Main Street
April 2017
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From Me To You... Welcome! to the April edition of Main Street magazine!
The 1st runner ups of our cutest kids in Verrado competition are Arlie and Gavin Hettel. Congatulations and stay tuned for the winner next month! It has come to my attention that many of you don’t know how we choose our cover models. Well let me explain the process... I get a call, or an e-mail (sometimes even a text) from someone who a) wants to be on a cover, b) knows someone who has done something worthy of recognition or c) wants to let the community know about a local club or group for the residents. I will get in touch with them and as long as they live here (or occasionally have a strong connection to our community) I will arrange the photo shoot and cover interview. The whole process is relatively
painless, no husbands have been harmed in the photo sessions, and it takes under an hour altogether. Some months I have many covers “in the bag” and other months I am scrambling to find people willing to share their lives with us. There have been instances when a company has requested to purchase the cover as advertising space. It happens, but not very often. In that case it is obviously an advertisement, for example if a political candidate has a cover it says on there that it is ‘paid for by ...’ Which leads me to the question of price for residents. There is none. If you are a resident and want to pose for my camera it costs you nothing but time. And of course you will be stopped from time to time when someone recognizes you as the star that you are! I hope that clears up the great mystery of “How to get on a cover” and that perhaps some of you feel inspired to get in touch and become a future cover model yourselves. It is also a great way for fledgling clubs and groups to get the word out there that you exist!
Catherine Uretsky
Editor Main Street magazine info@estrellapublishing.com 623-594-9283 Please patronize our advertisers, they are the reason you get this magazine for free every month! Don’t forget to visit our website for puzzle solutions, restaurant reviews, coupons, and business directories! www. EstrellaPublishing.com Estrella Publishing is a proud member of the South West Valley Chamber of Commerce and Local First Arizona.
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April 2017
Where To Look 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 2009-2017 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.
Life As A Caregiver ~ pg 5 Take Care Of YOU The Doctor Is In ~ pg 6 Are You AGE-ing? The Bug Guy ~ pg 10 Spring Pests Home Sweet Home ~ pg 13 Boomers Spring Cleaning ~ pg 14 Shortcuts Money Matters ~ 21 Teach Your Children
Catherine Uretsky Publisher & Editor
Main Street
Al Uretsky Publisher & Sales Exec
Puzzles & Games ~ pg 22 Business Directory ~ pg 23
April 2017
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April 2017
Take care of YOU
Life As A Caregiver
In my last article, I wrote about long-term health care and that all of us should have it. I applied for it (and got it) when I first moved to Arizona. But let me prepare you for the process I experienced because it can be a bit intimidating, which I didn’t know until the time of the interview. A nurse came to my home for an hour-long interview, which included learning about my health history, taking my vital signs (height, weight, blood pressure, temperature) and giving me an oral memory test! Yes….a MEMORY TEST!!! And that’s when I began to freak out. What if I can’t remember anything? What if I flunk the test? What if they don’t give me the insurance? Now, I was there when the doctor tested my mom for dementia. Her memory test included being asked to remember three words and to draw the face of a clock with the time showing 10:30 on it. To this day, I remember those
three words (table, apple and penny). But, I digress.
So now the nurse explains to me about the memory test. She’s going to tell me 10 words (10 words!!) to remember. Then we will chat. Then she will ask me to repeat the 10 words. Then we will chat again. Then she will ask me to repeat the words again…and so on for three times! So we begin. I remembered eight of them the first time. That’s good… and a little aboveaverage. Then I remembered seven of them the second time. That was pretty average. Then I remembered seven of them again the third time, but a different seven. THEN she says she’s going to say a list of words and I’m supposed to tell her if any of those were among the original 10. I got those ALL correct!! So the interesting part here is that it is easier for us to distinguish the right words from the wrong words rather than having to recall the whole list of words on our own. This entire word process
lasted about 30 minutes….and I passed!!! But I was SO nervous. I guess I’ve always hated tests! So what does all this really mean? It means, as a caregiver, you not only need to be focused on your family member’s needs, but you also need to be aware of your own. Not just getting enough sleep and exercise, and eating right, and taking time for yourself, and developing interesting things to occupy your body & mind apart from the task at hand. But for long-term preparation, as well.
