Issuu

The Park

March 2018

From Me To You...

Welcome!

to the March edition of The Park a magazine for Litchfield residents.

Most people know that this year is the Year of the Dog, well in my house it is the Year of the Weddings. My eldest 2 children are both getting married in 2018 and the pressure is beginning to build. Thankfully I am only organizing one of them as my son and his fiancee have decided that they will be doing everything (including paying for it!) by themselves. I am not so lucky with my daughter. This is a wedding that I get to plan and pay for. Don’t get me wrong, there is plenty of joy in the event. I get to see friends and family who would otherwise wait for me to visit them. Luckily we have a pool, and the wedding is in the summer, so that takes care of the entertainment. I am looking forward to summer evenings by the pool with a glass of wine and pleasant company. I am also looking forward to seeing people from many parts of my life mingle, to get to know each other, and hopefully have a great time. I am sure it will be somewhat frantic as we get close to the date but that is where I have played my Ace. I hired a wedding planner. She knows who to call, who will be there when they are supposed to be, and how to take all my worries away. If I start to panic about when to send the invites for the guests from overseas - Danielle has the answer. If I don’t know who is the best DJ - Danielle has the answer. If I don’t know how much food I need to order - Danielle is there for me too.

She is so helpful I am thinking of keeping her after the wedding. Don’t know where I should go on vacation? “Danielle!” Need help finding a plumber? “Danielle!” Hard to get reservations for a restaurant on a Saturday night? You guessed it. “Danielle!” But back to the wedding... Along with seeing my loved ones I also get to invite plenty of people on the other side of the aisle, who I will most likely not speak more than a couple of words to. That seems unfair to me. If I had the nerve I would put out a collection plate. Perhaps a tip jar of sorts. There was a parent I read about who sent a bill to people who RSVP’d yes to her son’s party then didn’t show up. Part of me, deep down, admires the Chutzpah of the woman. Because you know there will be people who say they are coming but won’t be there. Danielle assures me that it will all balance out because there are also people who will attend that were not invited, or changed their mind on the day. See? The woman is a gem! I must admit, most of the planning is fun. As many of you may understand, my wedding was not my wedding. What do I mean? Well although I was the one in the big white dress standing at the altar, I chose the dress my Mum preferred, the location my Mother-in-law favored and the band my soon to be husband wanted. Now it is my turn. I am steering the bridal couple towards choices I want. They pick the songs, but I chose the DJ. Their choice of food, my caterer. I did put my foot down with the dress. She got what she wanted, even though she tried to pick the dress she thought I liked best... Most of the planning is done at this point and all I have to do is relax and enjoy the big day, once I decide what I am going to wear. “Danielle!”

Catherine Uretsky

Editor, The Park Magazine info@estrellapublishing.com 623.594.9283

2 The Park

March 2018

ST 3 AU 0 + RA NT

E ED P L IT M M A LI S UN ARY IN

L CU

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 © 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. 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

CULINARY FESTIVAL SUPPORT WEST VALLEY RESTAURANTS

DOWNTOWN LITCHFIELD PARK

SATURDAY MARCH 24, 2018 NOON - 4PM (GA) 11AM - 4PM (VIP) PRESENTED BY

PROCEEDS BENEFITING

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS Culinary Samples 100+ Silent Auction Items! Top West Valley Live Music & Entertainment Restaurants Beer, Wine & Cocktails

Street Performers

VIP Lounge

Red Bull Action Zones

Celebrity Chefs

Kids Zone

Cooking Demonstrations

Cornhole & Games

Dueling Pianos (VIP)

Ice Carvings

Unlimited Samples + 1st Drink

5 OFF

Unlimited EVERYTHING! + Early Access

$ 00

ENTER CODE FOTWEP ONLINE

FREE Kids 12 & Under

Find out more @ FLAVORSAZ.COM Follow us on / FlavorsOfTheWest

To participate in Flavors Of The West 2018 as a restaurant or sponsor contact Flavors@HoneyFoundation.org

