Up The Hill
April 2017
1
From Me To You... Welcome
to the April edition of Up The Hill magazine!
Our beautiful cover models this month are both Holocaust survivors who met and married many years later. We had the pleasure of meeting them at Canta Mia recently. Read their full story in our On The Cover article. It has come to my attention that many of you don’t know how we choose our cover models. Well let me explain the process... I get a call, or an e-mail (sometimes even a text) from someone who a) wants to be on a cover, b) knows someone who has done something worthy of recognition or c) wants to let the community know about a local club or group for the residents. I will get in touch with them and as long as they live here (or occasionally have a strong connection to our community) I will arrange the photo shoot and cover interview. The whole process is relatively painless, no husbands have been harmed in the photo sessions, and it takes under an hour altogether. Some months I have many covers “in the bag” and other months I am scrambling to find people willing to share their lives with us.
candidate has a cover it says on there that it is ‘paid for by ...’ Which leads me to the question of price for residents. There is none. If you are a resident and want to pose for my camera it costs you nothing but time. And of course you will be stopped from time to time when someone recognizes you as the star that you are! I hope that clears up the great mystery of “How to get on a cover” and that perhaps some of you feel inspired to get in touch and become a future cover model yourselves. It is also a great way for fledgling clubs and groups to get the word out there that you exist!
Catherine Uretsky
Editor, Up The Hill Magazine info@estrellapublishing.com 623.594.9283 Please patronize our advertisers, after all they are the reason you get this magazine for free every month! Don’t forget to visit our website for puzzle solutions, restaurant reviews, coupons, and business directories! www. EstrellaPublishing.com
There have been instances when a company has requested to purchase the cover as advertising space. It happens, but not very often. In that case it is obviously an advertisement, for example if a political
The Church at Litchfield Park “A House of Prayer for All People” Palm Sunday April 9 8:00 ~ 9:15 10:45 a.m. Maundy Thursday April 13 ~ 6:30 p.m.
Good Friday April 14 6:30 p.m.
Sunrise Easter Service April 16 ~ 6:00 a.m. Easter Services April 16 8:00 ~ 9:15 10:45 a.m.
300 N Old Litchfield Rd. ♦ (623) 935-3411 ♦ www.churchatlitchfieldpark.org
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April 2017
Where To Look 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 2009-2017 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.
Calendar ~ pg 4 On Our Cover ~ pg 6 It Aint Over ~ 7 Spring Cleaning ~ pg 13 Medical Advances ~ pg 15 Bug Guy ~ pg 16 School Zone ~ pg 19 Home Sweet Home ~ pg 20 Money Matters ~ pg 24 Puzzles And Games ~ pg 29
Catherine Uretsky Publisher & Editor
Al Uretsky Publisher & Sales Exec
Business Directory ~ pg 30 Useful Numbers ~ pg 31
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Up The Hill
April 2017
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April
Calendar
April 2017
◄ March
Sun
Mon
Tue
Wed
Thu
Fri
May ►
Sat
1 April Fool’s Day • City Farmers
Market
• EMR Fun Run • EMR
EggStravaganza!
• EMR Badlanders • City Concert Series
2 Autism Awareness
3
• EMR Chess Club
• Bridge • Mahjong • Games Club
9 Plam Sunday
• EMR Motorcycle Riding
Group • EMR Chess Club • MTV Movie Awards
16 Passover
• EMR Business
Mahjong Games Club Trivia Night City Council Meeting • LESD Board Meeting • • • •
• • • •
Tax Day Mahjong Games Club Genealogy Club
5
• Playgroup • Ladies of the
Group • Sisters in Stitches Lake • Canasta • Poker • EMR Social • Bridge • EMES/WES Committee Early Release
10 Nat’l Siblings Day 11 Passover
17 Passover
• Easter • Chess Club
4
• Sisters in Stitches • Canasta
18
• Sisters in Stitches • Canasta
12 Passover
Playgroup Book Club Poker Bridge EMES/WES Early Release • Photo Group • • • • •
19
• Playgroup • Poker • Art Gallery
Comm. Meeting
• Bridge • EMES/WES
6
• Storytime • EMR
Communications Comm. Meeting • Bunco
13 Passover
• Holy Thursday • Photo Group
20
• Edward Jones
Financial Group • EMR Bingo • City HS Baseball Night
7 World Health Day 8 City Farmers Market • • • •
Trash Pickup • EMR Car Club Coffee Social • Lakeside Music Brew & Banter Fest LP Cocnert Series
14 Passover • • • •
Good Friday Trash Pickup Coffee Social EMES/WES NO SCHOOL
21
• Trash Pickup • EMR Family
Campout
15 Passover
• Record Store Day • EMR Scrapbooking
Club
• City Farmers
Market
• City Concert Series
22 Earth Day
• EMR Family
Campout
• City Farmers
Market
• Bubble Run
Early Release
• City P&Z
23
Holocaust Remem. Day Divine Mercy Sun. English Language Day World Immunization Week • EMR Safet Day • Chess Club • • • •
30 Int’l Jazz Day • Chess Club
24
• Mahjong • EMR Budget
Meeting
25
26
27
World Malaria Day • Admininstrative • Photo Group Sisters in Stitches Professionals Canasta Comm. Meeting Day • Games Club EMR HOA • Playgroup • City Council • Poker Meeting • Bridge Meeting • EMES/WES Early Release • City Youth Comm. Meeting Notes: National Poetry Month, Sexual Assault Awareness and Preventon National Autism Awareness, Stress Awareness Month, National Donate Life Month. Birthstone: Siamond and Crystal Fruit & Veggies: Strawberries, Asian Pears Flower: Daisy and Sweet Pea Astrological Signs: Aries (til 19th) & Taurus (20th+) • • • •
