The Park

The Park

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

™

March 2025

Estrella Publishing - The Park magazine

March 2025 1

ALLEN TURNER

Loan Officer | NMLS #212762

2 Estrella Publishing - The Park magazine

Cell: 602-290-9392 eFax: 866-448-6845 ALLEN.TURNER@FAIRWAYMC.COM March 2025 WWW.YOURHOMELOAN.TEAM

Paws-itively the Best Roofing in Town SY A E

ILAB

L

A

VA

E!

G N I C N FINA  New Construction, Repairs, Recovers, Maintenance

No Shamrocks Needed!

 Installation of Gutters  Shingles, Tile, Built Up Single Ply, Foam & Coatings, Metal, Shake

www.JBSroofingAZ.com ROC #’s: 061127 - 287012 - 198009 - 082024 - 318282 ROC #’s: 061127 - 287012 - 198009 - 082024 - 318282

Estrella Publishing - The Park magazine

March 2025 3

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.

4 Estrella Publishing - The Park magazine

March 2025

From Me To You...

With my children growing up and fleeing the nest, parents aging rapidly (thereby adding to my responsibilities), and a realization of my own mortality, I have decided that something in my life needs to change. I have been traveling more and more frequently - to my hometown to spend as much time with my parents as possible, to the opposite ends of America because that was the only way to hug my grown children, and when I had any time - or air miles - left, to vacation spots with friends. Not to sound too dramatic but I have also developed a growing desire to be somewhere other than Arizona during those burning months of summer that are becoming less and less bearable. Looking back at all this travel, I seem to have accidentally become a modified ‘Snowbird’.

I have called many places home during my life, and whether I moved a few miles down the road or crossed vast oceans, I have put down roots wherever I ended up. This has created a nomad like existence where

home is everywhere and nowhere all at the same time. Don’t get me wrong, it can give you so much to enjoy. The expansion of thought by absorbing other cultures and learning that there are many different ways of doing things, the beauty of implementing that knowledge by deciding which version works for you despite your own upbringing not because of it. There are also the many friends to be made and experiences to be lived.

The flip side of all that for me is not knowing exactly where home is, the question “Where are you from?” is not so simple to answer. I miss people who are no longer a part of my everyday existence when I relocate. It takes a conscious effort, on both sides, to keep a friendship vibrant, and not everyone is willing, or able, to expend that effort.

In this iteration of relocation however, I am not moving away completely, just for a few months at a time. In this way I hope to create a little more stability for myself and provide a little more rhythm to my life. Hopefully, I will finally be able to follow the good weather around the globe, like a respectable snowbird, returning to the nest every fall, refreshed and ready to face the year ahead. Wish me luck!

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

Estrella Publishing - The Park magazine

March 2025 5

The Doctor Is In Why New Year’s Resolutions Fail If you’re like 80% of new year’s resolution-setters, you’ll fail at your resolutions by February. I know, I don’t like that math either, but the truth is that new year’s resolutions just don’t work.

In this 3-part series, we’ll take a look at why this happens, how you’re sabotaging yourself when you set goals, what the heck SMART goals really are and what to do to make real progress this year.

4. You’re lying to yourself. If you’re not moving toward your goals, maybe you’re not really ready to change. It’s time to be honest with yourself. Maybe they’re not realistic or maybe they’re not based on your true priorities at the present moment. Think about what you really want. (Part 3 of this series will help with this.)

Come back next month to learn what all the fuss is about SMART goals and what the heck they actually are. Talk soon!

Here are some reasons we may fail at meeting goals:

Submitted by Dr. J. Paweleck-Bellingrodt, Psy.D.

1. Your goals aren’t SMART. Goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time-Bound are more likely to be reached. If it ain’t written down, it won’t happen. Your odds of success are greater when you have a written plan in place. As they say, failing to plan is planning to fail. (More to come on this…)

DISCLAIMER: Material is for informational purposes and not intended to be a substitute for evaluation or treatment by a licensed professional.

Material is copyrighted and may only be reproduced with written permission of Dr. Bellingrodt.

2. Your goals are overwhelming. Goals that involve small changes that build habits and then discipline over time are more likely to be achieved than grand goals that make change feel more daunting than it already is, which is a setup for failure. Goals that are too lofty are less likely to be achieved. For example, saying you’ll lose 20 pounds in 2 months or that you’ll exercise every single day is just unreasonable. Bigger goals should be broken down into smaller objectives with individual deadlines.

3. You’re impatient. As you work toward your goals, you may not see the progress that you want, which may then leave you feeling discouraged and less likely to continue toward those goals. Lasting change takes time to create, and goals that are broken down into smaller, clearer and more achievable objectives are more likely to be accomplished. Be sure to celebrate any and all success and forward movement, no matter how small, in order to remain motivated, too.

