The Park

The Park

™

A magazine for Litchfield Park residents From Your Neighbors, For Your Neighbors

November 2024 Estrella Publishing - The Park magazine

November 2024 1

Grateful for warm homes!

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November 2024

Published by Estrella Publishing LLC, PO Box 6962, Goodyear AZ 85338. Additional copies can be obtained for a fee by contacting info@EstrellaPublishing.com

Catherine Uretsky, Publisher and Editor Talia Uretsky, Assistant Editor Al Uretsky, Publisher and Sales Executive 623.398.5541 info@EstrellaPublishing.com All contents © 2010-present 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 content of contributing writers and advertisers 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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November 2024 3

From Me To You...

Well, we finally made it! As you read this, we will be days away from one of the most contentious elections this country has ever seen. Whichever side you are on, I sincerely hope you use your voice and vote on or before November 5th. It matters. You can be happy or sad at the final tally, but if you do not vote then you have no right to voice an opinion about the results.

As a UK citizen I am not able to vote in this country, but due to a recent rule change I was able to cast my vote for the first time in the latest UK elections. I cannot tell you how thrilled I was to finally be able to have a say in the future of my country.

I am always amazed at the people I talk to who say they don’t vote. They think their vote does not count.

Or assume they know the outcome, so they don’t bother to go to the polls. I can tell you with certainty, that is not true. As Lenny Kravitz famously sang, “It ain’t over ‘till it’s over.”

Cast your mind back in time to the late 1990’s, a blockbuster movie was set to hit the screen — Titanic.

I resisted the ads and trailers. Pushed back at the people who swooned over Leo and Kate’s love story.

Mocked those who called it the best movie they had

seen in years. Why would I want to go to all the effort of driving to the theater, fighting the crowds, (remember when there were crowds at the movies?), pay for a ticket and watch something, when I knew how it would turn out? I knew that the boat was touted as an unsinkable vessel. I knew that there was a class war on board and that the majority of those saved were from first class. I knew that in the end the majority of the characters would die a horrible death — so why bother?

Well I eventually did see the movie and I was wrong about so much. It was a fantastic story, well acted, beautifully told and stunningly filmed. And I loved it. I cried my eyes out but it was worth the effort.

Do you see the parallel I am making here? I am not saying that the future of our country is as trite as a movie, but it is something you should make the effort to participate in. For your future.

Catherine Uretsky Editor, The Park Magazine info@estrellapublishing.com 623.398.5541

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November 2024

Hear Hear!

Think about the last time you had your hearing tested. Was it recently? If it wasn’t and you find yourself turning up the television or straining to hear conversations in crowded rooms, it’s time to have an audiologist check your hearing.

“Hearing loss can prevent people from doing activities they love, like pickleball,” said Dr. Leslie Soiles, HearingLife’s chief audiologist. “And it’s ironic because these types of activities and exercises can actually help slow hearing loss. That’s why getting your hearing checked is so important. It’s a gateway to a more active, fulfilling life.”

Many people brush off hearing loss and don’t think about hearing as essential to health and longevity.

Untreated hearing loss can lead to social isolation, loneliness, social withdrawal and even problems at work if you miss instructions or don’t understand coworkers. Worse, it can cause cognitive decline, memory problems and even increased risk of falls.

You care for your teeth by brushing twice each day and for your body by eating right and exercising. What about your ears? Here are some ways to care for your hearing, from the pros at HearingLife.

1. Mind your exposure to loud noises. Loved those packed concerts in your youth? We did, too. For the reunion tour, it’s wise to wear earplugs. That also goes for exposure to construction sites or loud machinery.

2. Monitor how long you wear headphones or earbuds. Turn down the volume of your favorite podcast or playlist, and don’t wear the ear devices for an extended period of time.

3. Get regular checkups. Visit your hearing care professional on a regular basis, especially if you notice worsening hearing loss or other symptoms such as ringing in your ears.

4. Manage chronic conditions. High blood pressure, diabetes and smoking can contribute to hearing loss.

Managing those conditions and quitting smoking helps keep your ears healthy.

