Estrella Publishing - Mountain View magazine
May 2018
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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 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. Some content is provided by Brandpointe. 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.
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Estrella Publishing - Mountain View magazine
May 2018
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From Me To You... Welcome to the May edition of Mountain View magazine!
I am dedicating this issue to all the mothers I know, all the mothers I have not yet met, and all the mothers I wish I could meet again. May is the month where we think of flowers and sunshine and Mothers’ Day. A holiday that honors the women who try to put their children first, even when it seems too much. Because motherhood is hard. It is painful. It is lonely. It is isolating. It also brings the most unimaginable love and connection. A sense that you will move mountains for this tiny creature that has been placed into your arms. A desire to do better, to be better. I remember the morning after I brought my first child home. I woke with a heart full of happiness and love. And a creeping dread. A sense of hopelessness and futility. Who decided that I could be responsible for a human being? Who decided that I knew enough to keep her alive? Where was the manual? They sell you a car with reams of paperwork on how to do everything to keep this machine running. A baby? Nothing. Then there was the feeling of being trapped inside a prison of my own making. I wanted this child. I carried this child. I made this child. And now I am stuck with her. My husband got to keep
being himself. He got to go to work and leave the house and the never ending piles of laundry. I was forever chained to this tiny being who relied on me for everything. No matter how much you prepare for the life of a parent, this is what hit me the most. My life was no longer my own. If you are lucky you have family around to help and guide you. Groups of mothers to join and talk to. Someone to let you know you are not alone. That other mothers feel this way too. That it is OK to founder. If you don’t have that then find it! In the age of the internet it is easier to find groups to talk to but I got the best support and help from a group I met in person. I had moved to a new town with my two children and husband in tow. We were adults now. We had jobs and a mortgage and reliable cars with car seats. But it was lonely. I found an ad in a local paper for an open house at ‘The Mothers’ Center’. The decision to go was one of those moments people talk about. The moment I found my people. The Mothers’ Center was a community of women supporting each other. We had discussion groups where members were free to tell our lives to and learn from each other. With no recriminations, no judgement, only truth and support. There were rules, of course. Do not judge. Speak from the I. Do not tell others what was divulged in this place. Simple requests, but ones that allowed us to be free and cared for. On this Mothers’ Day I encourage all of you to reach out to a mother you know. Offer her support, friendship, a non-judgemental ear. Perhaps even offer to help with the laundry. Catherine Uretsky Editor, Mountain View Magazine info@estrellapublishing.com 623.594.9283
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On Our Cover The two beautiful girls on our cover are local residents Sophie and Kamry. They are members of the AZ Element Elite Titanium cheer team and they are as delightful as they are determined.
Kamry has been cheering for 6 years, she loves it because it gives her something active to do and it is fun to hang out with her friends on the team and compete together. Sophie has been cheering for 5 years, she loves that she gets to work with a team and also to compete. They both practice for 2-3 hours 3 times a week to perfect their routines. The girls (and their team) won 3 first place medals at the Pacific All-Star Championship Series in Calgary in February and they are headed to The Summit All Star Cheerleading Championship in Orlando May 3rd and 4th. In order to qualify, the team had to earn an
Estrella Publishing - Mountain View magazine
International division bid at the event in Calgary. The top 10 teams form the first day will go on to the second day and have a shot at the championship. The girls have been hard at work fundraising on top of their regular practices to make this dream come true. Outside of Cheer Kamry loves riding and poetry and Sophie likes to be social and spend time with friends. The team is very competitive and the girls have to try out each year to see which team and what level they will be competing at. They both want to continue to cheer through high school and perhaps even in college. Good luck at The Summit girls! If you or anyone you know would like to be on a future cover please e-mail me at info@ estrellapublishing.com for more information. It is a great way to get publicity for a club or group, or give recognition to a deserving individual!
