Up The Hill
February 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. 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
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Al Uretsky Publisher & Sales Exec
February 2018
Welcome
From Me To You...
to the February edition of Up The Hill magazine!
Every month I sit down at my computer to write this piece and I usually have an idea of what I will say. A general theme, some lines thought out in my head. Then I let it fly. Sometimes it is pretty close to my original plan, sometimes I go off on a tangent. The majority of my articles have an example or a snippit from my life, usually involving my children. Let’s face it, kids do say the darnedest things! Growing up in England, my childhood was mostly bucolic. I had my moments, trials and tribulations you could say, but it was pretty nice all in all. Except for Sunday mornings. Yes, church. Not because the pews were uncomfortable - they were. Not because the singing was painful - it was, my mother is tone deaf but refuses to let that stop her from belting out the hymns. Not because the world was beckoning from outside, begging me to play and be free - of course it was. My problem was that my father was the vicar, or minister. He was great at it. His voice rang with conviction, he was kind and gentle with his flock and always sang beautifully. The problem was his sermons. To get inspiration he looked at his life, and in particular his children. Whatever stupid thing we had done that week was sure to be brought up as a humorous anecdote that he could use to teach the lesson of the day. It was mortifying. We lived with these people and as well meaning as they were, they would always chuckle over our misadventures and talk to us about them later.
Many pieces. It filled a large cardboard box that we found somewhere. I don’t remember the meaning behind this sermon, perhaps that there is more inside us that is apparent on the surface, or not to judge the outside of people as what is inside is so much more. Or don’t give your children a clock to play with. What ever it was I remember squirming on my pew as the congregation chuckled along. Now I find myself on the other end of the story. Remembering my childhood I try to be sensitive to my children’s feelings but let’s face it, they will most likely never read this, and as 3 out of 4 are now grown with their own lives they might like to hear these stories. It does, however, remind me of a TV show I used to watch. Perhaps you did too. Here is one of my favorite quotes from Friends that seems appropriate in this situation: “Oh my God. I’ve become my father. I’ve been trying so hard not to become my mother, I didn’t see this coming.” — Rachel Green, The One With Phoebe’s Cookies
Catherine Uretsky
Editor, Up The Hill Magazine info@estrellapublishing.com 623.594.9283
One time I remember Dad told the story of our one and only attempt at clock maintenance. He had on old clock that I believe he found at a yard sale, intending to wind it up and put it on the mantelpiece. It must have needed more than winding so he gave it to us to see what we could learn from it. As the story goes we gave it back to him pretty quickly in pieces. Up The Hill
February 2018
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February Calendar February 2018
March ►
◄ January
Sun
Mon
Tue
Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat
1 Hugs & Stitches 9am Storytime 10:30am Bunco 7pm
2 Groundhog Day Nat’l Wear Red Coffee Social 8:30am Bridge 12:45pm Life Adjustment Group 6pm
3 Estrella Badlanders 11am
4 Super Bowl World Cancer Day
5 Bridge 12:45pm Mahjong 3pm EMR Communications Meeting 5:30pm Games Club 6pm
6 EMR Business Group 8am Sisters in Stitches 10am
7 Nat’l Signing Day Ladies of the Lake 12pm Poker 1pm EMES/WES Early Release EMR Budget Meeting 4:30pm Bridge 6pm City Park & Rec Meeting 6pm
8 Hugs & Stitches 9am Photo Group 7pm
9 Coffee Social 8:30am Bridge 12:45pm
10 EMR Car Club 9am Sailing Classes 10am Vet & Milirary Group 12pm
11 Estrella Motorcycle Riding Group 11am
12 Bridge 12:45pm Mahjong 3pm Games Club 6pm City Council Meeting 6pm Trivia Night 6:30pm LESD Board Meeting
13 Mardi Gras Pancake Day World Radio Day Sisters in Stitches 10am
14 Valentine's Day Ash Wednesday Int’l Condom Day Book Club 10am Poker 1pm EMES/WES Early Release Bridge 6pm Photo Club 7pm
15 Edward Jones Finanical Group 9am Hugs & Stitches 9am Sisters Reading Sisters 6pm
16 Chinese New Year EMES/WES No School Coffee Social 8:30am Bridge 12:45pm Robert Mac Comedy Show 5:30pm & 8pm
17 EMR Farmers Market 10am RC Mariners Regatta 10am
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19 Presidents Day EMES/WES No School Bridge 12:45pm Mahjong 3pm Games Club 6pm Crafters Club 6:30pm Genealogy Group 6:45pm
20 Sisters in Stitches 10am EMR Social Comm. Meeting 5pm EMR New Resident Orientation 6:30pm
21 Int’l Mother Language Poker 1pm EMES/WES Early Release Bridge 6pm
22 Nat’l Margarita Day Hugs & Stitches 9am EMR Business Group’s Open House 5:30p Photo Group 7pm
23 Coffee Social 8:30am Bridge 12:45pm EMR Landscape Comm. Meeting 3pm Drive-In Movie (Double Feature 6:30pm
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25 EMES PTO Color Run 7am
26 Bridge 12:45pm Mahjong 3pm Games Club 6pm City Council Meeting 6pm
27 Sisters in Stitches 10am RC Mariners Practice 12pm EMR HOA Meeting 6:30pm
28 Poker 1pm Bridge 6pm Photo Group 7pm
Notes: Black History Month, American Heart Month Birthstone: Amethyst Fruits & Veggies: Organes, Calabaza Squash, Bitter Melon, Star Fruit, Chayote Squash Flower: Violet Astological: Aquarius (till 18th) & Pisces (19th+)
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February 2018
Up The Hill
February 2018
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College Costs With student debt increasingly becoming a longterm burden on graduates and families, says Peter Gayle, a vice president for Prudential Advisors, it’s never been more important to minimize the out-ofpocket expenses to put a student through college and reduce reliance on student loans. To put the weight of student debt in perspective, The Federal Reserve Bank of New York noted that in 1995, 54 percent of graduates had loans averaging $11,491. It’s more recent data in 2015 showed 71 percent of graduates joined the workforce with student debt averaging slightly more than $35,000. What’s more, the Federal Reserve Bank of New York estimates 25 percent of those who owe federal student loans are delinquent or in default. The good news is that anyone willing to put in the time can likely find programs that help foot the bill - helping to reduce the need to take out loans - so a student’s education won’t break the budget or jeopardize a financial future. According to Gayle, families can take a few initial steps before choosing a school: * Learn how the financial aid process works and get the most out of options that don’t need to be repaid. * Understand each school’s actual net price after financial aid - and set realistic expectations, choosing from the most affordable institutions. * Explore types of financial aid, including grants, work study programs and scholarships; examine the specific types of aid available per school and find out how much of a family’s demonstrated financial need each school will cover. * Understand the kinds of loans available, including a variety of federal loans and private loans, which may be used to fill any financing gaps after exhausting other options.
