Estrella Publishing - The Hamlet magazine
September 2018
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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 2010-2018 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.
Catherine Uretsky Publisher & Editor
Al Uretsky Publisher & Sales Exec
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From Me To You... Technology is the answer to all our problems! We have phones that have more computing power than that with which we sent man to the moon, and devices that can turn on our lights and lock our doors. Need a phone number? Ask Siri! And that doesn’t even include the basics like appliances to wash our clothes and do our dishes. Yes we have it made in the shade.
That is until the power goes out. Anyone else hit by the latest round of storms? We were, big time. Our power was out for almost 24 hours. At first it was an adventure. I obviously needed to find a way to make coffee in the morning - but thanks to my outdoor grill I had some cowboy coffee going in under 15 minutes. Not quite as instantaneous as my 30 second Keurig and it was possibly the strongest cup of Joe I have drunk since leaving Europe. However, problem solved, I had my caffeine intake covered. Next on to more mundane tasks like work. Ah no internet. So I took the day off, it was a Saturday anyway and so what if my deadline was looming? I can play hookey for a day. What do I usually do on a day off? Well as I have already established, the internet was down so I turned to a good old fashioned book. Great. As I settled down in a comfy chair I began to feel a little uncomfortable. It was getting hot. Really hot. Oh that’s right, the air conditioning was
down too. Hmm. The thermostat stubbornly refused to switch off and it mocked me as it gradually showed the temperature in the house coming level with my blood temperature.
How did people survive before air conditioning? I know they did, I know that they deliberately lived in places like Arizona and Florida without the conveniences we rely on today. These people continuously fascinate me. Whenever I drive anywhere in America I marvel at the tenacity of the pioneers. Not only did they travel across great distances by horse, cart and on foot, they also crossed what to me would be insurmountable obstacles. What made those men and women come up to the Grand Canyon or the Rocky Mountains and think, “Let’s keep going, there is something better on the other side.”? And then they did it. They crossed the obstacle and made it to the other side. Amazing. Once settled it was not easy going even then. Scorpions, snakes, not to mention the crippling heat. And they persevered. It makes me think twice about complaining when my indoor temperature spikes and my ice-cream starts to melt. Hang on, not the icecream! Thankfully we have friends who own a generator and had power, so they lent us the means to keep our fridge running until our power came back on. There was not enough juice to run the air conditioning, but I am thankful for small mercies. I am also thankful for the great ones, like the power coming back on in time to sleep in comfort. No matter how many times I fantasize about living off the grid and going back to simpler times, I know I am not strong enough to go all the way back. I could probably manage to clean my clothes and cook my meals over a fire, but I draw the line at losing Candy Crush. ;) Catherine Uretsky
Editor, The Hamlet magazine info@estrellapublishing.com 623-594-9283 Estrella Publishing - The Hamlet magazine
September 2018
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Money Matters Understanding and managing your personal information is essential to achieving your life goals such as owning a home, financing an education, getting your next job or simply having the convenience of credit cards for everyday purchases. Banks, landlords, employers and many others need to authenticate your identity and evaluate your creditworthiness to determine whether they can trust you to make payments if they lend you money. This credit behavior determines a person’s credit score. So, how do you take control of your personal information and maintain good credit health? Here are a few key tips for financial health empowerment: Monitor your information regularly: When you check your information, it is usually reported as a soft inquiry and ultimately does not impact your score. Checking your information regularly is encouraged and should be part of a habitual routine, much like regular exercise. Make payments on time: Paying your bills on time and in full each month will show that you are reliable and more likely to pay back debts. Doing so will help grow your credit score, but remember, consistency is key. If you have missed a payment in the past, getting back on track and paying off debt should be a top priority. Having a positive history of on-time payments shows responsible behavior. Don’t use all your available credit: It is recommended to maintain a low credit utilization ratio, that is, how much of your available credit you’re using at any given time. This suggests to creditors that you can use credit responsibly and do not rely on it too much. It is recommended that you use no more than 30 percent of your available credit.
