The Hamlet
April 2017
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From Me To You... Welcome to the April edition of The Hamlet magazine.
It has come to my attention that many of you don’t know how we choose our cover models. Well let me explain the process... I get a call, or an e-mail (sometimes even a text) from someone who a) wants to be on a cover, b) knows someone who has done something worthy of recognition or c) wants to let the community know about a local club or group for the residents. I will get in touch with them and as long as they live here (or occasionally have a strong connection to our community) I will arrange the photo shoot and cover interview. The whole process is relatively painless, no husbands have been harmed in the photo sessions, and it takes under an hour altogether. Some months I have many covers “in the bag” and other months I am scrambling to find people willing to share their lives with us.
picture of your darlings and the winners will be featured on a future cover. There are also some pretty cool prizes for the family too. Deadline for submissions is April 15th! Please patronize our advertisers, after all they are the reason you get this magazine for free every month! Don’t forget to visit our website for puzzle solutions, restaurant reviews, coupons and business directories! www.EstrellaPublishing.com
Catherine Uretsky
Editor, The Hamlet magazine info@estrellapublishing.com 623-594-9283 Estrella Publishing is a proud member of the South West Valley Chamber of Commerce and Local First Arizona.
There have been instances when a company has requested to purchase the cover as advertising space. It happens, but not very often. In that case it is obviously an advertisement, for example if a political candidate has a cover it says on there that it is ‘paid for by ...’ Which leads me to the question of price for residents. There is none. If you are a resident and want to pose for my camera it costs you nothing but time. And of course you will be stopped from time to time when someone recognizes you as the star that you are! I hope that clears up the great mystery of “How to get on a cover” and that perhaps some of you feel inspired to get in touch and become a future cover model yourselves. It is also a great way for fledgling clubs and groups to get the word out there that you exist! Of course the easiest way to get your kids on a cover is to enter our Cutest Kids In Palm Valley competition. Send in a high resolution
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Where To Look 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 © 2009-2017 Estrella Publishing LLC. All Rights Reserved. Reproduction in any form, in whole or part, without written permission from Estrella Publishing LLC is prohibited. Estrella Publishing accepts freelance contributions, there is no guarantee that materials will be used or returned. Estrella Publishing is not responsible for the views of contributing writers and assumes no responsibility for errors appearing within. Opinions expressed are those of the writers and not necessarily those of the Publisher or Advertisers. Estrella Publishing reserves the right to restrict all advertisement to their proper classification and to edit or reject any copy at its sole discretion. Neither this publication nor Estrella Publishing is an agent of or in any way affiliated with the associated Developer nor Homeowners Association, or any of their respective affiliates. This publication has not been approved by, sponsored by, or endorsed by the associated Developer nor Homeowners Association in any way.
It Aint Over ~ pg 5 Sara Gilligan Living With Faith ~ pg 6 America Life As A Caregiver ~ pg 9 Take Care Of YOU Protect Yourself ~ pg 11 Identity Fraud Spring Cleaning ~ pg 13 Shortcuts Puzzles & Games ~ pg 14 Sudoku Business Directory ~ pg 15
Catherine Uretsky Publisher & Editor
Al Uretsky Publisher & Sales Exec
The Church at Litchfield Park “A House of Prayer for All People” Palm Sunday April 9 8:00 ~ 9:15 10:45 a.m. Maundy Thursday April 13 ~ 6:30 p.m.
Good Friday April 14 6:30 p.m.
Sunrise Easter Service April 16 ~ 6:00 a.m. Easter Services April 16 8:00 ~ 9:15 10:45 a.m.
300 N Old Litchfield Rd. ♦ (623) 935-3411 ♦ www.churchatlitchfieldpark.org
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April 2017
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April 2017
it aint over this place 5 years ago?
