Main Street
July 2017
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From Me To You... Welcome! to the July edition of Main Street magazine!
I felt like a firefighter constantly putting out small fires, hoping none of them grew too big to handle on my own.
As a new parent it is stunning how much you have to learn. I remember leaving the hospital with my first child thinking, “What do I do next?” I mean, when you buy a car they give you multiple books explaining the workings of your new vehicle; where was my New Baby Instruction Manual. Or pamphlet? Anything??
On to the Middle Ages, or as I like to call them The Golden Years. During this halcyon era I knew EVERYTHING. Thanks to Google all I had to do to answer any question was simply type in a few keys and voila! What is the circumference of the sun? 2,713,406 miles. Easy!
I do remember the books I bought to help me figure everything out. One told me to let my baby cry herself to sleep. The other one warned of the dangers of not picking her up immediately! One said “Feed your child whenever she is hungry.” The next, “Put your child on a schedule that suits your lifestyle.” Good Grief Charlie Brown! I managed to figure it all out and despite the confusion both of us felt then, we made it to...
Well now I have teenagers and I am back to knowing nothing. At least that’s what they tell me!
Catherine Uretsky
Editor Main Street magazine info@estrellapublishing.com 623-594-9283
The Terrible Twos! The biggest question in my mind in this stage? “Why is she upset now??” Milk too cold? Shoes too tight or too loose? Parents not allowing the latest death-defying stunt? It was a never-ending guessing game.
2 Main Street
July 2017
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
We’re honored to be #1 in life insurance. Jeff Caler Ins Agency Inc Jeff Caler, Agent 860 S Watson Road Buckeye, AZ 85326 Bus: 623-327-1685
Helping you protect your #1. State Farm is #1 in individual life policies* because people trust us to help protect their families and the moments that are most important in life. Let’s explore your options. CALL ME TODAY.
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. 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.
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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.
*Ranking and data provided by SNL Financial based on reported individual ordinary life insurance policies in force as of year-end 2014. State Farm Life Insurance Company (Not licensed in MA, NY or WI), State Farm Life and Accident Assurance Company 1506551 (Licensed in NY and WI), Bloomington, IL
Catherine Uretsky Publisher & Editor
Main Street
Al Uretsky Publisher & Sales Exec
July 2017
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Yum Yum!
5 reasons summer is salad season Summer is the perfect time to turn over a new you. With the arrival of warm weather, a relaxed schedule and summer vacations, this is the moment to invest in a new wardrobe and, of course, a new, healthier menu. When you think of summer cuisine, light and flavorful is the order of the day, and nothing captures that order quite like a fresh, vibrant salad. Salads can be so much more than just a healthy lunch or dinner choice, thanks to their minimal prep requirements and the boatload of benefits they can deliver, such as the five posted below. So, take a mindful turn toward salads this summer and enjoy their many perks. * A great source of vegetables - and fruits, too. You’re constantly hearing you need to eat more fruits and vegetables, so make it easy by including them in whichever kind of salad you choose. Peppers, cucumbers, carrots and tomatoes are all popular salad staples, but no matter which vegetable you crave, feel good knowing that it’s a natural fit on your salad plate. And if you’re trying
to up your fruit intake, you’ll find plenty of reasons to add strawberries, grapes and other delicious treats to your salad serving. * A window of opportunity. If the idea of a salad seems same old same old, it’s time to get creative. And it’s so easy. There are virtually no rules when it comes to whipping up a salad, so don’t always settle for what you think “just has to go in there.” Seize the day and mix in what you truly want, instead. The inclusion of seafood is an easy way to add both a lean protein and the omega-3 fatty acids that are good for your body. Plus, seafood flatout tastes great. Salmon, shrimp and crab are all excellent options. * Easy, carefree meals. With so much to do during the summer, your life is constantly on the go. When you don’t have much time, a salad can be your best friend. Simply toss those ingredients together and grab a fork. It’s the perfect quick fix when you just want to relax after a fun-filled summer day. * Loaded with health benefits. You already know salads are an easy, scrumptious way to satisfy your recommended vegetable intake, but did you know they can also be your path to numerous other nutritional benefits? Adding spinach to your salad, for instance, has been proven to support your need for vitamins A and K, which help your bones and your vision. Meanwhile, romaine lettuce has been shown to lower the risk of stroke and cardiovascular disease, and arugula can reduce the chance you’ll get diabetes. * New tastes every single day. Even if you don’t consider yourself the creative type in the kitchen, you can still enjoy the limitless options that salads present. The web is loaded with unique salad recipes, allowing you to sample a tasty combination you may have never tried before.
