Main Street

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2 Estrella Publishing - Main Street magazine April 2024 $59 tune-up Keeping your Verrado Community Cool and Comfortable for over 28 years. Schedule your FREE Estimate and Consultation Today. 623.233.0049 www.callAQuality.com 520 North Bullard, #43 Goodyear, AZ 85338 ROC 255316, 255314, 255315 623.233.0049 Save up to $850 per year on your utility bills! Aeroseal Duct Sealing is the most effective, affordable, and innovative solution to seal air duct leaks and enhance your home's comfort. Why Aeroseal? The Facts Speak for Themselves: 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 cleaner living environment. Endorsed by the Department of Energy: Recognized as one of the most beneficial energy technologies for American consumers, Aeroseal's patented technology seals leaks from the inside out with a remarkable success rate of up to 98%. *Free Membership with Aeroseal Service. Home of the 100% Guarantee. We get it right the first time--or we fix it for Free. 623.233.0049 CallAQuality.com Spring Specials 1 Year Membership with Aeroseal Service. FREE 2 complimentary precision tune-ups. 20% discount on all services and repairs. Free indoor air quality test. Priority scheduling yearround. Free additional services. Club Members Receive:
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We have had quite the shift in anuary (22 h 15th, we rther es dropping roving to be good for Verrado home owners. The 47 closed sales in February spent an average of 112 days on the market. We hope to see a decrease in days on market in the near future. We still have 147 Active listings in the neighborhood so inventory is healthy. If you have been thinking about selling, now may be a good time!

Closed Sales by Month

WE ARE A LOCAL FAMILY BUSINESS WHO LIVE AND WORK IN VERRADO!

WE HAVE 57 YEARS OF COMBINED REAL ESTATE EXPERIENCE & HAVE SOLD OVER 1,300 HOMES LARGE INCENTIVES FOR MULTIPLE TRANSACTIONS! NEW BUI LDS INCLUDED!

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4 Estrella Publishing - Main Street magazine April 2024
EACH OFFICE INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND OPERATED
BRETT AND CHARLI DREFS - VERRADO SPECIALIST
Sept 23' 34 Oct 23' 34 Nov 23' 17 Dec 23' 31 Jan 24' 21 Feb 24' 47
*Data supplied by Arizona Regional Multiple Listing Service
Brett Drefs AZHouseMan@gmail.com
Estrella Publishing - Main Street magazine April 2024 623-694-6993 AZ HOUSE MAN REAL ESTATE TEAM Verrado’s EACH OFFICE INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND OPERATED Newest Listing TEXT OR CALL US TODAY VERRADO VERRADO REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE A REVIEW OF THE CLOSED SALES IN MONTH OF FEBRUARY 2024 Homes Sold Avg Sold Price Avg Days on Market Avg Price Per SQFT Lowest Price Home Sold Highest Price Home Sold 47 $562k 112 $260 $368K $1.185M FOR SALE 20607 W Carlton Mnr Buckeye, AZ 4 Bed -3 Bath - Park Lot This home displays brick accents, lush desert landscaping, and a cozy front porch directly across from the park. Come inside to find an open layout adorned with tall ceilings, chic light fixtures, wood-plank tile flooring, and a bright living room with sliding glass doors merging the interior with the outdoor living. The kitchen is fully equipped with granite counters, a subway tile backsplash, handsome wood cabinetry with crown molding, and an island with a breakfast bar. Out the back, you have blooming desert garden and a covered patio perfect for afternoon relaxation. AZHOUSEMAN@GMAIL.COM

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All contents © 2010-present day Estrella Publishing LLC. All Rights Reserved. Reproduction in any form, in whole or part, without written permission from Estrella Publishing LLC is prohibited. Estrella Publishing accepts freelance contributions, there is no guarantee that materials will be used or returned. Some content is provided by Brandpointe and Family Features. 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.

4236 N Verrado Way Suite A104 Buckeye AZ 85396

4236 N Verrado Way Suite A104 Buckeye AZ 85396

6 Estrella Publishing - Main Street magazine April 2024
PO
by Estrella Publishing LLC,
Box 6962, Goodyear AZ 85338. Additional copies and article reproductions can be obtained for a fee by contacting info@ EstrellaPublishing.com
Uretsky, Publisher and Editor
Talia Uretsky, Assistant Editor

From Me To You...