Exciting news! I am in a runoff election for the open seat on Goodyear City Council. I am so excited for this second opportunity to win your vote for a council seat! Did you know that I have lived in Goodyear since 2004? My husband and I moved here just in time for our oldest child to start preschool. Now he is a junior at our local high school! Time flies while you are raising kids! A big reason that 12 years have flown by here for us in Goodyear is that my parents also moved here when we did. They followed their grandkids, I know, no doubt about it! Goodyear has grown up right around my family. But, our city is only starting to boom! For example, look at the growth we’ve experienced with the building of our Harkins Theater in the past year! I look forward to further developing amenities, such as restaurants, retail offerings, cultural events, and opportunities for camaraderie! Families such as mine, and yours, need locations where we all feel safe and welcomed. Have you been to Elevate Trampoline Park? Our family loves that place! Just think of the mileage saved on our vehicles if Goodyear had attracted The Hamlet
A council member does more than attend meetings. I am blessed to be a stay at home mom. My availability for the residents of Palm Valley, and all of Goodyear, is 100%. I have the time to commit to this city! I have the desire. I have the energy, and I’m taking action! I will have the time to meet with police and fire personnel, hearing what their needs are to keep our city safe. I can visit local businesses, listen to management and owners, and ask how the city can help them in continued success. I will visit our schools, to partner with each school site to find out how our communities can directly support them best with AZ tax credit. I will get to know residents by attending your clubs, getting to know you and listening to what you need as Goodyear develops.
to residents representing the whole demographic of Goodyear. I am the best candidate for you! Why? Because I understand wanting to find a way to keep Goodyear safe and inviting while we grow! Yes, I represent all of the city, not just my own community. Any decisions that are good for you ARE good for Goodyear! How can you help me during this runoff election? The number one thing I need is YOUR vote! Please share with neighbors and friends, let them know that I am your choice, and I’m excited to serve in our city. Please contact me at sara@gilliganforgoodyear. com with any questions, or a request for a yard sign! Submitted by Sara Gilligan
It is important that our City Council continues to pay attention April 2017
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Living With Faith America
In August of 1945, we celebrated VJ Day. The relief that followed served as a reminder that even in victory there is sadness. The needless waste of resources and humanities’ disdain for the values of life’s gifts caused us to pause and wonder about our purpose. During these difficult times, we Americans came together as never before. The blood drives, the rationing of things we once took for granted, the purchase of savings bonds, the entertaining of the troops, all taught us that when a nation is in need its citizens rise to the occasion. It certainly was a different time. One thing that stood out, in my mind, was a simple song made famous during that time in our history – “The House I live in.” The words resonate with us because they speak to our values and ideals. The entertainers that performed and sang these lyrics of patriotism gave meaning to their significance. They enabled us to realize that only as one people can we ever hope to accomplish the dreams of all the generations that preceded us. The house I live in A plot of earth, the street The grocer and the butcher Or the people that I meet The children in the playground The faces that I see All races and religions That’s America to me
so connected. It is the diversity that was and remains the secret strength of this great nation. It is as though God gazed at this creation of young and older, white and black, Jew, Gentile, Muslim, and Hindu – on and on the differences are clear, but the bonds are unbreakable.
The place I work in The worker by my side The little town the city Where my people lived and died The howdy and the handshake The air of feeling free And the right to speak your mind out That’s America to me We have just completed a most exhausting and agonizing election. Things have been said that may never be forgotten, but it is over. What is not over is the fact that we are all Americans with the right to speak our minds. Now is the time to join together in building an even stronger America. Two hundred forty years has taught us that only as one can we truly benefit from the many different opinions and solutions. Only as one can we overcome the vitriol that seems to have settled in our hearts and minds. Together, we succeed, separate, we fail. It really is that simple.
The lyrics end with a startling reminder – “Especially the people, that’s America to me.” Stand next to a friend or relative and look at your reflection in the mirror. The only resemblance is that each has a nose and two eyes, two ears, a mouth. This is where the similarities end because if we look closer we see two different people. This is the strength of America – similar, but different. Now is the time to join with one another and know that through the tears, and the dreams, and the growing, we have developed a country that has never been duplicated, nor will it ever be. August 1945 may have been a different time, but the messages of those offerings are no different today. As we journey into a new chapter in our history perhaps it is appropriate to also remember that by the Grace of God do we flourish. Rabbi Irwin Wiener, D.D. Sun Lakes Jewish Congregation National Chaplain, Jewish War Veterans, USA
As we examine the simple words of everyday occurrences we are left to understand that America is so diverse and yet
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It’s Me Then You Good, Bad, and the Pot Roast ‘Go jump in a lake’ is an American idiom that’s been around forever. We assume it’s a way to tell someone to go away. What if it was really stated a piece of advice, such as ‘don’t put all your eggs in one basket’? Picture this: A stranger rides into town on a horse after weeks in the open prairie. Several town folk greet him and, realizing he’s dirty and stinky, suggest he jump in the lake to clean up. The stranger was so excited at the chance for a bath the town folk decided every traveler would be told to jump in the lake as a welcome greeting. There’s evidence for the theory that idioms are really advice. Look at the saying ‘Actions speak louder than words’. Anyone can boast and bluster, but big talk is just talk unless you’re backing it up. The argument against the theory is the idiom ‘pull someone’s leg.’ I hope no one is running around yanking on someone’s leg unless that’s part
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of the joke. When that happens you can always give someone a ‘leg to stand on’. You, me, and others share advice because we like to be helpful. Sometimes we give advice because we’re excited about a discovery. A new restaurant opened and you loved it so much you tell everyone that they must eat there. The same thing happens with a favorite TV show, too. How did so many Netflix subscribers find out about Sherlock television series? Everyone was excited for a brilliant mystery. Yes, it’s a great show and you really must watch it. See! I just gave helpful advice for improving your entertainment choices AND how to be a couch potato all at once. You can thank me later. Not all advice is good. The words ‘put on your shoes and socks’ was a routine command, but bad advice. Read that phrase again because it’s in the wrong order unless you’re one of the few who wears socks over their shoes.