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Building credit takes time: Building and maintaining a track record takes time, responsible financial behavior and smart credit usage. Therefore, it is important to start early and understand the implications of your decisions. For example, closing your oldest credit card account could end up negatively impacting your score. Protect your information: You have a vital role to play in controlling who has access to your information, and there are tools readily available to do this. Protecting your information from fraud is critical. As part of TransUnion’s ongoing commitment to empowering consumers to understand and manage their information and achieve financial health, it offers a range of solutions. With the right information, tools and responsible financial decisions, you will be on the path to taking control of your information, leading to good credit health and the opportunity to achieve your dreams.
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Furry Friends Your pets are an integral part of the family, so it’s important to practice preventative care to support their well-being and help them live long, healthy lives. But just like people, pets can be affected by chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease and allergies. That’s why, as a pet parent, staying informed and being proactive can help to avoid or at least prolong the onset of chronic conditions.
Over the past 10 years there’s been a 30 percent increase in environmental allergy cases in dogs and an 11 percent increase in cats, according to the Banfield 2018 State of Pet Health Report. Additionally, pets today are also more prone to being overweight, and obesity cases are rising. One in three pets are overweight, according to Banfield, and the numbers are growing. While
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you can be proactive in helping pets exercise and eat a nutritionally-balanced diet, there are many other health conditions you have no control over. Pets can suffer from chronic diseases such as arthritis, heart disease, kidney disease, diabetes and thyroid disease. The first step to keep pets healthy is to invest in preventative care. One of the most important things you can do to ensure the ongoing health of any animal is to bring them in for annual checkups whether they are experiencing health issues or not. This allows veterinarians to screen for a variety of health issues and provide insight on any concerns. If you discover that your pet has a chronic condition that needs to be treated, don’t panic. Modern medicine and treatment plans help pets live a long, high-quality life even with conditions like allergies or diabetes. You may have to make lifestyle adjustments such as changing food or activity routines, but it’s usually manageable and you’ll likely notice an improvement to your pet’s health and demeanor quickly. As is the case with humans, chronic conditions are often treated with preventative medications. In fact, many of the same prescriptions that people use are also used on pets, just at a different dosage. Just like people, taking preventative measures for your pets’ health will help save costs in the long run. What’s more, it will help ensure that your favorite furry family members are by your side for many years to come.
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Estrella Publishing - The Hamlet magazine
September 2018
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Home Sweet Home While spring is typically the busiest period in real estate, particularly for families looking to get in to a new home before the school year starts, the fall months have become increasingly active for those who have more flexibility or are looking for a good deal.
With increased competition in many cities around the country, finding ways to simplify the home buying process while saving money is top of mind for potential home buyers. Many consumers are seeking real estate brokerages that make the home buying process less stressful by providing access to tech-based tools, data and the guidance of smart, local agents. “Buying a home is typically the most expensive purchase most people will make, and people are choosing brokerages that offer the right tools and data to help inform their decisions and make the
process more efficient,” said Dario Cardile, Vice President, Growth Marketing at Owners. com.
Cardile offers these tips for ways potential home buyers can utilize technology to simplify the real estate process. * Ensure that your finances are in order. To purchase the home of your dreams you’ll need the right loan. So before you begin your search, request a free annual copy of your credit report from the government-authorized AnnualCreditReport.com. Pay attention to the scores in your report, as the better your scores, the more likely you are to receive favorable terms and interest rates on your loan. * Explore the area before you get there. Whether it’s a local dog park, fun shops to visit on the weekend or a quaint bistro for a night out, your neighborhood needs extend beyond the walls of your home. And don’t be afraid to look up area attractions on social media and read some reviews. It’s a great way to learn what everyone is saying about your potential neighborhood. * Find the right agent. A great real estate agent can help you save time and money in the real estate process. While many consumers are selfinforming their search with online data, a recent survey from Owners.com of more than 1,000 recent home buyers nationwide found that the majority (83 percent) worked with an agent to purchase their home. An expert local agent can provide inside knowledge of the property and community, on-the-ground expertise, and help you strike the best deal to get into your dream home. The fall real estate market won’t wait for you, so start your planning now and begin your housing search with the power of technology at your fingertips. With you, your agent and technology working hand in hand, your dream house is there for the taking.