May 2018
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Peace On Earth Life would be so much easier if there were no ‘forks in the road!’ Every time we turn around there are more decisions to make. Which sport or club in high school, which college, what career, what kind of car, where to live, who to marry, how many children, and when to retire. We also have decisions about our faith choices, our aging parents, about the ethics of our work places and if we can abide them. Getting input from others can help. At least, it is helpful if we look to those who will be honest with us. It is not beneficial to go only to those who will agree with us. Find people you can trust and who will help you see different positions. Some decisions require research. Take the time to read up on different products or companies and learn all you can before making your choice. Get references for those with whom you are considering a personal or business relationship. There is a very important, often overlooked, approach to decision making - prayer. It sounds simplistic and many fail to value this great tool. Some think prayer is only for severe illness or dire relationship issues. I believe many situations would not escalate to such seriousness if we turned to prayer first. Scripture reads, “I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people.” (I Timothy 2:1)
stances, decisions and challenges and for those of others. God is interested in the outcome. God loves you and wants to help you live into your very best. However, as a friend once said, “God is a gentleman.” God doesn’t force us to follow his path. God plants suggestions and nudges us but waits for us to choose. When we choose God, we discover that God is ready to help guide us into our best choice. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will direct your paths.” (Proverbs 3:56) Notice, God gives direction. You still retain choice, free will. You can follow, or you can reject God’s leading. You are not a puppet! How will you know God’s answer? God ‘speaks’ through many avenues. God might speak to you through your church, the words of a friend, through circumstances, or music. God most often speaks through his teaching in the Bible. Be open to receive God’s guidance and you’ll learn to recognize his prompting. May God lead you through the ‘forks in the road’ you encounter! Submitted by Valerie Fairchild, pastor of Spirit Song church in Vistancia
Don’t miss the gift of praying for your own circum-
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Home Sweet Home The real estate market is heating up, and if you’re planning to sell your home in the future, you want it to sell quickly and for as high of a price as possible. By taking proactive action now, you can make a few strategic home improvements that can help you achieve both your goals. To boost your home sale and reduce time on the market, consider these top home improvement ideas to catch buyers’ eyes. Garage door: When potential buyers visit your property, you want to make the best first impression before they even come inside. That’s why it’s wise to replace your garage door. It takes up a significant amount of exterior visual real estate and helps define the home’s aesthetic. What’s more, according to Remodeling Magazine’s 2018 Cost vs. Value report, a garage door replacement recoups an astonishing 98.3 percent of cost upon resale.
Kitchen upgrade: A complete kitchen remodel is costly, but a few smart upgrades can make the heart of the home shine. Consider replacing worn laminate countertops and updating hardware for a fresh look. Fresh flooring: You don’t have to replace all your flooring, but focal areas like the kitchen or family room, as well as areas that tend to experience higher wear, such as the entryway, can benefit from a new floor. Forget expensive tile or hardwood replacements. Vinyl wood flooring looks incredibly similar to real wood, and modern luxury vinyl tile mimics the gorgeous look of stone or ceramic tile but is more durable and affordable. You may be able to simply add new flooring on top of old, making it a much easier DIY project. Neutral paint: Don’t ever underestimate the value of a fresh coat of paint throughout your home. Walls get dingy and colors get dated. Repaint rooms with modern, neutral tones. As much as you love plum, buyers may not, so stick with whites, creams and grays whenever possible. Visit your local paint store and you’ll see there are many neutral options to add excitement to interior spaces. Don’t forget the ceiling, too! A fresh coat of white can do wonders. These projects will enhance your listing so you get more attention and book more showings. You may even start a bidding war with enough interest, and that can really drive up the price. Take action now and these home improvement efforts are sure to make an impact.
Estrella Publishing - Mountain View magazine
May 2018
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Living With Faith A Mother’s Love
There is nothing sweeter than a mother’s love. In fact there is nothing more precious than the attachment that began in the womb and was then drawn into the light, still attached. And when the cord is severed different connections materializes: Loyalty, devotion and affection. All resulting in what is known as a mother’s love. A mother’s love is unconditional, although demanding at times, but always filled with compassion and understanding. Not unlike the love that God has for each of us: Establishing a path and hoping that we will find the courage to direct our lives toward that ultimate destination of fulfillment. When we think of our mothers we remember the good and bad times, all the memories of youth and adulthood. Each time we see a wave of soft gray hair, we seem to see our mother there. How we wish we could hold her hand one more time and tell her how much she meant to us and how we understand how tired she must have been feeling our pain.
in memory, then we should step back and express that gratitude through the deeds we perform that would have given her joy.
Perhaps realizing this will enable us to kiss our mother’s face, hold her hand and be in tune with God. Together mother and God can, and do, take our cares away. God couldn’t be everywhere, as the poet wrote, so He made mothers. And mothers couldn’t be everything to everyone so God joined in partnership to create the ultimate feeling of security that comes from knowing that she will caress our cares so to ease our burden. We must thank God for the beauty of life as we thank our mothers for bringing us the beauty of God. On the day set aside referred to as Mother’s Day, let us remember to think of the past as we endeavor to continue to build our future. What more could a mother ask? Rabbi Irwin Wiener, D.D. Sun Lakes Jewish Congregation National Chaplain, Jewish War Veterans, USA
The details of a mother’s anguish speak to the suffering we all experience as we journey through life, trying to find our purpose in life. Still we all answer the Divine in us. Some more than others. Some with sacrifices beyond imagination. If we only knew how to say thank you for giving us life. If only we could realize that one kind gesture, one kind act, to acknowledge the joy that was hers as we continue the journey she started for us. Sometimes we wait too long and miss opportunities of gratefulness. And, if we find ourselves involved 8 Estrella Publishing - Mountain View magazine
May 2018
Estrella Publishing - Mountain View magazine
May 2018
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Nutrition On The Go
craving folic acid, vitamin C, vitamin A, lutein, and just about every other phytonutrient.
Whether you’re traveling for leisure or business, you shouldn’t lose sight of nutrition. It’s common to think, “Hey, I’m on vacation, so I can throw my healthy diet out the window.” Wrong. Traveling can throw the body for a loop with time zone changes, shifts in sleep schedules and the availability of fast, convenient and highly processed foods. Use these five easy steps to make sure you stay healthy on the go this year.
