A magazine for Litchfield Park residents From Your Neighbors, For Your Neighbors
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
There’s an old story that gets told in elementary schools and boardrooms alike, usually by someone trying to make a point about resilience. It features a mighty oak tree and a young sapling growing side by side in a forest. My favorite version is all about the value of flexibility over pig-headed stubbornness.
Picture an ancient oak that’s been dominating its patch of woodland for decades. This tree has weathered many storms, standing firm whilst everything else gets knocked about. It’s the arboreal equivalent of that blowhard at the bar who’s never wrong about anything. Next to it grows a slender young tree that looks about as sturdy as a wet tissue. When the wind picks up, the oak barely budges, maintaining its dignity and standing firm. The sapling, meanwhile, bends and sways about like it’s auditioning for Dancing with the Stars.
Any sensible person would back the oak to survive whatever nature throws at it. After all, it’s got size, strength, and experience on its side. The young tree on the other hand, appears to be held up by wishful thinking and good intentions.
Then along comes the storm of the century—the sort that has weather presenters getting genuinely excited for the first time in years. The oak does exactly what it’s always done: stands its ground, refuses to yield, essentially tells the hurricane to go away. Unfortunately, this time the hurricane takes exception to such cheek. With a tremendous crack that probably woke up half the county, down comes the mighty oak, taking a fair chunk of the forest floor with it. The sapling, however, has been having what can only be described as an elaborate dance-off with the wind. It bends so far it nearly touches the ground, then springs back up like a jack-in-the-box. When the storm finally dies down, guess which tree is still standing?
The moral here is that adaptability beats obstinacy, and the smartest thing you can do is give way rather than dig in your heels. The trick is in knowing when to bend and when to stand firm — I’ll leave that one up to you.
Catherine Uretsky
Editor,
The Park Magazine info@estrellapublishing.com 623.398.5541
The Doctor Is In
How an Insult Changed My Life
When I was in Army residency after graduate school, I had a clinical supervisor tell me that she didn’t like my answer to a question I gave in a seminar and that she thought that I was getting by on my looks without really any substance behind them. The implication was that I didn’t have what it takes to do well in my field. I was honestly wrecked. I remember crying in her office and afterwards at home, on the way home, all of it. Her words hit hard as I called into question all I’d achieved up until that point in my mid-20s. I looked up to this woman and respected her opinion. I remember swimming in feelings of self-doubt and self-loathing. I remember the tornados of negative thoughts in my head for what seemed like forever.
By the time she said this to me, I’d already had 3,000 hours of patient contact, but that awareness wasn’t enough to comfort me. Then, one day, I got sick and tired of my negative thoughts and decided I wasn’t going to be a victim of her opinion. I started pursuing the truth. I dissected what it was from my past that created the self-limiting beliefs that her words tapped into. I took my inventory and looked at how far I’d come, what I’d objectively achieved and where I planned to go in my psychology career. After some mental gymnastics, I realized she was wrong, that I had plenty of evidence to the contrary, and I turned all of my butt-hurt feelings into determination.
Now, that situation could’ve gone either way for me: I could’ve decided she was right and given up my
psychology career right then and there, and I wouldn’t be a published author, hosting my own podcast, helping thousands of people in my lifetime or even writing this article. Fortunately, I’m stubborn as hell, so I dug deep into my conviction about who God created me to be and cultivated enough distance between MY beliefs and HER thoughts that I was able to say to her in my mind, “Hold my beer.”
It’s all about perspective! When life hands you lemons, you have the opportunity to be a victim or a survivor. The choice is yours.
Submitted by Dr. J. Paweleck-Bellingrodt, Psy.D.
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.
Furry Friends
Keeping Your Pets Safe and Calm
The Fourth of July brings families together for barbecues, pool parties, and spectacular fireworks displays. While we celebrate our nation’s independence with joy and excitement, this holiday can be overwhelming for our four-legged family members. The fireworks displays that delight us can cause anxiety and distress for pets, whose sensitive hearing makes fireworks particularly challenging to endure. Fortunately, with some thoughtful preparation, you can help your pet feel secure and comfortable during the festivities.