The Park

March 2018

Out & About Top tips for planning an epic family vacation

Are you dreaming about an incredible family escape your loved ones will always remember? Perhaps your dream vacation is filled with adventure while eating around the world and exploring castles in faraway places, or maybe it’s relaxing on a private island with picturesque views of crystal clear water. Before taking off, you need to tackle the logistics. Fortunately, with a few tips from those in the know, creating an unforgettable getaway can be as magical as taking one. Tip #1: Get the inside scoop No idea where to begin? Talk with a trustworthy resource or fellow parent who has “been there.” The honest and relatable vacation tips you’ll receive are invaluable and can ease the planning process. Tip #2: Find an all-appealing destination You probably have a few ideas of where to go, but brainstorming destinations with your travel crew can provide helpful feedback and insight into everyone’s interests. Maybe your best friends are making brunch a priority for your girlfriends’ getaway. Or Grandma has a few “memory making” ideas for her vacation with the grandkids. Your fickle pre-teen even has a dream destination you might not know of, and your kindergartner is sure to throw a few ideas into the ring. After you make a list of everyone’s thoughts,

do some research online. Poke around travel websites, and talk with other parents. With a little digging, you can find experiences that appeal as much to your toddler as your teenager and even your best friend. The key is to make it a discussion, talk with others who are in the know and overall, enjoy helping you plan your escape. Whether you’re going for a dream Disney vacation, planning a beach getaway, indulging in one-of-a-kind foodie experiences, (or all three!), there are plenty of places that grant everyone’s wishes. Tip #3: Be proactive about special requirements Keep special needs top of mind when booking accommodations. For example, all U.S. hotels are required to offer wheelchair-accessible rooms, but international hotels follow different guidelines, so be sure to ask. Additionally, if you have a sensitive child who prefers a calmer environment, book a hotel room away from the pool or other entertainment spaces. Another common concern for families is food allergies. To ease worries, plan ahead. Experienced jetsetters suggest asking restaurants for their ingredients charts and nutrition information or requesting to speak directly to the chef. You can even call airlines and hotels early to ask about allergy policies. Bottom line: It’s easy to feel overwhelmed, especially when planning a family getaway. Each age has different considerations, but with some smart strategizing and advice from the right people, you can create memories to last a lifetime. These three tips will have you well on your way to experiencing an epic family vacation.

4 The Park

March 2018

Raised Up Inside the Walls

On Our Cover

Litchfield Park is a unique place – speckled with Green Grass, Palm Trees, and Golf Courses with Lakes – not the typical surroundings you’d expect for a community sprouted in the middle of the Sonoran Desert. The City of Litchfield Park is a community made up of people from all walks of life. The early residents were mostly Goodyear Tire Executives – visiting the cotton fields used in their tires. Following, Airmen of the United States Airforce began filling the area after the making of Luke Air Force Base, just a few miles from Litchfield Park. And, next, new residents from around the country (and World) made Litchfield Park home. My family came from Texas. Our father, Robert Alan Clarke, a chemical engineer, and our mother, Mary Ann Dodd, transplanted to Arizona in 1976. After visiting many of the new neighborhoods around Phoenix, they settled on the little town in the West, purchasing a house near the Fire Station and making Litchfield Park their home. The 1st born child, Jennifer Ann Clarke, come soon after in November of 1978. Then, in 1982, our family would welcome identical twin boys, Justin & Scott Clarke. Scott & I attended Litchfield Park Elementary School, Western Sky Middle School, and were the last graduating class of Agua Fria to attend the “North Campus” now known as Millenium High School. Growing up in Litchfield Park, we experienced Kindness all over the community. Whenever a Litchfield Park Family experienced something difficult, all the neighbors would come together to show support – cooking food, cleaning, or performing yard work for any neighbor in need. At home, our Mom was always volunteering her time, giving back in special ways to our friends, in the classroom, and at the

Church of Litchfield Park. Our family always taught us that “Kindness Comes First”…

