Main Street

Energy Bill Savings: Nearly 50% of the average home's energy bill is spent on heating and AC. With Aeroseal, you can stop 30 cents of every dollar spent on heating and cooling your home or business from disappearing through leaky ductwork.

Healthier Home Environment: Leaky ducts can introduce mold, dust, and other pollutants into your home, aggravating allergy symptoms. Aeroseal effectively tackles this issue, promoting a

Endorsed by the Department of Energy: Recognized as one of the most beneficial energy technologies for American consumers, Aeroseal's

of up to 98%.

*Free

Majestic Beauty Spa

Botox | Dermal F llers | Ha r Removal

Monthly and b rthday specia s for members only

Jam e $300 off Be laf l box $50 off F l er Syr nge

$10 un t Botox or $3 un t Dysport (m n 100 un ts)

Mar ce da Buy 2 facials get 1 free

Maria: 10% off Reik and Angel Messages

$350 off Laser Sk n Resurfac ng Package for face neck chest

From Me To You...

Majest cBeautySpa com | 623-986-5790

MajesticBeautySpa com | 623-986-5790

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.

4236 N Verrado Way Suite A104 Buckeye AZ 85396

4236 N Verrado Way Suite A104 Buckeye AZ 85396

‘Thank you.’ It is a simple phrase, two words that can make such a difference. I feel that in this life we can and should voice those two words more often. The person who holds a door for you, or bags your groceries should be acknowledged; the driver who lets you turn in front of them deserves a wave of appreciation and the customer service rep who helped you get your email working warrants recognition. When you thank someone, you acknowledge their effort, kindness, or assistance. This fosters positive feelings between people and strengthens bonds, whether they are personal or professional.

A culture of gratitude can transform environments, whether it’s at home, work, or within a community. In passing along your gratitude you can start a trickle down effect of happiness and make the world a better place. I know it sounds altruistic and grandiose, but consider how easily your own mood affects your actions. When we are content we are more likely to extend that grace to others, to hold our tongue when we would otherwise snap at a loved one or decide not to take that last cookie at work.

When individuals experience gratitude, they are more inclined to pay it forward and engage in acts

of kindness themselves which creates a ripple effect of positivity and generosity. Expressing gratitude has also been linked to increased levels of happiness and satisfaction. It shifts focus away from negativity and cultivates a mindset of abundance and positivity. Being appreciated makes people feel valued and respected by others. When you express gratitude, it can boost someone’s self-esteem and morale, motivating them to continue their helpful or positive behavior.

In that vein I want to say ‘Thank You’ to all of you. As I meet people and talk about the magazines, many of you have told me that you enjoy reading my words. It means so much to know that I am not writing in an abyss, that some of what I say resonates and sometimes helps people. Those two simple words have made my day better many times so I encourage you to try it for yourself. You never know the difference it could make in someone else’s day!

Chin Chin

The Pink Plane

Nothing beets flying our shimmering version of the classic Aviation Cocktail: The Pink Plane. Hints of sugar beets mingle with tart lemon, floral Creme De Violet and the exciting botanicals of our Craftsman Modern Gin to create a sexy experience served up in a chilled martini glass.

Pink Plane -

• 1/4 oz Beet Infused Craftsman Modern Gin

• 1 3/4 oz Craftsman Modern Gin

• 1/4 oz Giffard Creme de Violet

• Bar Spoon of Luxardo Originale Cherry Liqueur

• 3/4 oz Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice

• 1/2 oz Simple Syrup

• Combine all ingredients, except for the Beet Infused Gin.

• Shake then strain and pour into a coupe glass.

• Drop a Bourbon Cherry into the bottom.

• Float the Beet Infused Gin on top.

• Express a lemon twist into drink and garnish.

Submitted by The Craftsman at Verrado

On Our Cover

The Youth Triathlon of Verrado is taking place Saturday, April 27th at The Center on Main in Verrado. This will be the 4th year of the Youth Triathlon which is run by local Verrado residents, Sarah and Jeff Byers and the Youth Triathlon Club. Sarah Byers, a coach of the club, says the mission is to inspire youth in Verrado to get active by swimming, biking and running while having fun and learning how to overcome both mental and physical obstacles. Coach Sarah, an accomplished triathlete herself, says this event is one of the most inspiring events that she participates in. “My favorite part is seeing the kids at the finish line, they are exhausted and elated at the same time, and it is a core memory they will have forever that they did something hard, something a couple weeks ago they might have thought was impossible!”