As I mentioned in an earlier article: make sure YOU have a will and a health care directive, make sure YOU have long-term health care, make sure YOU have a Power of Attorney in case something happens to YOU. Because, what if it did? What if it did and your family member is still alive? Who would take care of them? Submitted by Kathy Linton, Sun City Grand Resident
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Main Street
April 2017
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The Doctor Is In Are you AGE-ing?
The manner and temperature in which we cook our food has a large impact on our brain and body. Things ironically abbreviated as “AGE”s contribute to accelerated inflammation, aging, cell degeneration, and disease. It is not just important what we eat, but how we cook it. Food labels do not list AGEs but we can identify and reduce their formation. AGE stands for advanced glycation end products and these are unnatural molecules that are formed when we cook our food. AGEs are formed in the body when sugars and protein molecules are heated together. The higher and longer the
temperature during cooking, the more AGE’s are formed. For example, the high temperatures used in commercial processed foods or when grilling or roasting will produce more AGEs that a similar dish cooked at home by boiling or stewing. AGEs are becoming a growing concern in medical science because the evidence indicates that consumption of a diet high in AGEs increases inflammation within the brain and body. AGEs are associated with an increase rate of tissue aging as well as an increased heart disease, stroke, chronic kidney disease, diabetes mellitus (1 and 2), cataract formation, cancer, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s disease. The connection is so striking that diabetics can lower blood sugars by cooking some foods at lower temperatures over longer amounts of time. Cooking at lower temperatures with crock pots, boiling, stream, or poaching produces a lower content of AGEs compared to broiling, roasting, grilling, or frying. This can be a challenge because the higher temperatures lead to the characteristic smell, taste, and color of the dish.
your AGEs. Shift to a higher proportion of cooked foods low in AGE such as vegetables, fruit, fish, and beans. Cooked meats and full fat cheese also contain more AGEs than other types. Another strategy is to use ingredients known to lower AGE formation. Marinating meats in an acid solution (vinegar or lemon) for 1 hour can cut the production of AGEs in grilled meat in half. Seasoning with black pepper, cinnamon, curcumin, parsley, thyme, rosemary, marjoram, clove and sage all have been shown to reduce AGE formation in foods. The consumption of olive oil, fish oil, green tea, and red wine are all associated with lower levels of AGEs within the blood stream. An advanced strategy is called Intermittent Fasting which involves restricting to only calories (500 per day) one or two days a week. Intermittent Fasting reduces levels of AGEs, improves longevity, and reduces the incidence of cancer, heart disease, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. To use every tool possible again AGE-ing and disease take note how your foods are spiced and cooked, and at every opportunity cook low and slow. © 2017. Dr. Patrick M. Nemechek and Jean R. Nemechek. All Rights Reserved. Patent Pending. Submitted by by Dr. Patrick M. Nemechek, D.O. Verrado resident
It is possible to improve your health by reducing
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April 2017
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!
The Church at Litchfield Park “A House of Prayer for All People” Palm Sunday April 9 8:00 ~ 9:15 10:45 a.m. Maundy Thursday April 13 ~ 6:30 p.m.
Good Friday April 14 6:30 p.m.
Sunrise Easter Service April 16 ~ 6:00 a.m. Easter Services April 16 8:00 ~ 9:15 10:45 a.m.
300 N Old Litchfield Rd. ♦ (623) 935-3411 ♦ www.churchatlitchfieldpark.org
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April 2017
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April 2017
Leptospirosis You may have heard the chatter at your local dog park or doggie playgroup about a new virus that is running rampant amongst our beloved four-legged friends. The reports boast some alarming numbers, dog fatalities, and signs of a possible outbreak. Much like the childhood game of telephone, as the story passes along the content become more and more misconstrued. So, let’s stick to the facts. Leptospirosis is a virus caused by bacteria called Leptospires. This bacterium lives in fresh water, soil, and mud. It is more commonly found in areas with tropical climates and high annual rainfall. The first case was documented in the 1800’s so it’s been around for some time. Leptospirosis can affect farm animals and dogs but is rare in cats. The most common way that leptospirosis is spread is through the urine of infected animals, which can get into water or soil. Animals can become infected when they come into direct contact with this contaminated water or soil. The bacteria enter through cuts in the skin or through mucous membranes (eyes, nose or mouth). Drinking contaminated water may also infect animals.