4 Main Street
July 2017
The Other Caregiver
Life As A Caregiver
So…..you’re the caregiver to your loved one. It is a noble, loving, commendable and rewarding job. But it is also stressful, heartbreaking, at times exhausting, and a 24/7 commitment. Statistics show that it is the long-term caregiver who often deteriorates (or even dies) before the patient due to the enormity of the task at-hand. That is why it is MANDATORY that you find a part-time caregiver to assist. I am very fortunate to have found a true angel to help me through this Alzheimer’s journey. Now. But it wasn’t always the case. Back in the Bay Area, when mom was in the early stages of the disease, we had four caregivers over the course of about three years. All of them started out great, but after a few months they weren’t great at all. I guess my expectations were quite high because I had interviewed them all thoroughly. But, they eventually turned out to be unacceptable (for various reasons) and not very responsible. The fourth one came from research a friend of mine had done. Again, I interviewed her thoroughly to be sure she understood what I expected. She started out great and really liked my mom. But, after a while, she was more of a handful to me than a help. When we moved to Arizona, I was really at a loss at first hardly knowing anyone. But after a while, someone had recommended a person to me, so I went with them. Again, she started out fine. So I
thought it would be ok for me to take a trip back to the Bay Area to wrap-up some loose ends. I wasn’t gone an hour before the caregiver called me because she had forgotten her key to my mom’s casita and was going to climb through the window. WHAT?!? Needless to say, I let her go! Then a neighbor recommended Rose. Rose lives around the corner from me and though not a professional caregiver, she has worked in the healthcare industry for many years and has taken care of elders with varying degrees of Alzheimer’s. I loved her immediately. Her Serbian accent was endearing and her energy and passion for people shined like a beacon. We have been with Rose now for about two-anda-half years. She and her husband are like part of the family. In fact, Buddy (my dog) considers her part of his “pack”. Because Buddy is such a faithful companion to my mom each and every day, Rose cares for him during her visits, as well.
Her job responsibilities include bathing mom, giving her breakfast and lunch, walking her around, visiting with her…and whatever else needs to be done. What she doesn’t do is laundry, running errands, administering meds (unless I am away), or cleaning the casita. The two of them have developed a strong bond and true love for each other. It is a blessing like you’ll never know. Good caregivers are hard to find. And they can be very expensive. But they are essential for YOUR sanity, YOUR piece-of-mind, YOUR stress-level… and YOUR health. Hopefully, yours will have a blend of knowledge, kindness and firmness, and a true understanding of the precious cargo she is caring for….like mine does. Submitted by Kathy Linton, West Valley Resident
Main Street
July 2017
5
The Doctor Is In “Pub Med”, How To Find Medical Facts
In this age of internet information and rising global illness more people are searching for health answers by way of computer search. Searches produce thousands of articles about health and disease with a variety of advice and things to buy or test but what information is real or what is controversial? One thing you may do as you search is to follow the scientists who are not trying to sell you anything. There is a well-kept free database that anyone can access called PubMed. It has been available in different forms to the public since 1996 and has 27 million citations. The United States National Library of Medicine at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) maintains this database on life sciences and biomedical topics with literature from scholarly medical journals and books. You may access this data by typing the words “Pub Med” into your web search inquiry.. If you type in “Vitamin C Cold Prevention Pub Med”, for example, you will read that this issue has
been studied extensively for decades and that it appears daily long-term supplementation of Vitamin C does not prevent common colds in the regular population. Sometimes there is a vast difference in what you will find with a PubMed search compared to a regular web search. One phrase I hear frequently is “adrenal fatigue”. Many people who are tired, stressed, depressed, and cannot lose weight are told or conclude their adrenals are shot or depleted and that they have adrenal fatigue. A web search today using the words “adrenal fatigue” resulted in 2,950,000 immediate results. That search pulls up numerous ads, articles, or healthcare professionals who sell supplements, diet plans, and order labs or imaging (x-rays, ultrasounds, CT or MRI scans) to check for adrenal fatigue. Labs tests may indicate high cortisol levels, and medication may give temporary relief for symptoms commonly associated with adrenal fatigue. But could their symptoms, lab results, and temporary relief be from something else? PubMed search results can be enlightening. A search of “adrenal fatigue Pub Med” quickly lands on a 2016 study “Adrenal Fatigue Does Not Exist, A Systematic Review” https://www.ncbi.nlm. nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4997656/. This study explored how various providers and the media use the term adrenal fatigue despite no recognition by any Endocrinology society that this condition exists. The study conclusion is “there is no substantiation that “adrenal fatigue” is an actual medical condition. Therefore, adrenal fatigue is still a myth.”. The real problem is if you take adrenal hormones when you do not need them, you might actually damage yourself and trigger adrenal crisis which can be a life-threatening condition. An answer like that, is worth searching for. Get to the bottom of your symptoms and when it comes to your health, follow the scientists not the vendors. © 2017 Dr. Patrick Nemechek and Jean R. Nemechek. All Rights Reserved. Patent Pending.