My twin brother Scott was passionate about food & kindness. He had a softer heart and could always find a special friend who needed some help. Scott was ready to share his home, cook a meal, always willing to listen to a friend in need. He would also perform Random Acts of Kindness in and around the community, giving food, time, or even a smile to a stranger in need. Tragically in 2011, Scott passed at his home in Litchfield Park – way too early at the age of 29. After Scott’s passing, I shared stories about his Kind Acts. Those stories inspired more Kind acts. Then, we realized that Scott’s passion for kindness could inspire others. We decided to create a new local Charity for Kindness, The Honey Foundation… Just.. Bee..Cause. The Honey Foundation “believes” the World receives hope through Kindness. Since 2012, The Honey Foundation has provided a place for Kindness. We inspire others to “Bee Kind” every day; and have created the 1st Kindness Education Programs for K-12 schools – helping to reduce school disciplinary actions by over 51% and tracking Random Acts of Kindness for each school. THF has spread its’ wings! Kindness Education Programs are now being taught in schools across the USA, and our hope is to have every school in Arizona, and across the World, teaching students that “Kindness Comes First”.. In celebration of Scott Clarke, Litchfield Park, and the West Valley, THF plans the biggest and best culinary festival, Flavors of the West. Each spring, we bring together the West Valleys’ favorite restaurants, giving samples of culinary treats and demonstrations to show off the area’s culinary scene. Hosted alongside Old Litchfield Rd in Downtown Litchfield Park, Flavors of the West will boast a lineup of local musicians, live demos, entertainment, food & beverage samples, and the best food in the West Valley. Proceeds from Flavors of the West benefit Kindness in the Community. Festival proceeds will fund more Kindness Education Programs here in Arizona, and across the World. Help support Kindness in the Community. Find your new favorites at Flavors of the West.

The Park

March 2018

Life As A Caregiver Anyone caring for someone with Alzheimer’s has been told that the disease effects people differently. Some patients become mean and hard to handle. Others lose themselves in the disease and are quiet and unresponsive. And still others suffer from depression. My mom has stayed pretty true to herself. But…depression DOES rear its ugly head from time to time. The disease and her inability to do things for herself makes her sad and frustrated.

someone with Alzheimer’s, but not the extreme behavior changes that occur once in a while. That no matter how much you’ve prepared or understand about what’s happening, seeing someone you love in discomfort is extremely painful. I became SO emotional this time that it really made me look at my behavior during the crisis. I found myself angry and rather irritable in the way I answered my mom’s numerous questions.

The disease also creates what is called “episodes” from time to time. Episodes where her behavior changes drastically. When they hit, they last for about 24 hours. Mom doesn’t sleep during any of that time. She doesn’t eat much, becomes very restless, doesn’t remember that her mother, my father, and her siblings have all died, and asks a million questions. This particular time, though, she thought I had a daughter (which I don’t) named Joyce, was sad that she spoiled a dinner outing with my husband (I haven’t had a husband for a very long time) and thought I was a friend of the family. During this particular episode, she had a very hard time trying to find the words to express herself (a common trait of Alzheimer’s, but not for my mom as of yet). It made me literally sick to my stomach. My mom didn’t know me. She recognized me, but didn’t know why or who I was.

What I experienced was my lack of control over something negatively effecting someone I love. And when we are used to being in control and taking charge, as caregivers must be, there is nothing worse than NOT being in control. I couldn’t help her. I couldn’t make it better. I couldn’t make the bad stuff go away. And that broke my heart.

This ‘episode’ was a rough one…..seeing her struggle with information that she knew well; having her not know me as her daughter. Oh man! I cried for a good part of the day when she wasn’t with me….partly because of the confusion she was experiencing and partly because I wondered if this was the beginning of the next phase of Alzheimer’s.

