Mountain View
October 2017
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BENJAMIN J. KATZ Owner/Broker
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(480) 272-5158 BJ@LakePleasantRE.com www.LakePleasantRE.com
28451 N Vistancia Blvd Suite D-103 October 2017 Peoria, AZ 85383
Mountain View
October 2017
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From Me To You... Welcome! to the October edition of Mountain View magazine.
People who know me well know 3 things about me. I am particular about my chocolate, I can’t order water in a restaurant - not because I don’t want it, but because I never get it. And I love to read. I don’t mean I enjoy a good book, I mean I LOVE to read. At one point I was a member of 4 separate book clubs at the same time and still read for pleasure in addition to those required books. I learn so much from books, things about my surroundings, things from the past, things that could be the future and how other people think. I immerse myself in books and they always become a part of my life at the time. For example, when I read about the Second World War I become more resilient, willing to find a way to make things work and last. I find myself considering darning socks and rationing the milk. Luckily for my family I usually resist the urge to use Spam in every meal - I guess that is one of those foods you need to grow up with to appreciate. Here are some interesting facts from my reading of that time. Did you know that bananas were in such short supply in England during the war that one banana was auctioned off for the equivalent of $125! See? You are learning things already. My uncle was diagnosed with a vitamin deficiency and had a prescription for the yellow fruit. I am sure if he
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had been able he would have sold them as he hated bananas! What else was rationed? Nylon stockings. When the war redirected the product to make parachutes women took to using gravy to paint a look-a-like version on their legs, drawing a line down the back with an eyebrow pencil. My dog would have just loved that. The rumor about carrots being good for your eyesight was started by the British government during the war. The Royal Air Force had been using newly invented radar technology with great success. To misdirect the Germans the propaganda machine put out the story that the pilots were eating copious amounts of carrots to improve their eyesight at night. It is amazing what you can learn by picking up a book, or a magazine... Don’t forget to visit our website for puzzle solutions, restaurant reviews, coupons and business directories! www.EstrellaPublishing.com
Catherine Uretsky
Editor, Mountain View Magazine info@estrellapublishing.com 623.594.9283 Estrella Publishing is a proud member of the Surprise & Peoria Chambers of Commerce and Local First Arizona.
October 2017
Catherine Uretsky Publisher & Editor
Al Uretsky Publisher & Sales Exec
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
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All contents Š 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. 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.
Mountain View
October 2017
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Peace On Earth Facing Aging
Over Labor Day weekend I enjoyed an amazing time in Valdez, AK. I had fun with my Alaska grandchildren while my 91-year-old father-in-law, husband, daughter, and son-inlaw rented a boat and caught 28 fish in two days! I love watching my father-inlaw. He is incredibly mobile, has great stamina and strong mental faculties. He is willing to try new things and go on new adventures and the smiles show his pleasure in fishing and playing with his great grandchildren. I hope I will be healthy and active when I reach 91. We all know many who are virtually crippled in their sixties and those with Alzheimer’s at unfair early ages. We know that aging is influenced by genetics, past activities, eating and drinking choices, disease, and so much more. Some we have control over, much we don’t. So how do we face aging with any kind of grace?
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79-year-old Tom has a neurological problem that has left him incapable of caring for himself for many years now. He had to accept living in a care facility because his wife cannot meet his daily care needs. When I meet with him, his asks questions about the church and what we’re doing and how things are going. When I ask what he’d like prayer for, he asks that I pray for the church and for world happenings. He finds peace knowing he is heaven bound by the grace of God through Jesus. Tom finds worth in life by focusing on others rather than his limitations. He prays daily for the children of the church by name! Prayer has become his calling. Because his prayers are ‘other’ focused, he doesn’t stew about what he’s lost. He loves hearing answers to prayer and celebrating. He finds pleasure in knowing he is faithfully lifting others before God.
God; may your good Spirit lead me on level ground.” (Psalm 143:10 NIV) Tom is ‘level grounded’ by his outward focus. He focuses on God’s leading. He contributes in his way – through prayer and encouraging words. And in that, he finds joy and purpose. I may not live to a healthy 91, but I’ve learned lots from those facing early struggles. Those who focus on their own issues become bitter and difficult to be around. Those who keep their focus on others and serving in whatever ways they can through prayer, financial gifts, sharing wisdom, volunteering, and staying connected with God, age and face death more positively. May we each do the same and know the peace of God! Submitted by Rev. Valerie Fairchild, pastor of Spirit Song church meeting in Vistancia
Tom has learned the application of this verse, “Teach me to do your will, for you are my
October 2017
Yum Yum 5 food trends impacting what, and how, we eat Today’s consumers market view their food choices with a more critical eye than ever before, and this pressure is placing higher expectations on food manufacturers, not only in terms of how consumers’ food is made but what it’s made from, where it’s sourced and how it’s delivered. To discuss these topics and more, investors, scientists and food makers recently gathered at the Future of Food Tech summit in New York City to talk about what’s behind the trends in food innovation and investment. Of all the topics discussed at the summit, these five key takeaways stood out the most. 1. Personalization is key From meal delivery services that customize meals for dietary needs to companies that create products tailored to an individual’s health, there’s no
one-sizefits-all when it comes to food. In fact, today’s consumers are starting a movement toward personalization, which in turn is changing the way people shop. “The food industry is getting closer to the consumer,” says Raven Kropf, director of emerging customers with Cargill’s protein business. 2. Ethical production matters Consumers continue to seek products that align with their values and are responsibly produced. The same goes for investors looking to participate in the food industry. In fact, many investors today are choosing projects based on ideology and a drive toward ethical food consumption. 3. There’s growing interest in alternative proteins A burger made entirely from lab-cultured meat and sushi made from eggplant are just two of the innovations showcased at the summit. “There’s a lot of excitement around alternative sources of protein, but consumer acceptance is key,” said Dominique Harris, business development adviser for Cargill’s protein business. “We want to provide what consumers want, and in protein that means offering a variety of options. It doesn’t have to be either/or.”