Submitted by by Dr. Patrick M. Nemechek, D.O. Verrado resident
6 Main Street
July 2017
On Our Cover More often than not, a brain injury leads to permanent, physical, cognitive, or emotional disabilities that make it difficult for survivors and family members to balance social activities while going through the extensive rehabilitation process. We’re MOVING FORWARD! is an evolution of a group of families whose lives have been affected by brain injury in the Metro Phoenix Area. Originally, the group started in 2009 from a desire to interact with others, outside of a “support group” environment, who understand brain injury survivors and the involved recovery process and since then has grown to over 150 followers and participants in the local area. We continue to see the importance of what this group means to so many people as we expand our community of survivors and family members we are striving to grow and reach those not yet involved who need a way to get back in to the community. At least once a month we host events ranging from going to the movies to 3-Day adventure filled trips out of town that bring our survivors the higher quality of life that they are striving to find after suffering from their life changing injury. Living with a brain injury and getting back into
Main Street
activities involved with a “normal life” is not always easy and can be intimidating to survivors who are already dealing with drastic life changes. We’re MOVING FORWARD! is a great way to connect with others going through similar challenges with social events creating a long-lasting community for survivors. It is a reassurance for those individuals, not only just survivors but their family as well, to be around others who “get it” and can provide support and connect with one another and bring our community together. With the overall goal of providing a sense of community among the survivors and family members, we hope to create more opportunities for peer mentoring and leadership, encourage the exchange of ideas and information, and ultimately inspire the return of hope, strength, and joy to those who get involved. We encourage and welcome anyone whose life has been affected by brain injury and find themselves in similar circumstances to contact us and get involved! And to those who wish to help in other ways, we welcome your support and greatly appreciate your contributions to help survivors MOVE FORWARD with us! For more information about how to get involved and contribute to survivors moving forward visit our website at wmforward.org. We appreciate donations and contributions of all forms that allow us to keep making a difference in the lives of brain injury survivors and be able to reach more families.
July 2017
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Home Safe How To Chose A Homewatch Company This may seem like an obvious answer but there are several factors that go into choosing the best Homewatch company for your needs. Accessibility. Is the company based close by? If it is going to take someone an hour to get to your home in case of emergency then they are probably not the right fit for you. If your alarm goes off in the middle of the night can your homewatch company get there before the police leave? If your water tank bursts (happens more often than I care to mention) can someone get there before significant damage occurs? If you are expecting a contractor to be at your home and they need to be let in (and then have your house secured after they leave) is your homewatch company able to do that? Reliability. Has your company been in business for a few years or a few months? Can you be confident that when you leave your home in their hands, everything will be taken care of? Interview them. Talk to them. See if you have that feeling of comfort before you choose your homewatch company. Ask how long they have been in business. How many homes do they lose every year? Home many homes have they been watching since the beginning? Do they have a good relationship with the local Fire/ Police Departments? Who will have access to your property? Is there a back up in case of emergency or vacation. Yes we take vacations too. You need to know the people who will be in your home in any situation. How do they handle and identify your keys, who has access to them and where are they kept? A nice label with your address may seem logical but not if the keys are lost or stolen. A good homewatch company will have a coded system to identify keys and will keep them in a secure place. Also they will ensure that no-one but the company can access them. Do they check your home on the same day and time every visit? Thieves casing a house will note the regular time that homewatch is there and will work around that schedule. If your homewatch company has an erratic and irregular schedule it is almost impossible for burglars to use that to their advantage. Use your instincts and ask questions, these people will be responsible for your most valuable asset.
8 Main Street
July 2017
Fourth of July brings gatherings with family and good friends, including furry friends. It may seem like a rewarding idea to give your pup some scraps from the grill or bring him along to watch the fireworks, yet in reality, such festivities could prove potentially hazardous to him. More pets run away on the Fourth of July than any other day. It is natural for dogs to be afraid of loud noises. The sounds trigger their nervous systems, and they can become anxious or afraid. To your dog, the experience of fireworks is different than other natural loud noises, like thunderstorms. This does not need to be the case this year. Please take extra steps to ensure the safety of your pets. Here are some helpful tips: • Exercise your pets earlier in the day to tire them out and release any anxious energy. • Keep your pets indoors. Make sure that there is a quiet place, such as a carrier or crate that they can retreat to if need be. Close the curtains and turn on the TV or radio. A Kong filled with a yummy treat may also offer a much needed distraction when the festivities start booming.
Furry Friends
• Keep a watchful eye on your pets during the fireworks, and make sure that they are wearing proper up-to-date identification tags and are microchipped with current information. This is key.