Once she started feeling better, then I started feeling better. Until the next time. But something she said to me after she had calmed down a bit played over and over in my head. I thought it was pretty insightful. She said, ” I feel like my life is in front of me in a book…and some of the pages are missing.” Indeed they are, mom. Indeed they are. And I’m so sorry! Submitted by Kathy Linton, West Valley Resident

I had done my homework several years ago and chose a group-home nearby where I thought my mom would be comfortable when the time came to move her. But not yet!! It’s not time YET!!! Or is it? What has usually happened when mom has had an ‘episode’ is that after the 24-hours passes, she crashes. She has an enormous headache, she sleeps for almost an entire day and begins to eat normally. Her new normal returns and she knows me and recognizes all of her surroundings. And so it was this time, too. She didn’t remember what had happened and was perfectly content to sleep and regain her strength. I learned a lot from this ‘episode’. I learned that I can deal with the day-to-day routine of caring for

6 The Park

March 2018

p u e k a M t i n r a e k n y a b Perm

Why Permanent Makeup? Allergies, skin conditions, failing eyesight,, shaking hands Call Kari for an appointment today!

602-295-7373

On Jackrabbit near Southern Ave check us out online www.softaps.com/my/kari_layton.html www.facebook.com/PMUbykari

The Park

March 2018

Home Math It is a common misconception that a 20 percent down payment is required to buy a home. Advice to wait and save a large down payment is often based on the theory that the cost of mortgage insurance (MI), which is required when you buy with a smaller down payment, should be avoided. This may not be the best advice and is, in fact, not in line with market trends, considering 60 percent of homebuyers buy with a down payment of 6 percent or less, according to the National Association of Realtors. Yes, you can qualify for a conventional mortgage with a down payment as small as 3 percent of the purchase price. It is also true that you can reduce your monthly mortgage payment by paying for discount points at closing, but that can be 5 or 10 percent of the purchase price - not 20. And because every buyer’s situation is unique, it’s important to do the math. In today’s market, it could take a family earning the national median income up to 20 years to save 20 percent, according to calculations by U.S. Mortgage Insurers using a methodology developed by the Center for Responsible Lending; a lot can change during that time, in the family’s personal finances and in overall mortgage market trends. How can buying now save you money later? Consider you want to purchase a $235,000 home. A 5 percent down payment is $11,750 versus $47,000 in cash for 20 percent down. With a 740

8 The Park

credit score at today’s MI rates, your monthly MI payment would be about $110, which is added to your monthly mortgage payment until MI cancels. MI typically cancels after five years; therefore, you will only have this added cost for a short period of time versus waiting an average of 20 years to save for 20 percent. With home price appreciation, today’s $235,000 home will likely cost more in the years ahead and this will also have an impact on the necessary down payment and length of time required to save for it. There are other variables in the equation too, such as interest rates. As federal rates rise, so too can the costs associated with financing a mortgage. The savings a borrower might calculate today could be altogether negated by waiting even a few more years. Another factor is that rents are on the rise across the nation, leading to a reduced capacity for many would-be homebuyers to save for larger down payments. If you decide to buy today with a low down payment mortgage option, it is true that MI is an added cost on top of mortgage principal and interest, but keep in mind that it is temporary and goes away. Again, it typically lasts about five years. And when MI is cancelled, the monthly bill goes down. So, do the math and let the numbers guide you.

March 2018

WHETHER YOU ARE BUYING OR SELLING

At TK LUXURY GROUP we treat every HOME/CLIENT the same, whether its $200,000 or $2 Million

AT U

IST

3902 North Park Street – Verrado – OWNER/AGENT | 5 Bed | 3.5 Bath | 5,049 sq ft | Offered at $639,000

4548 N Regent St. $1,180,000 3 Bed / 3.5 Bath / 4,018 sq ft

21043 W Canyon Dr. $995,500 19808 W Amelia Ave. $649,000 4 Bed / 4.5 Bath / 3,805 sq ft 4 Bed / 3.5 Bath / 3,620 sq ft Y OR CT

20415 W Lost Creek Dr. $479,900 4676 N 206th Dr. 4 Bed / 3.5 Bath / 3,371 sq ft 2 Bed / 2 Bath / 2,238 sq ft

$450,000 3132 N Summer St. $399,900 5 Bed / 3.5 Bath / 3,489 sq ft

www.TKLuxuryGroup.com | 623.688.4447 We’re defined by the Luxury Experience we offer The #1 Team in Verrado – TK Luxury Group And the #1 Brokerage in Verrado – Verrado Realty Averaging – ONE sale EVERY 4 days Tim Klimek

