Main Street

THANK YOU THANK YOU

The Community Cleanup was a HUGE SUCCESS! Thank you to over 150 volunteers who donated a few hours of their day to help make a big impact on our community! It was such a positive and fun morning! Loved getting to meet so many selfless neighbors and look forward to planning many more events for our beloved Verrado!

A special thank you to the Verrado Assembly, Brightview Landsca Buckeye Fire, and Buckeye PD for the additional support for the

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From Me To You...

What drives you? Everyone has something that gets them to the finish line - a paycheck, moral obligation, love, the satisfaction of a job well done. For me it is the pressure of a deadline, sure I am nudged by those other things in the list, but the only thing that gets me to complete a project is the looming fear of missing that end point. I always start the month with the best of intentions. I swear I will pace myself and get a little done every day, so that I can ease into the end of the month with no stress. However, in 14 years of creating these magazines I have yet to manage that even once. Every month I am sitting at my computer well into the night frantically dragging and clicking, typing and editing.

I don’t know why I am wired this way, but it seems that if I am given an option I will procrastinate up to the last minute. There is always something else I would rather be doing. The irony of that mindset is that when I am not working I am thinking about working, then when I sit down to work I am focused on a book I was reading, or a project that I have started.

I remember many projects from the past that I have yet to compete – a scale model of H.M.S. Bounty (anyone remember the classic movie Mutiny on the Bounty?), a counted cross-stitch of children playing in Holland during four different seasons (remember seasons?), a matinee jacket I was knitting for a baby who is now an adult with her own child – and the list goes on.

This month I wanted to watch the movies nominated in the Best Picture category before the Oscars are televised, I managed it once and it made the show more enjoyable. But I can leave that for another day, the show is not on until the 10th. See how easily I am distracted? Now what was I talking about? Oh, my work deadline. I should probably get back to that...

Catherine Uretsky Editor, Main Street Magazine info@estrellapublishing.com 623.398.5541

On Our Cover

‘Chilango’ – from The Royal Spanish Academy and The Mexican Academy of Language: “Something belonging to Mexico City”

Tacos Chilango is a locally owned and family owned taqueria located on the Southeast corner of Indian School Road and Jackrabbit Trail. Owners Arturo Jimenez (a Verrado resident) and Juan Ortiz are proud to bring the flavors of their hometown of “Ciudad De Mexico” to the community. Together with their wives Kelly and Irene, along with their entire staff, Arturo & Juan strive to deliver authentic and emotive Mexican street food with outstanding hospitality.

Arturo, Juan, and the rest of the Tacos Chilango team invite you to try Mexico City classics like suadero (brisket) and chicharron prensado (pork

belly), perhaps on a 14-inch handmade masa tortilla called a Machete. If you prefer to stick with favorites such as carne asada or pollo asado, they grill both daily over mesquite wood on a Santa Maria grill. They also feature a wide selection of tequila and mezcal in the bar, along with draft beer, wine, micheladas, margaritas, and palomas.

Tacos Chilango stands ready to serve the communities of Verrado, Victory, and beyond. Visit today!

Furry Friends

Snake Avoidance Training

Dogs are adventurous creatures, often exploring their surroundings with boundless curiosity. However, in regions where venomous snakes are prevalent, this curiosity can pose a significant risk to their safety. Snake avoidance training classes offer a proactive solution to mitigate these risks, equipping dogs with the skills to recognize and avoid potentially dangerous encounters. Classes are conducted by experienced trainers who specialize in teaching dogs to identify and respond appropriately to the presence of snakes. These classes typically consist of structured sessions that focus on scent recognition, visual identification, and response training.

Dogs learn to recognize the unique scent of snakes and associate it with a negative stimulus, such as a loud noise or a gentle correction. This helps dogs develop a natural aversion to snake odors, prompting them to avoid areas where snakes may be present.

During visual identification training, dogs are exposed to realistic snake models or live, defanged snakes under controlled conditions, allowing them to familiarize themselves with the appearance of these reptiles. Trainers teach dogs to recognize the distinct shape and movement patterns of snakes,

enabling them to react quickly and appropriately when encountering one in the wild.