5. Keep active. The improved blood flow you get from exercise is great for your ears. Walking, cycling, canoeing, working out at the gym, all contribute to good hearing health. Why not take up pickleball?

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November 2024 5

Legal Advice WHAT A LEGAL WILL NEEDS

The Last Will and Testatement is the document that allows courts to re-title accounts and assets which are in your name (not a trust) and which do not have a beneficiary designation.

If you are leaving assets to adults (not minors), then you can use beneficiary designations and avoid probate. A Will is still a good idea to have as a backup for any account without a beneficiary; either because a beneficiary was not listed or a financial company lost the beneficiary designation.

If your spouse has children which are not also your children, the Will also can assure that your spouse’s half of the community property goes to you.

Otherwise, intestate laws apply and your spouse’s children will be entitled to one-half of the community property and one-half of your spouse’s sole and separate property.

6 Estrella Publishing - The Park magazine

Be sure to keep your Original Will because a copy of the Will requires a formal court probate hearing to present evidence that the Original Will was not revoked.

Wills need two witnesses and a specially worded affidavit so the Will can be probated without a hearing.

A handwritten Will does not need witnesses or a notary if all of the dispositive provisions are in your handwriting and all pages are originals.

Sharon Ravenscroft, M. Scott Rowan, Attorneys, The Cavanagh Law Firm, PA, Sun City and Phoenix offices, (623) 815-7451 or Sravenscroft@ CavanaghLaw.com; legal practice focused on Wills, trusts, probate and trust administration. For more information www.sharonravenscroft.com.

November 2024

Cook With Zona

Maple Bacon Brussel Sprouts

Thanksgiving is a wonderful celebration, filled with traditions that bring families and friends together to enjoy what we love most of all…FOOD! While the star of the feast is undoubtedly the turkey, the side dishes often take a backseat, despite their crucial role in creating a memorable meal. These often-overlooked accompaniments deserve more recognition. This Thanksgiving, we’re going to shift our focus and make our side dishes a star! Our goal is to have your family and friends begging you to bring this dish to every family event in the future!

The combination of maple syrup and bacon is one of the most underrated pairings of all time. Your friends and family will be drooling over these brussel sprouts, so be prepared to forward them this recipe!

If you have any recipes you’d like to share with your community email me at ArizonaCooks71@gmail.com to be featured in the magazine!

3. Add the Brussels sprouts to the skillet, stirring well to coat with the bacon grease. Reduce the heat to medium and cook, without stirring, until the sprouts start to brown and caramelize, about 6 minutes. Stir in the salt and cayenne, and continue to cook until the Brussels sprouts are just tender, 6 to 8 minutes more.

4. Stir in the cranberries, chicken stock, and maple syrup. (If you don’t have a big sweet tooth, I recommend adding the maple syrup, little by little.)

5. Cook for 3 minutes, stirring to coat the Brussels sprouts. Add the cooked bacon and stir to combine. Serve immediately.

Enjoy!

We love to see our neighbors’ delicious creations, so send us a picture of your sweet and spicy Maple Bacon Brussel Sprouts or tag us on social media @EstrellaPublishing.

Prep time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 25 mins | Total time: 35 mins | Yields: 6-8 servings Ingredients 8 slices of thick-cut bacon 2 lbs brussel sprouts ⅛ tsp smoked paprika ⅛ tsp cayenne pepper ½ cup dried, unsweetened cranberries ¼ cup chicken stock ¼ cup maple syrup Salt and pepper to taste Steps 1. In a large cast-iron skillet, cook the bacon oven medium-high until crispy, 6 to 8 minutes. Remove the bacon from the skillet and drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Once cooled, rough chop the bacon into chunks.

2. Wash the brussel sprouts, trim the stem, and cut in half lengthwise. Remove any yellowed or blemished outer leaves.

Estrella Publishing - The Park magazine

November 2024 7

Poetry Time

We win.

We lose.

Life’s scale tips On one side, then the other.

Optimistically, we strive For a stream of wins, Blind to the probability Of loss.

The pendulum swings In cadence with time,

8 Estrella Publishing - The Park magazine

Never stopping until We stop seeing it.