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Senior Living Just about everyone feels like they could use a little extra pep in their day, that surge of energy to get things done and enjoy their favorite activities. This is especially true as we age. The stress of modern life, poor sleep habits, consuming processed foods and less than optimal digestion are triggering a perfect storm for a human energy crisis.
There are several simple ways to tune up your nutrition and lifestyle habits so you can feel better than ever. A great place to start is with your diet. In addition to movement and a healthy diet, Dr. Jacob Teitelbaum shares things people in their 50s and 60s need to know to optimize their health and feel good. 1. Your digestive system changes as you age, so make sure it’s getting support. A healthy digestive tract is crucial for overall health. As we age, our digestive systems often need more support in order to properly break down food and absorb the nutrients our bodies need to function optimally, according to a study published in Oncotarget.
To get the most nutrition from the food you eat, Dr. Teitelbaum recommends talking to your doctor about adding a plant-based enzyme supplement to your regimen to support your digestive health. 2. Small things can make a big difference for heart health. Getting an adequate supply of omega-3 fatty acids along with vitamin D, also known as the sunshine vitamin, may support cardiovascular health. Because vitamin D is best absorbed in the body when taken with a fat source, Dr. Teitelbaum suggests talking to your doctor about a supplement that has a combination of omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D. 3. Is your energy lagging? It may be a simple deficiency. As we age, we tend to accept at face value that having less energy just comes with the territory. Sometimes the solution is a simple matter of meeting our bodies’ nutritional needs. For example, one mineral that helps the body convert nutrients into energy is magnesium. When levels get low, it can interfere with your body’s ability to access its energy stores, causing the body to work harder, as shown in a study published in the Journal of Nutrition. 4. Feed your body with real, whole foods. Food processing destroys most of the vitamins, minerals and other key nutrients the body needs to function optimally. Dr. Teitelbaum says the best thing you can do is cut the sugar from your diet and slowly add whole foods. To address your needs and support your health, always talk to your healthcare practitioner about adding nutritional supplements to your daily routine.
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September 2018
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Opioids
Want to help keep your family and community safe? Get rid of any unused prescription opioids that may be in cabinets, drawers or anywhere else you store medicine. Prescription opioids are powerful, painreducing medicines. You can find them in pill forms, syrups or even prescription patches. Commonly prescribed opioids include hydrocodone, morphine and oxycodone. But they also can cause overdose deaths. Every day, 115 Americans die from opioid overdoses, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The United States is battling an opioid crisis. A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that up to 71 percent of opioid tablets prescribed after surgery went unused. Trouble with opioids can start at home, where unused medicines are stored in cabinets or drawers and are ingested either intentionally or unintentionally by people who do not have a medical need for these prescriptions.
“We’re facing a public health tragedy right in our own backyards; opioid addiction and overdose affect communities across America,” explained FDA Commissioner Dr. Scott Gottlieb. Make sure your medicines do not get into the wrong hands. According to data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, half of people who misused prescription opioids got them from a friend or family member. Even child-resistant containers cannot completely prevent a child from taking medicines prescribed to someone else. Emergency departments see thousands of patients for opioid overdose and addiction each year. As more opioids are being prescribed to adults, the risk of both accidental and intentional exposure increases for children and adolescents. Grandparents, neighbors and others who take care of children should make sure they have disposed of any unused medicines. Opioids also can be harmful to pets. “In the last two decades, the FDA has received heartbreaking reports of accidental exposure to powerful prescription pain medicines such as fentanyl patches - most of them in children under 2 years old,” added FDA Center for Drug Evaluation and Research Director Dr. Janet Woodcock. Disposing of unused medicines can help turn the tide on the devastating opioid crisis affecting so many American families. Proper disposal of unused prescription opioids saves lives. Learn more at www.fda.gov/DrugDisposal.
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September 2018
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Kids in the Kitchen Cooking with your kids is just plain fun. Everyone likes good food, and being in the kitchen offers an excellent opportunity to work together toward one common (and hopefully delicious) goal. And the added benefit, of course, is that your kids can learn to follow directions, are exposed to healthier food choices, brush up on their math skills, find creativity and gain a solid sense of accomplishment. “Getting kids into the kitchen to cook with you is a winwin situation, no matter how old they are and no matter what you make,” Tracey Seaman, author of “Real Food for Healthy Kids.
portion of a family-sized dish with which to pursue his idea. That’s how new and better recipes are discovered.