Outdated advice isn’t much good either. Look up “The Pot Roast Story” online for another example. Always remember that advice and condiments are similar. We offer it to others as an enhancement and decide whether to use it or not when offered to us. So, make a pot roast, watch Sherlock, and try not to bend over backwards doing this. John Safin is President and CEO of the Southwest Valley Chamber of Commerce
April 2017
Take care of YOU
Life As A Caregiver
In my last article, I wrote about long-term health care and that all of us should have it. I applied for it (and got it) when I first moved to Arizona. But let me prepare you for the process I experienced (in case it will be the same for you) because it can be a bit intimidating, which I didn’t know until the time of the interview. A nurse came to my home for an hour-long interview, which included learning about my health history, taking my vital signs (height, weight, blood pressure, temperature) and giving me an oral memory test! Yes….a MEMORY TEST!!! And that’s when I began to freak out. What if I can’t remember anything? What if I flunk the test? What if they don’t give me the insurance? Now, I was there when the doctor tested my mom for dementia. Her memory test included being
asked to remember three words and to draw the face of a clock with the time showing 10:30 on it. To this day, I remember those three words (table, apple and penny). But, I digress.
So now the nurse explains to me about the memory test. She’s going to tell me 10 words (10 words!!) to remember. Then we will chat. Then she will ask me to repeat the 10 words. Then we will chat again. Then she will ask me to repeat the words again…and so on for three times! So we begin. I remembered eight of them the first time. That’s good… and a little aboveaverage. Then I remembered seven of them the second time. That was pretty average. Then I remembered seven of them again the third time, but a different seven. THEN she says she’s going to say a list of words and I’m supposed to tell her if any of those were among the original 10. I got those ALL correct!! So the interesting part here is that it is easier for us to distinguish the right words from the wrong words rather than having to
recall the whole list of words on our own. This entire word process lasted about 30 minutes….and I passed!!! But I was SO nervous. I guess I’ve always hated tests!
So what does all this really mean? It means, as a caregiver, you not only need to be focused on your family member’s needs, but you also need to be aware of your own. Not just getting enough sleep and exercise, and eating right, and taking time for yourself, and developing interesting things to occupy your body & mind apart from the task at hand. But for long-term preparation, as well. As I mentioned in an earlier article: make sure YOU have a will and a health care directive, make sure YOU have long-term health care, make sure YOU have a Power of Attorney in case something happens to YOU. Because, what if it did? What if it did and your family member is still alive? Who would take care of them? Submitted by Kathy Linton, Sun City Grand Resident
Fewer homes for sale and an increase in buyers mean home values are RISING! PLEASE CALL, TEXT OR EMAIL TO LEARN YOUR HOMES NEW VALUE. MICHELLE WATSON Realty ONE Group 18 Years Experience
The Hamlet
602-920-6511
michelleshomes@icloud.com “Your Palm Valley Neighbor”
April 2017
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Furry Friends Leptospirosis
You may have heard the chatter at your local dog park or doggie playgroup about a new virus that is running rampant amongst our beloved four-legged friends. The reports boast some alarming numbers, dog fatalities, and signs of a possible outbreak. Much like the childhood game of telephone, as the story passes along the content become more and more misconstrued. So, let’s stick to the facts. What is it? Leptospirosis is a virus caused by bacteria called Leptospires. This bacterium lives in fresh water, soil, and mud. It is more commonly found in areas with tropical climates and high annual rainfall. The first case was documented in the 1800’s so it’s been around for some time. Leptospirosis can affect farm animals and dogs but is rare in cats. The most common way that leptospirosis is spread is through the urine of infected animals, which can get into water or soil. Animals can become infected when they come into direct contact with this contaminated water or soil. The bacteria enter through cuts in the skin or through mucous membranes (eyes, nose or mouth). Drinking contaminated water may also infect animals. Is my dog at risk? Awareness and prevention are key. As a pet owner, you know your pet best. You know your pet’s personality, energy level, hunger and thirst levels. If you begin to notice that your pet is acting differently, it would make sense to monitor any signs and symptoms closely, such as:
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• Drinking more than usual • Urinating more than usual • Lack of urination • Redness in the eyes • Severe weakness and depression • Reluctance to eat • Fever over 103.5° F • Vomiting • Diarrhea • Stiffness or severe muscle pain In terms of prevention, keep a close eye on your dog to ensure he is not drinking from puddles or community water bowls – easier said than done for sure! According to the CDC, dogs may pass the virus to each other; however this is rare. Not all dogs that come into contact with leptospirosis will contract it either.