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Furry Friends
Awareness and prevention are key. As a pet owner, you know your pet best. You know your pet’s personality, energy level, hunger and thirst levels. If you begin to notice that your pet is acting differently, it would make sense to monitor any signs and symptoms closely, such as:
• Drinking more than usual • Urinating more than usual • Lack of urination • Redness in the eyes • Severe weakness and depression • Reluctance to eat • Fever over 103.5° F • Vomiting • Diarrhea • Stiffness or severe muscle pain In terms of prevention, keep a close eye on your dog to ensure he is not drinking from puddles or community water bowls – easier said than done for sure! According to the CDC, dogs may pass the virus to each other; however this is rare. Not all dogs that come into contact with leptospirosis will contract it either.
There are vaccinations available for Leptospirosis. Whether or not that is the best choice for your dog is a personal choice. Please speak extensively with your veterinarian about the best option for your dog based on his/ her age, present health and any underlining medical conditions. Be sure to ask about the potential risks and side effects so that, together, you can make the best decision in the present moment for the safety and health of your beloved fur-friend. If you think your pet may have leptospirosis, contact your veterinarian immediately. There are specific tests to diagnosis this virus, which is treatable with antibiotics. Submitted by Kristin Robinson, of Community Paws, Verrado resident
April 2017
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The Bug Guy Welcome to spring in the west valley! Scorpions are prevalent here in Arizona! Most calls to the poison control center about scorpion stings occur between April and October. Based on our current weather pattern, this year’s scorpion population has and will continue to see a dramatic increase. There are approximately 60 species of scorpions thriving in Arizona. All scorpions sting and inject venom. Only one scorpion in the U.S. is classified as potentially deadly, the Bark Scorpion. The Bark Scorpion occurs naturally throughout Maricopa county and Arizona. It is commonly found inside houses and buildings. The Bark Scorpion chooses a defined place or territory in which to live. If a structure is built on the area, then that structure will have an infestation of Bark Scorpions. The Bark Scorpion is one of several medium size scorpions. It typically grows to approximately 2.5 inches in length with two distinguishing characteristics; 1) It climbs walls and 2) It can lay its tail down and move through a very shallow crack or crevice. Color varies from clear, light tan,
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to reddish brown with a long tail that is comprised of thin tail sections, with the length of about 1.5 times its body length. Bark Scorpion Stings: The Bark Scorpion sting is extremely painful, but does not usually cause swelling or redness at the strike site. Victims have described it as having a piece of sharp metal heated and stabbed into their skin! The immediate local pain/burning is usually followed by a feeling of numbness and tingling (and still lots of pain) that can travel up an arm or leg. This is a totally natural reaction to the sting. On rare occasions victims could experience further symptoms, like visual disturbances, difficulty swallowing, swollen tongue, slurred speech, and respiratory problems. If any of these additional symptoms occur, seek emergency medical attention.
neurological response, special care should be taken. If a child has been stung by a scorpion, contact poison control at 1-800222-1222 or seek emergency medical attention. Scorpion infestations are not permanent issues. Scorpions can be exterminated and the situation resolved with the help of a Quality Pro Certified, Integrated Pest Management company. Submitted By Larry Cash, of Estrella Mountian Pest Control
Consider this, a scorpion delivers micrograms of venom, so the larger the victim the less affected they will be. Because children are more likely to have a full
April 2017
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Main Street
April 2017
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Living With Faith America
In August of 1945, we celebrated VJ Day. After much bloodshed and sacrifices, we finally defeated Japan in a war that still reverberates to this day. The relief that followed also served as a reminder that even in victory there is sadness. The needless waste of resources and humanities’ disdain for the values of life’s gifts caused us to pause and wonder about our purpose. During these difficult times, we Americans came together as never before. The blood drives, the rationing of things we once took for granted, the purchase of savings bonds, the entertaining of the troops, all taught us that when a nation is in need its citizens rise to the occasion. It certainly was a different time. One thing that stood out, in my mind, was a simple song made famous during that time in our history – “The House I live in.” The house I live in reminded us of all we hold dear and find precious
in this experiment called America. The words resonate with us because they speak to our values and ideals. The house I live in A plot of earth, the street The grocer and the butcher Or the people that I meet The children in the playground The faces that I see All races and religions That’s America to me As we examine the simple words we are left to understand that America is so diverse and yet so connected. It is the diversity that was and remains the secret strength of this great nation. It is as though God gazed at this creation of young and older, white and black, Jew, Gentile, Muslim, and Hindu – on and on the differences are clear, but the bonds are unbreakable.