Response training is perhaps the most critical component of snake avoidance classes. Dogs are taught to respond to auditory cues associated with snakes, such as the sound of a rattlesnake’s rattle or hiss. Trainers encourage dogs to retreat immediately upon hearing these cues, reinforcing the instinctual response to avoid potential danger.

By equipping dogs with the skills to recognize and avoid snakes, owners can enjoy peace of mind knowing that their furry companions are safe during outdoor adventures. By enrolling your dogs in a class, you can take proactive measures to ensure your pets’ safety and well-being.

https://hssaz.org/services/education/pets/ rattlesnake-avoidance-training

Ask Dr. Jen

“Why do some people create drama in their lives?”

Everyone has at least one in his or her life. That person who is just “drama” and creates it wherever he or she goes. I use the word “dramamonger” to refer to anyone who deals in drama. So, what compels a person to behave this way? The answers are many:

• It’s what they know. In its familiarity and predictability, it becomes comfortable. This may seem odd, but these people often grew up in dramatic, tumultuous, chaotic or even traumatic environments and have come to operate this way. Some have learned fighting = passion = love.

• The ruckus keeps them from taking an honest look at themselves. By reacting so intensely, they may succeed in shutting others down, shirking responsibility and accountability.

• It’s a way to draw attention to themselves. If a person is starved for attention, love or affection, they may create intensity to get these things. The subconscious premise at work is that bad attention is better than no attention at all.

• They gain a sense of accomplishment when they conquer the drama. This can influence self-esteem in a positive way.

• It keeps them stuck in the victim role. The theory is that this will draw attention and

caregiving of some sort, even pity at times. The hope is this: If I’m a victim, people will feel sorry for me and care for or nurture me.

• It keeps others’ expectations low. The subconscious idea at work is that if I keep chaos in my life, no one will expect anything from me, which means I can’t fail or let anyone down.

There is hope for dramamongers once they realize that they are the common denominator in all of their failed relationships. Therapy plus firm yet compassionate boundaries from others can yield great rewards. Much therapy for these folks has to do with improving self-esteem. Once basic confidence is established, they can practice new ways of living, starting with small efforts.

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.

Sleep Well

FTF helping West Valley children have a good night’s sleep

Arizona’s early childhood agency recently partnered with a West Valley community organization to provide beds for young children in the West Valley. The First Things First (FTF) Southwest Maricopa Regional Partnership Council sponsored the Sleep in Heavenly Peace bed distribution service project on Feb. 10, which provided new children’s beds for six families in need in Avondale, Goodyear, Tolleson and Litchfield Park. FTF teamed with non-profit organizations AZ Community Impact and Sleep in Heavenly Peace for the morning of service. FTF volunteers were paired with volunteers from AZ Community Impact and sent across Southwest Valley cities to deliver and assemble beds for children who did not have beds. In addition to new beds and bedding, the nine children also received children’s books, crayons and materials for their families provided by FTF.

“The regional council is grateful for the

opportunity to join hands with organizations like AZ Community Impact that are providing care and support to families with young children in our region,” said FTF Southwest Maricopa Region Chair Aaron White.

One family who received a bunk bed and a single bed originally had three children sharing a couch, said FTF Southwest Maricopa Regional Director Delaney Russell.

“One of the little girls’ face lit up when she saw the bunk bed assembled and asked ‘Can I get the top bunk?’” Russell said.

AZ Community Impact serves as a local chapter of the international organization Sleep in Heavenly Peace. As Arizona’s early childhood agency, FTF is committed to the healthy development and learning of young children from birth to age 5. “Part of the work in helping children be ready to succeed when they start kindergarten is helping them feel safe and secure in their homes,” Russell said.

“FTF has partnered with AZ Community Impact in the past for the same event, but this time, the regional council decided it was important to play a more hands-on role and connect with others who are doing great work in our community.”

Blue Line Painting

The Story of St Patrick

Celebrated on March 17th each year, St. Patrick’s Day has become a global event, where people from all walks of life deck out in green attire and partake in festivities. But who exactly was St. Patrick, and what is the history behind this iconic figure?

