku

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. Good Luck!

Solutions are on our website www.EstrellaPublishing.com

Business Directory

ADVERTISING

Main Street magazine

AUTOMOTIVE

Daniel’s Total Car Care

Line X of W Phoenix

Litchfield Auto Repair

EDUCATION

The Goddard School

FINANCIAL/ LEGAL SERVICES

Edward Jones - W Polk

Ganyo Insurance Agency

Johnson Wealth Management

Mahoney Law Office

Prime Accounting Group

HEALTHCARE & BEAUTY

Bailey Orthodontics

Buckeye Dermatology

Elite Senior Services

Good Night Pediatrics

Goodyear Dental

Healthy Life Family Medicine

Ironwood Acupuncture

Main Street Dental

Majestic Beauty Spa

Natural Essence Studio

HOUSEHOLD

1 Buckeye Plumbing

Al’s Plumbing

Arizona Sun Control

Century Glass and Mirror

Consider It Finished Painting

Creative Surface Solutions

Estrella Mountain Pest Control

J & H Appliance Repair

JBS Roofing

Screen Mobile

State 48 Roofing

The Window Cleaner AZ

West Valley Rock

Younger Brothers Exterminating

PET CARE

Gentle Hearts Animal Hospital

REAL ESTATE

HomeSmart Realty - The Lang Group

Impresa Real Estate - L Mendoza

Keller Williams - A King

Keller Williams - TK Luxury Group

Main Street Property Mgmt - K Pellerin

Realty One Group - A Herman

Realty One Group - C Disney

Realty One Group - E Chionchio

Realty One Group - Wilson/Castiilla

Robson Reserve at PebbleCreek

RETAIL

Arie Layne Boutique

Off The Hook Meat Shop

Pure Patio

Sound Leader Seafoods