Education, which offers information about borrowing and repaying loans. There are multiple options to repay federally funded student loans, which generally require repayments to start six or nine months after a student graduates, leaves school or drops to half-time enrollment. A few popular choices for repayment include types of income-driven plans, which calculate payments based on a borrower’s ability to repay. One catch: It’s critical to re-certify income and family size annually to avoid huge monthly payment increases. When debt becomes too burdensome, some loan programs offer forgiveness through public service, federal government employment, and options like teaching in underserved school districts. Private loans are trickier since there is no standard: Interest rates and repayment terms vary from lender to lender. It’s also worth considering the need for life insurance to cover the full loan balance to aid co-signers or beneficiaries in the event of the borrower’s death, says Gayle. Employers are also beginning to offer employee student debt benefits to put their employees on a course for financial security. Studies show college education can be worth the price. The U.S. Census Bureau estimates that students who attend college can earn nearly twice as much over their lifetimes as those with only a high school diploma. But with college tuition continuing to rise, families must find the most effective way to finance a child’s college education to avoid jeopardizing their ability to save for retirement.
* Understand how parents’ “available income” is used to calculate how much parents are expected to contribute to their child’s education, especially for federal financial aid purposes. For families that must use student loans, the federal government is making it easier to understand how to borrow, process applications and repay loans through new online tools. Since 2010, all new federal loans, except Federal Perkins Loans, have been issued through the U.S. Department of
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February 2018
Hearing Aids Being an informed health care consumer is hard work. There is information everywhere. But how do you sift through it and make sense of it all? And how do you know what is reliable and what isn’t? Sorting through the noise when buying hearing aids is no exception. In the past several months, there has been significant media coverage and social media discussion about the Over-the-Counter Hearing Aid Act of 2017, which will make certain types of hearing aids available over the counter in the next several years. At the same time, there are many advertisements about devices called Personal Sound Amplification Products (PSAPs) - which are not hearing aids and are not designed to treat hearing loss - adding to the confusion. To help consumers cut through the clutter, the Better Hearing Institute (BHI) has pulled together six essential facts for people with hearing loss who are considering the purchase of hearing aids. 1) Addressing hearing loss promptly and appropriately is important for health and quality of life. Research shows that hearing loss is linked to cognitive decline and dementia, depression, an increased risk of falls and hospitalization, and greater health care costs. 2) Hearing loss is not a simple mechanical issue and cannot be remedied as easily as buying a pair of reader glasses at the grocery store. Hearing loss is a complex sensory loss. It involves brain function and frequency losses specific to the individual. Human hearing involves a multifaceted interplay between specific parts of the ears and brain. For this reason, hearing aids - which are designed specifically to compensate for hearing loss - must be cleared by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to ensure safety and efficacy. 3) Hearing aids need to be custom-fitted and programmed specifically for the individual so they correctly address those specific frequencies the individual has trouble hearing. The beauty of authentic hearing aids is that they’re tailored - through personalized fitting, programming and follow-up adjustments - to correctly address those specific frequencies the individual has trouble hearing. This gives the wearer the greatest benefit and ensures that the level of amplification is appropriate across the entire frequency spectrum. Follow-up hearing aid adjustments, along with training to help consumers adjust to amplification Up The Hill
and re-learn how to hear and process sounds they had been missing, further increase user satisfaction. 4) Personal sound amplifiers (PSAPs) are not hearing aids and are not cleared by the FDA to treat hearing loss. Consumers need to be careful not to confuse hearing aids with PSAPs, which simply turn up the volume - sometimes to dangerously high decibel levels - regardless of the individual’s specific hearing needs. Over-amplifying in this way may put the consumer at risk of greater hearing damage. 5) Seeing a hearing care professional is the best safety net for proper diagnosis and treatment. Going to a hearing care professional helps ensure that any underlying medical issue behind a hearing loss is identified and addressed. It also helps ensure that the person’s hearing loss is safely and effectively treated. Audiologists and hearing aid specialists are expressly trained in all aspects of hearing aids and amplification, and they are statelicensed. Many work in practices with ENT doctors. They have the most appropriate and accurate equipment to give a precise read of an individual’s current hearing level. Involving a hearing health care professional also means the consumer gets maximum benefit from their hearing aids. 6) Currently, hearing aids are only sold by licensed hearing care professionals. The way hearing aids are sold will change in a few years due to the Over-the-Counter Hearing Aid Act of 2017, which was signed into law in August 2017. The safest thing consumers can do for their hearing is to seek professional hearing health care advice from the start. For information on types of hearing loss, visit http://www.betterhearing.org/news/heres-whatyou-need-know-about-different-types-hearing-loss.