Mountain View
4. Consumers want to know where their food comes from Imagine being able to trace any food product back to the field or the animal from which it came. That’s the potential promise of blockchain technology, which could essentially create a digitalized traceability system for food. From supply chain management to food safety, the potential for this technology is nearly limitless. 5. Food start-ups are on the rise As more entrepreneurs get into the food business, they’re looking for investors of all kinds. Likewise, traditional consumer packaged goods companies and ingredient suppliers are keeping their eyes on the newcomers for opportunities to connect. “I would encourage start-ups to seek out strategic partners in the food industry,” said Chris Mallett, corporate vice president of research and development at Cargill. “Together we can create and sustain a healthy ecosystem for innovation in the industry.” These five trends are grabbing 2017 by storm. As the calendar rolls toward 2018, it will be interesting to see what the future of food has in store.
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Living With Faith In God’s Name
Many times I hear, or read that a spokesperson explains that only he or she understands what God wants. And just as many times I learn that words spoken and written millennia ago are distorted by these very same people. More than that, however, Scripture’s declarations are desecrated. I have witnessed from the time I was a child, the hatred that spews from so-called messengers of God. Perhaps God is now crying because the love and connection preached by the righteous members of God’s legions seem to be drowned out by ignorance and deceit. My memory wanders to the 1940’s and 1950’s when religious fanatics used the mass media to demonstrate their hatred for those who appear to be different. Throughout history there have been those who use this convenient scapegoating to denigrate, murder, all in the name of God. Century upon century the history books contain such evildoers as the degenerate Roman Empire, people like the
sinister Haman found in the Book of Esther, and the evil of all evils perpetrated by Hitler. There is no debate that can take place that would result in further understanding all people of closed minds and hate in their hearts. •We can and should bring to the discussion love and connection that is the hallmark of Scripture. •We can and should bring to the discussion thousands of years of history in which the development of the human understanding of togetherness and compatibility are the messages found in our relationships with all people. •We can and should bring to the discussion the willingness to forget and forgive, which is representative of what Scripture emphasizes time and again. •We can and should bring to the discussion the ability to stand firm and denounce hatred in any form, to anyone. Why? Because, simply stated, we were all created in the image of God. Having the same origin, establishes the undeniable fact that we are all alike in spirit even as we are different on the outside.This same essence of who we are can be found in Moses, Jesus, the Prophets, the Disciples, Gandhi, Mother Teresa, Martin Luther King, Jr., and Nelson Mandela, the list is endless. Nowhere on this list will we ever find the apostles of destruction. While we may all have the same beginnings, the perpetrators of evil certainly do not have the same endings. These demons love to quote Scripture to embrace their contempt, but what they are doing is showing their contempt for God. When Scripture enjoins us to “Love they neighbor as thyself,” it does not specifically say that only white people should love white people, or black people should love only black people, or Catholics should love only
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Catholics, or Protestants should only love Protestants, or Jews only love Jews. It is declarative, not suggestive. We were taught that silence is golden, but silence is not the way to combat the calamity of intentional division and separation, especially in the time in which we live. A resurgence of these destructive forces are again alive and well, and here in our own backyards. Words that once were erased from human exchanges are now, once again, surfacing and with them age old bigotries. Are we so numb from the past that we refuse to confront the present? What should we do or say? The very same thing that all the venerated deliverers of acceptance demonstrated, forgiveness. Let us join together to perfect the flaws in our troubled world; to end the shameful and ignorant ranting’s of madmen for no other reason that to create sensationalism and notoriety, more than that, senseless destruction and mayhem which caters to the lowest level of human behavior. Perhaps society will awaken to the horrors of hate. Perhaps humanity will realize that survival is contingent upon awareness and love. Perhaps as stated in the Book of the Prophets, in which we find the prophesy of the time of all times when the lion rests with the lamb, when peace reigns within our borders and none shall be afraid, will become reality and not just a wish. All this can happen in God’s name if we are willing to step forward and become a member of the legions of God. Then truly we will be speaking in God’s name. Rabbi Irwin Wiener, D.D. Sun Lakes Jewish Congregation National Chaplain, Jewish War Veterans, USA October 2017
Mountain View
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It’s now 2017. Make the most of your dental benefits. Did you know most dental insurance policies and Flexible Spending Accounts renew with the New Year? Or that Health Savings Accounts roll over? Now is the perfect time to schedule an appointment to maintain a healthy smile. Book your appointment today.