* Keep the conversation flowing. Something about focusing your attention on a shared task can make it easier to talk about subjects that might seem forced or awkward in other settings. As you prepare food together, use the time to casually ask your kids about their thoughts, feelings and life in general, taking time to listen without judgment. They may appreciate the chance to share, and you may be surprised what you learn. * Bring some celebrity power into the kitchen. Encourage healthy eating by asking your kids to join you on Team FNV (fruits ‘n’ veggies). Show off the celebrity roster on fnv.com/team with all the superstars who love their fruits and veggies. Be sure to post a photo using #TeamFNV to share your favorite fruit or veggie with the team.
Consider these suggestions as you get ready to cook up a storm with your child. * Expect messiness. As young kids brush up on motor skills while measuring and mixing, spills, stains and a little waste will be the norm. Dress in old clothes, wear aprons and make a lesson of the adage, “Good cooks clean up after themselves.” * Experience trumps outcome. Some projects may not come out as planned, presenting the opportunity to teach your child to deal with (and rebound from) disappointment. Share a laugh together, discuss what may have gone wrong and try again next time. * Don’t be afraid to experiment. Does your child want to try a new flavor combination or cooking technique? Bring it on, perhaps doling out a small 10 Estrella Publishing - The Hamlet magazine
September 2018
Positive Parenting
Vaccines play an important role in keeping you and your family members healthy, and when you make sure everyone receives the recommended vaccines at the right ages, you will be helping to protect them before they are exposed to serious and potentially life-threatening illnesses.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has launched a new interactive guide (cdc.gov/vaccines/growing) to help navigate the vaccines recommended at each stage of life. Here’s a quick rundown of what you need to know about vaccines at different ages. Pregnancy Did you know that when you get vaccinated, you Pregnant women should always get a yearly flu shot. In the third trimester of every pregnancy, you should get the whooping cough vaccine (Tdap). Talk to your doctor about other vaccines you may need before, during and after becoming pregnant. Infant and toddler years Making sure your babies get all the
recommended vaccines on time is the best way for you to protect them from 14 serious diseases before the age of 2 years old. Check the interactive guide for the full recommended immunization schedule that is designed to protect your babies early, before they are exposed to potentially life-threatening diseases. Preschool and elementary school years From ages 3 through 6, your children need additional doses of chickenpox (varicella) vaccine; measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine; polio vaccine and Tdap vaccine, as well as a flu vaccine every year. From ages 7 through 10, your children should continue to get a flu vaccine every year, by the end of October if possible. Keep in mind that schools may require a certificate of immunization to enroll. Preteen and teen years Preteens need four vaccines to provide protection now and in the future: Tdap vaccine to protect against tetanus, diphtheria and whooping cough; human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine to protect against cancers caused by HPV; meningococcal vaccine to protect against meningitis; and a yearly flu vaccine. Into adulthood All adults need a flu vaccine every year by the end of October, if possible, as well as a tetanus and diphtheria (Td) vaccine every 10 years. Healthy adults 50 years and older should get a shingles vaccine. Adults 65 years or older need one dose of pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13) followed by one dose of pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23). Adults younger than 65 years who have certain health conditions like heart disease, diabetes, cancer or HIV may also need one or both of these vaccines. Find the CDC’s new interactive toolat cdc.gov/ vaccines/growing, along with a guide you can print and bring to your next doctor’s visit.
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Tax Savings
These outside-the-box strategies could make an enormous difference in your retirement readiness. The sooner you start, the more you may save. Fund an HSA for retirement health care Estimates suggest even a healthy 65-year-old couple will need at least $275,000 to cover retirement health care costs. A Health Savings Account, or HSA, provides a way to save that money without paying a dime in taxes. An HSA account is available to individuals enrolled in a high deductible health insurance plan. First, these individuals can fund their HSA through a tax-deductible contribution or pretax payroll deduction. Second, any interest and investment gains are tax-free. Finally, the funds can be withdrawn tax-free to pay for qualified medical expenses- a triple tax advantage over a traditional savings account.