The Park

March 2018

10 The Park

March 2018

Positive Parenting example, heat and sweat are common causes of flares. Try dressing your child in comfortable, loose clothing or uniforms that have been washed before your child wears them. Don’t forget those new gym clothes and soccer jerseys! 4. Adjust bath time routines. Children take baths-for obvious reasons!-but bath time might be a challenge for children with eczema. Try to limit bath time to 5-10 minutes up to once per day with warm, not hot, water. Applying a moisturizer soon after bathing may also help ensure your child’s skin is moisturized. 5. Understand your options. The daily routine for a parent can be hectic and stressful, and having a child that is living with atopic dermatitis (eczema) can be difficult. If your child has eczema, the following tips may help you care for your child and their skin.

There is no cure for eczema, but there are treatment options available.While the above tips may help you manage your child’s eczema, always be sure to talk to their doctor to help identify the best treatment plan.

1. Know what to watch for. Eczema may look different on different people, so it’s important to know what to watch for. The face, neck, arms and legs are common sites for many people, depending on their age. Eczema often appears as a rough, red skin rash. If you think your child has eczema, talk with a doctor to learn what to look for and discuss a possible treatment plan. Here’s another tip: consider pajama or bath time as an opportunity to take a moment and check for any changes in your child’s skin. 2. Tame the triggers. For some, eczema may flare, or get worse, when they’re exposed to different triggers, even if they are currently treating their eczema. Food choices, sweat, stress, and clothing types may all be possible triggers for your child’s eczema. Monitor your child’s skin, and if you notice a change, talk to their doctor to find the strategies that may best identify these triggers.

Golf Tournament

& Silent Auction

Supporting Brain Injury Survivors and their Families

Sunday, March 18, 2018 Western Skies Golf Club 1245 E. Warner Rd., Gilbert, AZ

Registration Opens 1/1/18 Check-in 6:30 am, 7:30 am Shotgun Start / Scramble

Early Bird Registration $100 Per Person Through Midnight of 1/31/18

Late Registration $125 Per Person Through Midnight of 2/17/18

Includes: Golf Hat, Cart, Practice Balls and Lunch

Includes: Cart, Practice Balls and Lunch (Does not include Golf Hat)

$20 - Lunch (Open to Everyone) - 12:00 pm Silent Auction - 6:30 am–Appox. 12:30 pm

To Golf, Have Lunch Only, Become a Sponsor, or Make a Donation Visit www.wmffundraising.myevent.com Our Sponsors

3. Prepare appropriately. As a parent, you’ve probably learned that children never stop moving. Purses are filled with all sorts of things to help keep your child entertained. That preparation can also be applied to eczema. For The Park

Questions:

Justin (480) 332-8835 - nosralj@gmail.com or Kelly Socha (612) 232-3945 - ksocha42@gmail.com

@wm_forward

weremovingforward

We’re Moving Forward

We’re MOVING FORWARD! is a 501(c) 3 non-profit organization

March 2018

Tea Time For most of us, a little evening downtime is not a luxury - it’s a necessity. After a hectic day of work, commutes, kids and dinner prep, we deserve to take a moment to slow down and enjoy some hardearned “me time.” Instead of using this time to stream your favorite show or scroll through social media, try a gentle and relaxing activity that puts your focus on the present moment and makes this time truly enjoyable. “For a relaxing end-of-day activity, there’s nothing quite like preparing and savoring the perfect cup of herbal tea,” says Stephen Twining, whose family founded the world-famous tea brand, Twinings of London, in 1706. The steps we take to prepare and enjoy our perfect cup of tea can help us unwind and feel refreshed, Twining says. Tea releases pleasing scents, the warm brew makes comforting sensations as we wrap our fingers around the mug and take sips, and there’s the deep and satisfying flavors of the tea itself. Follow these five tips from Twining to brew your favorite cup of herbal tea, and try making this a part of your end-of-day ritual. 1. Start fresh: The perfect cup of tea starts with a clean mug and a clean kettle of fresh, cold water. Never reuse water that’s already been boiled, because that can weaken the tea’s flavor, Twining says.