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Bug Guy
Have you ever noticed a tube-like, concoction made from mud around the structure of your home? Did you ever consider this to be from a pest that was responsible for over $1 billion worth of property damage per year? Termites are by far, the most expensive pest to ignore! There are over 2,700 species of termites and categorized by three groups, Dampwood, Drywood and Subterranean Termites. Although Subterranean Termites are the most common in Arizona they are often overlooked and sometimes mistaken for flying ants. A subterranean colony consists of many different termites that have specific jobs just like an ant colony. Swarmers, which look like flying ants, are the ones most often seen by homeowners and are the first indication of their presence. A Subterranean Termite infestation starts when warm, moist temperatures trigger an established colony to send out a swarm of winged termites. This makes Monsoon season the perfect environment for these wood-hungry creatures. Subterranean termites build nests underground and travel through mud tunnels the size of pencils, creating a path to their food source. Mud tunnels are essential for survival and act as protection because unlike swarmers, worker termites are soft bodied insects so moisture is critical for their survival. If mud tunnels are visible on the walls or foundation of your home, it is very likely that you are experiencing a subterranean termite infestation. The best course of action is to have a licensed professional inspect your home to determine the degree or level of infestation. Treatments may include soil, chemical and wood however, soil treatments are the most common and consist of a technique called trenching. It’s a good idea to use preventative care as well. Waiting too long can cause significant damage to your home, sometimes resulting in the replacement of floors and walls. As stated above, termites truly are the most expensive bug to ignore. So if you think you might have termites, call a licensed professional right away. Submitted by Aaron Workman Owner, Greenleaf Pest Control
October 2017
Health & Wellness Pancreatic cancer: Know your family, know your risk Pancreatic cancer is one of the most deadly cancers, with a mere 29 percent one-year survival rate. In 2016, pancreatic cancer became the third leading cause of cancer death in the United States, surpassing breast cancer. The time frame between diagnosis and death is often short. Only 7 percent of people diagnosed with pancreatic cancer survive five years. This is incredibly small compared to prostate cancer or breast cancer, where more than 90 percent of patients survive for five years after diagnosis. “Most people are unaware of how deadly pancreatic cancer is,” says Jim Rolfe, president of Rolfe Pancreatic Cancer Foundation. “These chilling statistics can serve as an eye-opener that motivates people to learn more about their risks and contact their health care professional.”
of your family have been affected by pancreatic cancer, you can better manage your own health. To make the process easier, the Rolfe Pancreatic Cancer Foundation has introduced a new series of online tools. Visit www. KnowMyRisk.org to download a worksheet and access other helpful tools that let you explore your family history and become your own health advocate. Print out the worksheet and call or visit your grandparents, parents and other extended family members. You may not be aware that someone a few generations removed from you was affected by cancer. Having this conversation can be empowering, because once you know your risks you can take charge of your future. Consider genetic counseling When considering how personal a cancer or disease diagnosis can be, it is no surprise that medicine is looking at our DNA to uncover information. This makes genetic
counselors an important part of the health care team, helping you ask the right questions and uncover familial genetic risk factors. If you learn you have a history of pancreatic cancer in multiple family members, you should consider meeting with a genetic counselor to assess your level of risk. From there, the counselor and your doctor can decide on a course of action. To learn more about genetic counseling and find a local certified genetic counselor at the National Society of Genetic Counselors’ database, visit www. KnowMyRisk.org. Take charge and be empowered “Don’t take a backseat when it comes to your health,” says Rolfe. “The first step toward early detection of pancreatic cancer is understanding your family history. From there, you can make informed decisions that help you live a full, healthy life.”
Early detection is important Although pancreatic cancer is one of the most deadly cancers, early detection can significantly impact survival rates. The five-year survival rate for pancreatic cancer approaches 25 percent if cancers are surgically removed while they are still small and have not spread to the lymph nodes. Know your family, know your risk Family history is a risk factor for pancreatic cancer. When you know more about your genetics and which members Mountain View
October 2017
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Peoria 411 Sustainability - Preparing for our Future by Taking Action Today
Peoria’s Sustainability Action Plan approaches sustainability in a logical and purposeful manner that ensures residents’ needs are at the forefront of every decision. Adopted in 2012 and ratified by Mayor and Council in 2016, this plan outlines specific goals and initiatives centered on reducing energy costs, conserving resources, implementation of smart water principles, an extensive education component, and even transforming the way we design, operate, and maintain facilities. Recognized as a leader in sustainability and known for our exceptional quality of life, our approach to urban planning safeguards our most precious resources. By focusing on sustainable development, which serves to reduce the negative impacts associated with accelerated growth, we assure our community develops in a thoughtful and responsible way. This focus has created an elevated standard of operation. This past June, the City of Peoria made another giant leap in our sustainability efforts by entering into an Energy Savings Performance Contract with a
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leading energy services company, which will result in significant savings by making 16 existing city facilities more energy efficient through the addition of solar power. This will result in energy and cost savings to our community by generating safe, reliable, and long term affordable power; while decreasing our carbon footprint. Outside of energy, water is an important topic to us desert dwellers. Peoria’s long-term approach to smart water management has created a diverse water portfolio and an array of policies and procedures to ensure a stable supply of high-quality water to serve Peoria residents through ultimate build out. A great example of this is visible in our neighborhoods. The purple pipes along our roadways and in our parks indicate reclaimed or recycled water that is specifically treated for landscaping. This helps ensure we use the right water for the right use, shrinking waste of this precious resource.