February 2018
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Goodyear PD Facing Reality…Thieves Want to Steal Your Identity Let’s face reality… there are more scams and fraud techniques circulating than there are days in the week, month, or even a year. Goodyear Police warn; there are many scammers out there who want to steal your money and identity. The scams and identity theft techniques are varied, from fake IRS and utility company calls, fake charities and the theft of documents with identifying information, often found by thieves in the trash. There are several steps that can be taken to protect oneself from scammers and identity thieves. • Consider call blocking devices or services to avoid receiving robocalls
• Properly dispose of important or identifying documents by shredding Tax season is upon us, so it may be time to dispose of important documents. This year, Goodyear Police Department will be hosting a spring Shred-a-thon event. Watch for event details on the Goodyear Police Department’s website, Facebook, Twitter and Next-door sites. http://www.goodyearaz.gov/ government/departments-divisions-a-z/policedepartment Resources: https://www.usa.gov/identity-theft#item-206114 https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/features/feature0014-identity-theft https://www.identitytheft.gov/
• If an unwanted robocalls come through, hang up • Never give out personal information to an unknown caller • Never pay an unknown caller over the phone • Don’t trust Caller ID, scammers can also fake that by using familiar looking numbers • Avoid giving out social security number unless absolutely necessary • Avoid putting social security number on checks
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Up The Hill
February 2018
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Safety First The ski and snowboard season has arrived, and some areas in the U.S. are already open for business. As snow sports continue to gain popularity, millions of people will be hitting the slopes this winter. With the increase in skier and rider visits, safety is always a top concern. Substantial growth in the number of skiers and riders wearing helmets has made participation in snow sports safer, along with awareness and education campaigns that emphasize the responsibility each skier and rider has every time they take to the slopes. For example, The NSAA and Craig Hospital, a world-renowned rehabilitation and research hospital in Denver for people who have sustained a spinal cord and/or brain injury, are partnering to promote several industry safety campaigns: #RideAnotherDay and ParkSmart. Eighty percent of skiers and snowboarders wore helmets during the most recent ski season, setting yet another record for helmet usage at ski areas across the country. While helmets can help to reduce or prevent certain injuries, they are not foolproof, and there are other safety concerns while skiing. As an avid skier, ski racer and one of the early pioneers of adaptive skiing programs, Dr. Thomas E. Balazy, medical director of Craig Hospital, is a strong proponent of helmets. “Helmets can definitely prevent head injuries while skiing or riding,” said Dr. Balazy. “I would never go out without one, and while I believe that everyone who participates in this sport should wear one at all times, responsible, safe skiing and riding
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is the best way to prevent serious injuries on the mountain.” Kelli Johnson, along with her daughter Elise, inspired the #RideAnotherDay campaign. On the day before Christmas in 2010, Kelli was skiing in northern Wyoming near their home with her oldest child, Elise, 5. When Kelli stopped to help Elise put her ski back on, a snowboarder traveling at more than 50 mph collided with them. The accident was devastating. Elise and the 23-year-old snowboarder died instantly, and Kelli sustained a traumatic brain injury and paralyzed arm. After months of rehabilitating at Craig Hospital, learning to walk, eat and swallow, Kelli has made a remarkable recovery, although she still has some paralysis on the right side of her body. To honor their daughter and create a lasting legacy, Kelli and her husband, Chauncy, partnered with the NSAA to launch a safety campaign titled #RideAnotherDay. “My hope is to get this message out to others,” said Kelli. “If anyone hears this message just once, they will hopefully change how they act and conduct themselves out on the mountain.” Keeping skiers and riders safe while skiing and riding is top of mind for those in the ski industry. The following tips are from the #RideAnotherDay campaign, which is being promoted at more than 300 ski areas around the country: * Be ready to avoid objects and other skiers. * Maintain a safe speed and always ski in control. * Stay alert to what’s going on around you, especially other skiers and riders. * Plan ahead and ease up at blind spots, check uphill when merging onto trails and give others plenty of room when passing. Learning how to ski and ride safely and understanding the rules and etiquette of the mountain can help ensure a fun, safe season on the slopes. For more information on the #RideAnotherDay campaign or ParkSmart, visit NSAA.org.
February 2018
Perception Have you ever heard the phrase ‘perception is reality’? I find two things interesting about the maxim. It’s only been around since the 1980s. I thought it was coined many, many years earlier. It’s also the basis for the MATRIX movie franchise. When you start your day, do you choose the red pill or blue? In the movie, the character Morpheus offers Neo a choice. He can take the red pill to learn, gain knowledge, have freedom, adversity, and the brutal truth of the real world. The blue pill allows him to enjoy blissful ignorance through an illusion. I won’t give any more spoilers in case you haven’t seen the movie. So, which pill would you take? I think there, or should be, a dose of both. The magic of Santa Claus, Tooth Fairy, and Great Pumpkin is real to millions of people. The eyes of a child when he or she sees Santa tells the entire story. It’s reality because it’s real. Comic book legend Stan Lee calls his readers “true believers” because many of us believe his heroes exist. Is it the effects of the blue pill? A more serious effect of the blue pill can be summed up in two words: Yoga pants. Everyone can wear them, but not everyone should actually wear them in public. To say I’m a large guy might be an understatement and I look amazing in yoga
pants. Yoga pants shows off my physique, look trendy, and very comfortable because it moves with me. The red pill version…Eew! Everyone else’s reality is not equal to my perception. In all honesty, I very much know yoga pants aren’t for me. A new option might be the purple pill. It’s a mix of both with the correct side kicking in when we need it. Work, school, and other obligations are the red pill of reality. Daydreaming and imagination are the blue pill of relief. I believe in Santa Claus and my Fairy Godmother knowing neither will help do my chores or pay bills. I’ll state the obvious: You are part of reality. This means everyone views you through the effects of the red, blue, or purple pill. In your reality, you’re just doing your thing. People on the red pill perceive you based on your designation, like friend, parent, coworker, customer, and such. Some might see you as their superhero or role model. This makes you magical. Always remember that as the true reality. Submitted by John Safin, Southwest Valley Chamber of Commerce
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Up The Hill
February 2018
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The Bug Guy Positive communities may differ in what they encourage and how their values get implemented into policy, but, overall, these groups share common characteristics: 1. Work Together for a Common Goal The most effective communities share similar values and belief systems that cooperate to help accomplish one or several goals. These goals can vary radically depending on the community in question. For example, one community may value environmental goals such as promoting recycling and making forest areas friendlier to wildlife while another community may put more value on improving the education system. 2. Allow for Freedom of Expression Central to developing a positive community is comfort among citizens when it comes to speaking their minds and expressing what is important to them. Individuals who feel encouraged to give their input about an issue, who feel heard when they do speak their mind are more likely to feel connected to their community. 3. Promote Fairness Diversity is abundant in all communities. However, among every group containing diversity, there are always individuals who fall in the minority. Positive communities work to ensure that those who fall in minority populations are not treated differently. These communities give a voice to minority populations