• Keep your pets away from matches, open fires, and fireworks. This may seem like common sense, yet, there are far too many accidents that occur when curious pooches get too close to the flames or try to sniff, or eat, something that they shouldn’t. These simple summer safety tips will help to keep your favorite fur-friends safe and secure this Fourth of July season. Did you know? The Verrado Coffee Co. has fresh batches of chicken jerky and Fro-you for your pups. For a $2 donation to Community Paws, your dog will devour either of these tasty treats! If you’d like to get involved with Community Paws, please check out our Volunteer page at www.communitypaws.org. Thank you! Submitted by Kristin Robinson, of Community Paws, Verrado resident
• If you must bring your pets with you to the fireworks, please make sure they are leashed or in a carrier so that they do not run off. Running away from the noise is a survival instinct for dogs. • Remember, though, while humans communicate with words, dogs communicate with energy, and will look to their pack leader for clues on how they should behave. If you’re not making a big deal or showing excitement about the fireworks, then your pups will learn to be less concerned as well.
Main Street
July 2017
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The Bug Guy Monsoon Season Is Here!! 1. Slightly Lower High Temperatures Some of the highest temperatures of the year can be recorded just before the onset of the summer monsoon. Humidity levels are low, so the sun’s energy can be used to heat the air rather than being absorbed by water vapor or used for evaporation. In the west valley, we can record high temperatures of 115 degrees or hotter. During much of the summer monsoon period, high temperatures can be around 10 degrees lower, in the 100- to 105-degree range. 2. Increased Humidity Prior to the onset of the summer monsoon, dew point temperatures during the day can be in the 20to 25-degreee range across the Desert Southwest. This may translate to relative humidity levels of 5 to 15 percent due to the excessively hot temperatures. During the monsoon period, the dew point temperatures can rise to the 55- to 65-degree level across the Desert Southwest and the relative humidity can exceed 40 percent. The dew point is a measure of how much moisture is in the air. For example, dew point temperature of 10 degrees is very low.
3. Dust Storms (Haboobs) The increase in humidity levels during the summer monsoon means that there is more moisture in the air to produce thunderstorms. Thunderstorms across the Desert Southwest are more common in the higher elevations, but can occasionally move into the desert floor. Quite often, these thunderstorms have very little rain with them, but they can produce a haboob. The most intense haboobs can lift dust over 5,000 feet into the air. The storm can travel up to 150 miles in extreme cases. 4. Flash Flooding Thunderstorms across the Southwest can sometimes produce torrential rain in a short period of time. In these situations, rivers, creeks or dry streams (arroyos) can quickly fill and produce high water on roadways, or even in cities like Goodyear and Buckeye. Although the dates for the summer monsoon may vary a bit across the region, the National Weather Service’s Phoenix office has established some guidelines. One example is if the dew point temperature is 55 degrees or higher over a three day period. Also, there are occasional breaks in this pattern during the season. The time period established for the summer monsoon is from June 15 to Sept. 30. The average onset of the monsoon in Phoenix is July 7. Prior to the onset of the monsoon (generally late May and early June), temperatures across the Desert Southwest are extremely hot and humidity levels are quite low. That changes as we move into July and August, and into September. Submitted By Larry Cash, of Estrella Mountian Pest Control
HVAC REPAIR INSTALLATION SERVICE/MAINTENANCE
Lou Galindo Owner/Operator
623.512.1128 10 Main Street
July 2017
HOME SWEET HOME Listing Your Home in Summer Are you ready to sell your home this summer, but are nervous about the timing? We have experienced sellers that are concerned that people begin to travel in the summer months as temperatures rise in Arizona and seek cooler climates for vacation. While traffic and activity may slow down a bit, summer can bring out the most serious buyers. Those braving the heat and looking at real estate are often more motivated and interested buyers. While listing your home in the summer it is important for it to show in the best light – and temperature. There are always a few things to consider that can make your home more appealing and stand out for showings. Fresh flowers in the home look lively and inviting, just be sure to keep the home nice and cool. Be sure the lawn and landscaping is getting enough water. It is important to keep curb appeal vibrant as plants get drier in the summer. Don’t skimp on air conditioning, the inside of the home should be a welcome retreat from the heat outside. Keep the temperate at a cool 74 degrees for showings and have cold water available. The idea of baking homemade cookies for the great smell sounds appealing but consider
keeping the oven off in the hot summer months. Purchase room sprays, essential oils or scented candles that have the same welcoming affect. Buyers may want to see the home in the evening, or closer to sunset – you may need to be more flexible with showing hours in the long days of summer. Summertime buyers can be very committed buyers. We often see families with children relocating to the area and looking to find a home in the summer so they can get them settled in a home and registered for school before the school year begins. There is so much growth in the West Valley, buyers are coming to see the new activity and action of the area. Many new commercial offerings are coming to our area along with more infrastructure, a strong pull for buyers looking to move. Buyers searching for a new home or relocating in the hot summer months in Arizona will be very motivated to find the right home and will spend time to find it. Listing your home in the summer can be a good time to enter the market. As we always say, it only takes that one buyer! Submitted by Diane Simpson, Realtor at Verrado Realty, Verrado Resident
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!