“We shouldn’t sacrifice our nutrition simply because we’re away from our kitchen,” commented Elizabeth Somer, registered dietitian, author of “Eat Your Way to Happiness” and Vitamin Packs medical advisory board member. “I always pack nutritionally rich go-to snacks when I’m away from home and pack a multivitamin that delivers the essential nutrients my body needs to perform at its best.”
1. Pack healthy snacks. Dining while on the go usually translates to getting a quick hunger fix that involves processed, high-fat foods. Make a conscious effort to pack healthy snacks. Apples and nut butter, pretzels and hummus and dried, no-sugaradded fruit are a few healthy options.
4. Keep your blood flowing. If you’re planning a U.S. cross-country flight this year, direct flights can leave you sitting for five hours or more. These long periods of sedentary travel can lead to blood clots. Before you go, check with your doctor about adding an omega-3 supplement to your diet to maintain healthy blood flow.
2. Lighten your luggage. It’s all too common for travelers to try to max out the weight of their checked luggage, which often weighs in at 50 pounds. Carting around heavy luggage and bags can take a toll on the body. 3. Don’t forget essential nutrients. The introduction of personalized nutrition has made it much easier (and lighter) to bring your vitamins and supplements with you when you travel. It may not always be convenient to grab a bright orange pepper or a bowl of fresh spinach while on the go. Therefore, your body may be
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5. Hydrate. Hydrate. Hydrate. Water should be your No. 1 travel companion. Pack a reusable water bottle, so you can quickly fill up at water fountains located in many airports, train stations and bus stops. As you take to the air, road or track this year, make nutrition a top priority. Your body will thank you and it will give you the energy you need to enjoy your time wherever your travels take you.
May 2018
Retirement Health Costs As their 65th birthday looms, many people eagerly anticipate the affordable access to health care that Medicare will provide. After all, Medicare covers everything, right? Not exactly. Because of this common misconception, many people are caught off guard when they realize that each one of the dozens of Medicare options available to them comes with its own set of outof-pocket cost implications.
the convenience of wrapping all of their Medicare coverage into one plan and having just one card in their wallet. That said, choosing Medicare Advantage doesn’t mean you’re totally off the hook in terms of paying monthly premiums. You are still responsible for paying your Part B premium. In 2018, the standard Part B premium is $134, but it may be higher or lower depending on your income.
The more you know about Medicare plans and costs, the better prepared you’ll be to avoid unpleasant surprises. Think you’re savvy enough to discern myth from fact when it comes to your health care costs in retirement? Read on to put your knowledge to the test.
Myth: There isn’t much you can do to contain or manage health care costs. It’s mostly up to chance or luck. Fact: While no one can predict or completely control their future health care needs, you can take steps to protect yourself from high health care expenses. Choosing a Medicare plan that limits the amount you spend on health care costs during the year is one option to consider. Look for plans with an out-of-pocket maximum, which is the most you will pay for covered services in a year. Once you reach that amount, your plan will cover 100 percent of the cost of the Medicarecovered services you receive, and you’ll pay only your premiums.
Myth: When comparing Medicare plans, it’s best to choose the lowest-premium option to help minimize your costs. Fact: While premiums are an important factor when choosing a health care plan, they should not be the only factor - or necessarily the most important either. Sometimes a low monthly premium option comes with higher out-of-pocket costs or lacks benefits and services that are important to you. It’s best to understand the total costs of a plan - including the deductibles, copays and coinsurance - as well as any benefit limitations that could increase your costs. For example, if the hospital you use isn’t in a plan’s network, you’ll likely incur higher costs if you choose to access care there. Myth: If I enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan, I will pay only one premium. And if my plan has a $0 premium, I won’t have to pay any premium at all. Fact: The simplicity of Medicare Advantage is one of the reasons enrollment in these plans has grown so dramatically. Many people appreciate Estrella Publishing - Mountain View magazine
“Regardless of the plan you choose, everyone can stand to benefit by being proactive about taking care of their health,” said Efrem Castillo, chief medical officer of UnitedHealthcare Medicare & Retirement. “Eating a nutritious diet, exercising regularly, seeing your primary care doctor annually, getting your recommended cancer screenings and taking your medications exactly as prescribed are all steps you can take to help protect your health and possibly your wallet from the expense of managing major health issues later on.” To get smart on all things Medicare, check out MedicareMadeClear.com or AARP.org
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Positive Parenting If some one had asked what motherhood meant to me six years ago I would probably have said something along the lines of “pure bliss”, and I would have meant it. Being a Mum was the only thing I had ever consistently wanted in life.