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through frequent consultation with members of those societies about how the community can improve to meet their needs better. 4. Set Clear Policies and Obligations Positive communities do not set rules. Instead, they work to encourage community members to fulfil their obligations. This may include things as simple as attending community meetings or paying taxes to support the public-school system. 5. Maintain Sensitivity Towards Members In addition to feeling heard, members of positive communities should also feel as though their concerns are adequately addressed and that they are cared for by the community. Positive communities should prioritize the well-being of every member of the community and address concerns in a timely and sensitive manner when they arise. 6. Promote Interaction Among Members Positive communities work to foster a feeling of genuine connection among members by providing plenty of opportunities for interaction. Creating a feeling of connection works to make members more motivated to meet their obligations and work towards the established goals of the community. Let’s make our community a better place for all of us, be positive. Submitted By Larry Cash, of Estrella Mountain Pest Control, Estrella Resident
February 2018
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February 2018
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February 2018
Healthy Living A new year brings new opportunities to focus on health and fitness. The following are four easy ways to boost your health in less than five minutes per day. Drink water before each meal. Drinking enough water each day helps to boost hydration, improve energy and aid digestion. But drinking before meals may offer another benefit - it can help you to eat less and lose more weight. One study found drinking 16 ounces of water in the half hour before meals led to nearly three pounds of weight loss on average over a 12-week period when compared to those who did not drink before a meal. Make it a habit to take your multivitamin every morning. No matter how healthy your diet, you may fall short on essential nutrients day to day. “Taking a multivitamin is one of the best ways to ensure you are meeting all of your nutritional needs consistently,” states Erin Palinski-Wade, RD, CDE, and spokesperson for Swisse Wellness. When choosing a multivitamin, not just any option will do. “Look for brands that have been clinically tested to ensure they can be utilized and absorbed by the body,” points out Palinski-Wade. “I recommend Swisse Ultivite (R) multivitamins as these
products have been analyzed in over 13 clinical studies and been shown to improve energy and mood, reduce stress and increase mental alertness in both men and women.” Practice belly breathing. High stress levels can increase blood pressure, affect your immune system and cause you to pack on the pounds. To instantly fight stress, remember to breathe. Practicing deep breathing exercises, such as belly breathing, can reduce heart rate and lower stress hormones quickly, helping to prevent stress from having a negative impact on health. To practice, place one hand on your chest and the other on your belly. Breathe in slowly through your nose into your belly. You should feel the hand on your stomach being pushed outward while the hand on your chest remains still. Hold the breath for a few seconds, and then push it out through pursed lips, like you were whistling. Repeat for three slow, deep breaths to instantly feel less stressed. Pick up the intensity of your workout - for one minute. Finding time to exercise can be a challenge, but there is good news for those with maxed-out schedules. A recent study found that just one minute of highintensity exercise may be equivalent to 45 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise. Although you shouldn’t ditch your workout routine completely, when you are short on time, aim to fit in small bursts of exercise throughout the day. Just make sure your doctor clears you for intense exercise before getting started.
Up The Hill
February 2018
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School Zone Community Service: Alive and Thriving at EMES IB Junior High Academy Estrella Mountain Elementary School has been a certified International Baccalaureate school for nearly five years. The IB programs for kindergarten through 8th grade promote strong academics, rigor, and the development of positive social and emotional characteristics. In the IB Junior High program, teachers guide students in 21st century skills to become better learners by establishing “Approaches To Learning� goals based on the IB skills of communication, social, self-management, research, thinking and self-assessment skills. Last August EMES opened the IB Junior High Academy to offer math, English language arts, science and social studies Honors programs, as well as electives that expand opportunities for unique learning experiences. Student enrollment for the school is up 20% and 90% of IB Junior High Academy students report that the Academy has a positive effect on their education. The IB Academy offers electives ranging from Lego Robotics, website design and coding to drawing and photography to sports, dance and choir. Students also have the opportunity to take study hall or a new program called CAP (Cougar Assistance Program) as electives. Students who select CAP as an elective work with elementary students on reading, writing and math and help teachers
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coordinate experiential lessons for which more hands are needed. CAP participation doubled in the second trimester and the older students report that they are learning from the younger students as much as the younger students are learning from them. Junior high CAP participants are finding new ways to make a difference at their school, and some may be discovering that they want to become educators. All IB Academy students participate in community service within the school. EMES provides multiple leadership opportunities for students to earn their hours. They volunteer to help at the school carnival, the winter festival, and athletic events. The Eighth Grade Community Project is an IB program requirement. Student teams independently identify a school or community need through inquiry, collaboratively develop a resolution-based action, and reflect on the results. Examples of successful projects are improvements to the ball field to improve safety, and a community cultural event at Starpointe. Adults who want to become part of the thriving EMES community can check out the volunteer program by stopping in at school or calling the front office at 623-327-2820. Submitted by Cougar Community Volunteers
February 2018
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February 2018
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Money Matters Valentine’s Day is almost here – and it’s a pretty big business. In fact, U.S. consumers spent about $18 billion on their valentines in 2017, according to the National Retail Federation. Of course, recipients certainly appreciate flowers, candy, jewelry and so on, but this year, consider going beyond the traditional favorites to give your loved ones something more long-lasting – a financial gift. And, while you’re doing so, why not also go beyond the traditional definition of a “valentine”? After all, not all that $18 billion went to spouses or significant others. A sizable amount also went to non-romantic connections, including children, parents, friends, teachers – even pets. So, in the spirit of ecumenical Valentine’s Day gift-giving, here are some suggestions for financial gifts for your loved ones: • For spouse or signficant other – One valuable gift to your spouse or significant other might be an IRA contribution. While you can’t directly contribute to someone else’s IRA, you can certainly write a check to that person for that purpose. This gift is particularly valuable because many people have trouble coming up with the maximum annual IRA contribution, which, in 2018, is $5,500, or $6,500 for individuals 50 and older. As an alternative to an IRA contribution, you could give shares of a stock issued by a company whose products or services are enjoyed by your spouse or signfiicant other.