own. Peoria’s Sustainable University offers free courses on a variety of topics including solar, landscaping, composting, and water use; all designed to empower residents to make small changes for big impacts. Peoria’s Sustainability Action Plan outlines our goals and objectives and I am proud to see many accomplishments since its inception. We recognize that environmental stewardship translates to financial stewardship, and perhaps most importantly – it’s simply the right thing to do. I pledge Peoria’s continued commitment to economic viability and environmental responsibility as we work with our community to create a city that we will be proud to pass on to future generations. For more information about these programs, visit www.peoriaaz. gov/sustainability. Submitted by Cathy Carlat, Mayor of Peoria
Although Peoria has made great strides towards becoming a sustainable city, we recognize that we can’t do it on our
October 2017
My Experience with Dog Flu: A Dog’s Point of View Recently, I got really sick. I had just spent a fun-filled week with all my friends at doggie daycare while my family was on vacation. Shortly after they brought me home, I started coughing a lot. It was really hard to breathe and I started vomiting. I didn’t feel like eating anything and I was tired all of the time. I was miserable. One of my family members missed a couple days of work to try to nurse me back to health. One time we spent the whole night in the bathroom hoping the steam from the hot shower would help my nasty cough. I know it was hard for her as she has a busy job, but she was as scared as I was. When it was clear I wasn’t getting any better, my family decided to take me to my veterinarian, who ran some tests and found that I had contracted H3N2, a new strain of canine influenza (CIV), also known as dog flu. My family didn’t know anything about H3N2, but my vet said she was happy that they brought me in to see her. My vet knew a lot about dog flu and was able to answer all of our questions. We were surprised to learn that even though a lot of people don’t know about it, H3N2 has been spreading rapidly across the United States since the first case was reported in 2015. My vet also shared that: * Social dogs like me, who go to doggie daycare, dog parks, groomers, or really anywhere that dogs, cats and humans come into contact with one another, are at the highest risk for exposure to and contracting dog flu * Because most dogs have no Mountain View
Furry Friends
natural immunity to this highly contagious disease, nearly every dog who comes across it will become infected * H3N8, a relatively less intense strain of dog flu, has been in the United States for more than 13 years, but it can also spread very quickly, like the H3N2 strain * In most dogs, dog flu manifests as some coughing, a runny nose and a slight decrease in appetite and energy * H3N2 can also cause respiratory problems and vomiting, and serious cases of either strain can lead to pneumonia and even death in severe cases * The common kennel cough vaccine doesn’t protect against dog flu
One of my favorite things in the whole world is running around and playing with my friends at doggie daycare and at the dog park, as well as when I go get my bath, haircut and nails trimmed. My vet told us that this was probably how I got sick. Because we can have trouble letting our families know when we’re not feeling well, people may accidentally take contagious dogs out and about, inadvertently causing CIV to spread between dogs that come into contact. Even drinking out of the same water bowl or chewing on community dog toys can expose us to the disease.
However, my vet told my family that because of how contagious the dog flu is and because it can be contagious for up to three weeks, it was important that I stay home from the dog park, groomer or doggie daycare for a while. She compared it to how my little family members stay home from school when they’re sick, in order to keep their classmates healthy. I’m so glad my family listened to my vet-I certainly didn’t want to get any of my friends sick! When my vet gave us my diagnosis, she also said that there is no specific treatment or medicine for dog flu, so the best protection is vaccination. Most veterinarians recommend the dog flu vaccine. There is even a combination vaccine that helps to protect against both strains of dog flu, H3N2 and H3N8, which means one less shot for me! Visit dogflu.com to download the free tour album for you and the dog you love to see some amazing doggie photos and learn how to keep your pup safe, happy and healthy!
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Home Sweet Home 5 tips to make family mealtimes more mindful The hectic workday is over. As you pull into your driveway, you feel relief because you’ve finally escaped the cranky co-workers, the deadlines and traffic jams. Now you can spend the next few hours relaxing at home with your family. What better way to enjoy this time than with a delicious meal together? Sometimes, the lingering stress can be hard to shake, especially if you’re in a rush to get dinner on the table. You can shed your stress and make this time together more meaningful. Consciously ease into the transition from work mode to family mode, and use these tips to make your evening meal more relaxing and mindful. 1. Take a breath. As soon as you get home, just take a few minutes and chill out. What you’ll want to do is shake off any lingering “fight or flight” stress response that’s making you feel tense and on edge. With deep breathing techniques - the kind that get your belly moving - you’ll lower your heart rate and feel much calmer. Sit in your favorite chair, soften your gaze and start those long, drawn-out inhales and exhales, counting your breath if needed. Just by transitioning into this calmer state, you’ll set the right mood and standard for the rest of the evening.
Facebook update, text message or news alert, that can distract us from this calm and aware state of mind. For now, while you’re preparing and eating the meal, put the devices out of reach - or in another room, if that’s practical. 3. Include the kids. With devices out of the way, it’s also much easier and more pleasant to focus on the people in the room. If your kids are hanging around the kitchen, take it as a sign they want to be with you, so use this time to connect. A great way to do this is to include kids with the meal preparation. The youngest ones can rinse fruits and vegetables, cut soft foods with a butter knife and tear lettuce. Older kids can help measure ingredients, stir and whisk, and eventually peel foods with a paring knife. 4. Simplify your menu. Eliminate the stress of getting weeknight meals on the table, and build a list of delicious go-to meals that you can prepare with ease. For example, this recipe for
Easy Shrimp Kabobs will allow you to get the entr√©e ready in minutes, plus the skewers and easy dips will make this a fun favorite with the kids. For more ideas and inspiration to make the weeknight meals more mindful and relaxing, visit seapak.com/ recipes. 5. Slow down and savor the food. Give yourself a few moments for mindful eating. Before earnest conversation begins, put your focus on the food you’ve taken the time to prepare. Put down your fork, and pay attention to the flavors, the textures and how you respond to them. No matter how hungry you are, don’t rush. Mindful eating is all about pacing yourself and staying in the moment to experience the delicious meal you are eating. After a long day, you can make the evening meal more relaxing and enjoyable by bringing a mindful approach to dinnertime. When it’s time to eat, you’ll be in the right state of mind to enjoy your food, as will the people around you.