12 The Park

2. Don’t over-boil: As soon as the water reaches a boil, it’s time to remove the kettle from the heat source. “I never let the water over-boil because in doing so, you will cause the oxygen in the water to be reduced, making the tea taste ‘flat,’” Twining says. For that reason, he recommends not using a microwave to boil the water. 3. Savor the moment: Set the tea bag in the mug before you add hot water, pouring it directly onto the tea bag. Just then, it starts releasing its herbal scent, so make sure you take a moment to inhale and relax while enjoying the aroma. 4. Wait for the perfect flavor: Many people make the mistake of thinking that once the brew darkens, it’s ready to drink. However, Twining says color merely washes off the tea leaves early in the process, so don’t let the appearance mislead you. 5. Customize and enjoy: Hopefully, you will find your perfectly brewed cup of herbal tea needs no embellishment because the expertly blended herbs and flowers will provide all the flavor you need. But as Twining says, “The best cup of tea is the one you like the most,” so feel free to make adjustments. After a long day, you definitely earned this moment, so make sure you take time to enjoy it.

March 2018

Perception Content or Stagnant? A long time ago in place far away called “Greece,” a philosopher named Heraclitus said, “Change is the only constant in life.” The scientists reading this might argue about the speed of light whether it truly is a universal constant or not. Truth, Hope, and Karma are constants depending on whom you ask, but I don’t think Truth should be on that list. It was true that Pluto was a planet and now it’s not. Death is inevitable rather than a constant. Maybe a parent’s love for their children is a constant. My love of pizza is unremitting! Imagine some cosmic event happens and POOF! The Universe decides to keep everything and everyone the same as they are at that moment forever and ever. Almost like the Bill Murray movie, GROUNDHOG DAY. I would be grateful for never again having to get my haircut, change the oil in my car, polish my shoes, do cleaning chores, or any of the other dull, time-consuming routine responsibilities. There’s an opposite side to all of that. I wouldn’t be able to pick a different pair of shoes, always have the same car, and couldn’t change my hairstyle, not that I would. I like my Chia Pet/Mad Scientist hairdo. Remaining the same can be either ‘content’ or ‘stagnant’. In the first instance, it’s a comfort zone. We’re happy with ourselves, our lives, and our lifestyles. We do what we want to do, say what we

want to say, live how we want to live, play how we want to play, dance how we want to dance, and our world is wonderful. Someone who is content will adapt or go with the flow when something new pops up. While many would be satisfied with the above scenario, others would want to improve their life or intentionally seek out challenges. Otherwise, it would be the same ol’ same ol’ and not everyone wants that. Why anyone would want to fly two miles into the sky and jump out of the plane with a giant bed sheet strapped on their back is beyond me, but millions of people do it. Challenges are how some people feel alive. Some people challenge themselves by learning. I bet there’s at least one person reading this who wants to learn how to skydive. For that person, learning or trying something new is the way he or she enriches their life. It’s actually a good thing nothing remains the same. In a Universe without change, healthy people wouldn’t get sick, but sick people wouldn’t get healthy. Best thing for any of us is to figure out who or what is important enough in our life to be a constant and change the rest. Submitted by John Safin, Southwest Chamber of Commerce

KFNX Exclusively Features Laura Ingraham and Michael Savage Ranked Top Ten Shows in the Country

THE LAURA INGRAHAM SHOW

THE SAVAGE NATION WITH MICHAEL SAVAGE

To advertise, host a show, or for more information: Call (602) 277-1100 or visit our website: www.1100kfnx.com

The Park

March 2018

Living With Faith Mercy and humility

ways to the paths of brotherhood and civility.

A man brings some very fine material to a tailor and asks him to make a pair of pants. When he comes back a week later, the pants are not ready. Two weeks later, they are still not ready. Finally, after six weeks, the pants are ready. The man tries them on. They fit perfectly. Nonetheless, when it comes time to pay, he can’t resist a jibe at the tailor.