they may still be paying for a supplemental policy, so your gift may well be appreciated. But you might want to go beyond helping them with just a single component of their financial situation and instead provide them with assistance for their “big picture.” To do so, you could arrange a visit with a trusted financial professional, assuming your parents aren’t already using one. This person could look at all issues, including investments, retirement accounts, long-term care and estate-related financial strategies, and then make appropriate recommendations and even referrals to other professionals. Everyone likes the hearts, flowers and sweets of Valentine’s Day. Nonetheless, give some thought to making financial gifts – they can make a difference in your loved ones’ lives long after the chocolates are eaten and the roses have faded. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor, Chris Carlton
• For your children – It’s never too soon to start saving for college for your children. Fortunately, you have a few attractive college-funding vehicles available, one of which is the 529 Savings Plan. You can generally invest in the plan offered by any state, even if you don’t live there. If you do invest in your own state’s plan, you might receive a tax incentive, which could include a deduction, match or credit. Plus, all withdrawals from 529 Savings Plans will be free from federal income taxes and, in most cases, state income taxes as well, as long as the money is used for qualified college or graduate school expenses of the beneficiary you’ve named. (If a withdrawal is taken from a 529 Savings Plan but not used for a qualified expense, the portion of the withdrawal representing earnings is subject to ordinary income tax and a 10% federal penalty.) • For your parents – You can probably find a number of thoughtful and valuable financial gifts for your parents. You could, for example, offer to pay a month’s worth of their premiums for their auto or health insurance. Even if they are on Medicare,
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February 2018
Winter Skin We wait all year for activities that come along with winter, like sipping hot cocoa by the fire or staying in to snuggle up under cozy blankets while re-watching our favorite movies. The winter season also brings some less-than-desirable side effects, though. An alltoo-common winter woe is dry, flaky skin that can feel itchy, tight or painful. In fact, a recent survey conducted revealed that 55 percent of Americans feel having dry skin in the winter and having chapped lips are among the things they dislike most. Moreover, 57 percent of Americans said having healthy skin is more important than staying up-to-date on social media, 23 percent would move to another climate if it promised healthier skin and 18 percent would give up their favorite food for the duration of winter if it meant not having dry skin for the season. Henry shares some of the common causes of dry winter skin, along with her expert tips for cold-weather skincare so you can start feeling better all over. 1. Dry air is everywhere You may think that the outside air is to blame for your dry skin. While this may hold some truth, heated indoor air also has very little humidity. When you spend your life basking in this dry environment, your skin eventually pays the price. “During the winter months, the skin contains more moisture than the air,” Henry says. “What happens is the dry environment leeches the moisture from the skin, leaving it looking and feeling dry and dull.”
Moisture loss, dryness and cracking comes as a result of damage to the skin barrier. To replenish your taxed skin, slather on a rich emollient that contains ceramides daily. Ceramides are like the mortar that holds the bricks of your skin together and are essential to healthy skin. 2. Too much (or not enough) exfoliation Make no mistake, exfoliation is important to yearround skincare, but adding it in the winter is essential. This process clears away dead skin cells and product residue, letting your winter moisturizers penetrate the skin and work more effectively, Henry says. Steer clear of products with beads and grains that strip and irritate the skin, especially in the winter. Instead, choose formulas designed to be gentle on sensitive complexions. 3. Too many long, hot showers On a cold winter morning, a long shower that really steams up the mirror is relaxing and feels great. However, Dr. Henry says these long sessions are drying for the skin (and don’t get you any cleaner). “I recommend that my patients keep showers under 10 minutes in lukewarm water,” Henry says. Afterwards, she says, pat yourself with a towel so some moisture is left behind on the skin, and then seal it in by applying lotion all over. 4. Excessive hand washing Hands can take a beating during the winter months. With germs running rampant all season, hand -washing is important to stay healthy, but those who wash their hands frequently tend to suffer more from dry skin, she says. Give hands some extra TLC this time of year. After washing, always apply a thick lotion to protect against and heal dry, cracked hands. 5. Your products are too harsh Your winter skin care regimen should be different from your summer routine. Many summertime products are designed to remove dirt, oil and sweat, but when it gets colder and dryer, these products may become drying and irritating. Henry recommends switching your facial cleanser or body wash from a foam or gel to a cream-based moisturizing formula.