The Youth Triathlon Club offers free clinics leading up to race day so that all the participants feel prepared for the event when it comes to race day. These clinics

include swim instruction by Coach Sarah and local Verrado High School swimmers, and bike and run clinics with local athletes and residents. “We try to get the parents involved too so that families can get active together at our clinics and that hopefully facilitates family bike rides and runs in the future.” said Coach Sarah.

In years past and this year the Youth Triathlon gives back to the community by taking all the proceeds of the event and donating them. This year the recipient is 6 year old Kinley Duncan. In the summer of 2023, Kinley was diagnosed with B-Cell ALL Leukemia. She has shown so much courage and strength from day one. Since those initial 10 days at Children’s Hospital in Phoenix, Kiney has undergone months of chemo, steroids, ER visits and several surgical procedures. Just as hard is how Kinley is isolated from her friends, classmates and all the typical 6-year-old activities. It has not been easy, but she continues to smile and inspire everyone daily. Kinley and her family will be at the finish line handing out medals to all the finishers, showing everyone that you can overcome any obstacle and be #kinleystrong.

The event is possible with local businesses providing sponsorship, such as the title sponsor Gill Law Firm. Jeffrery Gill, the owner of Gill Law Firm, a triathlete himself, is not only the title sponsor but one of the founding members of the Youth Triathlon Club and event itself. Along with each participant receiving a medal, all the athletes are entered to win a bike from Trek Bike West Phoenix, another longtime sponsor of this event. “Our overall goal is for local youth to see the potential in themselves through triathlon and take that out there into the world and stay healthy and strong for years to come.”

If you are interested in signing up please visit the sign up page at: https://runsignup.com/Race/AZ/ Buckeye/VerradoKidsTri

Follow Youth Tri Club on Instagram: @youthtriclub_ verrado

Photo credit: Mallory Photography

Buckeye P.D

New Buckeye Police Chief

The Buckeye Police Department has a new police chief who has set his sights on the future. Chief Robert Sanders was sworn in as the department’s top leader during a March 5th city council meeting.

Sanders’ number one goal for the department: position the agency to take on challenges that come with a rising population.

“We are a very proactive police department. We want to prevent crime before it happens,” says Sanders. “Staffing is going to be complimented with technology to multiply our efforts and maintain service across our area.”

For the last ten years, Sanders served as deputy chief working alongside Chief Larry Hall who retired January 2024 and now works as the city’s public safety director.

Hall and Sanders worked together to launch several large projects including the construction of a state-ofthe-art 911 communications center and creation of a public safety technology hub expected to enhance emergency response and improve safety for first responders and the community.

“The foundation and stability is there, the mission stays the same, and we’re going to work through growing pains,” says Sanders. “We want to keep increasing collaboration with our community so we can problem solve together.”

Sanders points to several Buckeye police programs designed to engage the community including the Buckeye Police Cadet program and a robust SRO program that now includes nine school resource officers.

Sanders is looking to grow the department and says he’s committed to providing the best training, equipment and opportunities for advancement. He says the department “is full of dedicated public servants” and notes many of them live in the community they serve.

“Community pride comes naturally, and safety is personal to them,” says Sanders. “They’re invested in the success of the department and the city.”

Pat’s Run

20 years ago, after the tragic passing of Pat Tillman, a group of his family and friends came together to honor his legacy. Since 2004, Pat’s Run has grown to hosting nearly 30,000 athletes of all kinds each year. Join neighbors and come together once again in Tempe or virtually around the world to honor Pat’s legacy and support his living legacy, more than 850 remarkable Tillman Scholars.

Youth Triathlon

Join us for the 2024 addition of the Verrado Youth Triathlon on April 27th, 2024 at The Center on Main in Verrado presented by Title Sponsor The Gill Law Firm and benefiting Kinley Duncan! Thank you to the wonderful community sponsors that make this event possible. Organized by Youth Triathalon Club.

Backyard Tour

Come celebrate the start of spring and visit some extravagant backyards here in Verrado. There’ll be live music, food, and 50/50 tickets for sale. Purchase tickets ahead of time online, or the day of the event with cash at the Village Green or at showcased backyards. All proceeds benefit the White Tank Mountains Conservancy.

Farmer’s Market

Hosted at the Verrado Town Square. Established in 2016. You can find local producers of organic and seasonal crops, plants and seeds. Ranchers, fresh local eggs…. A wonderful way to spend a family day!