Main Street
July 2017
11
Living With Faith There is light in darkness
Most of us, when we think of darkness cannot understand that there is light in darkness. We tend to concentrate on the concept and perception that darkness leaves us blind to the world around us. Perhaps we could relate better if we were actually blind. People who have lost their sight find the light of day in the emptiness of space – a never-ending journey in the quest for the brightness of life. Such thoughts ran through my mind as I read the following written by an eleven-year old girl and read at her graduation from elementary school to the entire graduating class and visitors: The darkness is the warm comfort of silence. It is the beautiful color that puts every child to sleep. It is not death, but life. It is the time of rest and relaxation. Darkness is the kiss I receive meaning goodnight. It is the covers pulled over my head as I think of sleep. It is the comfort of the pillow resting below my head. Darkness is my eyes slowly closing. It makes the darkness of the day form into the light of the night. It is the lights turning off meaning sleep and rest. Happiness swims into dreams. It is waking up from a nightmare and sneaking into
my parent’s room to sleep once more. It is the dreams that form that will soon be fading from my memory. It is the relief of ending and forming of a new day, and a new opportunity. - Maddie Scharf I read and re-read these words and understood the value of dreams and the marvel of light emanating from darkness – the darkness of our minds as they wander from fantasy to reality. How many of us dream, wake up and cannot remember the dream? How many of us have dreams of a better life and a better tomorrow? How many of us find our lives shattered because our dreams are not realized? All of life is about dreams. We dream of what could have been, what might have been, what should have been. Dreams change with time, but still we continue to dream because, life as we know it, is filled with all sorts of dreams. This young girl can teach us a very valuable lesson: Darkness may engulf us, but then we reach for the comfort of those whom we love and who love us. The young among us are filled with so many dreams, but they all concentrate on living, and growing, and feeling secure. Are these not the dreams of all ages, not just the young? We may find darkness when our eyes close, but when morning arrives, the light of a new day enhances our belief that light leads us into the true meaning of life, the purpose for which we were created, and the value we bring to those around us. Rabbi Irwin Wiener, D.D. Sun Lakes Jewish Congregation National Chaplain, Jewish War Veterans, USA
12 Main Street
July 2017
PET PARADE Working like a dog: Companies find benefits in going pet-friendly
It’s fair to call Charger a bull in a china shop. Well, at least a pit bull. The charming nine-year-old has a full-time job in the marketing department at dinnerware giant Replacements, Ltd. “Charger’s been coming to Replacements since I rescued him from the side of a road as a puppy, so he’s really grown up here,” says Kevin Boyd. “Coming to work is great for Charger because he’s able to engage with people and other dogs so it’s really helped him become more sociable; he has so many friends who give him treats or want to take him for walks. Having him here helps me relax because I know he’s not home alone and really creates special moments in the day, like having him sit in my lap while I’m working.” Charger is among dozens of pets you’ll find at Replacements. A walk through the warehouse and you’ll see dogs riding on carts pushed by their owners or perhaps encounter a cat or two. An opossum riding high on the shoulder of her human friend even graced the company’s retail store with a visit.
Main Street
Replacements implemented its pet-friendly policy more than 20 years ago, after Founder and CEO Bob Page received a dog for his birthday and couldn’t bear to leave him home alone. Fastforward two decades, and national and international media have repeatedly recognized Replacements as one of the top pet-friendly businesses in the country. The company invites all employees and customers to bring their pets to work or shop; in fact, Replacements’ front doors read, “All WellBehaved Pets Welcome.” Replacements’ formal pet policy requires all animals must be current on vaccinations, polite to people and other pets, and stay on a leash near their owners unless contained in an office or cubicle space. Owners are also required to clean up after any accidents. Conklin adds pet owners must be sensitive to the fact some people have allergies or may be fearful of animals. “We’ve seen many instances where employees actually got to know each other better through their pets. Seriously, it’s hard not to smile when you’re greeted by a wagging tail and friendly face!”
July 2017
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School Zone Travel and education “The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.” - Saint Augustine It’s been eight years since the U.S. Department of Education took a closer look at the effects of travel on childhood education. In a 2009 study, which analyzed findings from the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study of the Kindergarten Class database, family life was assessed, as were summer activities and school experiences. The study collected data from 21,600 children from grades K-5; a subset of 5,047 parents also were asked about their family excursions during the summer. Study results showed improved standardized test scores in reading, math and general knowledge from the children who traveled during the summer with their families. The study findings are important because they provide an alternative to learning loss in kids during the long summer months away from school. Kids who don’t engage in activities during the summer are at risk of falling more than four months behind their peers. This statistic goes all the way up the ladder to college students. Today, many parents consider the arc of the travel experience - seeing new places, experiencing new cultures, attending concerts and visiting historic sites, monuments and art museums - as an opportunity to not only enhance the emotional depth and patience of their
children, but their academic outcomes as well. As a result, some parents are opting to “world school” their children during the summer, with noted benefits of bonding and spending quality time with family, building an interest and respect for other cultures, and making learning interesting and deeply engaging. Can we simply conclude that vacations make kids smarter? We reached out to travel expert Jim Menge for the answer. Menge has been to more than 100 countries, and is a believer of the benefits of travel. “Not necessarily,” Menge says. “But the immersive experience of travel and all the delight and disruption that go along with it can have a real effect on childhood learning. And when kids start early, they broaden their horizons, and develop a real appreciation for the world they live in.” Clearly, travel and education can create powerful combinations. If you have children, consider taking a vacation over school breaks and during summer months. It will add to their development and character. And if you have kids in college, study abroad has become an even more compelling option. The shared experience of travel can bring families together, creating bonds and lifelong memories. It’s time to consider the data that promotes travel as the ticket to a world of increased engagement and enhanced academic performance. Bon voyage!