When I finally became a Mum at 34 I was genuinely ecstatic. And I was good at it from the very start. As soon as she was placed on my chest, seconds after being born, my daughter began nursing. It didn’t hurt. I had no supply issues. Nursing on demand was never a problem because my husband and I had decided that the best thing for our family was for me to stay home with our daughter. Mom’s Clubs, play dates, the odd evening out with new friends while Daddy and Daughter snuggled in bed waiting for me to get home, a new found confidence in myself and what I was
doing became my life. I was delighted, and we all thrived. Life was easy and full of joy, so we decided to try to add to our near perfect life. The first time around getting pregnant wasn’t easy, and we expected things to be harder the 2nd time. We planned to have another child born when our eldest was about 3. Life decided we were doing so well at this parenting thing that we didn’t need to wait that long. Before our eldest was 18 months old I was pregnant. From the second she found out (the same time as me, after all, who pees alone with a toddler in the house?) she was adamant that there were “2 babies in Mummy’s tummy”. And on Christmas Eve, 3 months before she turned 2, we found out she was right! I have been overwhelmed ever since. The twins (a boy and a girl) will be 4 this summer. I love them so much my heart hurts. There are moments of joy and pride in the things they do. But life is no longer easy. I’m not the confident and carefree Mum that I was before. Chaos, endless noise, and self doubt like I have never felt before are my new normal. But life is good and things are settling down. My heart is full, my days are never the same. And it gets easier from here ….. right? Submitted by Terri Smith
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Freelancing
From millennials who have been grinding away in the workplace for a few years to Gen Xers looking to move out of their cube, many have been intrigued by the possibility of freelancing. It means the freedom to set your own hours, to work closely with clients, to be your own boss and have greater control over your career. Unlike a traditional job, where you generally don’t need to bring more than a packed lunch to work, freelancing requires a few essential tricks and tools to succeed. Whether you’re looking to start out or refresh your personal brand, homeworking experts cite five important tips to help you succeed at the freelance game. 1. Manage your time. One of the best parts, and the most challenging parts, of freelancing is that you get to make your own schedule. Many find that they need some sort of structure in their day, and for this reason it’s important to have the right time management software. This will notify you of calls, deadlines, track how long you work on a project and more.
and interactions, be sure to use a dedicated email account. This will make you appear more professional to prospective clients. You should also set up work-related social media accounts where you can post examples of work and professional insights and network. 4. Keep track of finances. For a lot of freelancers who are on the creative side of things, keeping track of finances can be a real challenge. Not only do you have to manage invoices, expenses and make sure you’re getting paid, you also have to keep taxes in mind. That can be a lot of numbers to juggle. The right accounting software can greatly simplify this process and save you innumerable headaches. 5. Find the right space. While freelancing is largely a digital game, and requires the right laptop loaded up with the tools you need to manage your business, you still need to find the right place to work. Some work in a coffee shop and others require a dedicated home office. You might work best in a shared office space. The point is, it’s vital to figure out where you do your best work. The right software, running on the right computer, and a place you can work are the cornerstones of a successful freelance gig. From there, all that’s needed is your talent and determination!
2. Get the right laptop. A laptop is your office, your meeting room, your library, your entertainment source and so much more, making it one of the most essential freelancing tools. It’s the lifeline between your business and your clients, so it’s critical to be sure you have the right one. 3. Use professional email and social media accounts. For all work-related correspondence Estrella Publishing - Mountain View magazine
May 2018
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Book Review I’m Just Happy to Be Here, by Janelle Hanchett
Looking for a Mother’s Day treat for your favorite bibliophile mother or grandmother? Look no further than Renegade Mothering blogger Janelle Hanchett’s literary debut, I’m Just Happy to Be Here: A Memoir of Recklessness, Rehab, and Renegade Mothering. The book is told in three parts and follows the major stages of the typical hero’s journey with the first part chronicling the writer’s life before all the trouble began. This part almost reads like a love story while foreshadowing the darkness to come. The second phase of the book details Hanchett’s cringe-worthy bottom of addiction, a world full of what she calls “3:00 a.m. ideas” and “maintenance whiskey.” The book’s third phase marks her return to the ordinary world, where she is forced to grapple with the mundane along with the beautiful and finds herself still struggling though newly redeemed. Though the book veers off the path of love story early on, it can be viewed as a love story throughout if only readers adjust their expectations of what a love story really is. Adjusting expectations, after all, is what this book is really about. With incredibly raw candor, Hanchett shares each detail of her journey, complete with paradoxes, revelations, grace, and loss 14 Estrella Publishing - Mountain View magazine
of ego. In addition to telling the story of an addicted mother’s plight like no other book, the memoir also beautifully portrays the role of music, place, and connection—to friends, families, and unexpected allies—in each of our lives. For instance, we meet “Good News Jack,” a sponsor and “washed up gutter drunk” (now sober and ready to help others get there) she found while smoking cigarettes outside an AA meeting. Early in their friendship he tells her, “If your ideas worked so well, what the f*ck are you doing here?” So yes, readers should be prepared for profanity in the service of tough love and a back-breaking search for truth. In a chapter called, “The Childhood I Could No Longer Blame,” we learn about Hanchett’s complicated though steadfast relationship with her own mother and the book’s dedication page reads, “Hey Mom. Look. We did it.” We read about her grandmothers, Bonny, the writer, and Joan, the beauty, in a chapter called “Lineage.” A temporary rupture in Hanchett’s relationship with her grandmother Joan over comments Joan made about one of Hanchett’s daughters being “shorn like a boy,” gives insight into generational divides experienced in nearly every family. Hanchett eventually mends the relationship, offering this reflection: “Do we hate them for that? Our mothers and grandmothers? Do we hate them for the roles they’ve internalized and been forced to play? Or do we simply love them as they pass into the gray?” Love of family, gradual loss of ego, and embrace of paradox lead Hanchett to the light where life is still challenging. To not read this book is to miss the tiny, beautiful revelations along the way, revelations all of us can relate to and appreciate. Treat a real-talk-loving mother, grandmother, or aunt to I’m Just Happy to Be Here this Mother’s Day. Submitted by Jen Hamilton Jen Hamilton is a writer in Austin, TX. Find her online at jenhamiltontx.com.