6 Estrella Publishing - The Park magazine

March 2025

Dementia Care A Winning Game Plan: A Safe Spring

Outing for Your Loved One With Dementia

When spring is in the air, many want to relish the glorious temps, the cool air and warm sun. From Spring Training, the Japanese Friendship Garden or the Phoenix Zoo, there is so much to explore and enjoy. It’s no wonder many retire to our great state.

But I often get asked if it’s safe for a loved one with dementia to partake in outdoor activities like these.

Are there risks? For caregivers, the thought of an outing can feel overwhelming, but with thoughtful preparation, it can bring joy and connection. Here are a few ways to enjoy a day out while prioritizing safety and comfort.

hydrated and protected.

Use Technology An ID bracelet with emergency contact information is vital. Consider GPS tracking devices or smartphone apps to quickly locate your loved one if they wander.

These tools offer peace of mind and freedom of movement.

Know the Signs Watch for signs of overstimulation or discomfort— fidgeting, confusion, or agitation. If these arise, take a break in a quieter area, or call it a day. Prioritize quality of time over quantity. Some venues even offer sensory-friendly spaces or cooling zones.

Plan Ahead At a ballgame, choose seats near an aisle or an exit for easier access. Arrive early to avoid overwhelming crowds and consider quieter games with less fanfare.

Buddy System Bring a companion or fellow caregiver to help share responsibilities. Having extra hands can make navigating an event or busy location less stressful.

Stay Comfortable Ensure your loved one dresses for spring weather— layers and a wide-brimmed hat are good options.

Bring water, sunscreen, snacks, and essentials, like medications or comfort objects, to keep them calm,

For more info www.HeartsForDementia.com Submitted by Lolita Tramel, Family & Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Founder/CEO Hearts For Dementia

PITTS 21 Brackets Tooth Contouring ♦ Gingival Laser 3-D Imaging ♦ Invisalign ♦ Braces

BEFORE & AFTER

Braces & Gingival Laser 14997 W. Bell Rd #150 Surprise *emotional support dog on staff

4175 N. Pioneer Dr #107 Verrado

www.BaileyOrthoAZ.com

Estrella Publishing - The Park magazine

March 2025 7

Cook With Zona Joann’s Brownies

I have something truly delicious to share with you all! I recently had a reader send me her homemade brownie recipe, and let me tell you, they are absolutely amazing! Thank you, thank you Joann! The rich, fudgy texture and perfect balance of sweetness have me hooked. Every bite is pure indulgence, and I’m beyond grateful that Joann shared her secret with me. If you’re a brownie lover like I am, you’re in for a real treat. Thank you, Joann, for passing along this incredible recipe to our community—it’s one I’ll be making again and again!

Ingredients 1 and 2/3 cup unsalted butter 13 ounces bittersweet chocolate chips 6 large eggs 1 tablespoon vanilla 1 and 2/3 cup sugar 1 and ½ cups sifted flour 1 teaspoon salt

2. Line a 9X13 pan with one large sheet of parchment paper.

3. Mix the eggs, sugar and vanilla in a separate bowl and put aside.

4. Measure and sift the flour into another bowl, add the salt and set aside.

5. Melt the butter and chocolate in a large, heavy saucepan, remove from heat and let it cool a bit before adding the egg mixture to the pan.

6. Add the flour mixture and mix with a wooden spoon until smooth.

7.

Pour into the lined pan.

8.

Bake for 25 minutes.

9.

Cut into squares and enjoy!

Steps 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees

We Provide Care for the Entire Family

• John Monroe, MD • Jeremy Ficken, NP-C • Amanda Powers, PA-C • Sarah Jaspers, PA-C • Jessica Cooley, PA-C • Leslie Lattin, PA-C • Hailey Bethune, PA-C • Bruce Ploeser, PA-C

Serving the community Since 2007!

Services: Acute Visits Newborn Exams Pediatric Care & Immunizations Sports/School Physicals Adult Preventative Exams

Evaluations: Diabetes Cholesterol High Blood Pressure Referral to Specialists Sports Related Injuries

W Roosevelt St

Estrella Pkwy

Monday - Thursday 7:00am - 7:00pm Friday 7:00 am - 12:00 pm Saturday 8:00am - 12:00 pm

Walk-In Appointments available Most Major Insurance Accepted

W Van Buren St

*A message from Joann: The brownies will be ready when the top appears dried to a paler brown. The middle will be dark, dense and gooey. Brownies will continue to cook while cooling. Do not cut until completely cool. I make these brownies the day before I need them.