Tick-tock…tick-tock As if a heartbeat.

Yesterday…today Till it stops.

Oh, to relive yesterdays And correct mistakes.

Oh, to harness today, Making new yesterdays better.

Submitted by Jim Surmanek, Litchfield Park resident

November 2024

Open Enrollment The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) is here, and with it comes a wave of changes that could make this year one of the most challenging yet for beneficiaries. Here’s how you can prepare and make the most of this crucial time:

1. Review Your Current Plan Your Annual Notice of Change letter will outline key changes to your current plan, including costs, doctor, pharmacy networks and other additional benefits.

Knowing these changes can help you decide whether your current plan still meets your needs.

2. Compare Your Options Use this time to compare plans and assess how they meet your prescription needs, preferred doctor networks, medical facilities and budget. Doing so could save you money and ensure you’re getting the coverage that best fits your health and financial situation.

3. Use Available Resources Platforms like eHealth provide easy-to-use tools that allow you to compare a wide range of plans from top insurance companies, both online and over the phone. According to a recent study, eHealth found that Medicare Advantage enrollees who compared

their current Medicare Advantage plan with available 2024 plans using eHealth’s platform could be saving an average of $1,100 per year on medical bills and prescription drugs with a lower cost plan.

4. Get Help from a Professional - For Free Licensed insurance agents can provide personalized assistance at no cost to you. They’re knowledgeable about different plans and can help match you with one that suits your needs. And remember, agents are paid the same for similar plan types and there is no obligation to enroll. Their goal is to help you find the best fit for you.

5. Don’t Procrastinate It’s tempting to delay deciding, but waiting until the last minute can lead to rushed choices that may not be in your best interest. Schedule time early in the AEP period to review your options, consult with an agent if needed, and make a confident decision.

This year, tackle your insurance plan coverage with confidence. To learn more, compare plans and find help from a professional licensed insurance agent and benefits advisor please visit eHealth at www.ehealth.com or call 844-373-9751, TTY 711

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November 2024 9

Not The Flu!

The 2024-2025 flu season is here, and now is the time to get your flu shot instead of getting the flu!

Abrazo physicians say receiving this year’s influenza vaccination should be at the top of everyone’s to-do list!

The CDC also states receiving a flu shot offers the greatest protection against the flu, and annual vaccinations are recommended for all individuals six months or older who do not have specific medical conditions that would be exacerbated by the vaccine.

Flu vaccines in the United States are now designed to protect against three circulating seasonal influenza viruses:

“Flu vaccines cannot cause flu illness. Flu vaccines given with a needle (i.e., flu shots) are made with either inactivated (killed) viruses, or with only a single protein from an influenza virus. The nasal spray vaccine contains live viruses that are attenuated (weakened) so that they will not cause illness,” says Dr. Bryce, in response to those worried about the shot causing the illness.

Influenza A (HIN1) virus Influenza A (H3N2) virus Influenza B/Victoria lineage virus Flu season starts in Oct. and continues until March of the following year.

Influenza is a respiratory infection that can cause serious complications, particularly to young children, older adults and people with certain medical conditions. According to a U.S. Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) study, more than 200,000 people in the United States are hospitalized each year for respiratory and heart conditions, illnesses associated with influenza virus infections.

The CDC estimates that the flu vaccine prevented at least 7.4 million flu-related illnesses, 3.7 million medical visits, 105,000 hospitalizations, and 3,500 deaths during the 2023–2024 season.

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“It takes about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies to develop in the body and provide protection against influenza virus infection. That’s why it’s best to get vaccinated before influenza viruses start to spread in your community,” says Dr. Carl Bryce, MD, Family Medicine Residency Program, Abrazo Central Campus.

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November 2024

The Bug Guy Turkey Day Terrors: When Pests Crash Your Phoenix Feast

As Thanksgiving approaches in the West Valley of Phoenix, residents are gearing up for a day of gratitude, family gatherings, and enough food to feed a small army. But while you’re busy basting that bird and whipping up grandma’s secret stuffing recipe, uninvited guests may be plotting their own holiday invasion.