* Creating a Safe Haven
Choose a room with minimal outside noise—ideally an interior room away from windows where the sounds will be muffled. Transform this space into your pet’s personal sanctuary by including their favorite comforts: their bed, beloved toys, and perhaps that old t-shirt or sock they’ve claimed as their own. These familiar scents and textures provide reassurance during stressful moments. Consider playing soft background music or white noise to help mask the sudden sounds from outside. Anxiety wraps or calming shirts designed for pets can also provide a sense of security through
gentle pressure. Remember to visit your pet regularly throughout the eveningour presence and gentle reassurance can make all the difference in helping them feel secure.
* Natural Comfort Measures
Consider offering special treats during the fireworks, as the act of eating can be naturally calming for many animals. Some pet owners find success with calming supplements or CBD treats designed for pets, though always consult your veterinarian before introducing new products. Keep in mind that treats should be given in moderation—you don’t want to upset their stomach or create a pattern where they expect rewards for anxious behavior.
* Additional Strategies for Success
Think about establishing a calming routine throughout the day that builds up to the evening festivities. A long walk earlier in the day can help tire out energetic pets, making them more likely to rest during the fireworks. Some families find that including their pets in the daytime celebrations helps them feel part of the family gathering.
From all of us at the magazine, we wish you and your entire family—furry friends included—a safe and happy Fourth of July!
The Great Debate
Every family has them—those heated discussions that arise over seemingly simple food choices. From pizza toppings to cereal preparation, these culinary debates can divide households and spark passionate arguments at dinner tables everywhere. Let’s tackle some of the most contentious food questions with a bit of humor and logic.
Pineapple on Pizza?
Consider this: we regularly pair fruit with cheese in other contexts. Apple slices with cheddar, grapes on a cheese board—these combinations are celebrated. Hawaiian pizza simply applies this principle with melted cheese and savory ham. The sweet-salty balance creates a surprisingly harmonious flavor profile that deserves more credit.
Milk or Cereal First?
This one’s straightforward: cereal first, always. Adding milk to an empty bowl means your cereal sits on top, staying dry while the milk lurks below. Pour cereal first, and the milk properly coats each piece, ensuring every spoonful delivers the perfect milk-to-cereal ratio.
Is a Hot Dog a Sandwich?
Despite ongoing debates, a hot dog occupies its own category. While it involves bread and filling, calling it a sandwich is like calling all four-wheeled vehicles cars—technically possible but unnecessarily confusing. Hot dogs have earned their distinct identity through decades of ballpark traditions and backyard barbecues.
Steak with Ketchup?
Quality steak shouldn’t need condiments, but taste preferences are personal. If you enjoy ketchup on your steak, that’s your choice. However, consider trying other options like garlic butter or herb seasoning that complement rather than mask the meat’s natural flavors.
Toasted or Untoasted Pop-Tarts?
Both methods have merit. Toasting creates warm, gooey centers and slightly crispy edges—a delightful texture contrast. Untoasted Pop-Tarts offer convenience and a different, chewier experience. The “right” way depends on your mood, available time, and personal preference.
Chewy or Crunchy?
Whether you prefer chewy or crispy cookies often relates to childhood memories and personal associations. Chewy cookies offer soft, tender bites, while crispy versions provide satisfying crunch. Rather than declaring one superior, appreciate that different occasions call for different textures.
While these debates make for entertaining dinner conversation, remember that variety in food choices makes meals more interesting. The real joy comes from sharing food with people you care about, regardless of how they prepare it.
Cook With Zona
Congratulations to Cindy Buda, winner of our recipe competition. We really enjoyed the easy bake, it is perfect for a celebration on a hot, summer afternoon!