Rick Seiler
Ricardo D. Seiler
808.874.3100 Rick@HomeInVerrado.com www.HomeInVerrado.com
When it’s time to sell your Verrado home, consider HomeSmart, The #1 Real Estate Brokerage in the Valley.
Call, text or email Rick today!! 808.874.3100
Rick@HomeInVerrado.com www.HomeInVerrado.com Providing Award Winning Service to Home Sellers & Buyers for 30+ years Verrado Resident Since 2010
14 Main Street
July 2017
WHERE YOU START THE JOURNEY CAN MAKE ALL THE DIFFERENCE.
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Tour your local Goddard School and experience why it’s the best preparation for social and academic success. Goddard Systems, Inc.’s program is AdvancED accredited. BUCKEYE (VERRADO®) 623-255-3290 GoddardSchool.com
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The Goddard Schools are operated by independent franchisees under a license agreement with Goddard Systems, Inc. Programs and ages may vary. Goddard Systems, Inc. program is AdvancED accredited. © Goddard Systems, Inc. 2017
Main Street
July 2017
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DATA SHARING Becoming a savvier online shopper Every Google search we perform, every Yelp review read or written, each item of clothing, houseware or electronic device we put in our virtual cart, is another data point companies can use to personalize our experience with their brands. This begs the question: How do we differentiate between those brands that are using our data the right way, versus those that have a long way to go? Second, how do we help the brands we love understand us better without sacrificing our privacy? 1. Understand which data to share. Think about your favorite shopping app or website. Does it know which brands you prefer? What about your shoe size? Does it have your zip code stored for shipping estimates? Does it make appropriate recommendations? The strongest relationships in life work both ways, so if you want a brand to know what you want from them, perhaps it’s time to share a little. Taking five minutes to fill out some basic profile information in your “preferences” could, at the very least, save you time on future shopping excursions.
2. Use data to get the best deals. When you’re shopping online, you can quickly compare prices for the exact item you want to purchase across multiple vendors, and, if you have time to wait, be alerted should the item go on sale. The best example is travel. There seems to be a never-ending list of websites available for booking flights and hotels, but booking the first flight you see without shopping around is rarely going to get you the best deal. Luckily, some of the top search engines are making this even easier for consumers by indicating whether the price is high or low. 3. Know where to draw the line. At the end of the day, privacy is still important, and it’s prudent not to share too much personal information. Think critically about which data is going to be absolutely necessary to enhance your experience with the companies you rely on. For example, it’s not necessary to share your contact list, your geolocation or access to your camera if you’re using a music or financial app. Some brands ask for too much, and it’s up to each individual to determine which data makes sense to share with each brand and what doesn’t. Also, as painful as it may be, do read the privacy policy of the sites you frequent and understand how they use and protect the personal information they collect on you. Ultimately, most companies today are still just scratching the surface when it comes to understanding the impact customer data can have on the profitability and success of their business. There is still a lot of room for growth when it comes to companies effectively using data to address consumer needs. It’s up to each one of us to make sure we are sharing the right data with them, while also using that data to our advantage to get the best deals and online experience possible.
Concrete Coating
Desert Rose Izzo Family 623-853-9051 www.thedesertrose.com
ROC Lic# 203136
16 Main Street
Residential / Commercial July 2017
Wear it with Style!
60-plus? Smart fashion tips to keep you looking
stylish and fabulous
Muumuus and mom jeans or spangled capris and Aloha shirts - is this really all the fashion world has to offer women over the age of 60? Do mature women who desire to dress fashionably for summer really have to choose between “frumpy and fogey” or “too young and trendy?” Not at all, says Catherine Brock, who blogs about style on thebudgetfashionista.com. “Reaching a certain age doesn’t mean you have to give up your love of fashion, or that you can’t be stylish,” Brock says. “In our youth-obsessed society, many fashion trends are geared for young women, but truly stylish clothing can work for women of any age.” Joyce Williams (name changed to protect her privacy), agrees. Williams didn’t leave her lifelong love of fashion behind upon moving into a senior community. Instead, she remains an avid reader of fashion magazines, and designs and makes her own jewelry to accessorize her wardrobe. She happily shares fashion advice with other residents who seek to remain stylish after 60.