2. Give the devices a timeout. Being mindful is all about staying in the present and following each action with intention and awareness. But when your mobile device is pinging from the latest
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October 2017
Mountain View
October 2017
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October 2017
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3 easy DIY STEM projects craze have inspired “Incredible Wearables” - the 2017 NYSD for kids Looking for hands-on activities to engage your kids? It’s never too early to introduce them to important STEM subjects at home. STEM stands for science, technology, engineering and mathematics. These subjects are critical for all students to learn because they are required for so many careers in the future. In fact, STEM jobs are growing faster than any other U.S. sector, according to Wired magazine. If you’re looking for fun, handson STEM projects to do with your child, 4-H is a tremendous resource! 4-H utilizes exciting topics like robotics, rocketry, computer science and even electrical engineering to teach youth problem solving, creative and critical thinking, and build excitement for technology and STEM careers. To reach more youth with STEM programs, the National 4-H Council has partnered with HughesNet, America’s #1 choice for satellite Internet, to help introduce youth to hands-on, community-based STEM learning. HughesNet is a national sponsor of 4-H National Youth Science Day (4-H NYSD), the world’s largest youth-led STEM challenge. 4-H NYSD projects can be used by local clubs, families, homeschoolers and teachers to give youth a fun way to learn about STEM. Here are three exciting NYSD STEM projects that are so much fun, your child will think it’s playtime, not work time. Project 1: Incredible Wearables
experiment. Designed by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension, this project teaches students how circuits, sensors and health data can be blended with fashion to create a wearable tech product. To get started, visit https:// shop4-h.org/ to order an affordable kit that provides everything needed for up to eight kids to make their very own wearable fitness devices. These wearables can track heart rate, steps and more! Best yet, the kits are reusable so they can have fun building, designing and testing their tracker time and time again. Project 2: Drone Discovery For children excited by aeronautics and design, Drone Discovery enables youth to explore how drone engineering and remote sensing can be used to solve real-world problems, such as helping a community develop climate change resiliency and energy sustainability. To succeed in this challenge, youth need to think like an engineer as they design, build and test drones. There are many different kinds of engineers and different ways to approach a challenge. What kind of engineer do you think you’ll need to be to master drone technology? The engineering design process has three basic steps: define, design and optimize.
School Zone Project 3: Rockets to the Rescue Rockets to the Rescue is a competitive project, enabling youth to design and build a rocket that could be used to transport food and deliver supplies to disaster victims. This project, which is incredibly timely with major storms hitting the United States, teaches engineering concepts, math skills, nutrition and how to help solve a relevant, global issue. The possibilities are endless From simple building blocks to tackling science kits and constructing robots, there are plenty of STEM projects guaranteed to pique your child’s interest. Not only are you spending quality time with them having fun, but you’re also helping them learn critical STEM skills that will positively impact their future. To learn about other fun STEM activities, visit www. hughesnet.com/4h and www.4h. org.
The FitBit and Apple Watch Mountain View
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Tips for choosing the Medicare plan that’s right for you For most seniors, the period between Oct. 15 and Dec. 7 is the only time they can switch or make changes to their Medicare insurance plan. The Medicare program has four parts, according to Medicare.gov: A, B, C and D. * Medicare Part A helps pay for in-patient hospital stays, care in a skilled nursing facility and hospice care. * Medicare Part B helps cover care by doctors or other health care providers, outpatient services, some medical equipment and some preventive services. * Medicare Part C (also known as Medicare Advantage) covers everything included in parts A and
B, and usually includes Medicare prescription drug coverage as part of the plan. Medicare Advantage plans may include extra benefits and services for an extra cost. Medicare-approved private insurance companies, such as Alignment Healthcare’s Alignment Health Plan, run Medicare Advantage plans. * Medicare Part D helps cover the cost of prescription medications and is run by Medicare-approved private insurance companies. Most people think of Medicare parts A and B as Original Medicare, in which the government pays directly for the health care services received. Most people do not pay a monthly premium for Part A if they paid taxes while working; everyone pays a monthly premium for Part B, based on income. The standard premium for Part B in 2017 was $134 per month, which is deducted from the individual’s Social Security benefits. Original Medicare pays for about 80 percent of the total costs of health care. The patient is responsible for the remaining 20 percent. To offset the financial burden of that 20 percent, some people choose to purchase supplemental insurance, called Medigap. Private insurance companies offer Medigap to
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cover things Medicare doesn’t, such as deductibles, co-pays and co-insurance - but, keep in mind, Medigap only supplements Original Medicare benefits. Further, if you do not apply for Medigap in the first six months of becoming eligible, there’s no guarantee that an insurance company will sell you a Medigap policy. When choosing between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage, you should consider these questions: * How likely is it your health needs will change down the road? If you don’t enroll in the additional insurance and drug coverage when you first sign up for Original Medicare, you may pay a monthly penalty for enrolling later and may not be eligible for additional Medigap coverage. * Are you still working past age 65? If so, you will probably want to enroll in Part A, because there generally are no monthly premiums, and it may supplement your employer’s insurance plan. * Is it more important to you to have lower or no premiums or lower out-of-pocket costs? With Original Medicare, you may pay more out of pocket without supplemental insurance and prescription drug coverage. * Do you regularly take prescription medication for chronic conditions? Prescription drug coverage is not included in Original Medicare, and if you fail to sign up for Part D at the time you enroll, you could pay a penalty for adding it later. To learn more about Medicare, visit www.Medicare.gov.
October 2017
Being Normal...