Up The Hill
February 2018
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Rent v’s Own If you’re thinking of buying your first home, you’ve probably wrestled with the decision to rent or own your home - and for good reason. Owning a home is a big commitment. With it comes a lot of responsibility and a long-term financial relationship. But which is right for you? To answer that, let’s lean into the facts. Good news! Since the depths of the recession, the housing market has made a heroic comeback. That can be attributed to a number of factors, including a drop in unemployment and a stronger economy. But as the housing market has recovered, it has experienced some growing pains. With a sharp increase in demand, housing supplies are being strained. This means, among other things, that prices are going up. For families and individuals still recovering financially, finding affordable housing options can be difficult. This applies to home sales and rentals. With rental and sales markets heading toward record highs, the decision falls back to what is best for you. Specifically, what is financially feasible. Let’s look at the basic numbers. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the median gross rent paid from 2012 to 2016 was $949 monthly. Compare that with the median selected monthly owner costs with a mortgage, which was $1,491 over the same time period. Then there are utilities. The median monthly electricity cost for renters in 2015 was $82, with owners paying $117. For piped gas, the median amount renters pay monthly is $42, while owners pay $58.
20 Up The Hill
Some landlords will also charge maintenance and other fees. Utility costs will also vary depending on the quality of the structure and materials used as well as size of the rental space. Homeowners will pay property taxes, insurance and an estimated $500 annually for routine maintenance, according to the Census Bureau. At a glance, it may seem that renting is the lower cost option. But there are certain benefits to homeownership that may offset the additional regular costs. According to the Tax Policy Center, the primary benefit to owning a home is imputed rental income. Simply put, making a monthly payment on a home that you own is like paying rent to yourself. While that money is not taxed, it comes with another benefit potential tax deductions. When you file your federal taxes, you may be able to deduct a portion of the mortgage interest you pay. Talk to a tax professional for more information on the expenses you can deduct and the limits for those deductions. Homeownership provides a variety of benefits beyond the numbers. For many people, a home is the largest investment they will ever make. The upgrades, work and care put into the home that you own can add value to your investment. It also adds a sense of pride knowing that it is yours. “Having a place to call your own, a place to return to at the end of the day, makes life better,” said Vanderbilt Mortgage and Finance, Inc. President Eric Hamilton. “You can see it from the moment they make the decision - that sense of pride. It’s a life-changing event and a memory that will last a lifetime.”
February 2018
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Up The Hill
February 2018
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22 Up The Hill
February 2018
Living With Faith Most of us, I am sure, have heard over the year’s sermons and lessons regarding life and all its mysteries. Most, I am sure, sit back and think “here we go again” – we are going to hear how to live our lives and what we are doing wrong. Seldom do we hear what we are doing right. Well, I am not going to disappoint you. However, what I will try to do is explain our understanding of life at this time of in our lives – not how it was years ago when we were strong and virile, but right now as we continue to mature and find it difficult to understand where we fit at this time. Everyone has their troubles. As the story goes: A pregnant woman goes into labor, and her husband takes her to the hospital. Throughout the night, he hears moans coming from her room. He’s a nervous wreck, pacing back and forth hour after hour, sweat running down his face. Finally the doctor rushes out. “Congratulations! You have a girl.” “Thank God,” the man says. “She’ll never have to go through what I just did.” We look around and see friends and neighbors who have experienced infirmities and we lend a helping hand and then realize it could be us. There are times when I visit patients in the hospital or attempt to comfort those in Hospice or console those who have lost a loved one, then I think about this. But then I think about how we can make our lives more meaningful and fulfilling. It certainly isn’t by admonishing some for their lack of respect or consideration. It certainly isn’t by criticizing people who have differing views about religion or politics. It certainly isn’t by finding fault with some who don’t live up to our expectations.
people we are comfortable with. That, in itself is not bad except that we shut out people who might enjoy being part of our lives and we theirs. • We do have a future and we should be concerned about it. All of us together form a community that needs each other because we share the same values and because we share the same ailments and frustrations. • We have the ability to make a difference in our community by setting an example that exemplifies our dedication to survival. • Be kind to one another • Smile at each other To understand life we should concentrate on the hope and faith that tomorrow will be better because we will it. To understand life we need to remove the nothingness in our lives and replace it with purpose. The end will come soon enough. Let’s not rush it by destroying ourselves with things that don’t matter. God is here with us waiting for us to stop hating; to cease saying words that have no meaning and are hurtful; to ignore the urge to break hearts by isolating ourselves from those we love and love us; to remember that we are all created in the image of God which allows us to appreciate each other. Rabbi Irwin Wiener, D.D. Sun Lakes Jewish Congregation National Chaplain, Jewish War Veterans, USA
We shape our destiny by words and deeds. These actions represent the blessing or the curse that we will discover as we continue to live and learn. We tend to concentrate on our hurts whether physical or mental. So how do we gain a better understanding of life at this stage in our lives? Unfortunately that is not so easy to accomplish because for one thing we are products of our previous environments and can’t seem to break out of the mold and for another we feel that as we age we can’t change. Here are my suggestions that hopefully can steer us on a path of gratification and completion: • We need to be more inclusive. We tend to segregate ourselves by associating with Up The Hill
February 2018
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Life As A Caregiver I am a pretty positive person by nature. I tend to view things with the glass half full. That doesn’t mean I’m a Pollyanna. But it means I would rather be happy than sad. But dealing with a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease sometimes makes being happy a challenge. It not only impacts your day-to-day existence, but in can creep into how you react to other issues that come up. Take this week, for example. The husband of a very good friend of mine had a severe stroke early in the week. The prognosis is unclear, but he has a very long road ahead of him, if he makes it at all. His wife is just devastated. They both are just wonderful people whom I adore. And there’s nothing I can do to fix this. Oh yes…..I am there for her. I call and comfort and pray and support. And I will make meals and run errands and whatever else I can do to assist. But that’s about it. Doesn’t seem like very much. But I know it is. I am so sad and very teary. Then a day later, I found out that a dear friend of mine is under hospice care and is unresponsive. She had cancer about 2 years ago, beat it and moved back up to Washington state with her husband to be closer to family. Then the bloody cancer came back…with a vengeance. Treatments haven’t worked and all I’ve been able to do (with the help of our two other friends who all paled around together as a group) is declare my love and support through sending cards and texts. There is nothing I can do to fix this. I am so sad and very teary. And then today I learned she died. My dear friend died….way too soon. But at least she is out of her pain and with the angels.