28 Arbor Day
• Trash Pickup
29
• Remembrance
Victims of Chem. Warfare • Duke Ellington Day • City Farmers Market • EMES/WES Gate Testing
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April 2017
Up The Hill
April 2017
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On Our Cover
Our cover models this month are Fred and Vera Greenwood. We met them at a special event hosted by the Shalom Club in Canta Mia. Fred and Vera are both Holocaust survivors and their story touched our hearts as I am sure it will move you.
Fred Greenwood was born in Holland, a cosmopolitan country, no-one thought it would be dragged into any trouble. Early in 1940, Mr. Greenwood remembers listening to the radio and hearing Hitler give a speech to a German crowd. His family didn’t speak German, but knew the word, “Juden,” and understood they were hearing a well-received hate-speech against Jews. On May 10th that same year Hitler invaded Holland. Within five days, the entire Dutch government was replaced by Germans. Jews were not allowed in parks, in public swimming pools; they were not allowed to use cars or bicycles; they could not hold certain professions, and they could not socialize with non-Jews. The most traumatizing aspect of this was that as time passed, they noticed that more and more children disappeared. Without a goodbye or mention of plans to leave, the children simply vanished, leaving Freddy and his brothers to wonder what could have happened to them. A plan was made to hide the children in the homes of local families, moving him frequently and covertly. One night he was taken by bicycle to the first of many safe houses. With each “new address,” Freddy was given an escape route so that he could be ready to flee if there was any sign of Nazi soldiers coming to the home, luckily that never happened. In 1944 after 2 years of hiding, Holland was liberated and Freddy could
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come out of hiding. One of his brothers survived the war as did his mother, the other was never heard from again. In 1952, after finding no real job or career that interested him, Freddy received the permanent visa he needed to move to America. Upon entering the New York harbor on ship, he remembers being so joyous, that he waved to the Statue of Liberty as he sailed by. He met and married his wife Anita and they settled in NY until a family vacation to Phoenix convinced them to relocate. Vera Kielsky-Greenwood’s family had lived in Germany for 1000 years. Her father was a successful criminal lawyer until Hitler’s laws prohibited Jews being hired by non-Jews. In 1933 soldiers appeared at their door and threw their entire library of books out into the street. That was enough for Vera’s father who, the next day, applied for visas from the British consulate to Palestine. He paid £1000 so the three could leave Germany as soon as possible. This was a vast amount of money at the time and they were now poor. At the train station, Mrs. Greenwood remembers all the extended family coming to say goodbye. Half of them said, “You’re crazy! This madness will soon pass. This is Germany.” The other half said, “Good luck. We wish we could go with you.” Life in Palestine was hard for the family. They were swindled out of what little money they had left by an unscrupulous business partner, they had to learn a new language (Hebrew), and survived on her mother’s modest salary and the one hot meal a day she made as a local cook. After six years her father earned his Juris Doctorate
degree. Soon after, he was hired by the British government as legal advisor. In 1978, Mrs. Greenwood was selected to go to Phoenix on a Fulbright International Teacher’s Exchange. She then attended ASU for a Ph.D. in English Language and Literature. Mr. Kielsky developed lung cancer and died in January 1993. As members of Beth El, the couple had made many friends among the shul’s members. After Mr. Kielsky’s death, a friend in the congregation offered to take Mrs. Greenwood on a trip to Laughlin. On the way back Mrs. Greenwood sat in the front seat and began conversing with Mr. Greenwood. The conversation quickly became astounding. The two had an incredible amount of things in common: •Both had recently been widowed •Each had been married for nearly 40 years •Both had visited Jerusalem at the same time that summer •Each spouse was born in the same year and died of cancer within 5 days of one another •Each had two boys and one girl •Each had their eldest boy living in Jerusalem, and each son had 3 boys and 1 daughter •Each had a son living in Chandler off the same street, and both of them had 1 girl and 1 boy 1 year apart in age •Each had a daughter married to a non-Jew by the name of John and had no children •When Mr. Greenwood was invited to Vera’s home, he noticed that they had the same pattern dishes and flatware. It seemed inevitable that these two people would end up married. They had 120 people attend their wedding, and of those, about 110 already knew each other. April 2017
It Aint Over!