Start with no required minimum distributions. With a Roth you aren’t forced to draw down your funds once you attain age 70 and can continue to benefit from the tax-free growth, thereby maximizing the after-tax funds eventually available for you or your heirs. If you are a high-income taxpayer, Roth IRA distributions are not considered income when determining thresholds for increased Medicare premium charges or the 3.8 percent income tax surcharge on investment gain. If your income is more modest, Roth IRA distributions are not considered income when determining whether you are subject to income tax on Social Security benefits. While we spend much time on our investment strategies to help gain an extra percentage or two of investment yield, these tax planning strategies can be a more reliable way of maximizing your after-tax retirement income and wealth for your family.
MS sat me down.
The best part? There is no requirement to use HSA funds in the year of contribution, which means funds can grow on a tax-favored basis for future health care expense needs.
I will
dance
For 2018, family contribution limits are $6,900, or $7,900 if you are 55 or older, and those amounts are indexed for inflation in future years. If you start contributing the maximum as early as age 40, you could have saved almost $270,000. These funds will continue to grow tax-free in retirement until you need them.
at my daughters’ weddings. Jim
Dad. Podcaster. Diagnosed in 1998. Explore powerful stories of people doing whatever it takes at nationalMSsociety.org/jim
Consider a Roth IRA conversion The typical dogma says that converting an IRA or traditional 401(k) to a Roth IRA does not make sense if you expect your tax rate in retirement to be lower than at the time of conversion. However, lesser known benefits of a Roth IRA may make it worthwhile to have at least part of your retirement assets in Roth IRA form. msaw_ad_jim.indd 1
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September 2018
Fall Prevention Every 11 seconds an older adult is seen in an emergency room for a fall-related injury, reports the National Council on Aging. To prevent falls, follow these six simple steps. For additional advice about preventing falls, visit www.ncoa.org/ FallsTips. Step 1: Find a good balance and exercise program As you age, it’s important to maintain balance, strength and flexibility. Contact your local senior center or Area Agency on Aging for information on programs that can help you achieve these goals. Step 2: Talk to your health care provider Have an open conversation with your health care provider about your fall concerns. Share your history of falls and ask for an assessment of your risk of falling again so you can come up with a plan proactively. Step 3: Review medications with the pharmacist Some medications have side effects that can make it more likely for you to fall. First, always
take medications as prescribed. Second, make sure you know the risks and take precautions when necessary.
Step 4: Get vision and hearing checked annually Your eyes and ears are key for keeping you safely on your feet. Getting your vision and hearing checked each year by a health care professional is important, so you can update vision prescriptions and take any necessary measures to correct hearing loss. Step 5: Secure your home To keep your home safe you need to remove any tripping hazards like loose rugs or free cords. You should also increase lighting to improve visibility indoors and outdoors. Pay particular attention to stairs and consider installing grab bars or railings. Step 6: Talk with family members Falls affect all demographics and various ages. Talk with family members about your risks and concerns. “A few simple steps can dramatically reduce your risk for falling no matter your age,” says Cameron. “By being proactive, you can live healthy and independently for longer.”
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Estrella Publishing - The Hamlet magazine
September 2018
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School Zone
For millions of school-age children in the United States, each day begins and ends with a bus ride. It is important for parents to teach their children how to stay safe in and around the school bus. Before the Bus Arrives * Create a morning routine that puts kids at the bus stop five minutes before the scheduled pickup time. This helps avoid a last-minute rush, when safety lessons are easily forgotten, and ensures kids are safely in place for boarding. * Walk young children to the bus stop or encourage kids to walk in groups. There is safety in numbers; groups are easier for drivers to see. * If kids must cross a street, driveway or alley, remind them to stop and look both ways before crossing. * Verify the bus stop location offers good visibility for the bus driver; if changes are needed, talk with school district officials. * Remind children that the bus stop is not a playground. Horseplay can result in someone falling into the path of oncoming traffic.