Perhaps we should take the time to look around and see that while we are all different in appearance, we are the same in the way we were created. Scripture describes the birth of humanity, and the question that is raised relates to the fact that only one man and one woman were the beginnings of everything. Perhaps the answer is too simple, and just maybe it’s simplicity is designed to help us understand that the example is there to remind us that one person Is no better than another for we come from one mother and one father.

“You know,” he says, “it took God only six days to make the world. And it took you six weeks to make just one pair of pants.” “Ah,” the tailor says. “But look at this pair of pants, and look at the world!” Sometimes when we look at the world around us we seem to despair. There is so much bloodshed, so much famine, so much hopelessness, and there is so much bigotry. We were created to be together in both action and deed. And this closeness often leads to contempt. But then we realize that with just a few kind words or simple gestures we can enhance our lives and those around us. In fact, if we really wanted to get along with others we would not be so judgmental or critical. And yet, there are those who would suggest that our belief systems are different and therefore not worthy of connection. And still others who would submit that salvation is relegated to just a few. We can, and should take a different approach to indifference. We should resolve to confront it, not with antagonism but with a straightforward appeal to decency and morality. We can propose dialogue and exchange of ideas to remember that as we were created differently so are our thoughts and ideas. We need to propose that there is no one path to knowledge or acceptance but rather many

14 The Park

The one ingredient that can be found in ach of us is simply the gift of choice. We have the ability to be empathetic and sympathetic to the needs of others. We can make a difference in the lives of those less fortunate. We must learn that to choose hate over love will lead us into an abyss from which there is no return. Perhaps we should step back and take a long hard look at the world, and know that while all was created in just six days, it will take a lifetime, and many lifetimes to follow to continue to complete the task of creating an appreciation for the value and purpose for the greatest gift given us: Life. As the winter approaches its height, let us resolve to keep the warmth of our spirit and the breath of the impending Spring, the most important aspect of the choices we make: “To do justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God.” (Micah 6:8) Rabbi Irwin Wiener, D.D. Sun Lakes Jewish Congregation National Chaplain, Jewish War Veterans, USA

March 2018

The Park

March 2018

Pest Control Itâ€™s important to establish good habits early in the year to help prevent potential pest problems. Unchecked, pests can wreak havoc in your home, but there are several steps homeowners can take to help avoid an infestation and keep their home safe and their family happy. Clean your kitchen, pantry and any other places where food is stored. Remove crumbs and wipe up sticky drink residue to avoid attracting cockroaches and ants. Drains and sinks can be breeding grounds for flies, so keep them clean and clear. Regularly vacuuming and dusting can help prevent pests during the winter months. Engage in regular home maintenance to help avoid unwanted pest entry. Insects can come in through tiny cracks and openings, rodents can squeeze through a hole the size of a dime and raccoons and squirrels can enter through large holes. Basic maintenance steps include fixing gaps or holes in broken screens, doors and cracks in your walls and repairing any other exterior home damage. Trim branches and trees touching your home to prevent easy access for pests. As expected by the

16 The Park

name, roof rats and even squirrels can crawl across branches and enter your home through the roof. Keep outdoor trash cans secured to reduce the attractiveness to rodents and raccoons. Cardboard boxes and trash in your yard can provide shelter for spiders and insects. Yard clutter, such as leaf and wood piles, may be a source of food or shelter for a variety of pests. In the new year, step into a new routine of monitoring the exterior and interior of your home for holes, cracks and crevices. But also monitor for droppings, as well as chewed or damaged spots in your home. Regular monitoring for visual cues can help quickly address pest problems, and prevent future issues. As hard as we work to keep pests out, they are working hard to get in. Even the most vigilant homeowner can experience infestations. To prevent further damage and ensure you are safe in your home, itâ€™s important to know when a pest problem is beyond your control. A trained professional can use proper techniques and tools that will provide the best solution to eliminate your pesty problem.