‘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!

Estrella Publishing - Main Street magazine April 2024 7

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

8 Estrella Publishing - Main Street magazine April 2024

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

Estrella Publishing - Main Street magazine April 2024 9
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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.”

Blue Line Painting

Estrella Publishing - Main Street magazine April 2024 11
Cabinet Reeinishing Exteriors Interiors

Yum Yum

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.

Prep time: 10 min | Cook time: 15 mins | Cool down: 15 mins | Total time: 40 mins

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.

12 Estrella Publishing - Main Street magazine April 2024

Connecting for Life

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.

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 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.

Estrella Publishing - Main Street magazine April 2024 13

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.

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.

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!

Estrella Publishing - Main Street magazine April 2024 Verrado
Farmer’s Market
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Estrella Publishing - Main Street magazine April 2024 15 IN V E R A D O
Victory

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.

16 Estrella Publishing - Main Street magazine April 2024
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Estrella Publishing - Main Street magazine April 2024 FOR YOUR REAL ESTATE NEEDS CHECK WITH CHUCK! W W W . C H E C K W I T H C H U C K . N E T T O P 1 % O F A G E N T S I N A R I Z O N A A R E A E X P E R T I S E & L O C A L R E S I D E N T N E W H O M E S A L E S K N O W L E D G E ( A S K M E W H Y Y O U ’ D W A N T A R E A L T O R ® W H E N B U Y I N G A N E W H O M E . ) S R E S - S E N I O R S R E A L E S T A T E S P E C I A L I S T E X P E R I E N C E D - N E A R L Y 2 5 Y E A R S I N R E A L E S T A T E A V E R A G I N G 4 2 . 5 T R A N S A C T I O N S P E R Y E A R 2 0 7 8 9 W . M I N N E Z O N A A V E V I C T O R Y A T V E R R A D O 2 B D R M + D E N + 2 5 B A T H + V I E W S 2 1 0 6 1 W . G L E N S T R E E T M A I N S T R E E T D I S T R I C T - V E R R A D O 4 B D R M + D E N + 2 5 B A T H + P O O L C H U C K D I S N E Y @ D I S N E Y P R E M I E R P R O P E R T I E S . C O M 6 2 3 . 8 1 0 . 7 7 9 7 CHUCK DISNEY R E A L T O R ® , S R E S ® R E A L T Y O N E G R O U P 5 2 0 0 N . 2 0 6 T H A V E . V I C T O R Y A T V E R R A D O 3 B D R M + D E N + 3 . 5 B A T H S + G O L F V I E W 602-617-9516 When hiring a real estate agent, you’ll want an experienced Realtor® who knows the market. 2 0 7 0 1 W . M I N N E Z O N A A V E V I C T O R Y A T V E R R A D O 2 B D R M + L O F T / D E N + 2 5 B A T H + V I E W S 2 0 5 7 4 W . O R E G O N A V E V I C T O R Y A T V E R R A D O 3 B D R M + 2 5 B A T H + S P A + V I E W S 2 0 7 9 3 W . O R E G O N A V E V I C T O R Y A T V E R R A D O 3 B D R M + D E N + 2 5 B A T H + G O L F V I E W

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.

Estrella Publishing - Main Street magazine April 2024 19

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

20 Estrella Publishing - Main Street magazine April 2024
Estrella Publishing - Main Street magazine April 2024 21

To-Do

Add Medication Inventory To Your To-Do List

As you’re going through your annual spring cleaning, one thing you may consider is taking inventory of your family’s prescriptions. This is crucial information to share in case there’s a medical emergency. Not having this information may cause a delay in care, as paramedics or hospital staff try to confirm current medications before providing that information to the physician. A lack of up-to-date medical information may lead to avoidable medication errors or adverse drug reactions.

Here are a few things you can do now to help. Keep a historical record. This applies to you, along with your spouse and children, and it’s a good idea to ask your parents to do the same, especially if you may be called to assist them with a health crisis. You may prefer to document your medications on paper, but a simple Internet search will reveal several apps that are compatible with both iPhone and Android smartphones, too.