your shoulders can be flattering, Brock adds. Appleshaped women may find an A-line skirt flattering since it creates an angle from the shoulder to the waist. * Stay true to your own personal style, regardless of your age. “If you had a well-established personal style when you were younger, it doesn’t need to change just because you’re older,” Brock says. Adapt your younger style to your more mature place in life by focusing on creating outfits that make only one statement at a time, she advises. For example, wear that big, chunky turquoise necklace that you’ve always loved and pair it with an outfit that’s simple and straightforward like a pair of tailored jeans and a white blouse. * Some styles work particularly well for senior women, Brock says. Blazers and cardigans pair well with V-neck tops, sheath dresses, shift dresses and button-down shirts. “It’s never too late to discover your personal style,” Brock says. Reacquaint yourself with your body type and go shopping with a friend. Try on different cuts of pants, skirts and dresses until you both agree on which are the most flattering.”
Here are some of Brock’s and Williams’ favorite tips and insights for senior women: * Because most clothing is marketed with images of younger models, many older women may worry about their clothes being “age-appropriate.” Don’t be limited by that kind of thinking, Brook advises. The age of the model wearing the fashion is far less important than whether the style will work for you. * Look for garments that have a defined shape. You don’t have to wear form-fitting clothing, but do avoid overalls or baggy, pull-on pants and maxi dresses with no waistline, Brock advises. * Find your colors, Williams suggests. Everyone has certain colors that complement their skin tone, hair and eyes, and others that are less flattering. Brock also counsels against putting too many colors in a single outfit, and says avoid wild color patterns. Instead, pick one piece in an outfit to make a color statement and use muted, complementary colors in the rest of the outfit to create a backdrop for your statement color. * Just as important as knowing your best colors, you should also know the visual line that looks best for your body type, Williams says. For example, if you’re pear-shaped, a line that draws attention to Main Street
July 2017
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Job Hunting 5 essential soft skills for a job interview
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Be
Picture this: After months of networking and polishing your resume, you managed to make the necessary connections, get in front of the right people and land an interview. You deserve to be here. After all, you have an impressive background, great experience, fantastic references and are confident you can exceed the requirements of the job. The interview is really just a formality. For many, the hardest part of the job hunt is simply getting an interview. However, many top candidates get passed over and are surprised when they are not offered a job. The reason for this is they often spend a lot of time practicing how to answer questions and explaining their qualifications, but forget about the soft skills. A successful interview is about making the right impression, and these five soft skills are essential to making the impression that leads to a job offer. 1. A memorable appearance. We all know you need to dress your best before going into an interview, but you should go the extra mile to ensure the person you meet with remembers you. In addition to looking clean, tidy and professional, dress in a way that makes you feel confident and will make others notice.
ready to floss on the go. If someone notices something in your teeth, a piece of spinach or fleck of cereal, they won’t be able to see anything else. 3. Exude confidence. Beyond just making you look good, the big reason behind dressing well is because this will give you confidence. Hiring managers can tell the difference between someone who is confident and someone who is not. Needless to say, they’re more impressed by confidence! So even if you’re nervous, dress up, keep clean, give a firm handshake and-if you have to-fake it until you make it! 4. Keep it positive. How you answer questions is often just as important as the answers you give. Always frame what you say in a positive note. In describing difficult managers or poor work conditions at other companies, frame it as a challenge you were happy to take on, an opportunity to learn and grow. 5. Eat well. You might be nervous and lose your appetite, but be sure you eat well the night before and the morning of the interview.
18 Main Street
July 2017
Main Street
July 2017
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July 2017
MONEY MATTERS Diversify Your Investments But Consolidate Your Providers You have probably heard that diversification is a key to investment success. So, you might think that if diversifying your investments is a good idea, it might also be wise to diversify your investment providers – after all, aren’t two heads better than one? Before we look at that issue, let’s consider the first half of the “diversification” question – namely, how does diversifying your investment portfolio help you? Consider the two broadest categories of investments: stocks and bonds. Stock prices will move up and down in response to many different factors, including good or bad corporate earnings, corporate management issues, political developments and even natural disasters. Bond prices are not immune to these dynamics, but they are usually more strongly driven by changes in interest rates. Here’s the key point: Stocks and bonds often move in different directions. If you only own U.S. stocks, you could take a big hit during a market downturn, but if you own domestic and international stocks, bonds, government securities, certificates of deposit and other types of investments, your portfolio may be better protected against market volatility, and you’ll have more opportunities for positive results.