St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, is one of Christianity’s most widely known figures. At 16 years old St. Patrick, whose birth name was Maewyn Succat, was taken captive by Irish raiders and enslaved for 6 years.

During this time, Patrick immersed himself in the Celtic culture, becoming fluent in the Irish language and adapting to the way of life of his captors. During his captivity Patrick worked as a shepherd and had a religious awakening, finding strength in the Christian faith. After 6 years he managed to escape his captors and return to his homeland of Britain.

However, instead of seeking personal vengeance, Patrick had a dream about an angel telling him to return to Ireland as a missionary and spread the teachings of Christianity to the very people who had held him captive. His mission was twofold; to minister to the Christians already living in Ireland, and to begin to convert the Irish.

Legend has it that St. Patrick used the three-leafed shamrock, a native plant of Ireland, to explain the concept of the Holy Trinity to the Irish people, thereby making it one of the most recognizable symbols associated with Ireland to this day. Patrick persisted, overcoming numerous obstacles and gaining followers, eventually becoming a beloved figure within the Irish community.

Over the centuries, St. Patrick’s Day has evolved from a religious feast day commemorating the saint into a celebration of Irish culture and heritage. Today, St. Patrick serves as a symbol of Ireland’s resilience, spirit, and the enduring power of faith. As we celebrate St. Patrick’s Day each year, let us remember the story of the man behind the holiday and the lasting legacy he left behind on the county of Ireland and his heritage.

B U Y I N G O R S E L L I N G A H O M E ?

O f f M a r k e t I n t e l : I o f t e n g e t i n t e l a b o u t h o m e s t h a t a r e

c o m i n g o n t h e m a r k e t w e l l b e f o r e t h e y a r e l i s t e d . F o r a

b u y e r i n a c o m p e t i t i v e m a r k e t , t h i s c a n b e t h e d i f f e r e n c e

b e t w e e n g e t t i n g i n t o t h e n e i g h b o r h o o d a n d m i s s i n g o u t .

K n o w i n g T h e N e i g h b o r h o o d : H o m e v a l u e s o f t e n v a r y g r e a t l y b e t w e e n n e i g h b o r i n g n e i g h b o r h o o d s . W h e n y o u s e l l , y o u w a n t a r e a l t o r t ha t k n o w s E V E R Y T H I N G a b o u t y o u r c o m m u n i t y .

Yum Yum

Traditional Irish Shepherd’s Pie

What better way to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day than with some traditional Irish Shepherd’s Pie? This comfort meal is perfect for any season. A common misconception about Shepherd’s Pie is that it’s made with beef. However, a Shepherd’s Pie is made with lamb, while a Cottage Pie uses ground beef. This recipe is easily interchangeable, so you can use whichever meat you prefer. Tip: if you have a large enough cast iron pan USE IT! Nothing feels more homey than a meal in a cast iron pan.

Ingredients (8-10 servings)

Mashed potatoes

• While potatoes cook, melt 4 tbsp butter in a large pan on medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until translucent, 6-10 min.

• Add ground meat to the pan and cook until browned. Drain excess fat, if necessary—season with salt and pepper. Add your frozen veggies towards the end, as they take very little time to cook.

• Add Worcestershire sauce and beef broth to the pan. Bring to a simmer and reduce to low. Cook uncovered for 10 mins, stirring occasionally. Add salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary.

• Mash the potatoes, add 4 tbsp of butter, sour cream, and milk. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper.

• Layer the mashed potatoes on top of the meat mixture in either an oven-safe pan or a casserole dish. Bake in the oven for about 30 minutes or until browned and bubbling. ENJOY!

3 large potatoes, peeled and quartered

4 tbsp unsalted butter

¾ cup milk

2 tbsp sour cream

Salt and pepper

Filling

4 tbsp unsalted butter

1 1/2 lbs ground lamb, or ground beef if preferred

1 white onion, chopped

1 tbsp fresh thyme (sub 2 tsp dried thyme)

1 tbsp fresh rosemary (sub 2 tsp dried rosemary)

½ cup beef broth

1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

2 cups frozen veggies (peas, carrots, corn)

Steps

• Preheat oven to 400° F

• Place the peeled and quartered potatoes in a medium-sized pot filled with water. Add salt and bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer and cook until tender, about 20 minutes.