moment for the safety and health of your beloved fur-friend. If you think your pet may have leptospirosis, contact your veterinarian immediately. There are specific tests to diagnosis this virus, which is treatable with antibiotics. All in all, it is unclear as to the exact source of where the leptospirosis virus is coming from, or if the dogs in question have traveled into Arizona from another tropical climate where this bacteria tends to thrive. Submitted by Kristin Robinson, of Community Paws, West Valley resident
Vaccines and Treatment There are vaccinations available for Leptospirosis. Whether or not that is the best choice for your dog is a personal choice. Please speak extensively with your veterinarian about the best option for your dog based on his/ her age, present health and any underlining medical conditions. Be sure to ask about the potential risks and side effects so that, together, you can make the best decision in the present
INSURE CAREFULLY, DREAM FEARLESSLY. CALL ME TODAY FOR A FREE QUOTE. American Family Mutual Insurance Company, American Family Insurance Company, 6000 American Parkway, Madison WI 53783 006441—Rev. 11/15 © 2015
Mark Gama Agency 250 N Litchfield Rd Ste 115 Goodyear, AZ 85338 (623) 535-5836 MARKGAMA.COM
April 2017
Protect Yourself Tips to help protect your identity this tax season Tax season is a busy time for everyone. Unfortunately, it’s also a busy time of year for cybercriminals who swindle sensitive personal information from unsuspecting victims. Take for example, Melissa, a marketing manager from Chandler who last year received an alert from her online tax filing service that her account password had been changed. But she dismissed the notification as a mistake. Thinking this was strange, Melissa followed up with her tax filing service and found that a criminal had accessed her account, stolen enough personal information to open a credit account in her name and redirected her tax return to another account. Fortunately, Melissa was able to resolve her case but she is just one of a staggering number of individuals who’ve fallen victim to criminals lurking the web. According to research from Symantec, cybercriminals
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launched more than 1 million web attacks against internet users every day in 2015. While this statistic may seem shocking, there are things you can do to help protect yourself and your identity from cybercriminals. 1. The sooner you file your taxes, the harder it will be for criminals to file taxes on your behalf for a refund, which a thief can do with only your date of birth and Social Security Number. If you want some extra protection, consider contacting the IRS to see if you’re eligible for an Identity Protection PIN. 2. If you’re filing your taxes online, use a secure Wi-Fi connection or a Virtual Private Network (VPN), not a public Wi-Fi network. 3. Remember the IRS only communicates through the United States Postal Service. They will never request personal and/
or financial information through email, text messages or social media sites. If you receive a letter in the mail and you’re not sure if it’s legitimate, use the IRS lookup tool to find your letter: www.irs.gov/individuals/ irs-notice-or-letter-for-individualfilers If you believe you’ve been the victim of an IRS scam, you may also report this to the TIGTA at their website: www.treasury.gov/ tigta/contact_report_scam.shtml. Don’t delay in doing so. After all, it’s your identity and it is up to you to protect it every single day.
April 2017
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Arizona’s Largest Collection of Exotic Animals!
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WILDLIFEWORLD.COM @WildlifeWorldZoo
admission per person $20 Value (Limit 4). Not valid with any other discounts or offers.