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

623-889-3477

750 N Estrella Parkway, Suite 40 • Goodyear, AZ, 85338 In the Canyon Trails Professional Center located South of the I-10 & Estrella Pkwy

8 Estrella Publishing - The Park magazine

March 2025

Spring Break

A Parent’s Guide to Making the Most of March

Spring Break is upon us, and parents across America are experiencing a familiar mix of excitement and trepidation. Whether you’re planning an extravagant getaway or embracing a cozy staycation, here’s how to ensure your time off becomes a memorable adventure rather than a logistical challenge.

Finding the sweet spot between structure and flexibility is key during this break. While children need time to decompress from their academic and social pressures, maintaining some routine helps everyone stay grounded. Striking this balance can help foster the rejuvenating atmosphere your family needs.

For those staying close to home, local attractions offer endless possibilities for enrichment and entertainment.

Museums, science centers, and cultural institutions provide immersive experiences that can fill a day with wonder and learning. The Phoenix Children’s Museum, for instance, stands out as a particularly engaging destination where young minds can explore and create.

If travel fits your budget, countless destinations offer activities that appeal to both adults and children.

While theme parks remain a popular choice, consider exploring state parks for an outdoor adventure that naturally bridges generational gaps. These spaces offer everything from gentle nature walks to challenging hikes, creating opportunities for family bonding in the great outdoors.

Remember, there’s no obligation to fill every moment with structured activities. Unscheduled time is equally valuable, allowing children to pursue their interests whether that’s diving into a good book, enjoying video games, or simply relaxing with their favorite shows.

This downtime often creates natural opportunities for family connection without the usual daily pressures.

For families with teenagers, Spring Break can be an exercise in collaborative planning. Consider inviting your teens to help shape the week’s agenda. This approach not only acknowledges their growing independence but also helps create activities that truly resonate with everyone involved.

Above all, remember that Spring Break serves as a refreshing pause before the final academic push.

Whether you’re exploring a new city or marathoning all 19 hours and 39 minutes of Harry Potter (yes, that’s the actual runtime!), focus on quality time with your family. The most cherished memories often stem not from elaborate plans but from shared experiences and genuine connections.

Estrella Publishing - The Park magazine

March 2025 9

IT’S TIME TO GROW

Your Business WITH ESTRELLA PUBLISHING

623-398-5541 INFO@ESTRELLAPUBLISHING.COM WWW.ESTRELLAPUBLISHING.COM

10 Estrella Publishing - The Park magazine

March 2025

The Bug Guy Luck of the Scorpions: A St. Patrick’s

Day Tale from Estrella Mountain Pest Control Control

While St. Patrick may be famous for driving snakes out of Ireland, pest control experts face a decidedly different challenge every March 17th: convincing inebriated revelers that scorpions aren’t “lucky desert leprechauns.”

“Last St. Patrick’s Day, I got three separate calls about people trying to catch scorpions to ‘get their pot of gold,’” sighs Shamus O’Shaunessy, a veteran pest control specialist. “I had to explain that scorpions don’t actually guard treasure, and that green beer goggles aren’t appropriate safety equipment for arachnid handling.”

The confusion apparently stems from a local urban legend that claims Arizona bark scorpions glow green under blacklight because they’ve been blessed by St. Patrick himself. In reality, they fluoresce due to a protein in their exoskeleton – a fact that’s considerably less magical but much more scientifically sound. Local exterminator Larry Cash recalls his most memorable St. Paddy’s Day call: “This guy had decorated his entire yard with shamrocks to ‘attract friendly

scorpions.’ He was convinced they’d bring him good fortune. Instead, he attracted every scorpion in a three-block radius. The only luck he got was that we had an immediate opening.”

The holiday has even spawned some uniquely Phoenician traditions, like the annual “Scorpion Shuffle” – where pest control technicians race to respond to panicked calls from bar districts as patrons mistake the desert’s most notorious residents for tiny armored leprechauns. “We’ve started handing out pamphlets at Irish pubs,” explains Rodriguez. “They read ‘Scorpions: Not Your Lucky Charm’ and include helpful tips like ‘Gold at the end of the rainbow: Good. Scorpion in your shoe: Bad.’” While St. Patrick’s supernatural pest control skills might be legendary, our exterminators prefer to rely on more modern methods. As O’Shaunessy puts it, “Sure, you could try to charm the scorpions away with an Irish jig, but I find that professional-grade pesticide works much better. And you don’t need to wear green to do it.”

