The Park

The Park

™

A magazine for Litchfield Park residents

May 2024 From Your Neighbors, For Your Neighbors Estrella Publishing - The Park magazine

May 2024 1

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May 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.

Best Pest Control Near Me ESTRELLA MOUNTAIN PEST CONTROL Quality Pest & Termite Control Veteran Owned & Operated www.estrellamtnpest.com 623-680-6619 Call Larry, to schedule your appointment today!

Estrella Publishing - The Park magazine

Check out “The Bug Guy” article in your neighborhood magazine!

Can’t wait to enjoy the great weather outside?

Let us help you get those bugs

May 2024 3

ALLEN TURNER

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Cell: 602-290-9392 eFax: 866-448-6845 ALLEN.TURNER@FAIRWAYMC.CO May 2024 M WWW.YOURHOMELOAN.TEAM

From Me To You...

One of our dogs passed away this week. Even though he was getting on in years - he made it to the grand old age of 73ish in dog years - it was unexpected. What was worse is that he was living at college with my son, and I had to help him (my son, not the dog) navigate emergency vets and momentous decisions about his childhood pet from a distance.

I learned several things during the process, the most important is that letting go can be a blessing. Hank was in pain and I was glad that his suffering was brief, and letting go of him was the right thing to do. My son is now a man and is very capable of making important decisions, navigating the world with the information he has at hand. I discovered that letting go of control where he is concerned was the right thing too.

Hank (the dog) had slipped into the role of old man when he lived at home with us, but once he got to Pullman at the tender age of 9, he joined a Fraternity and began his teenage years all over again. He chased stray dogs off his property, became a great wing man for his roommates, helped raise money for their philanthropy - Special Olympics, joined his frat brothers on the Fraternity composite portrait, and

I am sure lapped up a beer or two in his time there. He was a blessing for my son, a reason to stay on the straight and narrow - you can’t party too hard when you have to take the dog out for a walk when you get home - and above all a friend who always had his back when classes, work, and relationships seemed to much to handle.

So I want to say ‘Thank you, Hank’ you were a good dog and we will miss you.

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

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May 2024 5

Go Wild!

On Saturday, May 11 from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. the Phoenix Zoo will be having our first-ever Teacher Appreciation Day sponsored by Desert Financial Credit Union.

The first 300 teachers will get free entry, and additional teachers will receive 50% off general admission. Teachers must present their teacher ID. Enjoy a day at the Phoenix Zoo with likeminded professionals. We invite you to explore Zoo trails at your leisure, or join us for a tour to learn what it’s like when you book a field trip for your class.

You will have the opportunity to: Learn how the Phoenix Zoo partners with teachers Experience amazing animal discoveries Visit your favorite animals Enter for a chance to win a Backstage Adventure

To learn more, visit: phoenixzoo.org/events/teacherappreciation-day/

Servicing the West Valley for 20 years!

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May 2024

Summer Fun As the temperatures rise in our communities and the sun beats down with intensity, it is crucial to understand the importance of sunscreen and the role it plays in protecting our skin. Sunscreen is not just a cosmetic product, but rather a vital tool in preventing skin damage and reducing the risk of skin cancer.

It is important to note that sunscreen should be applied generously and regularly, especially when spending extended periods outdoors in Arizona’s scorching heat. Reapplying sunscreen every two hours, or more frequently if sweating or swimming, is crucial to ensure continuous protection against UV rays.

One of the key components of sunscreen is the Sun Protection Factor (SPF), which measures the level of protection it offers against harmful UV rays.

The higher the SPF, the greater the protection.

Dermatologists recommend using a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, which blocks 97% of the sun’s UVB rays. The Higher the SPF factor, the more of the sun’s UVB rays. However there is no sunscreen that can block 100% of the sun’s UVB rays.

The importance of sunscreen in Arizona’s hot weather cannot be overstated. By incorporating sunscreen into our daily routine and making it a priority when spending time outdoors, we can safeguard our skin against sun damage and reduce the risk of burns and skin cancer. Remember, protecting your skin today can have long-lasting benefits for your health tomorrow.

Sunscreen not only helps prevent sunburns and premature aging, but it also plays a critical role in reducing the risk of skin cancer. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can damage the DNA in our skin cells, leading to mutations that increase the risk of developing skin cancer. By consistently applying sunscreen, we can protect our skin and lower the risk of skin cancer.

Estrella Publishing - The Park magazine

May 2024 7

Legal Advice

Trusting Your Trust Will Work

The proper use of a trust will allow your estate to avoid a court probate. Probates add administrative requirements such as giving notice to all heirs–even heirs you may be omitting from your estate plan.

A trust allows one person to have centralized control to collect your assets, pay last bills and make the distributions the way you plan. A revocable trust can be amended and changed over time – as your goals for family or friends change.

Trusts avoid the need for a court conservatorship when leaving money or property to minors, whether children or grandchildren. A court conservatorship is more costly and burdensome than a probate. Also, trusts can provide incentives for minors for education and employment.