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State Route 303 and Northern Ave. in the West Valley April 2017
Spring Cleaning Shortcuts to make your home sparkle We all know that one person who just adores cleaning. But for the rest of us, it’s a necessary evil that gets old very quickly! Before you tackle that long list of spring cleaning tasks, try some of these cleaning hacks designed to make these chores faster and easier. Afterward, your house will sparkle from top to bottom, which is its own reward! 1. Try natural solutions Commercial cleaning solutions can add extra costs to your deep cleaning session, not to mention the harsh chemicals can leave behind unpleasant odors. Why not experiment with everyday pantry items? These often cost less and are just as effective in their cleaning power. A simple solution of warm water and vinegar removes built-up grime from your floors, while leaving a clean, rinse-free finish. Just add a half cup of distilled white vinegar to a gallon of warm
water and start mopping. If you dislike the smell of vinegar, add a couple drops of your favorite essential oil - the fresh scent will be like a small reward! 2. Shortcut to shining windows If you want streak-free mirrors and clean windows without the hassle, Cas Aarssen, author of “Real Life Organizing: Cleaning and Clutter-Free in 15 Minutes a Day” has this expert tip: Add a teaspoon of cornstarch to your favorite glass cleaner and shake until dissolved. Cornstarch improves the cleaning power of the solution and makes streaks a thing of the past, so you’ll get the job done more quickly. 3. Clean up top Dust can collect on those high, hard-to-reach places, such as decorative molding and ceiling fans, making cleaning day more difficult. To clean your ceiling fan without showering dust bunnies everywhere, an old pillowcase is
your best tool. Spritz the inside of the pillowcase with a vinegar and water solution and slip it over the blades of the fan, pulling it back to trap the dust. For those tough to reach moldings and corners, use a sturdy rubber band to wrap a microfiber cloth around the end a broom, and give those hard-to-reach areas a clean sweep!
623-536-7004 Exceptional orthodontic care for adults and children. Complimentary consultations, x-rays included. Experience the difference & smile confidently!
13575 W. Indian School Rd #400 Litchfield Park www.olsonortho.com
The Hamlet
April 2017
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Puzzles & Games
Solution
Sudoku for April Numbers from 1-9 must appear only once in each row, column and box. Good Luck!
7 3
2
9
4
5
6
1
7
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9
6
1
2
7 3
8
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8 1 7 2 5 6 9
1 5 8 6 2 4 3
6 4 9 3 8 1 7
5 7 2 4 3 8 6
3 6 1 9 4 5 2
4 8 3 5 7 9 1
4
9
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2
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8
7
7
4
1
2
1
2
3
9
9
3
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8
3
3
2
2
7
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1
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1
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April 2017
Business Directory AUTO SERVICES Litchfield Auto Repair
623.882.8700
BUSINESS & EDUCATION Estrella Partners Group
623.594.9283
FINANCIAL & LEGAL SERVICES American Family Insurance - M Gama Edward Jones - Chris Carlton Estrella Bookkeeping State Farm Insurance - T Gremillion
623.535.5836 623.386.1940 623.377.3996 623.386.7767
HEALTHCARE & BEAUTY Active Life Pain Center Healthy Life Family Medicine Olson Orthodontics Skincare Extraordinaire Up Close Skincare
623.535.9777 623.889.3477 623.536.7004 623.826.3726 602.515.1146
HOUSEHOLD SERVICES Beckham Electric Desired Handyman Dirt Busters House Cleaning Estrella Mountain Pest Control JBS Roofing J&H Appliance Repair LJ Designs Studio Miracle Method of Phoenix Proficient Pest Control The Window Cleaner AZ Urgent Air Younger Brothers Exterminating
480.370.1014 623.910.5183 623.977.6725 623.680.6619 623.247.9252 623.925.5427 623.332.1060 623.772.8600 623.933.2847 623.738.6064 602.377.1999 623.487.3147
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PET CARE See Spot Clean
623.882.9595
REAL ESTATE Coldwell Banker - A Thomason Noe Padilla Equity Realty Group Realty One Group - M Watson West Valley Homewatch
623.293.1379 480.840.4318 602.920.6511 623.594.9283
RECREATION Elutheria Wellness Center Wildlife World Zoo
623.986.5110 623.935.9453
RELIGION The Church at Litchfield Park
623.935.3411
RETAIL SERVICES Estrella Ordnance Foot Solutions Pure Patio Steel Shield Security Doors
623.262.2154 623.536.6676 623.299.8000 623.977.3277
April 2017
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623.247.9252 16 The Hamlet
www.JBSroofingAZ.com
April 2017