Sara Gilligan for City Council
this station, our city is paying attention to our needs.
Exciting news! I am in a runoff election for the open seat on Goodyear City Council. I am so excited for this second opportunity to win your vote for a council seat!
As a city council member, I will pay attention to your needs! I am blessed to be a stay at home mom, though I’ve never spent much time at my house! My availability for the citizens of Estrella, and all of Goodyear, is 100%. Yes, I’ve made contacts in Palm Valley, Historic Goodyear, who are also counting on me. But, I have the time to commit to this city! I have the desire. I have the energy, and I’m taking action!
Did you know that I am an Estrella resident? My husband and I moved here in 2004, just in time for our oldest child to start preschool. Now he is a junior at EFHS. Time flies while you are raising kids! Goodyear has grown up right around my family. But, our city is only starting to boom! For example, look at the growth we’ve experienced in Estrella in the past year. This is expected to continue, as the majority of new build housing will go south and west in Goodyear! We all are excited for the additional fire station to be located here in Estrella, expected to be ready for service in 2019. It is a much needed safety service, and with the building of
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I will have the time to meet with police and fire personnel, hearing what their needs are to keep our city safe. I can visit local businesses, listen to management and owners, and ask how the city can help them in continued success. I will visit our schools, to partner with each school site to find out how our communities can directly support them best with AZ tax credit.
It is important that Estrella continues strong representation on our City Council. Estrella has the largest population of all the communities in Goodyear! Which translates to a high tax base and a large voice when we unite. I am the best candidate for Estrellans to choose because I am one of you! Yes, I represent all of the city. And people have asked me many times, how will I best represent Goodyear if I am from Estrella? My answer is simple. Any decisions that are good for Estrella ARE good for Goodyear! How can you help me during this runoff election? The number one thing I need is YOUR vote! Please share with neighbors and friends, let them know that I am an Estrella resident, and I’m excited to serve in our city. Please contact me at sara@ gilliganforgoodyear.com with any questions, or a request for a yard sign! Submitted by Sara Gilligan Candidate, Goodyear City Council Estrella Resident
April 2017
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TOGETHER, WE CAN CHANGE LIVES. Benevilla is seeking volunteers in the Southwest Valley. Help your neighbors with transportation, become a friendly visitor, assist with light handy man services and more. Please call Benevilla’s Volunteer Services department at 623-584-4999 or visit Benevilla.org to get involved.
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April 2017
Reorganize your kitchen to encourage healthy eating habits “Practicing ‘mindful eating’ can be hindered by a disorganized refrigerator and a cluttered kitchen,” says celebrity nutritionist and healthy cooking expert Keri Glassman Glassman. “When you’re preparing and eating meals in an organized environment, you’re more likely to pay attention to what you’re eating and whether it really does nourish your body and mind.” And while Glassman says refrigerator organization is a first step in leading a healthier life, it’s sometimes easier said than done. In fact, independent consumer research of 1,000 adults, commissioned by LG Electronics shows that more than one-third of American families say fruits
Yum Yum!
and vegetables are the hardest things to keep organized in the fridge.
Glassman offers tips to get more organized in the kitchen for a healthier 2017: Take control of your refrigerator “Keeping healthy items in your refrigerator front and center can actually affect the nutrition value of what you’re preparing for your family,” Glassman says. “Today’s refrigerators are making this easier with advanced organization features, like fridges with the new LG InstaView feature that makes it simple to organize your food in a way that puts the most healthful choices in easy view and reach.” “When you see healthy choices right in front of you, you’re more likely to choose those first,” notes Glassman. Additionally, transferring packaged- or bulk-foods into clear glass containers can help keep the fridge looking fresh, and keep your foods fresher longer - which in turn, allows the enticing colors of fresh fruits and veggies to draw your attention. “A clean fridge with colorful fruits and veggies is key to healthy eating,” Glassman says. “My favorite weekend
Up The Hill
mornings are spent on color quests at the farmer’s market gathering at least seven different colored fruits and veggies. Not only does the fridge look gorgeous, it inspires fresh cooking and will improve your eating habits!” Declutter your kitchen Kitchen counters often become the repository for lots of clutter, from kitchen electronics and small appliances, to car keys and the mail. The clutter takes away valuable cooking space and can affect how healthfully you eat. “Keep a clear counter,” Glassman says. “Designate an area for keys and mail that is away from your cooking space. Don’t keep unhealthy snacks sitting out on the counter, where their high visibility will make them even more tempting.”