May 2018
MS broke my body.
I will
never stop, never quit.
Kevin
Dad. Veteran. Diagnosed in 1999. Explore powerful stories of people doing whatever it takes at nationalMSsociety.org/kevin
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May 2018
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Bergen Financial Group Presents Power & Protection Strategies For Retirees - - Avoid 10 Pitfalls Made By Retirees!
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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, May 23rd 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 10.46% effective August 22, 2017 and is subject to change without notice.” 10.46% First-Year Yield reflects 8% Premium Bonus plus a 2.9%, 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 tax3Daniel Mazza Publishing - Mountain View magazine May 2018 free life insurance. Estrella 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 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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School Zone Even though many Americans understand the importance of STEM education, children in the U.S. continue to lose interest in science, technology, engineering and math subjects at young ages.
Not surprisingly, 44 percent of U.S. adults say they felt more excited about science when they were kids, reports the State of Science Index. Maintaining students’ interest in science during the middle school years is crucial to increasing the likelihood they’ll pursue STEM careers. That’s important, since studies show our nation will need to produce an additional one million STEM workers between 2012 and 2022 alone.That said, we’re still not on track to meet demand, partly because students continue to lose interest. What’s the answer? Creating a rich culture of STEM education in schools requires professional development, suggests Cindy Moss, vice president of global STEM initiatives for curriculum developer Discovery Education. She points to research showing teachers need 80 hours of cumulative targeted professional development before effectively teaching STEM-promoting classes. What can parents and educators do to foster more interest? Consider the following:
* Find role models. If a child doesn’t know anyone working in STEM, he or she may be unable to imagine a career in such roles. Introduce him or her to people actively working in such fields, then encourage discussion and/or job shadowing. Teachers might bring in speakers who can answer candid questions about the rewards and challenges in their fields - including significant demand and attractive pay scales. * Seek achievement opportunities. Introducing children to engaging events like the annual Discovery Education 3M Young Scientist
Challenge may spark their sense of competition and passion for STEM. The top 10 finalists receive a summer mentorship with a 3M scientist, and the winner will receive $25,000. * Keep participating. Reducing involvement in your child’s daily academics once he or she enters middle school may backfire. One study shows middle schoolers maintain a more positive attitude toward science when their parents continue to display interest. * Discourage snap decisions. During adolescence kids struggling to figure out who they are can easily form inaccurate perceptions of their academic weaknesses. Reassure your child one challenging assignment or bad grade need not rule out a future career.
Estrella Publishing - Mountain View magazine
May 2018
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Life As A Caregiver It has been close to two months since I placed my mom in her care facility, but it feels like so much longer. Certainly a lot of adjustments. The biggest one for me has been looking at life without her. That realization takes on many elements: the huge change to my family unit, my own mortality, what the disease may bring to ME, and being so thankful for my mom’s relationship & memories. But it is also about freedom. MY freedom from the 24/7 caregiving responsibilities I had dedicated to her for the past four & a half years; the permission to feel that freedom and relief; and the reality of being able to take back my life.