Life As A Caregiver
I remember when my father was struggling through cancer. My mom used to say that one of the most frustrating things that would occur was when she’d ask him what he wanted for dinner, he’d tell her, she’d make it, and then he didn’t want it or wouldn’t eat it. He didn’t mean to be difficult, but in his case, it was the chemo that would change his taste buds and food often just didn’t taste good nor was his appetite normal. That would frustrate her terribly because there were so few things she could do to make him comfortable….she was hoping good food would be one. Food was also something she felt she could control as far as quality of life. But that was not the case. That same scenario happens for Alzheimer’s patients, as well. They often lose much of their appetite in the later stages of the disease. In my mom’s case, she still HAS a good appetite most of the time and will eat just about anything. But there are those times when she says she’s hungry, I cook her dinner, and she only eats a tiny bit of it. It’s very frustrating to me at times, just like it was for her with my dad. And like my dad, she doesn’t not eat it to be mean. So I have learned to try and let it go. Granted, there aren’t many things we can control about Alzheimer’s, and food is most always a positive element in someone’s life, but we just can’t always expect to get the reaction we hope for in serving their favorite foods. Now, I am generally a strong woman and am always busy. That has certainly been tested in moving to a brand new place as well as caring for my mom. But….stress, frustration, Mountain View
depression, and uncertainty has a way of sneaking up on you (no matter HOW strong you are), and we don’t even see it coming. Which is exactly what happened to ME. About two years ago, I noticed that I seemed to cry for absolutely no reason. No apparent reason, that is. I knew the feelings I was having weren’t typical for me, even though I consider myself to be an emotional person. So I went to the doctor to check it out. As soon as he walked into the room and I began explaining what I was feeling, I began to cry. That’s when he told me I was normal. He explained that the stress and the other above-mentioned things I was feeling often don’t impact a person right away. They build-up over time and when we start to feel more in control, that’s often when they hit us. I was experiencing what millions of women experience each and every day: performance anxiety. He prescribed a wonderful medication called Lexapro. My first response was: what are the side effects? He laughed and said that with the low dose he was prescribing there wouldn’t BE any side effects.
I mentioned it to a few of my girlfriends and came to find out that THEY took it, as well. Wait. What?? You mean, I was trying to deal and cope with everything ON MY OWN when others had been much smarter and sought help much earlier than me????
So…the lesson here is this. Women are amazing creatures. We take on enormous amounts of challenges and work hard to balance all the pieces of our world. And if we even suspect a crack in our armor, we begin to freak out and beat ourselves up (which only compounds the situation) instead of asking for help! Asking for help is NOT a form of weakness….it is absolute strength! And very smart. And we are both!! Submitted by Kathy Linton, West Valley Resident
I went home and took the first one. Within 4 days I felt much more in control of my emotions AND with the tasks at hand. No side effects. Not one. October 2017
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Money Matters 3 steps to help freelancers and gig economy workers avoid a tax blunder More and more people are earning extra cash by freelancing in the sharing economy. That may mean writing on the side, playing music on the weekends, driving for ride-sharing services or selling handmade jewelry on Etsy. No matter how the money flows in, gig economy earners must be aware of the related tax obligations and potential pitfalls. If you’re one of the 55 million Americans who chooses to freelance, it can be difficult to correctly calculate and report to the IRS how much tax you owe. In fact, a recent survey conducted by the National Association of Enrolled Agents found that, “independent contractors participating in the gig economy were cited as among those most at risk of failing to accurately report all of their income.” Taxpayers who miscalculate taxes owed are likely to get a form called a CP2000 from the IRS. According to the agency, that form means, “the income and/ or payment information the IRS
has on file doesn’t match the information on your tax return.” That could result in issues with your tax bill. Tips to help freelancers get on track so they’re ready to tackle taxes head-on this tax season. 1. Get organized Whether you work full time and earn a little extra cash from a side hustle or you’re a full-time contractor, meticulous recordkeeping is a must. One option is to keep track of all business expenses and related receipts in one large folder. Jaeger recommends taking that one step further by categorizing receipts into specific folders - for example, one folder for mileage and maintenance records, a second for rent or dues if you lease a workspace, and a third for office equipment and business-related equipment. Once a quarter, as you determine what you’ll owe for quarterly tax payments, make note of which of those receipts are deductible. 2. Keep track of your income When you’re freelancing, you’re your own accounting department. Not only are you responsible for generating invoices and collecting payment, you must also keep track of all income earned and accurately report it to the IRS. That can get complicated when multiple income streams are at play. For example, gig economy workers who make money freelancing for multiple
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clients while also moonlighting as an Uber or Lyft driver should track all income and expenses separately. That means keeping accurate records of any money paid directly by clients and keeping track of income reported on documents such as Forms 1099-MISC and 1099-K. These forms are issued when selfemployment income exceeds $600 (1099-MISC) and when a contractor is paid through credit- and debit-card payment processors (1099-K). Come tax time, fill out a Schedule C for every company or client who has paid you to report all of the income you earned. 3. Make estimated tax payments The IRS requires independent contractors to file and pay taxes on a quarterly basis, even if you anticipate getting a refund at the end of the tax year. Use a tax calculator to help determine whether you should make estimated tax payments. You can also use Worksheet 2.1 in IRS Form 1040-ES, Estimated Tax for Individuals, to figure out whether you must pay estimated tax. Whatever method you choose, make sure you calculate adjusted gross income, taxable income, taxes, deductions and credits. As a rule of thumb, if you will owe at least $1,000 in taxes, you should plan to pay estimated taxes during the current tax year. Earning extra money from your freelance work or side gig may not make you feel like you’re selfemployed, but in the eyes of the IRS, you are. By planning ahead, getting organized and doing your own taxes with an affordable online option such as TaxAct, you can avoid tax missteps and stay focused on what matters most: earning income on your own terms! October 2017
Bergen Financial Group Presents Power & Protection Strategies For Retirees - - Avoid 10 Pitfalls Made By Retirees!