The place I work in The worker by my side The little town the city Where my people lived and died The howdy and the handshake The air of feeling free And the right to speak your mind out That’s America to me
completed a most exhausting and agonizing election. Things have been said that may never be forgotten, but it is over. What is not over is the fact that we are all Americans with the right to speak our minds. Now is the time to join together in building an even stronger America. Two hundred forty years has taught us that only as one can we truly benefit from the many different opinions and solutions. Only as one can we overcome the vitriol that seems to have settled in our hearts and minds. Together, we succeed, separate, we fail. It really is that simple. Now is the time to join with one another and know that through the tears, and the dreams, and the growing, we have developed a country that has never been duplicated, nor will it ever be. August 1945 may have been a different time, but the messages of those offerings are no different today. As we journey into a new chapter in our history perhaps it is appropriate to also remember that by the Grace of God do we flourish. Rabbi Irwin Wiener, D.D. Sun Lakes Jewish Congregation National Chaplain, Jewish War Veterans, USA
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April 2017
HOME SWEET HOME The Boomers are coming, the Boomers are coming… On New Year’s Day in 1960, Sun City opened on the northwest side of Phoenix Arizona. That ushered in a new way of life for the empty-nester, which was looking for the ultimate in retirement living. Since that day we know these communities as retirement communities, 55+, active adult, senior living, and many more names and nicknames....Along with that comes an image of the people that choose this lifestyle. You know the ones, riding around in their golf carts, playing tennis, golfing, playing cards! Well, times - they are a changin’! Nowadays this means a bucket list of things to do and places to go. You see them in the gym, playing
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pickleball, hiking, riding mountain bikes, and generally active. Sound familiar? Here are the facts. There are over 75 million baby boomers in the USA. These are people born between 1946 and 1964. They have money, they are in good health, and on the move! Phoenix is literally surrounded by these 55+ lifestyle communities. In Verrado we have Victory, and nearby is Sun City Festival, Pebble Creek, Sun City Grand, Canta Mia, and the list goes on! Most assuredly there are more to come. More importantly is that our valley is a mecca for this baby boomer on the move. We have the climate and activities to draw them. In 2000, Buckeye was a little town of 6,500 people but in 16 years it has
Airport Ride
increased to 65,000 people and the estimates are that in 14 years the population will exceed 400,000! That’s why we are seeing the economic development in our own backyard here in Verrado. Fry’s Marketplace is being built as you read this, and many more businesses are coming. So, the landscape is changing and everyone involved, including real estate, from residential to commercial, has their work cut out for them. The baby boomers are part of the Verrado community now as Victory at Verrado is two years old and will be home to over 7,000 residents. The baby boomers are coming and we are ready! Chuck Disney Realtor at Verrado Realty Victory at Verrado Resident
623-536-7004 WWW.VELOCITYPHX.COM
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Main Street
April 2017
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Spring Cleaning Shortcuts to make your home sparkle We all know that one person who just adores cleaning. But for the rest of us, it’s a necessary evil that gets old very quickly! Before you tackle that long list of spring cleaning tasks, try some of these cleaning hacks designed to make these chores faster and easier. When cleaning is fun and even effortless, you’ll feel more energized and gain the momentum you need to knock out your list of chores. Afterward, your house will sparkle from top to bottom, which is its own reward! 1. Try natural solutions Commercial cleaning solutions can add extra costs to your deep cleaning session, not to mention the harsh chemicals can leave behind unpleasant odors. Why
not experiment with everyday pantry items? These often cost less and are just as effective in their cleaning power. A simple solution of warm water and vinegar removes builtup grime from your floors, while leaving a clean, rinse-free finish. Just add a half cup of distilled white vinegar to a gallon of warm water and start mopping. If you dislike the smell of vinegar, add a couple drops of your favorite essential oil - the fresh scent will be like a small reward! 2. Shortcut to shining windows If you want streak-free mirrors and clean windows without the hassle, Cas Aarssen, author of “Real Life Organizing: Cleaning and Clutter-Free in 15 Minutes a Day” has this expert tip: Add a teaspoon of cornstarch to your favorite glass cleaner and shake until dissolved. Cornstarch