But for now, it is mostly about dealing with the disease and the toll its taking on my mom. Our visits are very different now and they seem to diminish each time. I am told she yells at and hits the staff when they proceed to give her a shower. She is now in a wheelchair which moves her from place to place. The staff feeds her instead of her feeding herself. They have explained her behavior this way: it is
the disease taking over by allowing her brain to ‘relax’ from the pressures to keep up with the daily tasks that are considered normal behavior (conversing, feeding oneself, response). She is now accepting to let people take over those tasks for her. But by the same token, she is angry that she is unable (or unwilling) to perform things on her own and having people tell her what to do (showering, eating, going to the bathroom, etc). It’s just so sad. Sometimes when I visit, she barely knows me. Other times, not at all. She doesn’t eat much, even when fed, so she has lost weight. She hardly engages in conversation anymore. I brought her a CD player and some of her favorite CDs so she could listen to music. She seemed to like that….but not that much. I brought her some of her favorite cookies and she took two bites. She wasn’t interested in eating the rest. She doesn’t remember my dog at all when I show her pictures…and they spent all day, every day together. I don’t say this to make you sad…. although it is tragically sad. I say this so that you can be somewhat prepared for the next step. Our next step came very quickly. It is like night & day to see the decline in just eight weeks. Seeing how sad I was coming from a recent visit, a friend of mine asked me why I go. Was it for my mom or was it for me? Excellent question. I think it’s a little of both. I want her to know that I am here and with her, somehow making her feel more secure and at peace and not alone….although I doubt it does. And I guess I do it for me…to ease the guilt and frustration of not being able to DO anything to fix this nightmare. Intellectually, I know I have done all that I could being an unskilled caregiver. But emotionally, it just isn’t enough. So I go to help ease the pain for both of us. Unfortunately, I’m losing that battle. Submitted by Kathy Linton, West Valley Resident
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May 2018
Spring Cleaning 5 deep-cleaning jobs that are oddly satisfying
Whether it’s scrubbing through grime to reveal a sparkling surface, cleaning dust bunnies from under appliances or organizing your pantry, there’s something oddly satisfying about a deep clean. According to a recent survey conducted on behalf of Clorox, lots of people get the good vibes flowing when it’s cleaning day. Seventy-one percent say it makes them feel relaxed, while 57 percent say they feel accomplished. Of the most oddly satisfying places to clean in the house, 34 percent say they find their bliss after cleaning the countertops, while a clean microwave lends that special feeling to another 30 percent. To reach that spring cleaning joy, try some of these not-so-obvious cleaning jobs that will transform the look and feel of your space into a springtime sanctuary. Grout: Over time, mold and mildew buildup can make your bathroom grout look dingy, but with the right approach, the grout stains will disappear. Start by wetting the tile with a cloth. Then, dip a sponge into a gallon bucket of water with 3/4 cup of bleach and wipe down the tile. Wait five minutes for disinfecting, rinse and viola! Your tiles will shine, offset by the clean lines of white grout.
five minutes the steam will help loosen the stains.
Dust: In addition to moving aside the beds, appliances and other heavy pieces of furniture to get those dust bunnies, make sure you’re tackling the not-so-obvious places. Use the vacuum’s brush attachment to clear your HVAC register vents and don’t forget to dust the tops of fan blades! Windows: Those panes have taken quite a beating over the months. It’s time to get a soft sponge and a bucket of warm, soapy water to defeat the smudges and layers of dirt, and then wipe them clean with a squeegee. You’ll love how sparkling clean glass transforms the room. Outdoor surfaces: Right outside your back door is a golden opportunity for a deep clean. Rent or borrow a pressure washer, and once it’s set up, you can enjoy watching the blast of water and degreaser effortlessly turn your concrete walkways and driveway into bright clean surfaces - like a magic wand. To easily remove the mold and mildew off your deck and patio furniture, add 3/4 cup of bleach to a gallon of water and swipe away the stains from seasons past. Try these tips and enjoy basking in the satisfaction of a deep-cleaned house.
Microwave: We don’t like to think about it, but a lot of hard-to-remove food residue accumulates in our microwaves and we rarely spend the time to give it a thorough clean. Microwave a cup of water and in Estrella Publishing - Mountain View magazine
May 2018
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May 2018
Pest Control
You may never see them. They sneak in silently once the sun goes down. They ravage your delicate garden and stunning landscape. If you do happen to catch a glimpse, they’ll run fast as lightning to safety so they can dine in your yard while you’re not around. No, this isn’t a plot from some cinematic thriller; it’s a daily occurrence for homeowners with outdoor space. Rabbits can quickly take a toll on any size yard, and can easily climb into raised beds and nibble away at your painstakingly planted container creations. Wild rabbits have a big appetite and your garden and landscape is like a tempting, bottomless salad bar. And where there’s one, there’s more: The gestation period for a rabbit averages just 30 days. There’s factual truth behind that old saying, “multiplying like rabbits”! To protect your yard from rabbits, you first need to identify their presence. Because they often come out at dawn and sunset, you may rarely see them. According to the animal repellent experts at Bobbex, these are the top signs that
you’ve got rabbits: 1. Plant damage low to the ground, often a few inches above the soil 2. A clean, 45-degree angled cut on the end of stems and leaves 3. Woody plants debarked up to 16 inches from the ground 4. Piles of rabbit droppings (dark pea-sized pellets) 5. Tracks: Wild rabbits have five toes on their front feet and four toes on their much longer hind feet. Check, check, and re-check. Once you know you have rabbits ravaging your yard, it’s time to take action. There are a few ways to safely repel them before the damage is done. Step 1: Build and bury barriers Fencing can be an effective way to keep rabbits at bay. If you’re targeting rabbits, the fence only needs to be 3 feet tall as they are unlikely to jump over it. However, you’ll have to bury the fence underground since rabbits are experts at burrowing up to a foot below the surface to access a tasty food source. Step 2: Remove the creature’s comforts Many homeowners are surprised to find rabbits have made a home under stairs or in a shed. If you don’t want rabbits nesting and raising families in your yard, remove brush and other debris that could provide them easy shelter and spray a repellent in those areas to maintain rabbitfree hiding places. These simple steps will help you safely repel rabbits so you can fully enjoy the beauty and bounty of your outdoor space.