So, it clearly is a good idea to diversify your investment portfolio. Now, let’s move on to diversifying financial service providers. Why shouldn’t you have one IRA here and another one there, or enlist one advisor to help you with some types of investments and a different advisor assisting you with others? Some good reasons exist to consider consolidating all your investment accounts with one provider. For one thing, you’ll keep better track of your assets. Many people do misplace or forget about some of their savings and investments, but this will be far less likely to happen to you if you hold all your accounts in one place. Also, if you have accounts with several different financial service providers, you might be incurring a lot of paperwork and fees. But most important, by placing all your accounts with a single provider you will find it much easier to follow a single, unified investment strategy, based on your goals, risk tolerance and time horizon. You won’t get conflicting advice and you’ll receive clear guidance on important issues. Diversification and consolidation – one is good for building an investment portfolio, while the other can help you invest more efficiently and effectively. Put the two concepts together, and make them work for you. Submitted by Wayne Polk, of Edward Jones Investments, Verrado resident
Straight talk from someone who knows you
VERRADO RESIDENT
Sound financial advice means only making recommendations that line up with your goals and risk tolerance. Thoughtful guidance: It’s how we make sense of investing.
Wayne Polk, AAMS® Financial Advisor
MKT-9650-A
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4252 N Verrado Way Suite 202 Buckeye, AZ 85396 623-386-2821
Main Street
K&R DESIGN CONSULTANTS Kim Rasmussen
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
July 2017
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Puzzles & Games Solution
Sudoku for July Numbers from 1-9 must appear only once in each row, column and box. Good Luck!
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22 Main Street
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July 2017
Business Directory AUTOMOTIVE A Plus Automotive Cien Motor Werks Litchfield Auto Repair
623.986.1586 623.322.8333 623.882.8700
EDUCATION The Goddard School
623.255.3290
FINANCIAL SERVICES ACEA Accounting Allstate Insurance Edward Jones - W Polk Estrella Partners Group Mahoney Law Office Signature Documents State Farm Insurance -Caler State Farm Insurance-Gremillion
623.251.0821 623.208.6922 623.386.2821 623.594.9283 623.518.3513 623.974.2272 623.327.1685 623.386.7556
HEALTHCARE & BEAUTY Active Life Pain Center Dr. Nemechek Healthy Life Family Medicine Majestic Beauty Spa Skincare Extraordinaire
623.535.9777 623.208.4226 623.889.3477 623.986.5790 623.826.3726
HOUSEHOLD 5 Dog Electric AC Squad Al’s Plumbing Century Glass and Mirror Deb’s Creative Interiors Desired Handyman Estrella Mountain Pest Control
623.313.5685 623.512.1128 623.329.5170 623.444.6204 623.594.6415 623.910.5183 623.680.6619
Main Street
General Exterminating J & H Appliance Repair LJ Designs Studio K & R Design Consultants Lifetime Moving & Storage The Window Cleaner AZ Younger Brothers Exterminating
623.977.2100 623.925.5427 623.332.1060 623.399.3491 602.344.9988 623.738.6064 623.487.3147
LANDSCAPING / POOL CARE Blue Oasis Pool Service Buckeye Desert Landscape Desert Rose Concrete Estrella Owner Services landscapes
623.986.8392 602.527.2818 623.853.9051 623.693.5695
REAL ESTATE Home & Away Realty - S Peters HomeSmart Realty - R Seiler Main Street Lofts Verrado Realty West Valley Homewatch
602.320.5026 808.874.3100 623.215.4788 623.792.5900 623.594.9283
RECREATION Eleutheria Wellness Center
623.986.5110
RELIGION The Edge Church AZ
480.442.7323
RETAIL Budget Blinds of Goodyear Estrella Ordnance Foot Solutions Pure Patio Steel Shield Security Doors
480.629.8854 623.262.2154 623.536.6676 623.299.8000 623.977.3277
July 2017
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Your Hometown Real Estate Experts, Located on the corner of Verrado Way and Main Street in the Heart of Verrado.
PULTE – $269,000 2789 North Heritage Street – Verrado 1,991 Sq. Ft. • 3 Beds • 2 Baths Listed by: Pat Redfield and Holly McGinty
ASHTON WOODS – $275,000 20751 W Carlton Manor – Verrado 2,552 Sq. Ft. • 3 Beds • 2.5 Baths Listed by: Diane Simpson
MERITAGE – $389,900 21276 West Sycamore Drive – Verrado 3,039 Sq. Ft. • 4 Beds • 2.5 Baths Listed by: Tim Klimek
CACHET – $430,000 21386 West Brittle Bush Lane – Verrado 3,190 Sq. Ft. • 4 Beds • 3 Baths Listed by: Pat Redfield and Holly McGinty
CALATLANTIC – $449,900 20750 West Hillcrest Blvd – Verrado 1,771 Sq. Ft. • 2 Beds • 2.5 Baths Listed by: Chuck Disney
ENGLE – $499,900 21120 West Sage Hill Road – Verrado 3,773 Sq. Ft. • 5 Beds • 3.5 Baths Listed by: Tim Klimek
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
Jennifer Cline Designated Broker
Brennen Kent
Bette Popiel
Tessie Davis
Holly McGinty
Chuck Disney
Kim Frederick
24 Main Street
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
MAIN STREET
July 2017