improves the cleaning power of the solution and makes streaks a thing of the past, so you’ll get the job done more quickly. 3. Clean up top Dust can collect on those high, hard-to-reach places, such as decorative molding and ceiling fans, making cleaning day more difficult. To clean your ceiling fan without showering dust bunnies everywhere, an old pillowcase is your best tool. Spritz the inside of the pillowcase with a vinegar and water solution and slip it over the blades of the fan, pulling it back to trap the dust. For those tough to reach moldings and corners, use a sturdy rubber band to wrap a microfiber cloth around the end a broom, and give those hard-toreach areas a clean sweep!
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Residential / Commercial April 2017
Fit For Life 3 steps to reach 100 feeling youthful and healthy What will your life be like when you turn 100? A century ago the question seemed almost flippant, a needless consideration for most people, but today it’s very real. The percentage of people living to 100 has grown almost 66 percent in the last 30 years, according to U.S. News and World Report. However, these findings come at a time when the life expectancy of Americans has declined for the first time in two decades and one in two adults is living with at least one chronic disease. “To reach their longevity goals, Americans can no longer afford to put their health on the back burner,” says Dr. Andrea Klemes, chief medical officer at MDVIP. “Most people don’t wait until they’re 60 to start saving for retirement. The same should go for their health, where making small investments today can pay big dividends down the road.”
Many chronic conditions, such as high blood pressure, heart disease and Type 2 diabetes, are preventable through simple lifestyle changes. Still, nearly two out of three Boomers and Gen Xers admit they could be doing a better job of exercising regularly, eating well and maintaining a healthy weight. The key to greater longevity is prioritizing your health now - when you’re well - to prevent problems later on. You can start today by asking three questions: What’s your number? When’s the last time you had your blood pressure or cholesterol levels checked? Maintain a current record of your vitals and lab results along with your family history. Make sure you discuss these details with your doctor, who can help identify your risk for certain conditions and suggest lifestyle changes based on the results. These data points serve as an important guide in managing your health and can be the difference between preventing an issue and treating it. What’s up, doc? Going to the doctor is an essential component of maintaining good health but choosing the right doctor directly affects the benefit of each visit. Surprisingly, the survey revealed that one out of three Gen Xers avoid going to the doctor out of fear of finding something wrong. It’s important to find a primary care doctor you trust, who makes you feel at ease and takes the time to know you and your medical history. “Having Dr. Gassner on my side has been the best medicine,” says Rose Demitrack, a 101-year-old patient of Dr. Lawrence Gassner in Phoenix, Arizona. “He spends
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time with me and makes sure I’m doing the right things. Plus he always makes me laugh, which is one secret to staying young. I may be older than most, but I still feel young on the inside.” In the current healthcare environment, an appointment with a doctor is usually scheduled weeks in advance, and after a long wait in the waiting room, patients often feel rushed through the visit. Patients deserve better and you should shop around for a doctor whose goal is to build a relationship and keep you well. What’s the plan? Whether your goal is to lose 10 pounds or to lower your blood pressure, you need a plan to get you there. “I tell my patients to think of it as a business plan for their health,” says Dr. Steven Wilson, a family practitioner in Redlands, California. Once you have your plan established, it’s up to you to execute it. Many people don’t stick with a plan because it’s hard to stay disciplined and easy to fall back into old habits. So don’t be afraid to consult your doctor along the way. Your doctor is your partner in your health journey, and working together could give you a better chance at seeing exactly what your life will be like when you reach 100.