Welcome to the wild world of Thanksgiving pest control, where the battle between man and critter reaches its annual crescendo. In the West Valley, where the desert meets suburbia, our creepy-crawly neighbors are always looking for a reason to party – and your perfectly roasted turkey might as well be a billboard screaming, “All you can eat buffet!”

Local pest control expert, Barry “The Bug Buster” Johnson, has seen it all. “Last Thanksgiving, I got

a panicked call from a lady in Goodyear. She’d just pulled her pumpkin pie out of the oven when a family of scorpions emerged from her oven mitts, doing the macarena. Talk about spicing up dessert!”

But it’s not just scorpions getting in on the action.

Ants have been known to form conga lines from your backyard to the kitchen, each carrying a microscopic “We’re Thankful for Leftovers” sign. And let’s not forget the rats, who’ve been spotted in homes wearing tiny pilgrim hats and attempting to carve the turkey with their incisors.

Even the birds are getting bold. One Litchfield Park resident reported a flock of pigeons tapping on her window in perfect rhythm to “We Will Rock You,” presumably demanding their share of the corn bread.

So, what’s a West Valley resident to do? Larry suggests a few pre-feast precautions: 1. Inspect your oven for scorpion squatters before preheating.

2. Set up a decoy turkey in the backyard to distract wandering wildlife.

3. Train your dog to bark “gobble gobble” to scare off potential pest invaders.

Remember, folks, in the West Valley, we don’t just give thanks – we defend our feasts with the ferocity of a Phoenix sun in July. So this Thanksgiving, as you gather around the table, raise a glass to family, friends, and the pest control heroes keeping your stuffing safe from six-legged saboteurs. And if all else fails, there’s always next year’s traditional Thanksgiving takeout.

Submitted by Larry Cash, of Estrella Mountain Pest Control

Estrella Publishing - The Park magazine

November 2024 11

Furry Friends As November ushers in milder temperatures across Arizona, it is the perfect time for seniors to enjoy outdoor activities with their beloved pets. This season offers a welcome respite from the scorching heat, allowing both you and your furry companions to savor the beauty of the desert landscape.

With daytime temperatures often hovering in the comfortable 70’s, November presents an ideal opportunity to explore Arizona’s numerous petfriendly parks and trails. Places like Papago Park in Phoenix offer scenic walks suitable for both older adults and pets. Remember to start with shorter outings and gradually increase duration as you and your pet build stamina.

Safety First While the weather is milder, it is crucial to remain vigilant about your pet’s well-being.

Hydration Arizona’s dry climate necessitates consistent hydration.

Carry water for both you and your pet, even on shorter walks.

Paw Protection Although cooler, some surfaces can still retain heat.

Check pavement temperature with your hand before

walking your dog.

Wildlife Awareness Be cautious of desert wildlife. Rattlesnakes, though less active, may still be encountered. Keep pets on leashes and stick to clear paths.

Indoor Comfort As evenings cool down, ensure your home remains comfortable for your pets. Provide cozy bedding in the form of warm, soft spots in draft-free areas. Older pets may experience more joint stiffness in cooler weather, so consider pet-safe heating pads or consult your vet about supplements.

Seasonal Considerations November in Arizona brings unique opportunities and challenges. With Thanksgiving approaching, be mindful of pet safety. Many holiday foods can be harmful to pets. Create a safe space for your pet during gatherings. Pets may also shed their summer coats, so regular brushing can help manage shedding and promote bonding.

By embracing Arizona’s pleasant November weather and following these guidelines, you and your pet can enjoy a season filled with comfort, adventure, and companionship.

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November 2024

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November 2024 13

Puzzle Time

This samurai sudoku puzzle is a great way to engage the brain and help develop logic skills.

To solve this Samurai puzzle use standard sudoku rules for every 9x9 grid: each digit from 1 to 9 can only appear once in every row, column and 3x3 box.

Solutions are on our website www.EstrellaPublishing.com Difficulty: Easy

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November 2024

Estrella Publishing - The Park magazine

November 2024 15

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