After a meal, and especially after dinner, clear plates and clean up in the kitchen right away. Leaving chores for later will only draw you back into the kitchen, where you might be tempted to snack even though you’ve already satisfied your body’s nutritional needs. In fact, Glassman says, consider adopting a closed-kitchen policy after dinnertime. Close the door to the room, if you have one, and if your home has an open floor plan, avoid making unnecessary trips to the kitchen. “Organize your pantry and fridge with the motto, if you see it, you’ll use it,” Glassman says. “Rearrange so the healthiest choices are most visible, and the less healthy ones aren’t in easy sight.”
April 2017
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Protect Yourself 4 life changes that affect your taxes and how to tackle them Life changes often mean tax changes. Whether it’s getting married, buying or selling a home, moving abroad or having a baby, misunderstanding the tax and financial implications of these life changes can lead to taxpayers making mistakes or leaving money on the table. If you experienced a life change in 2016, here is a list of tax implications and how they will affect you.
Marriage There are some instances when getting married can have negative implications for a couple’s tax situation. Once you’re married you must file either as married filing jointly or married filing separately. In some cases, a couple where one spouse earns most of the household income will benefit because their overall tax bracket may decrease. However, a couple with two high earners may find they face a higher tax rate than if each paid tax only on their own income and added the taxes paid. However, there are some ways to protect against potential negative tax implications. After your marriage is official, update your W-4 with your employer to account for your new marital status. If you’re
self-employed or a small business owner, make sure to adjust your quarterly estimated tax payments. Buying a house Purchasing a home may open the door to more deductions through itemizing if you weren’t already doing so. Once you become a homeowner, you can deduct many of your home-related costs, including your qualified home mortgage interest, points paid on a loan secured by your home, real estate taxes and private mortgage insurance premiums paid on or before Dec. 31, 2016. Moving abroad Are you excited to move abroad, but have no idea what will happen to your taxes and how to file? Many Americans living and working overseas will not owe tax to the IRS because of the foreign earned income exclusion and foreign tax credit. However, even if you qualify for those benefits, you have to file a U.S. tax return each year if you received income over the normal filing threshold. Having a baby A new baby means you may be able to take advantage of tax breaks, including the Child Tax Credit. The CTC is worth up to $1,000 for each qualifying child younger than 17, depending on your income. You may also qualify for the Earned Income Tax Credit which is a benefit for working people with low to moderate income that reduces the amount of taxes you owe. If you have any questions about tax implications make an appointment with a tax professional.
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April 2017
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April 2017
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State Route 303 and Northern Ave. in the West Valley April 2017
Shortcuts to make your home sparkle this spring We all know that one person who just adores cleaning. But for the rest of us, it’s a necessary evil that gets old very quickly! Before you tackle that long list of spring cleaning tasks, try some of these cleaning hacks designed to make these chores faster and easier. When cleaning is fun and even effortless, you’ll feel more energized and gain the momentum you need to knock out your list of chores. Afterward, your house will sparkle from top to bottom, which is its own reward! 1. Find smarter tools Throw out the messy bucket and mop and reach for a smarter floor solution that’s efficient and fun to use. For example, the O-Cedar EasyWring Spin Mop & Bucket System has a built-in wringer that offers superior moisture control of the mop, which makes it safe and easy to use on all hard floor surfaces - even hardwood!
Up The Hill
Spring Cleaning
2. Try natural solutions Commercial cleaning solutions can add extra costs to your deep cleaning session, not to mention the harsh chemicals can leave behind unpleasant odors.
A simple solution of warm water and vinegar removes built-up grime from your floors, while leaving a clean, rinse-free finish. Just add a half cup of distilled white vinegar to a gallon of warm water and start mopping. If you dislike the smell of vinegar, add a couple drops of your favorite essential oil - the fresh scent will be like a small reward! 3. Shortcut to shining windows If you want streak-free mirrors and clean windows without the hassle, Cas Aarssen, author of “Real Life Organizing: Cleaning and Clutter-Free in 15 Minutes a Day” has this expert tip: Add a teaspoon of cornstarch to your favorite glass cleaner and shake until dissolved. Cornstarch improves the cleaning power of the solution and makes streaks a thing of the past, so you’ll get the
job done more quickly.