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* Instruct children to stay at least three steps away from the road and allow the bus to come to a complete stop before approaching it. On the Bus Ride * Teach safe riding habits: stay seated with head, hands and feet inside at all times; keep bags and books out of the aisle and remain seated until the bus stops moving. * Instruct children to never throw things on the bus or out the windows and to never play with or block emergency exits. * Remind kids that just like when riding in a car, loud noises are off limits so they donĂt distract the driver. Leaving the Bus * Remind children to look before stepping off the bus. If they must cross the street, teach them to do so in front of the bus by taking five big steps away from the front of the bus, looking up and waiting for the driver to signal that it is safe. * For parents who meet their kids at the bus, remember that in their excitement kids may dart across the street. Eliminate the risk by waiting on the side of the street where kids exit the bus. For more information and additional school bus safety tips, visit BetterOurBuses.com.
September 2018
Make It Med
Just like forward-thinking culinary artists, many at-home chefs seek out the next trendy flavor to provide friends and family gathered around the table. When pondering which trend you’ll dive into in the future, consider incorporating tastes from an especially influential international location - the Mediterranean Sea region. Because the fare is typically lighter, small bites and salads such as this Tomato, Feta and Basil Salad provide easy-to-prepare versions of Mediterranean cuisine. Incorporating vegetables (tomatoes and basil) along with the salty, milky flavors of feta cheese makes the salad a distinctly Mediterranean dish. As trends continue changing, growing and spreading, the experts at LDEI continue to provide updates from the food world. LDEI is a worldwide philanthropic organization of professional women leaders in the fields of food, fine beverage and hospitality. The invitationonly membership, composed of 2,300 women in 40 chapters across the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom and Mexico, is highly diversified and reflects the multifaceted fields of contemporary gastronomy and hospitality.
Tomato, Feta and Basil Salad Recipe courtesy of Beth Vlasich Pav of Cooking by Design, LLC, on behalf of Les Dames d’Escoffier International Servings: 15-20 8 medium size tomatoes, sliced into 1/8-inch strips 1block (8 ounces) feta cheese, sliced into 1/8inch pieces 2 small packages fresh basil, leaves picked off stems 3 teaspoons sea salt 2 teaspoons fresh ground pepper 1/4 cup olive oil On large platter, arrange slices of tomato and feta so they overlap. Place basil leaf between each tomato and Feta slice. Repeat. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Drizzle with olive oil. Serve immediately.
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Cat Health
Vet visits are also an opportunity to let your veterinarian know about any behavior changes and implement preventive care measures, which can be more effective than reactive care once a problem is revealed. However, the very act of getting to the vet can be traumatic for cat owners and cats alike. Repetition is likely to help alleviate those concerns as your cat becomes more accustomed to the process, helping to put you at ease as well. 1. Get your cat familiar with a carrier. Start by leaving the carrier out at all times and make it a safe place by placing food or a cozy towel inside. Using a secure, stable, hard-sided carrier that opens from the top and the front that can also be taken apart in the middle is best. When traveling, it’s also a good idea to place your cat in the carrier rear-first, cover the carrier with a blanket and avoid bumping into things while carrying it. 2. Make the vet visit a positive experience. Feeding your cat veterinary-approved treats from carrier to clinic can help create a positive connection with the trip and distract your pet from
the busy waiting room or examination. 3. Take advantage of slow times at the clinic. Ask if certain days or times are slower than others. Scheduling appointments at those times may help your cat feel less overwhelmed by a new environment. 4. Give your cat practice exams. In the examination room, your vet will give your cat a full examination. To make your cat comfortable with being touched in such a manner, consider giving him or her practice examinations at home and positively reward your pet for letting you look at and touch his or her stomach, feet, face and ears. 5. Talk to your vet. Your veterinarian is your best partner to help your cat feel comfortable inside and outside the clinic. Discuss with him or her other ideas to help make visits less stressful. To learn more about the importance of taking your cat the vet, visit royalcanin.com/cat2vetday.