on all the natural burdens of life and have a harder time coping with them because they pile up inside. I am lucky that I can get through them. God truly made me strong in many ways. But I am also quite emotional at the same time. Not the fall-apart emotional. But the teary and heavy-heart kind. I wasn’t able to cry my eyes out over the loss of my friend until my mom was settled and ready for bed. I wasn’t able to be quiet and pensive and deep in my thoughts over the stroke my friend had until mom was comfortable and secure for the night. But that’s the way it is. I must be strong for her and not visibly sad or it will only make her sad. For the moment anyway. She won’t remember why I’m sad, but like I said, she & I live in the moment. So what’s the solution to help keep my sanity and allow me to take care of myself? Working out is good. Taking short respites is also good. And I do both. But my love for my mom is unconditional and watching her go through this brings tears to my eyes as fast as I can snap my fingers. Which is what I wish I could do to rid her of this horrible disease! Submitted by Kathy Linton, West Valley Resident
Also today, as I was giving my mom her breakfast, she tried to find a word to express what she wanted me to do. And it wouldn’t come. And she broke down and cried out of total frustration. The inability to find words to express yourself is an effect of Alzheimer’s. She hasn’t had that problem very often, so this could be a sign of continued deterioration. I settled her down, was kind and soft with her and explained that this was a symptom of Alzheimer’s, not about her being stupid (which she claims she is). She snapped out of it quickly and she resumed breakfast. But I couldn’t fix it. And when I left her room, I was sad and teary. And that’s what happens to caregivers. They take
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February 2018
Puzzles & Games Sudoku for February
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Sudoku Solution 5
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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WORD SEARCH
Valentine Riddles Q: What did the stamp say to the envelope on Valentine’s Day? A: I’m stuck on you! Q: What travels around the world but stays in one corner? A: A stamp. Q: Why is lettuce the most loving vegetable? A: Because it’s all heart. Q: What do squirrels give for Valentine’s Day? A: Forget-me-nuts. Q: What did one volcano say to the other? A: I lava you. Q: What is a vampire’s sweetheart called? A: His ghoul-friend. Q: Why did the banana go out with the prune? A: Because it couldn’t get a date. Q: What happens when you fall in love with a french chef? A: You get buttered up. Q: What did the caveman give his wife on Valentine’s Day? A: Ughs and kisses! Q: Why did the boy put candy under his pillow? A: Because he wanted sweet dreams. Q: What did the paper clip say to the magnet? A: I find you very attractive. Up The Hill
February 2018
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Business Directory AUTO SERVICES A Plus Automotive Desert Princess Car Service Leading Edge Detailing Litchfield Auto Repair
623.986.1586 602.300.7076 602.554.6152 623.882.8700
BUSINESS & LEGAL SERVICES Estrella Partners Group Edward Jones - Christopher Carlton Kramer Legacy Documents Mahoney Law Office Richard Tax Service State Farm Insurance - D Aaron State Farm Insurance -T Gremillion The Insurance Lady
623.594.9283 623.386.1940 623.299.2592 623.518.3513 623.925.9953 480.948.2005 623.386.7767 602.799.8410
HEALTH & BEAUTY Dr. Nemechek Healthy Life Family Medicine Mtn. Ranch Family Dentistry NextCare Uregent Care Permanent Make Up Skincare Extraordinaire
623.208.4226 623.889.3477 623.327.0231 623.889.6823 602.295.7373 623.826.3726
HOUSEHOLD SERVICES 1 Buckeye Plumbing 5 Dog Electric A Call Painting Al’s Pumbing Beckham Electric Canyon Lake Construction Century Glass & Mirror Cluff Mechanical Heating & AC Desired Handyman Dirt Busters House Cleaning Eco Maids 4 You Estrella Mountain Pest Control Hardy Solar Solutions J & H Appliance Repair Merry Maids The Window Cleaner AZ
623.386.0710 623.313.5685 602.422.3648 623.329.5170 480.370.1014 602.574.6760 623.444.6204 602.765.COOL 623.910.5183 623.977.6725 623.910.2202 623.680.6619 206.399.4652 623.925.5427 623.738.1789 623.738.6064
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Urgent Air Williams Air & Heating Younger Brothers Exterminating Younger Brothers Plumbing
602.377.1999 602.549.9222 623.487.3147 623.487.3130
LANDSCAPING & POOL CARE Buckeye Desert Landscape Estrella Owner Services Gemstone Landscape Jackrabbit Nursery Lakeside Pools Pool & Landscape AZ Xpress Pool Service
602.527.2818 623.693.5695 623.695.5338 623.386.4700 602.799.3623 480.999.3348 623.853.6859
PET CARE Creatures Companions Estrella In Home Animal Care
623.215.6699 623.476.7074
PHOTOGRAPHY & WEB DESIGN Estrella Partners Web Design
623.594.9283
REAL ESTATE Realty One Group - Budge Team Realty One Group - Gale Samuelsen Realty One Group - Jen Polansky Realty One Group - Tara Rutkowski REMAX Preferred Choice - Estrella West USA Realty - Lisa Sowada
623.694.3907 602.327.7938 480.577.3918 623.640.6546 623.850.0005 623.326.4721
RECREATION Elutheria Wellness Center KFNX 1100AM Radio
623.986.5110 602.277.1100
RETAIL SERVICES Budget Blinds of Goodyear Element Sun Screens Estrella Ordnance Pure Patio Steel Shield Security Doors