We love to see our neighbors’ delicious creations, so send us a picture of your gorgeous Shepherd’s Pie or tag us on social media @ EstrellaPublishing.

Spring Cleaning

Spring cleaning is a ritual that many people undertake during the month of March. It is a time when we open up the windows, roll up our sleeves, and tackle the accumulated dust and clutter of the past year. However, spring cleaning can often be overwhelming and time-consuming if not approached strategically. Luckily, there are some tips and tricks that can make the process more efficient and effective.

First and foremost, it is important to have a plan of action before diving into spring cleaning. Start by making a checklist of all the areas in your home that need attention. You can prevent yourself from feeling overwhelmed by breaking down the task into smaller, manageable parts.

One of the most crucial tips for spring cleaning is to declutter before you start cleaning. Begin by sorting through your belongings and determining what you want to keep, donate, or discard. This not only helps create more tidy living spaces but also allows for easier cleaning and organizing.

For a thorough and efficient cleaning, pay attention to often overlooked areas such as behind appliances, underneath furniture, and inside cabinets and drawers. These hidden spaces can accumulate a surprising amount of dust and dirt over time and cleaning these areas will also improve the air quality inside your home.

Another useful tip for spring cleaning is to freshen up your fabrics. Wash curtains, pillows, cushions, and steam-clean the carpets and upholstery. A little extra effort in refreshing these items will leave your home smelling and looking fantastic!

Finally, take advantage of the spring weather by cleaning your outdoor spaces. Sweep and hose down the patio, clean outdoor furniture, and spruce up your yard by removing debris and dead plants. A well-maintained exterior can greatly enhance the overall appearance of your home.

Spring cleaning doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With a well-planned approach and some useful tips and tricks, you can make the process more manageable and rewarding. So roll up your sleeves, turn on some upbeat music or a great podcast, and dive into the satisfying task of rejuvenating your living spaces. Happy spring cleaning!

Colorectal Cancer

Every year the month of March is recognized as Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. It’s your annual reminder that screenings that can detect polyps or early cancers in the colon can be lifesaving. 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 on the medical staff 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” said Dr Gabie Ong, a colorectal surgeon on medical staff at Abrazo West Campus. “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

The Bug Guy

Springtime in the west valley brings with it a fascinating array of bugs and insects that emerge with the warmer weather. As the temperatures rise and nature comes to life, the valley becomes home to a diverse population of insects that play crucial roles in the ecosystem. From buzzing bees to colorful butterflies, chirping crickets to industrious ants, the bug life in the west valley is truly captivating.

One of the most iconic signs of spring in the is the emergence of bees. Bees are vital pollinators, and as the flowers begin to bloom, these industrious insects become a common sight, buzzing from one blossom to the next. They diligently collect nectar and pollen, playing a key role in the pollination of plants and the production of fruits and vegetables. Their presence is a reassuring sign of nature’s renewal and abundance during the spring season.

Butterflies also grace the west valley with their presence during springtime. These delicate and colorful insects flit gracefully among the blossoms, adding a touch of enchantment to the landscape. Their vibrant wings, adorned with intricate patterns, make for a delightful sight as they move from flower to flower, sipping nectar and spreading pollen.

As the days grow warmer, the rhythmic chirping of crickets fills the air in the evenings. These tiny musicians create a symphony of sound, adding an enchanting soundtrack to our spring nights. Their calls create a sense of ambiance and tranquility, signaling the transition from the bustling daylight hours to the calm serenity of the eveningand serving as a

comforting reminder of the natural rhythms that govern the valley’s ecosystem.

Ants also become more active during the spring, bustling with activity as they march in organized lines, foraging for food and building their underground colonies. Their efforts contribute to the balance of the ecosystem, as they play a crucial role in decomposition and soil aeration.