March 2018

Outdoor Oasis Outdoor living spaces rank first among special function rooms desired by consumers, according to the American Institute for Architects, and so homeowners are expected to be going all-in for the outdoors in 2018. Among the hottest design influences right now is â€œhyggeâ€? (pronounced hoo-gah) - the Scandinavian term for a feeling of coziness and comfort. This year, outdoor spaces will beckon homeowners and their guests to relax and rejuvenate with hyggeinspired accents, from plush cushions and throws to protective pergolas, cozy warming features and outdoor lighting. While railing matched to the decking remains popular, an increasing number of homeowners are taking advantage of the complementary decking and railing pairings afforded by new railing materials in modern, metal finishes, as well as sleek designs inspired by commercial architecture. More homeowners are inspired by outdoor spaces they find in commercial settings, such as hotels and urban rooftops, and want to replicate those looks in their homes. A prime example of this commercial-to-residential trend is the growing popularity of horizontal railings such as rod rail - a sleek, industrial look thatâ€™s ideal for optimizing a panoramic view.

The Park

With the increased usage of outdoor living spaces comes higher demand for chic decor and privacy. An easy design trick that adds personal style and functionality, lattice panels are perfect for enhancing privacy and concealing storage areas or unsightly views. With styles ranging from romantic to deco, lattice panels can be integrated into any outdoor area and applied to structures such as arbors, trellises and gazebos, or used as decorative wainscoting or deck skirting. Kids are not the only ones who enjoy playing outside. Outdoor play spaces for all ages are on the rise, including everything from swimming pools and embedded sandboxes to regulation cornhole courts, horseshoe pits and dedicated spaces for volleyball, badminton and bocce ball. Beyond yard games, electronics manufacturers now offer televisions and entertainment systems specifically designed for the outdoors, taking into consideration differences in lighting and outdoor acoustics. Meanwhile, new storage options include durable wall-mounted television and entertainment centers that beautifully protect pricey electronics from the elements, while concealing all of the unsightly - and potentially unsafe - cords and cables.

March 2018

Puzzles & Games Sudoku for March

2 8

4 3 7 1 8 5 2

7 5 8 3 2 9 4

6 7 3 8 9 1 5

18 The Park

Sudoku Solution

Numbers from 1-9 must appear only once in each row, column and box. Good Luck!Solution is on our website www.EstrellaPublishing.com

WORD SEARCH

March 2018

Business Directory AUTO SERVICES Desert Princess Car Service Litchfield Auto Repair

602.300.7076 623.882.8700

BUSINESS & NETWORKING Estrella Partners Group

623.594.9283

FINANCIAL & LEGAL SERVICES 623.386.1940 Edward Jones - Chris Carlton Kramer Legacy Documents 623.300.1884 State Farm Insurance-T Gremillion 623.386.7767 HEALTHCARE & BEAUTY Healthy Life Family Medicine Permanent Make Up Skincare Extraordinaire HOUSEHOLD SERVICES Alâ€™s Plumbing Beckham Electric Cluff Mechanical Heating & AC Desired Handyman Dirt Busters House Cleaning

The Park

623.889.3477 602.295.7373 623.826.3726

Estrella Mountain Pest Control J&H Appliance Repair JBS Roofing Urgent Air Younger Brothers Exterminating

623.680.6619 623.925.5427 623.247.9252 602.377.1999 623.487.3147

LANDSCAPE & POOLS Pool & Landscape AZ

480.999.3348

REAL ESTATE Verrado Realty - T Klimek

623.688.4447

RECREATION Eleutheria Wellness KFNX 1100AM Radio

623.986.5110 602.277.1100

RETAIL & RESTAURANTS Budget Blinds of Goodyear 623.329.5170 Estrella Ordnance 480.370.1014 Haymaker Restaurant Co 602.765.COOL Pure Patio 623.910.5183 Steel Shield Security Doors 623.977.6725

480.629.8854 623.262.2154 623.536.9000 623.299.8000 623.977.3277

March 2018

YOU’RE IN LUCK! Your Residential and Commercial Roofing Contractor Has You Covered!

“Let Our Family Cover Yours”  New Construction, Repairs, Recovers, Maintenance  Installation of Gutters & Attic Insulation  Shingles, Tile, Built Up Single Ply, Foam & Coatings, Metal, Shake

We’re Here To Answer Your Questions. Give Us A Call!

20 The Park

www.JBSroofingAZ.com

March 2018