480.629.8854 602.999.4384 623.262.2154 623.299.8000 623.977.3277
February 2018
Useful Numbers HOA CONTACTS: Community Services - after hours CCMC Starpointe Residents Club Youth Club Yacht Club Community Patrol GOVERNMENT CONTACTS: Animal Control City Hall Code Compliance Finance Department Post Office (Estrella Pkwy & Yuma) Public Relations Public Works State Wildlife Dept
623.386.1112 800.274.3165 480.921.7500 623.386.1949 623.386.1949 623.386.3411 602.329.0462 602.506.7387 623.932.3910 623.882.7815 623.932.3015 623.882.9143 623.882.7820 623.932.3010 602.942.3000
MEDICAL / FIRE: Emergencies Police - Non-Emergency Fire Department - Non-Emergency Poison Control Center West Valley Hospital
911 623.932.1220 623.932.2300 800.222.1222 623.882.1500
MISCELLANEOUS: Golf Club of Estrella Players Grill Elliot Market Up The Hill magazine
623.386.2600 623.386.2600 623.386.2111 623.594.9283
RELIGIOUS SERVICES: Estrella Mountain Church Estrella Foothills Community Church
623.386.0300 623.363.7857
ESTRELLA GROUPS & CLUBS: Book Club 623.810.3494 Bridge mmendrick@q.com Bunco 623.242.7877 Car Club estrellamountaincarclub@yahoo.com Hugs & Stitches 623.393.9255 Mah Jong 623.386.5238 Estrella Badlanders Motorcycle Riding Group 602.469.2496 Estrella Conservative Republican Club emrc9876@gmail.com Estrella Motorcycle Riding Group Lacy.Wetzel@gmail.com Guitar Club 623.800.3997 Hiking Group mhartsfield@cox.net Ladies of the Lake 623.386.4754 LD04-MC Democrats Group 623.696.5962 Photo Group 623.327.0240 Pickleball 623.262.1437 Play Group 602.803.1389 Poker 602.206.8580 Sisters In Stitches 623.251.7920 Travel Club 623.327.9730
SCHOOLS: Estrella Mountain Elementary School 623.327.7171 Westar Elementary School 623.327.2840 Estrella Foothills High School 623.327.2470 UTILITIES: APS Cox Internet Southwest Gas City - Water/Sewer/Trash
602.371.3614 855.766.9812 602.861.1999 623.932.3010
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February 2018
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TOP 10 QUESTIONS TO ASK WHEN INTERVIEWING A REALTOR
WITH 45,000 REALTORS® IN ARIZONA, MAKE SURE THE ONE YOU PICK IS RIGHT FOr YOU. 1. HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN IN RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE SALES? IS IT YOUR FULL-TIME JOB? While experience is no guarantee of skill, real estate - like many other professions - is mostly learned on the job. 2. HOW MANY HOMES DID YOU AND YOUR REAL ESTATE BROKERAGE SELL LAST YEAR & IN WHAT AREA? By asking this question, you’ll get a good idea of how much experience the practitioner has. 3. HOW MANY DAYS DID IT TAKE YOU TO SELL THE AVERAGE HOME? HOW DID THAT COMPARE TO THE OVERALL MARKET? The REALTOR® you interview should have these facts on hand, and be able to present market statistics from the local MLS to provide a comparison. 4. HOW CLOSE TO THE INITIAL ASKING PRICES OF THE HOMES YOU SOLD WERE THE FINAL SALE PRICES? This is one indication of how skilled the REALTOR® is at pricing homes and marketing to suitable buyers. Of course, other factors also may be at play, including an exceptionally hot or cool real estate market. 5. WHAT TYPES OF SPECIFIC MARKETING SYSTEMS AND APPROACHES WILL YOU USE TO SELL MY HOME? You don’t want someone who’s going to put a For Sale sign in the yard and hope for the best. Look for someone who has aggressive and innovative approaches, and knows how to market your property competitively on the Internet. Buyers today want information fast, so it’s important that your REALTOR® is responsive. 6. WILL YOU REPRESENT ME EXCLUSIVELY, OR WILL YOU REPRESENT BOTH THE BUYER AND THE SELLER IN THE TRANSACTION? While it’s usually legal to represent both parties in a transaction, it’s important to understand where the practitioner’s obligations lie. Your REALTOR® should explain his or her agency relationship to you and describe the rights of each party. 7. CAN YOU RECOMMEND SERVICE PROVIDERS WHO CAN HELP ME OBTAIN A MORTGAGE, MAKE HOME REPAIRS, AND HELP WITH OTHER THINGS I NEED DONE? Because REALTORS® are immersed in the industry, they’re wonderful resources as you seek lenders, home improvement companies, and other home service providers. Practitioners should generally recommend more than one provider and let you know if they have any special relationship with or receive compensation from any of the providers. 8. WHAT’S YOUR BUSINESS PHILOSOPHY? While there’s no right answer to this question, the response will help you assess what’s important to the agent and determine how closely the agent’s goals and business emphasis mesh with your own. 9. HOW WILL YOU KEEP ME INFORMED ABOUT THE PROGRESS OF MY TRANSACTION? HOW FREQUENTLY? Again, this is not a question with a correct answer, but it reflects your desires. Do you want updates twice a week or do you not want to be bothered unless there’s a hot prospect? Do you prefer phone, e-mail, or a personal visit? 10. COULD YOU PLEASE GIVE ME THE NAMES AND PHONE NUMBERS OF YOUR THREE MOST RECENT CLIENTS? Ask recent clients if they would work with this REALTOR® again. Find out whether they were pleased with the communication style, follow-up, and work ethic of the REALTOR®.
The RIGHT REALTOR WILL MAKE ALL THE DIFFERENCE. Top 1% of Realtors in Phoenix
Over $45 Million Sold Since 2011
Jennifer Polansky 480.577.3918 | JJPrealty@gmail.com www.JenniferPolansky.com
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February 2018