Estrella Publishing - Mountain View magazine
May 2018
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Sleep Tips
It’s time for America’s workforce to wake up. If you are one of the tens of millions of adults sleeping fewer than seven hours each night - the amount recommended by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) - you are likely jeopardizing performance, increasing accident risks and putting everyone in danger during commutes. Getting enough sleep every night is key to improving productivity, safety and quality of life. Here are some tips to make sleep work for you. Don’t burn the midnight oil Working late nights might impress your boss, but restricting your sleep can lead to trouble making decisions, solving problems, controlling emotions and more, severely affecting your productivity at work. The National Safety Council reports that workers who sleep fewer than six hours per night cost employers six days a year in productivity. Sleep for safety Workers who sleep less than six hours per night are also at higher risk for injury, according to the Sleep Research Society. Cognitive and motor performance impairments caused by sleep deprivation can be comparable to drinking alcohol. If you make it a daily priority to recognize the signs of fatigue before, during and after work, and refuse to drive drowsy, you can reduce the risk of serious injury for yourself and others. This may be especially true if you work a job that involves manual labor or heavy machinery. Strategies for non-traditional work hours Some of the more high-risk professions involve working irregular hours. Shift workers - who can be nurses, law enforcement officers, emergency responders, transportation operators and more - work overnight or early morning hours with irregular or rotating shifts, causing upheaval in the body’s circadian rhythm and natural sleep/ 22 Estrella Publishing - Mountain View magazine
wake cycle. According to the AASM, shift workers may sleep up to four fewer hours per night than those working traditional hours, increasing the risk for injuries, accidents and drowsy driving. The CDC reports that serious long-term health problems are a concern, too. However, there are ways for shift workers to combat this problematic sleep schedule. Tips for ‘wake time’ * Avoid exposure to sunlight if you need to sleep during the day, and wear sunglasses if you must go outside. * Use moderate amounts of caffeine in the early part of your shift. * Use public transportation, rideshare or take a cab, or arrange rides from friends or family after a work shift. * Take a 20- to 30-minute nap during a work break or before a night shift. * Get help from a sleep specialist to reinforce your body clock with strategically timed bright light therapy. Tips for ‘sleep time’ * Avoid caffeine and alcohol in the hours before you go to bed. * Plan for any major changes in your shift schedule by altering your sleep time a few days in advance. * Try to keep the same schedule on workdays and days off and create an effective “wind down” routine before going to bed. * Keep your bedroom at a cool temperature, turn off all electronics and only do relaxing activities like reading or journaling. Getting at least seven hours of sleep isn’t just a matter of feeling alert for productivity and safety on the job; it’s a necessary component of good health and well-being. If you’re having trouble sleeping, you should talk to your doctor. For more information go to www.sleepeducation.org.
May 2018
Biz Buzz
A challenge for any entrepreneur is getting access to capital. If you’re like many, you’re constantly looking for ways to reduce expenses and free up cash flow so you can be ready for anything, whether it’s a slow season or an opportunity to expand. When tax season rolls around, you’re already taking a deep dive into your expenses and income for the past year. Don’t stop when you file. With all that information at your fingertips, it’s a great opportunity to take a big-picture look at the health of your business and make sure it’s running as efficiently as possible. Use the following tips to take your tax preparation efforts a step further and boost your cash flow in the upcoming year.
loans still require a look at your personal credit score, especially if you’re a sole proprietorship. Create a tax strategy: The tax break Congress passed in December will save small business owners 20 percent on their tax bill this year. Have a meeting with your accountant to discover more ideas. Improve accounts receivable: If your business extends lines of credit to your customers, it may be worthwhile to implement a credit check policy on all new customers. Credit reporting is also an effective way for even a small business owner to let customers know they are serious about collecting what’s owed. In the end, you’ll get paid faster and increase cash flow. The life of an entrepreneur means things can change drastically on a dime. A thorough checkin with your finances can put you in the best position for success.