4th of July Boozy Trifle (Or not if serving children)
Syrup:
1/4 Cup — Plus 2/3 Cup Sugar
1/4 Cup Fresh Lemon Juice
1/4 Cup Amaretto (or 1/4 Teaspoon Almond Extract if serving children)
Assembly:
1 Premade Angel Food Cake, Cut Into 1-inch Slices (can use store bought or from scratch recipe)
1 Pound Cream Cheese, at Room Temperature
2 Cups Heavy Cream, at Room Temperature
2 Pints Blueberries
2 Pints Strawberries, Hulled and Sliced
CONCERNED ABOUT YOUR CHILD’S DEVELOPMENT?
You're not alone—SARRC is here to help. Our experts provide answers, support and guidance every step of the way.
1. Heat 1/4 cup sugar, the lemon juice and 1/4 cup water in a saucepan over medium-high heat, stirring, until the sugar dissolves. Remove from the heat and stir in the almond extract/Amaretto.
2. Lightly brush both sides of each slice of cake with the syrup. Cut the slices into 1-inch cubes.
3. Beat the remaining 2/3 cup sugar and the cream cheese with a mixer on medium speed until smooth and light. Add the cream and beat on mediumhigh speed until smooth and the consistency of whipped cream.
4. Arrange half of the cake cubes in the bottom of a 13-cup trifle dish. Sprinkle evenly with a layer of blueberries. Dollop half of the cream mixture over the blueberries and gently spread. Top with a layer of strawberries.
5. Layer the remaining cake cubes on top of the strawberries, then sprinkle with more blueberries and top with the remaining cream mixture. Finish with the remaining strawberries and blueberries, arranging them in a decorative pattern.
6. Cover and refrigerate 1 hour.
7. Enjoy!
ONE NOTIFICATION ISN’T WORTH THE RISK.
ONE NOTIFICATION ISN’T WORTH THE RISK.
The Bug Guy
Freedom from Pests: A Phoenix Valley 4th of July Declaration
When in the course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the bands which have connected them with creepy crawlies, a decent respect for the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to call the exterminator.
We hold these truths to be self-evident: that all homeowners are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, and that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of a scorpion-free patio. But here in the West Valley, our founding fathers never had to deal with 115-degree heat AND an army of desert invaders plotting their Independence Day barbecue takeover. Picture this patriotic scene: Uncle Sam himself, sweating through his star-spangled suit, wielding a can of Raid like a musket while declaring, “Give me liberty, or give
me death – but definitely give me death to these cockroaches!”
The British may have taxed our tea, but Arizona’s real tyranny comes from uninvited guests who don’t need visas – just tiny cracks in your foundation. Scorpions crash pool parties like they own the place. And don’t get us started on the black widows who think your garage is prime real estate.
This Fourth of July, as fireworks light up the sky and the smell of freedom (and grilled burgers) fills the desert air, remember that true independence means never having to share your celebration with six-legged party crashers. Our forefathers fought for freedom from taxation without representation, but we fight for freedom from infestation without invitation. So raise your citronella candles high, fellow patriots! Let freedom ring, let eagles soar, and let professional pest control services handle what the Declaration of Independence somehow forgot to mention: that among our unalienable rights should definitely be the right to a bug-free Fourth of July barbecue. God bless America, and God bless pest-free patios from sea to shining sea!
Submitted by Larry Cash, of Estrella Mountain Pest Control.
Home Sweet Home
Going Green in Arizona: Sustainable Living in the Desert
Living sustainably in Arizona’s desert climate is not only possible—it’s practical. With a few simple changes you can reduce waste, save money, and support the environment right at home.
Rainwater Harvesting: Make the Most of Every Drop
Even in a dry climate, rainwater harvesting can significantly reduce your dependence on municipal water. Rainwater is ideal for outdoor use, such as watering native or drought-tolerant plants, controlling dust, and more. Installing a rain barrel or cistern at the base of your downspouts is a simple way to get started. During monsoons a single storm can fill a 50-gallon barrel, and for larger landscapes, passive systems like basins can direct runoff to hydrate your yard naturally.
Tips to Start:
Use mesh screens to block debris and mosquitoes. Choose opaque containers to prevent algae. Use stored rainwater within a few weeks.