4. Use a cleaning method that also protects Aarssen has an easy tip that will not only shine up your kitchen appliances, it will repel fingerprints and food splatters often left behind. Just spritz on a little wood furniture polish and rub in with a soft cloth until the surface shines like new. 5. Clean up top Dust can collect on those high, hard-to-reach places, such as decorative molding and ceiling fans, making cleaning day more difficult. To clean your ceiling fan without showering dust bunnies everywhere, an old pillowcase is your best tool. Spritz the inside of the pillowcase with a vinegar and water solution and slip it over the blades of the fan, pulling it back to trap the dust. For those tough to reach moldings and corners, use a sturdy rubber band to wrap a microfiber cloth around the end a broom, and give those hard-to-reach areas a clean sweep!
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Furry Friends Leptospirosis
You may have heard the chatter at your local dog park or doggie playgroup about a new virus that is running rampant amongst our beloved four-legged friends. The reports boast some alarming numbers, dog fatalities, and signs of a possible outbreak. Much like the childhood game of telephone, as the story passes along the content become more and more misconstrued. So, let’s stick to the facts. Leptospirosis is a virus caused by bacteria called Leptospires. This bacterium lives in fresh water, soil, and mud. It is more commonly found in areas with tropical climates and high annual rainfall. The first case was documented in the 1800’s so it’s been around for some time. Leptospirosis can affect farm animals and dogs but is rare in cats. The most common way that leptospirosis is spread is through the urine of infected animals, which can get into water or soil. Animals can become infected when they come into direct contact with this contaminated water or soil. The bacteria enter through cuts in the skin or through mucous membranes (eyes, nose or mouth). Drinking contaminated water may also infect animals. Is my dog at risk?
pet’s personality, energy level, hunger and thirst levels. If you begin to notice that your pet is acting differently, it would make sense to monitor any signs and symptoms closely, such as: • Drinking more than usual • Urinating more than usual • Lack of urination • Redness in the eyes • Severe weakness and depression • Reluctance to eat • Fever over 103.5° F • Vomiting • Diarrhea • Stiffness or severe muscle pain In terms of prevention, keep a close eye on your dog to ensure he is not drinking from puddles or community water bowls – easier said than done for sure! According to the CDC, dogs may pass the virus to each other; however this is rare. Not all dogs that come into contact with leptospirosis will contract it either. There are vaccinations available for Leptospirosis. Whether or
not that is the best choice for your dog is a personal choice. Please speak extensively with your veterinarian about the best option for your dog based on his/ her age, present health and any underlining medical conditions. Be sure to ask about the potential risks and side effects so that, together, you can make the best decision in the present moment for the safety and health of your beloved fur-friend. If you think your pet may have leptospirosis, contact your veterinarian immediately. There are specific tests to diagnosis this virus, which is treatable with antibiotics. All in all, it is unclear as to the exact source of where the leptospirosis virus is coming from, or if the dogs in question have traveled into Arizona from another tropical climate where this bacteria tends to thrive. Submitted by Kristin Robinson, of Community Paws, W Valley resident
Awareness and prevention are key. As a pet owner, you know your pet best. You know your
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April 2017
Medical Advances New relief for knee pain may be on the horizon Innovations in modern medicine have brought many artificial joints and bionic body parts to patients. However, a prosthetic replacement for the meniscus the tissue pad located between the thigh and shin bones - has not been available. Now two clinical trials underway across the U.S. may help make the “artificial meniscus” a reality, providing a new treatment option for millions of Americans with persistent knee pain caused by injured or deteriorated meniscus. The meniscus is highly vulnerable to tearing, both from physical activity and excess weight. Once damaged, it has a very limited ability to heal. More than 1 million partial meniscectomies to remove or repair a torn meniscus are performed in the U.S. every year - about the same as the total number of hip and knee replacement surgeries combined. However, many patients still experience persistent knee pain following meniscus surgery.