Submitted by Larry Cash, of Estrella Mountain Pest Control

Experienced Top Producing Experienced Top Producing Real Estate Specialist

Real Estate Specialist

Ready to Buy or Sell? Call me today! @RealMarkSummers @RealMarkSummers Estrella Publishing - The Park magazine

March 2025 11

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: Moderate

Tuesday, 11th February 2025

5 1

8

2

3 4

1

6 7

6

9

3

2 6

6

8 5

3 9

3

9 5 7

5

6 9

8

6

1 3

1

5

9

4

5

4 2

1 7

7 1

7 6

9

2

8

5

2

3

1

6

8 2

2

2

2

2

3

9

7

9

2

5 7

4

8

8 2

3

9

6

6

3

1

3 9

1

1 2

2

6

2

5

5 2

7

3

7

4

8

4

8

7

5 6

2 3

2

6

7

9 www.samurai-sudoku.com

12 Estrella Publishing - The Park magazine

March 2025

Servicing the West Valley for 20 years!

West Valley’s Leading Garage Door Company 623-693-8677 217 W Main Street, Avondale, AZ 85323

Gentle Hearts Animal Hospiial Dr. Pamela Boyd, DVM Dogs, Cats, & Exotic Pets!

SCAN QR CODE FOR SPECIALS

623.298.4200

GentleHearts@phxcoxmail.com

14445 W. McDowell Rd. Suite A-106 Goodyear, AZ 85395

Estrella Publishing - The Park magazine

March 2025 13

Business Directory ADVERTISING The Park magazine

623.398.5541

AUTOMOTIVE Avondale Garage Doors CJ Garage Doors Daniels Total Car Care Earnhardt Auto Glass - Dylan Strouf Integrity West Overhead Door

623.693.8677 763.528.1824 623.873.0949 623.463.4371 623.469.2727

FINANCIAL & LEGAL All About Accounting Independent Wealth Management

602.799.5710 623.776.1100

HEALTHCARE & BEAUTY Arizona Dermatology Specialist Bailey Orthodontics Erica Flores Fitness Healthy Life Family Medicine Massage Envy

623.584.3376 623.977.0707 623.694.6769 623.889.3477 623.935.5495

HOUSEHOLD A Quality HVAC A/C & Heating Al’s Plumbing

623.233.0049 623.329.5170

14 Estrella Publishing - The Park magazine

602.637.2636 Double G Painting 623.882.8390 Efficient Air 623.680.6619 Estrella Mountain Pest Control 480.276.1946 Honor Contracting 623.330.5390 InsideOut Cleaning AZ 623.247.9252 JBS Roofing Reliance Heating & Air Conditioning 480.500.7002 623.546.8681 TRU Builders 602.276.3617 Weathersby Windows & Doors 623.487.3147 Younger Brothers Pest Control PET CARE Gentle Hearts Animal Hospital

623.298.4200

REAL ESTATE 623.738.0226 Freedom Plaza Keller Williams Realty - Anne King 480.363.6301 Realty One Group - Mark Summers 623.293.2882 RESTURANTS & FOOD Curry Bowls and More Off The Hook Meat Shop Roman’s Oasis

623.230.3797 623.248.1206 623.932.0922

March 2025

602.637.2636 - Ask for John DoubleGPaintingLLC.com We do more than just painting: stains, sealers, carpentry, stucco, & more!

Five Stars on Google

Check out our website or call for more details. Exp 4/1/25

STAY CONNECTED TO WHAT MATTERS. DRIVE NOW, TEXT LATER.

info@sadd.org www.sadd.org SADDNation

Estrella Publishing - The Park magazine

March 2025 15

CallAQuality.com

Special Offers

For Our Customers Home of the 100% Guarantee www.CallAQuality.com

Call Us Today

623-233-0049

Don't Miss Out on These Exclusive Deals!

AC System Check

35% OFF Water Softener

Schedule your full end-ofsummer Heating and AC System Check for just $59, and enjoy your winter check for free!

With purchase of tankless water heater.

$2,500 OFF Get $2,500 off any new heating & AC system purchase!

Free Air-Quality Inspection Book your tune-up today and receive a free air-quality inspection!

520 North Bullard, #43 Goodyear, AZ 85338

20% OFF Water Softener With purchase of 50 gallon deluxe water heater.

Free Whole Home Inspection and RO Maintenance for a Year With purchase of 5 stage Reverse Osmosis system.

$150 OFF Purchase of Touchless Moan Faucet.

$48 OFF Purchase of garbage disposal.

2 complimentary precision tune-ups.

20% discount on all services and repairs.

Free indoor air quality test.

Priority scheduling year-

10% OFF

round.

New toilet install - Kohler Highline.

Free additional services.

Schedule your FREE Estimate and Consultation Today.

16 Estrella Publishing - The Park magazine 623-233-0049

ROC 255316, 255314, 255315

Club Members Receive:

623-233-0049 March 2025 www.callAQuality.com