Composting: Turn Scraps into Soil
Arizona’s soil is often low in nutrients, but composting
kitchen and yard waste adds essential organic matter. You don’t need a big space—basic compost bins, tumblers, or indoor worm bins (vermicomposting) all work well. The desert’s warm temperatures speed up decomposition, especially in summer.
Turn your pile weekly to add oxygen and prevent odors.
Keep compost moist and covered to avoid drying out.
Why It Matters
Sustainable habits like rainwater harvesting and composting help conserve precious resources, improve soil health, and reduce your environmental impact. Over time, they can also save you money on water and gardening costs.
Adapting green practices to the desert lifestyle promotes resilience, self-reliance, and a deeper connection to the environment. In Arizona, going green isn’t just a trend—it’s a smart and sustainable way to live.
Submitted by Tara Rutkowski, Realtor
Youth Sports
Preparing Your Child for Youth Sports Success
With screens dominating so much of kids’ free time these days, organized athletics offer a wonderful opportunity to get children moving, socializing, and building confidence. Team activities teach valuable life skills like cooperation, communication, and perseverance. Children learn to set goals, handle both victory and disappointment gracefully, and develop friendships that often last well beyond the season. The structured environment of youth sports also helps kids establish healthy routines and discover new interests and talents.
The key to a positive sports experience lies in thoughtful preparation. Every child comes to the field with different strengths so your approach should match your child’s individual needs.
For the Active Child: If your little one is already constantly in motion—running through the house,
climbing playground equipment, or riding bikes around the neighborhood—they may need minimal physical preparation. Focus instead on sport-specific skills and mental readiness.
For the Less Active Child: Family walks around the neighborhood, trips to the local park, or backyard games can help build basic fitness and stamina. The goal isn’t to create an elite athlete overnight, but rather to help their body adjust to increased activity.
Physical Preparation: Start with gentle activities that the whole family can enjoy together. A evening walk around a nearby lake, a game of catch in the backyard, or swimming at the community pool can help children build endurance while spending quality time with family.
Nutritional Foundation: Ensure your child is eating balanced meals with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Don’t forget the importance of staying well-hydrated, especially during Arizona’s warm weather.
Mental Preparation: Talk with your child about what to expect from their chosen sport. Discuss the importance of trying their best, supporting teammates, and listening to coaches. Help them understand that everyone learns at their own pace and that making mistakes is part of the learning process.
Arizona’s youth sports programs offer incredible opportunities for children to grow, learn, and thrive. With thoughtful preparation and a focus on fun, your child can have a rewarding experience that builds both character and confidence. Here’s to a fantastic season ahead for all our young athletes!
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: Easy Monday, 16th June 2025
Money Matters
Financial Independence Day
We’re getting close to the Fourth of July, and this celebration may get you thinking of the many freedoms you enjoy. But have you thought of what you might need to do to attain financial freedom?
Your first step is to define what financial independence signifies to you. For many people, it means being able to retire when they want to, and to enjoy a comfortable retirement lifestyle. So, if this is your vision as well, consider taking these steps:
Pay yourself first. Waiting for leftover money to invest for retirement often leads to procrastination. With a 401(k) or similar employer-sponsored plan, contributions are automatically deducted from your paycheck before you can spend them. For an IRA, you can arrange automatic transfers from your checking or savings account, making saving effortless and consistent.
Invest appropriately. Your decisions should align
with your retirement goals, the time you have until retirement, and your comfort with investment risk. Straying from these principles—by taking on excessive or insufficient risk—can lead to choices that hinder your progress toward financial independence. Avoid financial “potholes.” Debt is a major hurdle; strive to live within your means to reduce your debt burden. Another challenge is unexpected expenses. To avoid tapping into your retirement savings, build an emergency fund with three to six months’ worth of living expenses, held in a liquid, lowrisk account.
By implementing these strategies, you’ll steadily progress toward your goals. When you reach your personal “Financial Independence Day,” it may not call for fireworks, but it will undoubtedly bring a lasting glow to your life.
Submitted by Michael Gray & Brian Polk, Financial Advisors, Edward Jones
AC System Check
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