knee pain became progressively worse and resulted in a constant limp. “I went from working out seven days week to having to stop any exercise activities,” Cullum says. “And my work as a parttime volunteer firefighter was challenging, since it was difficult to move any equipment and my mobility was compromised when responding to an emergency scene.” Cullum discovered a hospital near her home town is participating in the clinical trial of the NUsurface Meniscus Implant - the first “artificial meniscus” designed to replace the damaged one. “There are limited options for patients who experience persistent knee pain following meniscus surgery,” says Dr. Richard Alfred, orthopedic surgeon at Capital Region Orthopaedic Associates and VENUS study
investigator. “It is our hope that the NUsurface implant alleviates pain in these patients, allowing them to return to their previous levels of activity.” Cullum received the implant in July 2016 through a small incision in her knee. She completed a six-week rehabilitation program, and she has now returned to daily leisure activities like hot yoga and her work as a volunteer firefighter. “My range of motion is improving,” Cullum says, “and I am ecstatic to be able to resume one of my favorite activities volunteering together with my husband and children at our local fire department.” To find a study site near you, visit www.activeimplants.com/ kneepaintrial.
New York area volunteer firefighter Tracy Cullum was diagnosed with a meniscus tear eight years ago, when the 42-year-old mother of two was experiencing a constant ache and the inability to put any weight on her left leg. Although she underwent a partial meniscectomy to treat the tear, her Up The Hill
April 2017
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THE BUG GUY Welcome to spring in the West Valley! Scorpions are prevalent here in Arizona! Most calls to the poison control center about scorpion stings occur between April and October. Based on our current weather pattern, this year’s scorpion population has and will continue to see a dramatic increase. There are approximately 60 species of scorpions thriving in Arizona. All scorpions sting and inject venom. Only one scorpion in the U.S. is classified as potentially deadly, the Bark Scorpion. The Bark Scorpion occurs naturally throughout Maricopa county and Arizona. It is commonly found inside houses and buildings. The Bark Scorpion chooses a defined place or territory in which to live. If a structure is built on the area, then that structure will have an infestation of Bark Scorpions. The Bark Scorpion is one of
several medium size scorpions. It typically grows to approximately 2.5 inches in length with two distinguishing characteristics; 1) It climbs walls and 2) It can lay its tail down and move through
a very shallow crack or crevice. Color varies from clear, light tan, to reddish brown with a long tail that is comprised of thin tail sections, with the length of about 1.5 times its body length. Bark Scorpion Stings: The Bark Scorpion sting is extremely painful, but does not usually cause swelling or redness at the strike site. Victims have described it as having a piece of sharp metal heated and stabbed into their skin! The immediate local pain/ burning is
The perfect match. Dwayne P Aaron Ins Agcy Inc Dwayne Aaron CPCU, Agent www.dwayneaaron.com dwayne@dwayneaaron.com Bus: 480-948-2005
usually followed by a feeling of numbness and tingling (and still lots of pain) that can travel up an arm or leg. This is a totally natural reaction to the sting. On rare occasions victims could experience further symptoms, like visual disturbances, difficulty swallowing, swollen tongue, slurred speech, and respiratory problems. If any of these additional symptoms occur, seek emergency medical attention. Consider this, a scorpion delivers micrograms of venom, so the larger the victim the less affected they will be. Because children are more likely to have a full neurological response, special care should be taken. If a child has been stung by a scorpion, contact poison control at 1-800222-1222 or seek emergency medical attention. Scorpion infestations are not permanent issues. Scorpions can be exterminated and the situation resolved with the help of a Quality Pro Certified, Integrated Pest Management company. Submitted By Larry Cash, of Estrella Mountian Pest Control, Estrella Resident
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School Zone
Smart ideas for supporting your child’s education in 2017 and beyond
about biology as birds fly by the window. Learning moments are all around, you just have to point them out.
The education children receive today will help them throughout their lives. School is the fundamental component of the learning process, but education doesn’t stop when kids arrive back home at the end of the day.
Daily conversations: With a fun, no-pressure approach, go over what your children learned in school. If they don’t want to talk right after school, wait until later. During or after dinner may allow enough transition time so you’ll find they’ll open up more.
- Sponsored by Chris Carlton of Edward Jones
Positive attitude: Kids will mirror your attitude toward your work as well as how you view their school, homework and teachers. Stay positive, respectful and model resilience during difficult times; you’ll find they’ll do the same.