Estate planning does not need to be complex or confusing. You deserve to have your questions answered when they arise. Our documents are drafted to provide the benefit of avoiding obstacles and disputes, whether you have multiple beneficiaries or one special heir.

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.

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May 2024

BE FAST

Stroke Awareness Month

May is National Stroke Awareness Month, when health care professionals stress that stroke is a medical emergency and a leading cause of death and longterm disabilities in this country.

Stroke affects the arteries leading to the brain and the arteries within the brain. A stroke occurs when a blood vessel that carries oxygen and nutrients to the brain is either blocked by a clot or bursts.

It is important to know the signs of stroke and seek treatment as rapidly as possible, according to Abrazo West Campus Interventional Neurologist Dr. Sushant Kale.

Eighty percent of strokes are preventable through healthy lifestyle changes and controlling conditions that raise the risk for stroke such as heart disease, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or diabetes.

During a stroke, part of the brain cannot get the blood and oxygen it needs, and that part of the brain starts to die. “It’s important to recognize that a stroke is happening, because you can save a life, including your own,” said Dr. Kale.

Simple lifestyle changes can make a big impact on your risk for stroke such as choosing healthy meal and snack options, lowering your BMI, exercise regularly, limit your alcohol consumption, stop smoking and get regular checkups with your doctor.

“The point to remember is that ‘time equals brain.’

A delay of even five or 10 minutes can make a big difference in a patient’s outcome. Every minute in delay to treatment leads to 2 million neurons dying.”

BE FAST to recognize a stroke

Advanced stroke centers are able to treat patients with ischemic strokes, large vessel occlusions, hemorrhagic strokes, or strokes from unusual causes that may require specialized testing or interventional therapies, as well as provide post-acute care.

Stroke has no age limits, and younger adults are increasingly affected by stroke and its risk factors.

“Every 40 seconds someone in the United States has a stroke, and one in six people will suffer a stroke in their lifetime. When it comes to spotting stroke symptoms, BEFAST and seek help,” said Kale. “Time lost is brain lost.”

Estrella Publishing - The Park magazine

B - Balance: Watch for sudden loss of balance E - Eyes: Check for vision loss F - Face: Look for an uneven smile A - Arm: Check if one arm is weak S - Speech: Listen for slurred speech T - Time: Call 9-1-1 right away

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May 2024 9

Tips • Watch kids when they are in or around water, without being distracted.

Keep young children within arm’s reach of an adult. Make sure older children swim with a partner every time.

• Teach children how to swim. Every child is different, so enroll children in swim lessons when they are ready. Consider their age, development and how often they are around water.

• Make sure kids know how to swim and learn these five water survival skills: 1. Step or jump into water over their head and return to the surface.

2. Float or tread water for one minute.

3. Turn around in a full circle and find an exit.

4. Swim 25 yards to exit the water.

5. Exit the water. If in a pool, be able to exit without using the ladder.

• Install fences around home pools. A pool fence should surround all sides of the pool and be at least four feet tall with self-closing and self-latching gates.

• Empty kids’ pools after each use.

Store them upside down so they do not collect water.

• Know what to do in an emergency. Learning CPR and basic water rescue skills may help you save a child’s life.

• SOURCE: SAFEKIDS.ORG

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May 2024

Home Sweet Home Getting Creative in Today’s Housing Market

Ready to take a big leap in today’s housing market?

You just might be eligible for some fantastic programs putting more money in your pocket along the way.

First thing’s first. Paint color, appliances, and decor style can be changed. But location and HOA fees are forever.

Ready to make that move? Here are two great programs taking the hassle out of securing a home loan.

BUY BEFORE YOU SELL

Act fast on your dream home by unlocking a portion of the equity you’ve built over the years with an innovative program called HomeLight. It provides you the confidence to make a strong offer on your new home while attracting the strongest offer on your vacant home.

FIRST TIME HOMEBUYERS

Downsizing? Upgrading? Looking for peace of mind leaving a vacant home? You can buy a house before you’ve sold the one you already own!

We’re super stoked about the innovative “Home in 5 Platinum” Program! If you’re a first-time home buyer in Maricopa County, you can lock in a 5.9% interest rate under qualifying terms. Here are a few:

“According to property analytics company CoreLogic, the average U.S. homeowner has racked up a cool $274,000 in equity, up from $182,000 since before the pandemic,” reports HomeLight.

Minimum FICO credit score of 640 Annual income up to $138,600 New or existing houses, condominiums, or townhouses Complete Homebuyer education K-12 teachers, first responders, U.S. military personnel, veterans, and income qualified individuals who earn up to $49,500 annually get ANOTHER 1% in assistance.

HOW TO GET STARTED Where does your bargaining power begin? Find a Realtor® with experience and ask for a market analysis to start your house hunting journey.

Submitted by Martin C. Sears PC

Estrella Publishing - The Park magazine

May 2024 11

The Bug Guy As the sun beat down on the scorching desert of the West Valley, the residents were dealing with a different kind of heat - a pest infestation. It seemed that no matter what they did, the bugs just kept coming back for more.

team sprang into action. With a combination of quick thinking and sheer bravery, they managed to defeat the bugs and restore peace to the valley. As Sarah watched in amazement, she couldn’t help but laugh at the absurdity of the situation.