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Protect Yourself Tips to help protect your identity this tax season Tax season is a busy time for everyone. Unfortunately, it’s also a busy time of year for cybercriminals who swindle sensitive personal information from unsuspecting victims. Take for example, Melissa, a marketing manager from Chandler who last year received an alert from her online tax filing service that her account password had been changed. But she dismissed the notification as a mistake. Thinking this was strange, Melissa followed up with her tax filing service and found that a criminal had accessed her account, stolen enough personal information to open a credit account in her name and redirected her tax return to another account. Fortunately, Melissa was able to resolve her case but she is just one of a staggering number of individuals who’ve fallen victim to criminals lurking the web. According to research from Symantec, cybercriminals
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launched more than 1 million web attacks against internet users every day in 2015. While this statistic may seem shocking, there are things you can do to help protect yourself and your identity from cybercriminals. 1. The sooner you file your taxes, the harder it will be for criminals to file taxes on your behalf for a refund, which a thief can do with only your date of birth and Social Security Number. If you want some extra protection, consider contacting the IRS to see if you’re eligible for an Identity Protection PIN. 2. If you’re filing your taxes online, use a secure Wi-Fi connection or a Virtual Private Network (VPN), not a public Wi-Fi network. 3. Remember the IRS only communicates through the United States Postal Service. They will never request personal and/
or financial information through email, text messages or social media sites. If you receive a letter in the mail and you’re not sure if it’s legitimate, use the IRS lookup tool to find your letter: www.irs.gov/individuals/ irs-notice-or-letter-for-individualfilers If you believe you’ve been the victim of an IRS scam, you may also report this to the TIGTA at their website: www.treasury.gov/ tigta/contact_report_scam.shtml. Don’t delay in doing so. After all, it’s your identity and it is up to you to protect it every single day.
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House Proud Home improvements to tackle before you move in You found the perfect home, so it’s not surprising that you want to move in as quickly as possible. However, there are some projects that are best done when the house is still empty. So, consider completing the following seven items before the moving trucks arrive. * Painting. A fresh coat of paint can instantly update a room, and it’s common to buy a home knowing you will need to paint several rooms or the entire house after the sale. However, painting is best done while every wall is accessible and there are no worries about getting paint on furniture or rugs. * Changing locks. Now is the time to change the locks on your new home to eliminate the risk of any former keyholders accessing your new space. Do this even if you know the former keyholders
because you never know who they shared keys with. This fix is quick, inexpensive and it provides you with peace of mind. * Flooring updates. Redoing a floor is always easier when the floor is empty. Whether you’re choosing to redo wood floors or lay tile before you move in, tackling this process now also allows you to keep wood and tile dust off of furniture and collectables. * Roof repairs. Roof repairs are a must. If the home inspection revealed any damage to the roof, make the necessary repairs before moving in. Choose a contractor experienced with the type of shingles your home requires. Several of the largest shingle manufacturers have programs for contractors who meet certain qualifications, like TAMKO Building Products’ Pro Certified Contractor program. Homeowners can easily locate a TAMKO Pro at www.TAMKO.com/
find-a-pro to get their project started. * Fix leaks. If left untreated, water leaks can do serious damage to furniture, rugs, flooring and other valuables. Leaks can also lead to secondary problems like rotting wood, mold and mildew. And let’s be honest, no one wants to live in a house where you can’t use the water, so address plumbing issues before you move in. * Child and pet proofing. Careful child and pet proofing can protect your babies (furry or otherwise). Gates at the top and bottom of stairs, outlet covers and locks on cabinets, drawers and any other place chemicals or medicines are kept, can help make your new home a safer place. As difficult as it can be, sometimes delaying your move-in by a few weeks can save months of frustration in the long run. So don’t wait, because the sooner you start, the sooner you can start your new life in your new home.