“Education and family go hand in hand,” says Ellen Marks, curriculum director of Bricks 4 Kidz, an award-winning summer camp and after-school program. “Parents who take an active role by supporting classroom learning will not only see their kids’ education blossom, but their relationship with them, too.” The start of the new year is the ideal time to evaluate what you’re doing right and where you could improve in regards to supporting your child’s education. Marks offers these smart ideas guaranteed to help you keep this resolution in 2017 and beyond: Connections to real life: One of the best ways to help kids understand classroom lessons is to connect the material to everyday experiences. Practice fractions while cooking. Chat Up The Hill
Enriching activities: Select fun afterschool activities that emphasize cognitive development while building self-esteem. For example, Bricks 4 Kidz uses relatable tools like LEGO Bricks to teach science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) skills. Learn more at www. bricks4kidz.com and sign up for an After School class.
assist when needed with gentle guidance and encouragement. Reading buddies: Reading together can instill a lifelong love of literature. Try reading the same books your child is assigned in school so you can foster a good discussion about characters and storylines. When you both finish the book, rent the film version and plan a movie night. Active learning opportunities: Reading, writing and solving math problems are passive learning activities. At home, encourage active learning where your child builds models, creates art projects and can ask questions. It’s amazing to watch their minds work and see what they create. Health and wellness: A child must first be well before they can effectively learn. Make sure kids stay fueled with a variety of healthy foods. Next, ensure they get a good night’s sleep. Full, well-rested kids are always ready and eager to learn.
The parent-teacher relationship: Sending check-in emails, attending conferences and volunteering are ways to build strong relationships with teachers. Be proactive about asking where your child excels and what areas they may need additional help. Homework help: Good study habits are essential to excelling at school. Create a comfortable homework space with adequate supplies and few distractions. What’s more, be an active partner in your child’s homework and April 2017
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Home Sweet Home Last-minute cleaning tasks to do before every showing
Real estate experts agree: dirt and clutter are the anti-staging elements that can send buyers running for the door before they ever think of making an offer. Prior to staging your home, invest some time in deep cleaning it, paying attention to everything from the front walk to the garbage disposal to the air inside your home. Once you’ve created a clean foundation, follow through with these quick cleaning tasks before showings: 1. Sweep in front of the house. Thoroughly sweep front walks, stairs and entryways, and don’t forget to clear cobwebs above the door. Put away any children’s toys or gardening tools that may be in the front yard. Hide trash and recycling containers out of sight. 2. Freshen the aromas inside. Pet and cooking smells are major turnoffs for home buyers, but
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even if your house has neither, freshening the indoor scent can have a positive effect on a buyer’s mood. However, you don’t want to saturate your home in overpowering, chemical-based scents, either. Before a showing, wipe down kitchen counters, leaving behind clean countertops and a fresh, energizing citrus scent.
used your bathroom to get ready this morning, so wipe down surfaces to ensure no hair or debris lingers. Check the mirror for spots and wipe and dry the sink. If the bathtub or shower door show signs of recent use, dry them off. Store used soap, shampoo, scrubbies, loofahs, wash cloths and towels out of sight.
3. Speed clean the kitchen. Now that your counters are clutter-free, sparkling and smelling good, just a few more tasks will get your kitchen ready to show. Wipe away any fingerprints on appliances, and put away all pots, pans, dishes and glassware in their proper place. Store pet bowls out of sight, give the floor a quick sweep and dry the interior of the sink with a paper towel.
5. Clean carpets. Nothing says “show home” like fresh vacuum tracks in the carpet! Just before you leave the house for a showing, give carpets a quick pass with the vacuum.
4. Put your best foot forward in the bath. It’s tough but critical to keep the most-used room in the house looking its best. You probably
6. Take out the trash. Go through every room with a trash can and make sure it’s empty. It may not seem rational, but many buyers will equate trash in a waste basket with an untidy home. It’s especially important to empty trash that may stink, such as in the kitchen. Remove trash, store it in a sealed receptacle outside the house.
April 2017
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April 2017
The Best Advice Good, Bad, and the Pot Roast ‘Go jump in a lake’ is an American idiom that’s been around forever. We assume it’s a way to tell someone to go away. What if it was really stated a piece of advice, such as ‘don’t put all your eggs in one basket’? Picture this: A stranger rides into town on a horse after weeks in the open prairie. Several town folk greet him and, realizing he’s dirty and stinky, suggest he jump in the lake to clean up. The stranger was so excited at the chance for a bath the town folk decided every traveler would be told to jump in the lake as a welcome greeting. There’s evidence for the theory that idioms are really advice. Look at the saying ‘Actions speak
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louder than words’. Anyone can boast and bluster, but big talk is just talk unless you’re backing it up. The argument against the theory is the idiom ‘pull someone’s leg.’ I hope no one is running around yanking on someone’s leg unless that’s part of the joke. When that happens you can always give someone a ‘leg to stand on’. You, me, and others share advice because we like to be helpful. Sometimes we give advice because we’re excited about a discovery. A new restaurant opened and you loved it so much you tell everyone that they must eat there. The same thing happens with a favorite TV show, too. How did so many Netflix subscribers find out about Sherlock television series? Everyone was excited for a brilliant mystery. Yes, it’s a great show and you really must watch it. See! I just gave
helpful advice for improving your entertainment choices AND how to be a couch potato all at once. You can thank me later. Not all advice is good. The words ‘put on your shoes and socks’ was a routine command, but bad advice. Read that phrase again because it’s in the wrong order unless you’re one of the few who wears socks over their shoes. Outdated advice isn’t much good either. Look up “The Pot Roast Story” online for another example. Always remember that advice and condiments are similar. We offer it to others as an enhancement and decide whether to use it or not when offered to us. So, make a pot roast, watch Sherlock, and try not to bend over backwards doing this. John Safin is President and CEO of the Southwest Valley Chamber of Commerce.