SITUATED OFF THE 13TH HOLE OF THE VICTORY GOLF COURSE THIS GORGEOUS HOME IS COMPLETE WITH AMAZING MOUNTAIN VIEWS!

THIS 3 BEDROOM, 2 BATH SINGLE STORY HOME HAS 2,142 SQ FT AND MANY UPGRADES AS WELL AS AN OPEN CONCEPT FLOORPAN. YOUR GOURMET KITCHEN IS COMPLETE WITH STAINLESS STEEL APPLIANCES, GRANITE COUNTERTOPS, A GAS RANGE AS WELL AS AN RO SYSTEM. IN ADDITION, YOU HAVE A SEPARATE ENCLAVE RIGHT OFF THE KITCHEN PERFECT FOR ENTERTAINING. YOUR BACKYARD IS AN OASIS THE EXUDES RELAXATION AND TRANQUILITY FOR YOU AND YOUR GUESTS. YOUR EXTENDED PATIO WELCOMES YOU ON THE A GAS BUILT IN BBQ COMPLETE WITH A BUILT IN GRANITE BAR. ENJOY SITTING IN FRONT OF YOUR WATERFALL AND FIRE FEATURE TO WATCH THE SUNSET, AND LOOK OUT ONTO THE GOLF COURSE AND MOUNTAINS. RELAX UNDER THE PERGOLA IN YOUR SUNKEN SPA. ENJOY A GAME

Yum Yum Connecting for Life

3 Ingredient Sugar Cookies

This recipe is so simple and foolproof, you can whip up these sugar cookies anytime. It’s almost criminal how easy these cookies are to make, but nobody is getting arrested! While vanilla extract and sprinkles are not needed for this recipe to work, the addition of the two make it fun for the whole family!

* This recipe creates slightly crunchy sugar cookies, but they should not be dry or crumbly. For a softer cookie, bake for a minute less and keep an eye on them.

Ingredients:

1 cup unsalted butter

⅔ cup + 3 tbsp granulated sugar

2 cups + 1 tbsp all purpose flour

1 tsp vanilla extract (optional, but recommended) Sprinkles (optional, but recommended - and fun!)

Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 350° F. Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper

2. In a medium bowl, beat together butter and ⅔ cup sugar until combined (it will be a little gritty - that’s okay.)

3. Add flour and blend well (add vanilla, if using)

4. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls.

5. Gently roll the balls in the remaining 3 tbsp of sugar until lightly coated; transfer to a baking sheet 2 inches apart.

6. With the bottom of a cup, press down on the balls to flatten. Add some sprinkles (if using) and lightly press down again just so they stick. They will look pretty small in circumference, but they will spread to normal sized cookies.

7. Bake for 15 mins or until just slightly golden around the edges and on the bottom.

8. Remove from the oven and let rest on the baking sheets for at least 10-15 mins (don’t skip this step!) Then eat or transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely.

ENJOY!

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

Teen Lifeline’s Call to Action on National Telephone Day - 4/25

In a world where connection is key, the power of a caring message cannot be overstated. Research from the CDC underscores the importance of strong, positive relationships in preventing suicidal thoughts and behaviors. With the spring months often seeing a rise in suicides, the end of the school year can be particularly challenging for teens. Stressors like finals, graduations, and farewells to friends can weigh heavily on their minds.

“Please use your phone for its best possible purpose on April 25th and throughout the next two months – to check in with a teen and see how they are doing. It could save a life.” Nikki Kontz, clinical director at Teen Lifeline, asks you. But the call to action extends beyond adults; Kontz encourages teens to reach out to their peers as well. In a world where isolation can feel overwhelming, knowing that someone cares can make all the difference.

Teen Lifeline’s impact is evident in the numbers: nearly 48,000 calls and texts were received in 2023, a 10.6% increase from the previous year.

adolescence, it’s essential for adults to be vigilant for warning signs of suicide. From changes in behavior to extreme mood swings, recognizing these signs can be lifesaving. Kontz emphasizes the importance of direct communication, assuring that asking a teen about suicidal thoughts will not plant the idea but rather grant them permission to speak freely.

For those in immediate danger, swift action is crucial. Whether it’s calling 911 or reaching out to Teen Lifeline, prioritizing safety is paramount.