Using Different Insurance Options Learn How To: ◆ ◆ ◆ ◆ ◆ ◆ ◆ ◆ ◆ ◆ ◆
Keep your retirement dollars safe with proven strategies Benefit from market ups without any risk to your principal Potentially earn double-digit returns with NO market risk and zero loss of principal Reduce RMD’s on your IRA Earn tax deferred and/or income tax-free2 earnings on your savings Stop or reduce taxes on your social security checks Get long term care and/or home health care without writing a check for it Increase your heirs benefits by 10%, 30% or even 100% Differentiate annuities: The Good, The Bad & The Ugly Avoid common mistakes made with wills & trusts3 Get payout rates on annuities as high as 6.75 % and compound rates as high as 6.75% 4 by using income riders
IRA Rollover 10.25%1 gtd. 1st year
This entitles the holder to RSVP for up to 4 people A COMPLIMENTARY MEAL Trilogy at Vistancia Tewa Ballroom 27980 N. Trilogy Blvd., Peoria, AZ 85383 Wednesday, October 11th at 5 PM followed by Dinner NOTHING WILL BE SOLD AT THIS FREE WORKSHOP! Your Speakers: Darcy L. Bergen AZ License #155178 Darcy L Bergen is a fiduciary and the founder of Bergen Financial Group. Darcy is an experienced television and radio personality, having hosted radio shows including “Smart Money” and “Safe Money & Income Radio Show with Darcy & Heather.” He has presented hundreds of seminars dealing with all aspects of money, and now focuses on matters associated with retirement. Darcy is a Certified Retirement Financial Advisor (CRFA) and is a NAFA member (National Association for Fixed Annuities).
Bryan Little AZ License #23626 Bryan Little is a fiduciary and specializes in retirement and income planning. Since 1995, Bryan has had a goal in helping his clients achieve their ideal financial retirement. Bryan is a licensed insurance agent, licensed to sell life insurance and annuities. Being an independent advisor, he strives to find the best companies and products to help clients achieve their goals.
Seating is Limited... Call to RSVP 1-800-915-2502 Bergen Financial Group • 20542 N. Lake Pleasant Road, Suite 111 • Peoria, Arizona 85382 This is not intended to be a sales seminar. The purpose of this seminar is to provide you with general information on retirement planning. Neither Bergen Financial Group nor any agents acting on behalf of Bergen Financial Group should be viewed as providing legal, tax or investment advice. Consult with and rely on your own qualified advisor. Annuities: “A surrender during the surrender charge period could result in a loss of premium. Surrender charge structure may vary by state. Please consult your Disclosure Statement for details specific to your state. However, some products have a Return of Premium Guarantee. Issuing companies that have Return of Premium products are Midland National, EquiTrust, National Western and Sagicor. Life Insurance: “Income and growth on accumulated cash values is generally taxable only upon withdrawal. Adverse tax consequences may result if withdrawals exceed premiums paid into the policy. Annuities grow tax deferred and life insurance is tax free under certain circumstances. Withdrawals or surrenders made during a Surrender Charge period will be subject to surrender charges and may reduce the ultimate death benefit and cash value. Surrender charges vary by product, issue age, sex, underwriting class and policy year. 1Interest is based on 10.25% effective June 7, 2017 and is subject to change without notice.” 10.25% First-Year Yield reflects 8% Premium Bonus plus a 2.7%, Fixed Account Rate, and assumes no withdrawals, net of fees. This yield applies only to premiums in the Fixed Account. The Fixed Account Interest Rate is based on current rates and subject to change at the Company’s discretion and based on $250,000 premium.” 2Tax-free refers to income tax-free 3Daniel Mazza is our Attorney for Wills and Trusts. His license number is 029570. 4Secure income annuity offered through Security Benefit Life. Insurance products may be presented by Bergen Financial life insurance. Mountain View October 2017 Group, a company that provides insurance products for clients. Fixed annuities guarantee that your money will earn at least a minimum interest rate. Fixed annuities may earn interest at a rate higher than the minimum but only the minimum rate is guaranteed. The issuer of the annuity sets the rates.
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October 2017
Road Safety 6 simple steps to avoid distracted driving Mobile phones have become an essential part of life for most people, helping them stay connected and increase productivity. However, this technology can also be a distraction when driving, which puts everyone on the road at risk. More than one-quarter of all car crashes involve phone use, both with handsets and handsfree, the National Safety Council reports. Considering many states and countries don’t yet compile and report data on cellphone use following a crash, this number is likely much higher. Distracted driving isn’t just an issue for young adults. High technology use means this is a problem across generations. For professionals in particular, the expectation to stay productive and reachable means a constant temptation to use cellphones when driving. Recognizing the ethical and liability issues that arise when employees drive while distracted, employers across the country have begun implementing distracted-driving policies. Typically, these policies prohibit employees from using mobile phones while driving on company time.