One resident, Sarah, was at her wits’ end with the constant stream of creepy crawlies invading her home.

She had tried everything from sprays to traps, but nothing seemed to work. In desperation, she called in the pest control experts. When the team arrived, they were prepared for battle. Armed with their trusty bug spray, they set out to conquer the critters once and for all. However, what they encountered was unlike anything they had seen before. The bugs in the West Valley were not just any ordinary pests - they were armed and dangerous.

With the bugs vanquished and Sarah’s home once again bug-free, the pest control team bid farewell and rode off into the sunset. As they disappeared into the distance, Sarah couldn’t help but feel grateful for their heroic efforts. From that day on, the residents of the West Valley knew that they could count on their trusty pest control experts to protect them from any future bug invasions. And as for Sarah, she had learned an important lesson - never underestimate the power of a determined pest control team in the face of an army of armed bugs.

The cockroaches were equipped with tiny swords, the ants had miniature shields, and the spiders had built intricate web fortresses. Undeterred, the pest control

Submitted by Larry Cash, of Estrella Mountain Pest Control

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May 2024

Cook With Zona Pasta Salad

As this is my third recipe in the Estrella Publishing magazine, I thought this would be a great time to introduce myself. My name is Arizona, I’m a former preschool teacher, and a mom of three adult children.

My husband and I are officially empty nesters living here in the West Valley. My favorite things include pickleball (I know, real original), dark chocolate, and reality tv. I’m choosing to remain semi-anonymous for the fun of it but you can call me Zona. I’m always on the hunt for new recipes too, so if you have any recipes you’d like to share with me I would love to try them out!

Email me at ArizonaCooks71@gmail.com.

Pasta salad is one of my favorite dishes to meal prep for lunches or bring to a big gathering! With the weather warming up it’s time to have a backyard BBQ or maybe a pool party and this dish will be a big hit! And a little advice, you do not need to wait to be invited to a picnic or potluck to get some pasta salad magic in your life!

Prep time: 10 mins | Cook time: 12 mins | Total time: 25 mins Ingredients (5-6 servings) 1 box of tri-colored rotini pasta 1 red bell pepper 1 English cucumber

Mozzarella cheese block Pepperoni Olive Garden Signature Italian dressing (measure with your heart) Italian seasoning Salt & pepper Steps • Cook pasta according to the box.

• While pasta is cooking, we’ll chop up the rest of our ingredients. I like to dice my ingredients into bite-size pieces and we’re aiming for about the same amount of all the chopped ingredients.

• When pasta is done, rinse it with cold water to help it not stick together.

• Add all your chopped veggies, as well as the mozzarella and pepperoni to the pasta.

• Pour in your dressing, mix it all together, and don’t forget to season!

ENJOY! We love to see our neighbors’ delicious creations, so send us a picture of your colorful pasta salad or tag us on social media @ EstrellaPublishing.

Estrella Publishing - The Park magazine

May 2024 13

Puzzle Time Solutions are on our website www.EstrellaPublishing.com

Find 10 differences in the two pictures

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May 2024

Spring Football The Highs and Lows of the Offseason

It’s a crisp sunny day around most of the country and college campuses are buzzing with excitement. No, not because of the end of the semester, or how much they love their professors – it’s spring football time.

As a Junior currently enrolled in University, I have been through this ritual before, but the energy and anticipation will never get old.

Whether a good or bad season, the players are working tirelessly in the weight room and on the practice field, determined to be better than the day before. The coaching staff is always busy, trying to create the best plan for success leading into the next season. Expectations will always be high, with the goal of an accomplished season.

Of course, this process is not all sunshine and rainbows physically and mentally (farther north, you quite literally never have sunshine). Practices in about any weather, and the early mornings and late nights can leave the players drained, and minor injuries will start to compile. The competition for the starting job is fierce, and some guys who were once key parts of the team may have to prove themselves over again.

The staff will be analyzing every rep, evaluating which players have the talent to help the team.

As an avid fan, I make it a point to attend as many open practices as possible. Seeing the team in action,

even in a nongame setting, can be exhilarating.

The sound of pads cracking together, the passion of the coaches, and the roar of the crowd (okay, it is mostly just a few people) fills me with a sense of school pride. I love watching the young players stepping up, the vets providing leadership, and the coaching staff fine tuning the game plan.

But spring football is about more than just on-field work. It is also critical timing for a team to bond and build chemistry, especially for the transfers and firstyear students. These players go through grueling workouts, eat together, and even share dormitories. For a lot of them, it is not about being teammates as much as being brothers. That specific camaraderie is vital to the success of the team.

As spring approaches, the anticipation on campus is palpable. This annual scrimmage is the culmination of months of challenging work, and the players are eager to show the fans what they are capable of. The stadium will be filled, music will be loud, and hot dogs will be expensive. It is the corner before the fall, and a preview of an exciting season for whatever team you are rooting for.

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Estrella Publishing - The Park magazine

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