As we approach National Telephone Day, let’s remember the power of connection. A simple call or text has the potential to save a life, offering hope and support in times of darkness. Together, let’s make every ring of the phone a lifeline of love and compassion.

For more information and resources, visit TeenLifeline. org.

On National Telephone Day, Kontz recommends reaching out with simple, heartfelt messages. From “Just checking in” to “I love you! How are you today?” every message carries the potential to brighten a teen’s day and remind them they’re not alone.

As we navigate the complexities of

The Bug Guy

Termites are a significant pest concern in the Phoenix Valley, where the warm climate provides an ideal environment for their proliferation. These insects are known for their wood-consuming habits, which can lead to substantial damage to homes and structures if left unchecked.

These termites live in underground colonies and build distinctive mud tubes to provide moisture while they travel to food sources above ground. These tubes are often the first visible sign of a termite infestation. Homeowners should be vigilant for other signs of termites, like wood that sounds hollow when tapped, cracked or distorted paint, and termite droppings that resemble sawdust or coffee grounds.

Given the elusive nature of termites, professional inspections are recommended, especially since Phoenix’s environment allows termites to remain active year-round. Preventative measures include reducing soil-to-wood contact around the home, maintaining proper ventilation to reduce humidity, and regularly inspecting foundations for signs of mud tubes. Termite control typically involves bait systems, soil treatments with termiticides, and direct wood treatments. Quick action and professional management are crucial to preventing the extensive damage these insects can inflict.

Scorpions in the Phoenix Valley are a common sight, especially during the warmer months. Among the most prevalent species is the Arizona bark scorpion, notorious for its venomous sting. Scorpions are nocturnal hunters, using the cover of darkness to ambush their prey. They typically feed on insects,

spiders, and even other scorpions. Their diet is crucial for controlling pest populations, making them an essential part of the local ecosystem.

Residents in Phoenix should be aware that these creatures often seek shelter in cool, moist areas, which means they can sometimes be found in homes. Preventive measures include reducing/removing food sources (other pests), sealing cracks, using yellow outdoor lights that attract fewer insects, and ensuring that moisture isn’t accumulating in or around the dwelling. While scorpion stings can be painful and sometimes result in severe reactions, fatalities are rare. It’s crucial for those living in or visiting Phoenix to understand the behavior of scorpions and take preventative measures to minimize encounters with these fascinating but potentially dangerous arachnids.

Submitted by Larry Cash, of Estrella Mountain Pest Control

Money Matters

What Should You Do With Your Tax Refund?

If you get a tax refund, what will you do with it? Of course, the answer will depend somewhat on how big your refund is. Last year, the average refund amount was about $2,750, according to the IRS. Whatever the size of your refund, you’ll want to maximize its benefit. Here are a few suggestions:

• Contribute to your IRA. You still have until April 15 to contribute to your IRA for the 2023 tax year, but if you’ve already “maxed out” on it, you could use your refund for 2024, when the annual contribution limit for a traditional and Roth IRA is $7,000, or $8,000 if you’re 50 or older. And by getting an early start toward fully funding your IRA for the year, you can reduce the pressure of having to come up with large amounts later.

• Build an emergency fund. Your tax refund could help you start or expand an emergency fund. It’s a good idea to keep up to six months’ worth of living expenses in such a fund, with the money kept in a liquid, lowrisk account, separate from the funds you use for your daily expenses. You might need to draw on this fund for unexpected expenses, such as a major home or car repair or a medical bill. Without such an emergency

fund in place, you might be forced to dip into your IRA or other retirement accounts to pay for these types of costs, and such a move could be expensive, resulting in taxes, penalties and lost opportunities for growth.

• Contribute to a 529 plan. If you have children or grandchildren and you’d like to help them further their education someday, you might consider investing in a 529 education savings plan. With a 529 plan, earnings and withdrawals are federally tax free, provided the money is used for qualified education expenses. (It is possible that 529 withdrawals could affect financial aid packages, depending on who owns the account.)

• Pay down debts. Most of us probably wish we could reduce our debt loads. But which debts should you tackle first? You could follow the “snowball” method by paying off the smallest of your loans or debts as quickly as possible. Or you could choose the “avalanche” route by making minimum payments on all debts and using your refund to pay off the debts that carry the highest interest rates. Your tax refund can be a valuable asset — so use it wisely.