“I had to try the policy myself first,” says MacLennan. “Once I knew what it would take to go completely cellphone free in my car, I could then make it work for our entire company.” Based on his experience, MacLennan offers these six simple steps for anyone looking to eliminate distracted driving yet stay productive and responsive to your job. 1. Auto response Use a free automated response app to let callers know that you’re driving and can’t take the call. You can personalize the response so incoming calls or texts receive a text message saying you’re on the road. 2. DND If you’re driving a vehicle outfitted with communication technology, use its “do not disturb” feature to unplug from calls and texts while behind the wheel. 3. Block drive times Just as you schedule meetings, use shared calendars to block times you’ll be driving. This alerts
anyone else connected to your calendar when you’ll be out of touch. 4. Out of sight, out of mind A study by AT&T found that 62 percent of drivers keep their phones within reach in the car. Put yours where you can’t see or reach it, such as in the back seat. 5. Pull over If you must take a call while on the road, let it go to voicemail and pull over in a safe location to return the call. Plan pull-over “cellphone stops” along your route if needed. 6. Avoid all distractions Cellphones aren’t the only cause of distracted driving. Eating, grooming and reading are activities people try to tackle while driving. Be smart and simply stay focused on the road. Driving safely should be everyone’s top concern when behind the wheel. These simple steps can make it easier to resist the temptation to pick up the phone or do another activity that can wait until you’ve arrived, safely, at your destination.
In January 2017, the NSC reported that Cargill was the largest privately held company to prohibit the use of mobile devices, including hands-free technology, while an employee is driving on behalf of the company. Cargill’s Chairman and CEO David MacLennan just marked the oneyear anniversary of following the policy. Mountain View
October 2017
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Puzzles & Games
Sudoku for October
1
8
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8 3 7 4 5 6 1
5 2 6 1 9 7 8
3 7 1 5 2 9 4
9 4 3 2 8 1 6
2 6 8 9 7 5 3
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4
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9 5
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Numbers from 1-9 must appear only once in each row, column and box. Good Luck!
Sudoku Solution
4
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October 2017
USEFUL NUMBERS EMERGENCY SERVICES Emergencies (Police / Fire) Police Non-Emergency Fire Department Non-Emergency Fire Dept. (Snake Removal) Poison Control Center Rattlesnakes & Gila Monsters
911 623.773.8311 623.773.7279 602.253.1190 602.253.3334 480.894.1625
HOSPITALS - MEDICAL Arrowhead Hospital Cancer Center of America John C. Lincoln - Deer Valley Banner Hospital - Del E. Webb Banner Hospital - Boswell
623.561.1000 800.268.0786 623.879.6100 623.214.4000 623.977.7211
CITY OF PEORIA City Hall Water/Trash Main Library Sunrise Mountain Library Parks and Recreation
623.773.7000 623.773.7160 623.773.7555 623.773.8650 623.773.7137
POST OFFICES Glendale Post Office Peoria Post Office Sun City West Post Office
623.572.0288 623.979.8533 623.546.3990
Mountain View
LICENSES Drivers & Plates Vehicle Emissions Station PUBLIC UTILITIES APS - Electric Company Cox Communications Qwest (Voice & Internet) ZONA Communications Southwest Gas Company SCHOOLS Peoria Unified School District Lake Pleasant Elementary School Vistancia Elementary School Liberty High School Sunrise Mountain High School MISCELLANEOUS Trilogy Golf Club Trilogy HOA Office Vistancia HOA Office Community Patrol
602.255.0072 887.692.9227 602.371.7171 623.594.1072 800.244.1111 623.455.4555 602.861.1999 623.486.6040 623.773.6575 623.773.6500 623.773.6525 623.487.5125 623.328.5100 623-215-6258 623.215.8646 480.313.2685
October 2017
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Business Directory AUTO SERVICES Baron Auto Mobil Detail
623.755.3465
CONSULTING Estrella Partners Group
623.594.9283
FINANCIAL & LEGAL SERVICES Bergen Financial Group Michael Sweet, CPA Kramer Legacy Estate Planning PSP & Associates Succentrix Business Advisors
800.915.2502 631.987.8989 623.974.1966 623.594.9615
HEALTHCARE & BEAUTY Active Life Pain Center Alycan Design Medispa A Tender Dental Care Legacy Smiles Dentistry Neighborhood Beauty Boutique
623.535.9777 602.368.8413 623.937.1888 623.223.7589 623.777.7702
HOUSEHOLD SERVICES Cluff Mechanical Heating & AC Dirt Busters House Cleaning General Exterminating Green Leaf Pest Control The Window Cleaner AZ Younger Brothers Exterminating Younger Brothers Plumbing Zona Communications
602.765.COOL 623.977.6725 623.977.2100 623.399.9970 623.738.6064 623.487.3147 623.487.3130 623.445.4555
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REAL ESTATE Coldwell Banker - M & J Morin 623.262.2870 Friedman Realty Associates 623.476.2491 Lake Pleasant Real Estate 480.272.5158 RETAIL SERVICES Estrella Ordnance Foot Solutions Pure Patio Steel Shield Security Doors
623.262.2154 623.536.6676 623.299.8000 623.977.3277
WORSHIP Spirit Song Church
623.824.1357
October 2017
IT PAY$ TO REFER A FRIEND EARN A FREE MONTH OF INTERNET FOR EACH NEW CUSTOMER YOU REFER TO ZONA*
The more friends you refer, the less you pay for your Internet service! Just make sure your friend tells us your name when signing up for a new service with us and uses promo code FRIEND. When your friend becomes a Zona customer, you’ll receive a free month of your current Zona Internet service. You can earn up to six months of complimentary service per year!
Mountain View
28620 N El Mirage Road, Suite 101 Peoria, AZ 85383 623-455-4555 www.zonacommunications.com October 2017
*Referral customer must purchase the Z50 plan or greater. Promotion ends October 31, 2017. Limit of six referral credits per year.
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Cornerstone Group © 2017
CALL 623-455-4555 FOR DETAILS
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October 2017