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Let Me Entertain You Tips for hosting a better brunch
Love the idea of hosting a brunch, but begin to regret it the moment you’re toiling over a pan of bacon grease while your friends are chatting over mimosas? You’re not alone. Whether you’re planning a simple brunch for a small group or an Easter brunch to wow a crowd, these simple tips and ideas are guaranteed to get you out of the kitchen and into the action. Prepare a game plan. Developing a checklist will prevent you from feeling overwhelmed with to-do’s. Once you know how many people will be attending the brunch, start planning the menu, gather recipes and make a grocery list. Take inventory of your cooking supplies, serving dishes and tableware. Picture the scene the night before. Figure out how to serve the food, decide where to put the drinks, gather extra seating and put all the plates, cups,
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cutlery and napkins on the table. Also, don’t forget the mugs or cocktail glasses if you plan to serve coffee or mimosas. While it might seem obvious, these little details can easily be overlooked. Last-minute jobs are bound to happen, so conquering the planned details ahead of time will help keep you sane.
Create a menu full of make-ahead recipes. From drinks to dessert, make sure your menu allows you to spend more times with friends and family and less time in the kitchen. Sure, everyone loves a good omelet, but you’re not a short order cook. Instead, opt for low-maintenance recipes that can be prepared the night before and popped in the oven the next morning. You can never go wrong with classic egg-based dishes such as quiche, strata and casserole. If your culinary skills aren’t up for the task of cooking
for a crowd, don’t be afraid to choose store-bought or catered dishes. This will help alleviate any unnecessary stress and allow you to enjoy the event. Ditch the pile of dirty dishes in favor of disposable tableware. Instead of standing over the sink cleaning, spend the extra time relaxing with family and friends. Set the table in style. Make sure your brunch is as stylish as it is tasty.
April 2017
MONEY MATTERS Teach Your Children Well High debt levels, lack of savings, the inability to budget – these problems all have several causes, but one of them is almost certainly financial illiteracy. Too many of us just never developed the money management skills necessary to cope with our complicated – and expensive – world. But if you have young children, you can teach them some money-smart lessons – and who knows? You could use the opportunity to give yourself a few valuable reminders, too. Here are some suggestions for a financial “curriculum”: Save for a goal. In our highly commercialized culture, it’s almost inevitable that your children will eventually become somewhat acquisitive. Obviously, it’s important to teach them that they can’t have everything. So, once they are old enough to receive an allowance, encourage them to set a goal for something they want and to put money aside every week for that goal.
It’s also an excellent idea to model this behavior yourself. So if you are considering making a major purchase in the not-toodistant future, show your children how you are setting aside money regularly for this purpose. Establish a budget. It can be challenging to create a household budget and just as difficult to stick to it – but for most people, it’s worth the effort. You’ll be doing your children a favor by showing them how you have a certain amount of income and where it goes each month. Explain to your kids that by staying within your budget, you can help avoid problems such as debt and extra fees tacked onto bills for late payments. Here’s the key point: Living within your means pays off in the long run. Have fun with investing. It might surprise you, but even young children enjoy learning about the investment process, especially if you explain to them that they can be an owner of a company that makes a product or service
Investing is about more than money.
they like. You might want to pick such a company and, along with your child, chart its course over time. You could give your child a pretend $100 bill to “invest” in this company and then see how its value changes, explaining along the way that various factors will affect the stock’s price. At some point, you may even wish to purchase real stocks for your child and place them within a custodial account. And you might also want to show your child how your own stocks and other investments are performing. The investment world can be fascinating, and by sharing your enthusiasm for it with your children, you can encourage them to invest throughout their lives. Knowledge is power. And the more knowledge about finances and investing that you can impart to your children now, the more empowered they will be to make smart financial moves in the future. Submitted by Wayne Polk, of Edward Jones Investments, Verrado resident
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
.
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
April 2017
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Puzzles & Games
Solution
Sudoku for April
Numbers from 1-9 must appear only once in each row, column and box. Good Luck!