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

One Step Beyond

One Step Beyond Empowers Adults Who Have Intellectual Disabilities

Believing her daughter, Dylan, should have post-high school opportunities to contribute to the community and achieve her personal goals, Mimi Rogers—a former teacher—went into action. In 2003, she started One Step Beyond, Inc. (OSBI), with a vision of providing innovative programs that empower adults who have intellectual disabilities, like her daughter, to be independent, to seek and maintain employment and achieve greater social participation in their communities. Today, OSBI is the Valley’s largest provider of advanced education programs for adults who have intellectual and cognitive disabilities, serving more than 700 individuals at four Phoenix Metro locations.

The amenities at OSBI are unmatched and enable the organization to provide one-of-a-kind programs unavailable anywhere else.

• Culinary training programs offer food-industry training with an emphasis on customer service, healthy dietary planning, food preparation, and proper sanitation skills that equip participants with the necessary skills to seek employment in the food

industry. The culinary program also includes a catering business.

• Life skills programs help members strengthen independent living skills, with an emphasis on money management, functional literacy, social skills, and safe community access.

• Employment programs provide training and volunteer opportunities for self-reliance that lead to competitive or supported employment.

• Recreation and fine arts programs provide music, art, dance and fitness with an emphasis on personal wellness.

• OSBI also has the first and only campus-based day training program that has a special needs hockey team, The One Step Coyotes.

OSBI partners with its members and their families to identify and provide innovative, individualized, and comprehensive programs. If a desired program isn’t currently offered, the team finds a way to make it happen. One Step Beyond staff is comprised of professionals who have made it their life’s mission to better the lives of adults who have intellectual disabilities.

For more information, visit https://osbi.org

Business Directory Puzzle Time

This samurai sudoku puzzle is a great way to engage the brain and help develop logic skills. To solve this Samurai puzzle use standard sudoku rules for every 9x9 grid: each digit from 1 to 9 can only appear once in every row, column and 3x3 box. Solutions are on our website www.EstrellaPublishing.com

Difficulty: Easy Monday, 11th March 2024

ADVERTISING

Main Street magazine

AUTOMOTIVE

Alvidrez Detailing

AZ Garage Floors

Daniel’s Total Car Care

FINANCIAL/ LEGAL SERVICES

Edward Jones - W Polk

Ganyo Insurance Agency

Johnson Wealth Management

Mahoney Law Office

HEALTHCARE & BEAUTY

Bailey Orthodontics

Beautiful Mind AZ

Buckeye Dermatology

Estrella Family Care & Aesthetics

Good Night Pediatrics

Healthy Life Family Medicine

Ironwood Acupuncture

Main Street Dental

Majestic Beauty Spa

HOUSEHOLD

Al’s Plumbing

A Quality HVAC AC & Heating

Arizona Success Landscaping

Blue Line Painting

Century Glass and Mirror

623.398.5541

623.693.7724

602.254.3363

623.873.0949

623.386.2821

623.439.2525

866.575.7020

623.518.3513

623.977.0707

623.248.1682

602.754.6075

602.699.6171

623.643.9233

623.889.3477

623.203.5064

623.594.8100

623.986.5790

623.329.5170

623.233.0049

623.824.4117

623.533.9455

623.444.6204

Cris’s Cleaning Services, LLC

Consider It Finished Painting

Estrella Mountain Pest Control

FASA Tile

Gentle Hearts Animal Hospital

J & H Appliance Repair

JBS Roofing

Merry Maids of Phoenix

Nuñez Painting

RBG Sunscreens

Screen Mobile

The Window Cleaner AZ

West Valley Fans & Blinds

Younger Brothers Exterminating

REAL ESTATE

Keller Williams - A King

Keller Williams - AZ Houseman

Keller Williams - TK Luxury Group

Keller Williams - M Ramundo

Main Street Property Mgmt

Realty One Group - C Disney

Realty One Group - E Chionchio

Windemere Sun Capital Partners

RETAIL & RECREATION

Havok Fine Jewelers

Tacos Chilango

The UPS Store

602.574.3916

623.221.2004

623.925.5427

602.568.8752

623.298.4200

623.680.6619

623.247.9252

623.931.9477

623.975.2798

623.486.7018

602.438.8485

623.738.6064

623.600.8893

623.487.3147

480.363.6301

623.694.6993

623.688.4447

623.363.7310

623.980.4200

602.617.9516

623.469.7468

602.402.2162

602.460.4714

623.440.3139

623.440.6108

April 2024 23