Dust off your business plan: No doubt when you started out in business, you were eager to put your vision to paper. Most entrepreneurs get busy with the day-to-day pressures of deadlines, and that vision can recede into the background. Now that you understand the realities of your market, you should have plenty of ideas on creating the 2.0 version of your enterprise. When finished, it’s important to not allow it to gather dust again. Update your budget: The nature of entrepreneurship is being agile in the face of change. Market trends and price changes from vendors and suppliers, are some variable forces that can send anyone’s budget into a new direction. That’s why your budget isn’t ever going to be a spot-on prediction. If you stay on top of it, you can spot the trends early and make adjustments right away. Check your credit score: If you’re planning to raise capital to expand or make improvements in the next year, checking in on your credit score is an important first step you can take. Even if you have a business credit score, certain business Estrella Publishing - Mountain View magazine
May 2018
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Puzzles & Games
Mothers’ Day Word Search
Sudoku for May
Numbers from 1-9 must appear only once in each row, column and box. Good Luck! Solution is on our website www.EstrellaPublishing.com
3
2
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2 9
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5 2
9
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Sudoku Solution 6
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1
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8 4 3 6 1 9 5 2 7
5 3 7 1 9 4 8 6 2
2 1 6 8 3 7 9 4 5
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8 6 9 5 2 6 7 1 3
2 7 8 3 1 5 4
3 5 4 9 6 1 2 7 8
1 7 8 2 4 5 3 9 6
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May 2018
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
Estrella Publishing - Mountain View magazine
LICENSES Drivers & Plates Vehicle Emissions Station PUBLIC UTILITIES APS - Electric Company Cox Communications Qwest (Voice & Internet) ZONA Communications (Internet) 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 877.860.6020 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
May 2018
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Business Directory ADVERTISING Mountain View - Estrella Publishing
623.594.9283
FINANCIAL & LEGAL SERVICES Bergen Financial Group Michael Sweet, CPA Succentrix Business Advisors
800.915.2502 631.987.8989 623.594.9615
HEALTHCARE & BEAUTY Alycan Design Medispa A Tender Dental Care Z Haven Assisted Living
602.368.8413 623.937.1888 623.628.9310
HOUSEHOLD SERVICES Al’s Plumbing Atlantic Relocation Systems Cluff Mechanical Heating & AC Dirt Busters House Cleaning Green Leaf Pest Control The Window Cleaner AZ Vistancia Pool Care Younger Brothers Exterminating
623.329.5170 602.352.6683 602.765.COOL 623.977.6725 623.399.9970 623.738.6064 623.521.2825 623.487.3147
26 Estrella Publishing - Mountain View magazine
Younger Brothers Plumbing Zona Communications
623.487.3130 623.455.4555
REAL ESTATE Coldwell Banker - M & J Morin Friedman Realty Associates
623.262.2870 623.476.2491
RECREATION & RESTAURANTS Haymaker Restaurant Co. KNFX 1100AM Radio
623.566.1515 602.277.1100
RETAIL SERVICES Budget Blinds of Peoria Estrella Ordnance Pure Patio
623.251.5988 623.262.2154 623.299.8000
WORSHIP Spirit Song Church
623.824.1357
May 2018
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Estrella Publishing - Mountain View magazine
28620 N El Mirage Rd, Suite 101, Peoria, AZ 85383 623-455-4555 • wwwzonacommunications.com
May 2018
27
Cornerstone Group © 2018
CALL TODAY!
Your Neighborhood Real Estate Company With Global Reach
Office: 623-476-2491 Call/Text: 623-986-0987 BirdieGolfHomes.com Ted Friedman
Lana Friedman
Staci Lor
IT’S A GREAT TIME TO SELL YOUR HOME!
IT’S A SELLER’S MARKET! INVENTORY IS LOW IN VISTANCIA! As of 4/10/18, in Vistancia, per ARMLS (Arizona Regional MLS) statistics:
Trilogy: 47 resale homes for sale. Vistancia Village: 40 resale homes for sale. Blackstone: 11 resale homes for sale.
Thanks to all who participated in our 2018 Shred Event! Participants generously donated $875 to St. Mary’s Food Bank. Each dollar provides 7 meals; together we donated
Staci Lor is originally from Charlotte, North Carolina and has over 7 years of real estate experience. She lives in Vistancia Village where both of her children are students at Vistancia Elementary. Staci loves helping people and would love to help with your real estate needs, whether 623-282-6940 in Vistancia Village, Blackstone or Trilogy.
6,125 meals!
THANK YOU to those who participated
FRIEDMAN REALTY ASSOCIATES’ NEWEST LISTING!
in the Putting Contest
at the SINGLETON MOMS CHARITY GOLF OUTING held Monday, April 9th! Your Neighborhood Real Estate Company With Global Reach
SAVE TH E DATE!
Supporting single parents with cancer. www.SingletonMoms.org
Call or text Friedman Realty Associates at (623) 986-0987 for your listing appointment today!
Your Neighborhood Real Estate Company With Global Reach
We get results – we make it happen FOR YOU! 28 Estrella Publishing - Mountain View magazine
If your home is currently listed for sale, this is NOT intended as a solicitation for business.
LIST PRICE:
$399,000 12447 W. Maya Way, Trilogy at Vistancia
Serenitas, 2111 SF/2BR+Den/2BA/Ext. 2-Car Garage
FRIEDMAN REALTY ASSOCIATES’ SOLD! UNDER CONTRACT IN 3 DAYS!
LIST PRICE:
$498,000
SOLD PRICE:
$495,000
13041 W. Black Hill Rd., Trilogy at Vistancia
Serenitas w/Casita, 2334 SF/3BR+Den/3BA/Ext. 2-Car Garage |May Closed2018 Date: 3/28/18