From dragonflies darting over ponds to ladybugs seeking out aphids on plants, the bug life in the valley is a diverse tapestry of colors, shapes, and behaviors. Each insect plays a vital role in the intricate web of life that defines the valley’s ecosystem. As the season unfolds, the diverse and captivating bug life serves as a testament to the beauty and resilience of nature, inviting us to appreciate and celebrate the wonders of the insect world.

Submitted by Larry Cash, of Estrella Mountain Pest Control

Money Matters

Why See A Financial Advisor?

Investing for your future is important — but it can be challenging. How can you navigate the complexities of the financial markets and make the right decisions for your situation? A financial advisor can help you in these key areas:

• Developing a personal financial strategy – Many factors go into creating a long-term financial strategy. What is your risk tolerance? When would you like to retire? What are your other important goals? A financial advisor will ask these and other questions in getting to know you, your family situation and your hopes for the future. By taking this type of holistic approach, a financial advisor can help you create financial and investment strategies appropriate for your needs.

• Avoiding mistakes – A financial advisor can help you avoid costly investment mistakes. One such mistake is attempting to “time” the market. Investors pursue market timing when they try to “buy low” and “sell high.” The main drawback to this technique, though, is that it’s virtually impossible to follow, especially for individual

investors. But a financial advisor can steer clients toward a more disciplined approach, such as buying quality investments and holding them for the long term, regardless of the ups and downs of the market.

• Checking progress toward your goals – If you were to invest without any guidance, you might not be looking at your investments’ performance with the proper perspective. For example, some investors simply compare their portfolio returns against a widely used market index, such as the S&P 500. But this comparison may not be that useful. Your financial advisor can help you employ more meaningful benchmarks, such as whether your portfolio’s progress is on track toward helping you meet your financial goals.

Investing for your future can be exciting and rewarding — and you can feel more confident in your decisions when you have someone helping you along the way.

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

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.

Try your hand at the word search and crossword too!

Solutions are on our website www.EstrellaPublishing.com

Difficulty: Easy Monday, 12th February 2024

Spring Training

Spring training in Arizona traces its roots back to the late 1940s when Bill Veeck, owner of the Cleveland Indians, made the pioneering decision to relocate the team’s preseason camp to Tucson in 1947. This move marked the inception of Arizona’s association with Major League Baseball’s preseason preparations.

Initially faced with challenges such as limited facilities and makeshift training grounds, Arizona’s appeal lay primarily in its warm climate and expansive landscapes. Despite the initial hurdles, the allure of Arizona steadily attracted more teams, with the New York Giants joining in 1951 at their own spring training base in Phoenix.

The subsequent decades saw a gradual expansion of spring training facilities across the state. Notable developments include the construction of modern complexes like the Peoria Sports Complex, shared by the Seattle Mariners and San Diego Padres, and the Maryvale Baseball Park, serving as the Milwaukee Brewers’ training ground.

As more teams made Arizona their spring training destination, the popularity of the Cactus League soared. Fans cherished the opportunity to witness

their favorite players up close in a relaxed setting, far removed from the intensity of the regular season. This intimate experience bolstered the league’s reputation and contributed to its enduring appeal.

The arrival of the Arizona Diamondbacks in 1998 marked a significant milestone, with the expansion team choosing Tucson as its inaugural spring training location. The Diamondbacks’ subsequent triumph in the 2001 World Series further solidified Arizona’s status as a baseball hub.

Beyond its cultural significance, spring training in Arizona has significant economic implications. The influx of tourists during the spring months provides a substantial boost to local economies, supporting businesses ranging from hospitality and dining to retail and transportation.

Today, Arizona boasts fifteen Major League Baseball teams for spring training, with state-ofthe-art facilities scattered across cities like Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Mesa. The anticipation surrounding spring training each year serves as a symbolic prelude to the baseball season, fostering a deep connection between the sport and the communities it represents.

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HOUSEHOLD

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A Quality HVAC AC & Heating

Arizona Success Landscaping

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Consider It Finished Painting

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RETAIL & RECREATION

Pure Patio

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