7 3
2
9
4
5
6
1
7
8
9
6
1
2
7 3
8
4
5
8 1 7 2 5 6 9
1 5 8 6 2 4 3
6 4 9 3 8 1 7
5 7 2 4 3 8 6
3 6 1 9 4 5 2
4 8 3 5 7 9 1
4
9
6
8
2
6
8
7
7
4
1
2
1
2
3
9
9
3
4
6
5
5
4
8
3
3
2
2
7
8
1
8
9
8
5
5
1
7
6
3
7
6
3
1
9
4
8
6
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3
7
5
9
April 2017
Business Directory AUTOMOTIVE A Plus Automotive Cien Motor Werks Litchfield Auto Repair Velocity Transport EDUCATION The Goddard School FINANCIAL SERVICES ACEA Accounting Allstate Insurance Edward Jones - W Polk Estrella Partners Group Mahoney Law Office Signature Documents State Farm Insurance - J Caler HEALTHCARE & BEAUTY Active Life Pain Center Dr. Nemechek Healthy Life Family Medicine Majestic Beauty Spa Olson Orthodontics Permanent Makeup by Kari Skincare Extraordinaire HOUSEHOLD 5 Dog Electric Al’s Plumbing Century Glass and Mirror Deb’s Creative Interiors Desired Handyman Estrella Mountain Pest Control General Exterminating J & H Appliance Repair
623.986.1586 623.322.8333 623.882.8700 623.295.1912 623.255.3290 623.251.0821 623.208.6922 623.386.2821 623.594.9283 623.518.3513 623.974.2272 623.327.1685 623.535.9777 623.208.4226 623.889.3477 623.986.5790 623.536.7004 602.295.7373 623.826.3726 623.313.5685 623.329.5170 623.444.6204 623.594.6415 623.910.5183 623.680.6619 623.977.2100 623.925.5427
LJ Designs Studio K & R Design Consultants Lifetime Moving & Storage Sun Valley Solar The Window Cleaner AZ Younger Brothers Exterminating Services LANDSCAPING / POOL CARE Buckeye Desert Landscape Desert Rose Concrete Estrella Owner Services - landscapes Jackrabbit Nursery REAL ESTATE HomeSmart Realty - R Seiler Main Street Lofts Verrado Realty West Valley Homewatch RECREATION Eleutheria Wellness Center Wildlife World Zoo RELIGION The Church at Litchfield Park The Edge Church AZ RETAIL Budget Blinds of Goodyear Club Car Estrella Ordnance Foot Solutions Pure Patio Steel Shield Security Doors We Ride Electronic Mopeds
623.332.1060 623.399.3491 602.344.9988 623.640.6546 623.738.6064 623.487.3147 602.527.2818 623.853.9051 623.693.5695 623.386.4700 808.874.3100 623.215.4788 623.792.5900 623.594.9283 623.986.5110 623.935.9453 623.935.3411 480.442.7323 480.629.8854 623.584.0591 623.262.2154 623.262.2154 623.536.6676 623.977.3277 623.336.0215
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Hello Verrado!
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wēride electric. mopeds. April 2017
23
Your Hometown Real Estate Experts, Located on the corner of Verrado Way and Main Street in the Heart of Verrado.
TW LEWIS – $475,000 20716 W. Lost Creek Drive – Verrado 3,468 Sq. Ft. • 3 Beds • 2.5 Baths Listed by: Tim Klimek
CACHET - $350,000 3466 N. Hooper Street – Verrado 2,590 Sq. Ft. • 3 Beds • 2.75 Baths Listed by: Pat Redfiled & Holly McGinty
ENGLE – $318,499 3926 N. Kibbey Court – Verrado 2,596 Sq. Ft. • 4 Beds • 3 Baths Listed by: Bette Popiel
MERITAGE – $318,000 3202 N. Evergreen Street – Verrado 2,230 Sq. Ft. • 4 Beds • 2 Baths Listed by: Pat Redfiled & Holly Mc Ginty
RICHMOND AMERICAN – $299,999 21091 W. Wycliff Court – Verrado 1,750 Sq. Ft. • 2 Beds • 2.5 Baths Listed by: Brennen Kent & Tim Klimek
ASHTON WOODS – $289,000 21167 W. Elm Way – Verrado 2,242 Sq. Ft. • 3 Beds • 2.5 Baths Listed by: Diane Simpson
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
Brennen Kent
Bette Popiel
Tessie Davis
Holly McGinty
Chuck Disney
Jennifer Cline Designated Broker
GREEN STREET
VERRADO WAY
N
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 24 Main Street
MAIN STREET
April 2017