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DIY Tools
Lithium-ion batteries have become quite common due to their efficiency, energy storage capacity, durability and safety. These batteries’ higher energy potential in a smaller battery makes them ideal for cordless power tools, but higher energy density also means higher potential for damage when misused. Safe, proper use of lithium-ion batteries from the original tool manufacturer is key to preventing battery-related accidents. Before operating a battery-powered tool, heed this advice from the experts at the Power Tool Institute, a leading voice on power tool safety issues and standards for the industry. 1. Know that batteries are not interchangeable. It’s important to only use batteries and chargers from the original power tool manufacturer. 2. Aftermarket batteries may not be tested to the same standards as original manufacturer batteries and therefore come with additional hazards that can result in fire, property damage or personal injury. 3. Always transport and store lithium-ion batteries as instructed in the owner’s manual.
cuts or punctures. Do not use a battery that has received a sharp blow, been dropped or is damaged. 5. Never modify, disassemble or tamper with a battery. The performance of damaged or modified batteries can be unpredictable and dangerous. 6. Be mindful of abnormal battery behaviors such as failure to fully charge or hold a charge, longer-than-usual charging times, overheating, a noticeable drop in performance, liquid leakage from the battery or melted plastic anywhere on the pack. 7. Do not immerse the battery or allow any fluids to flow inside. Conductive liquid ingress, such as water, can cause damage resulting in fire or explosion. Store your battery in a cool, dry place, away from combustible and flammable items. 8. When disposing of a lithium-ion battery, never throw it into the trash or a municipal recycling bin, as it can become a fire hazard. Instead, take it to a local recycling center or place it in a receptacle specifically designed for recycling batteries. For more information on safe battery use, storage and disposal for power tools, visit TakeChargeOfYourBattery.
4. Avoid contact with metal objects and liquids, which present safety hazards. Inspect batteries regularly for signs of damage, such as crushing,
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Puzzles & Games
Sudoku for September
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Sudoku Solution 8
Numbers from 1-9 must appear only once in each row, column and box. Good Luck! Solution is on our website www.EstrellaPublishing.com
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On Our Cover
we have April (AKA Scooter) the runner-up in our Cutest Kids in Palm Valley competition. Congratulations on your cover Scooter! Next month we will have the competition winner on the cover, so stay tuned.
September 2018
Business Directory ADVERTISING The Hamlet - Estrella Publishing
623.594.9283
AUTO SERVICES A Plus Auto Repair Daniels Total Car Care Desert Princess Car Service Litchfield Auto Repair
623.986.1586 623.873.0949 602.300.7076 623.882.8700
BUSINESS & EDUCATION Estrella Partners Group The Learning Experience
623.594.9283 623.745.8805
FINANCIAL & LEGAL SERVICES Edward Jones - A Meulenberg Farmers Insurance - P Lorenz State Farm Insurance - T Gremillion The Insurance Lady - M Wilson
623.536.8230 623.925.9411 623.386.7767 602.799.8410
HEALTHCARE & BEAUTY Healthy Life Family Medicine Mariposa Point of Algodon Center PebbleCreek Medical Group Skincare Extraordinaire
623.889.3477 623.934.4411 623.332.2144 623.826.3726
HOUSEHOLD SERVICES Al’s Plumbing
623.329.5170
Estrella Publishing - The Hamlet magazine
Atlantic Relocation Systems Beckham Electric Desired Handyman Dirt Busters House Cleaning JBS Roofing J&H Appliance Repair SW Carpet & Air Duct Cleaning Urgent Air Younger Brothers Exterminating Younger Brothers Plumbing
602.352.6683 480.370.1014 623.910.5183 623.977.6725 623.247.9252 623.925.5427 623.363.3536 602.377.1999 623.487.3147 623.487.3130
LANDSCAPE & POOL CARE Pool & Landscape AZ
480.9993348
REAL ESTATE Keller-Williams - A Lechner
623.312.4866
RECREATION Elutheria Wellness Center KFNX 1100 Radio
623.986.5110 602.277.1100
RETAIL & RESTAURANTS Estrella Ordnance Haymaker Restaurant Co Pure Patio
623.262.2154 623.536.9000 623.299.8000
September 2018
19
STORMS
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20 Estrella Publishing - The Hamlet magazine
www.JBSroofingAZ.com
September 2018