Be sure to include:

• Allergies to both medications and foods and the type of reaction (e.g., hives, rash, vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing).

• Medical history. This may include chronic conditions or recent illnesses.

• Medications, including name, prescribing doctor and pharmacy, date started, dosage and whether it was completed or is ongoing.

• Name and dates of immunizations.

• Vitamin supplements, herbal remedies and other over-the-counter items, such as cough medicine or topical solutions. Remember to be specific regarding dosage.

• Other pertinent health information. For example, you may not be allergic to a certain medication but you had a negative experience, such as an upset stomach.

Update the list when changes occur. It’s important to

keep your list current. Even the slightest change, such as adding a vitamin supplement, should be noted.

Here are some suggestions:

• Date your list each time you make a change.

• Don’t rely on health providers to have your most current list. Sometimes digital records are only partially updated and typically do not track whether a medication is no longer being taken.

• Ask your pharmacist to print out a list of medications filled there in the last year. This is particularly helpful if you use more than one pharmacy.

• Make sure someone in your family or circle of friends knows where you keep this list.

Do you have expired prescriptions you no longer need?

Many fire and police stations will accept medications for safe disposal.

Submitted by Abrazo Health

22 Estrella Publishing - Main Street magazine April 2024

Summer Fun

Summer Activities for Kids

As the end of the school year approaches, parents and grandparents often find themselves wondering how to keep their kids/grandkids engaged and entertained during the summer break. The scorching heat may limit outdoor activities, but fear not! There are plenty of exciting and educational summer activities that can keep your little ones entertained while helping them learn and grow. Here are just a few pastimes you can do with your children or grandchildren.

Encouraging your child’s creativity with arts and crafts is a great activity. From painting and drawing to creating DIY crafts, these activities not only inspire imagination but also enhance fine motor skills. The possibilities are endless, and your child will have a blast unleashing their artistic side!

Some of your children may have a summer reading

list from their teachers but if not this is a great time to instill a love for reading in your child. Take them on a trip to the local library and encourage them to choose books that interest them. Create a cozy reading nook at home where they can curl up with a good book and read. This is a fabulous silent activity to do with your children.

Turn your home into a science lab and engage your child in exciting experiments. There are numerous simple and safe experiments that can be conducted using everyday household items. From creating volcanoes with baking soda and vinegar to exploring density with different liquids, these experiments will not only entertain but also promote critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Beat the heat by organizing some outdoor games for kids. Water balloon fights, sprinkler fun, or setting up a mini obstacle course are sure to keep your children active and entertained. These activities provide opportunities for physical exercise, improve coordination, and allow them to socialize with neighborhood friends.

Let your child unleash their inner chef by involving them in cooking meals and baking sweet treats. Cooking provides an ideal mix of fun and learning. Children can learn about measurements, explore different ingredients, and develop their culinary skills while enjoying delicious treats.

Summer break offers an excellent opportunity for kids to engage in activities that inspire creativity, enhance learning, and beat the heat. Arts and crafts, reading, science experiments, outdoor games, and cooking are just a few of the many exciting options available. So, let the fun begin and make this summer a memorable one for the little ones!

Estrella Publishing - Main Street magazine April 2024 23

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

24 Estrella Publishing - Main Street magazine April 2024
8 5 9 9 3 4 6 7 1 8 5 3 9 8 7 5 4 2 4 7 2 1 6 5 2 6 9 4 2 9 5 3 8 7 3 6 5 6 4 3 2 2 8 1 5 7 5 3 4 9 2 7 4 5 9 7 8 2 9 1 3 9 2 9 5 2 7 6 1 6 8 4 4 9 2 4 5 4 4 7 8 1 6 2 6 4 3 6 8 1 6 8 3 9 7 5 8 3 2 1 7 3 9 2 9 2 7 6 3 5 8 6 8 9 6 4 3 2 6 4 1 7 6 9 4 2 7 5 7 6 9 3 8 2 3 2 7 4 9 5 www.samurai-sudoku.com

Spring Crossword

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