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MONEY MATTERS
Teach Your Children Well … About Finances and Investing
High debt levels, lack of savings, the inability to budget – these problems all have several causes, but one of them is almost certainly financial illiteracy. Too many of us just never developed the money management skills necessary to cope with our complicated – and expensive – world. But if you have young children, you can teach them some money-smart lessons – and who knows? You could use the opportunity to give yourself a few valuable reminders, too. Here are some suggestions for a financial “curriculum”: Save for a goal. In our highly commercialized culture, it’s almost inevitable that your children will eventually become somewhat acquisitive. Obviously, it’s important to teach them that they can’t have everything – and they certainly can’t have everything right now. So, once they are old enough to receive an allowance or to earn money in some fashion, encourage them to set a goal for something they want, such as a toy or video game, and to put money aside every week for that goal. It’s also an excellent idea to model this behavior yourself. So if you are considering making a major purchase in the not-too-distant future, such as a car, show your children how you are setting aside money regularly for this purpose, rather than borrowing as much as you can or putting the entire purchase on a credit card. Establish a budget. It can be challenging to create a household budget and just as difficult to stick to it – but for most people,
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it’s worth the effort. You’ll be doing your children a favor by showing them how you have a certain amount of income and where it goes – mortgage, utilities, groceries, retirement accounts, etc. – each month. Explain to your kids that by staying within your budget, you can help avoid problems such as debt and extra fees tacked onto bills for late payments. You might also want to point out that, as your income rises, you can gain greater flexibility in budgeting. Here’s the key point: Living within your means pays off in the long run. Have fun with investing. It might surprise you, but even young children enjoy learning about the investment process, especially if you explain to them that they can be an owner of a company that makes a product or service they like. You might want to pick such a company and, along with your child, chart its course over time. You could give your child a pretend $100 bill to “invest” in this company and then see how its value changes, explaining along the way that various factors – such as the popularity of the company’s products, the skill of its managers, and so on – will affect the stock’s price. At some point, you may even wish to
purchase real stocks for your child and place them within a custodial account. And you might also want to show your child how your own stocks and other investments are performing. The investment world can be fascinating, and by sharing your enthusiasm for it with your children, you can encourage them to invest throughout their lives. Knowledge is power. And the more knowledge about finances and investing that you can impart to your children now, the more empowered they will be to make smart financial moves in the future. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor, Chris Carlton
April 2017
America In August of 1945, we celebrated VJ Day. After much bloodshed and sacrifices, we finally defeated Japan in a war that still reverberates to this day. The relief that followed also served as a reminder that even in victory there is sadness. The needless waste of resources and humanities’ disdain for the values of life’s gifts caused us to pause and wonder about our purpose. During these difficult times, we Americans came together as never before. The blood drives, the collection of fat, the rationing of things we once took for granted, the purchase of savings bonds, the entertaining of the troops, all taught us that when a nation is in need its citizens rise to the occasion. It certainly was a different time. One thing that stood out, in my mind, was a simple song made famous during that infamous time in our history – “The House I live in.” The house I live in reminded
Living With Faith us of all we hold dear and find precious in this experiment called America. The words resonate with us because they speak to our values and ideals. The entertainers that performed and sang these lyrics of patriotism gave meaning to their significance. They enabled us to realize that only as one people can we ever hope to accomplish the dreams of all the generations that preceded us. The house I live in A plot of earth, the street The grocer and the butcher Or the people that I meet The children in the playground The faces that I see All races and religions That’s America to me As we examine the simple words of everyday occurrences we are left to understand that America is so diverse and yet so connected. It is the diversity that was and remains the secret strength of this great nation. It is as though God gazed at this creation of young and older, white and black, Jew, Gentile, Muslim, and Hindu – on and on the differences are clear, but the bonds are unbreakable. The place I work in The worker by my side The little town the city Where my people lived and died The howdy and the handshake The air of feeling free And the right to speak your mind out That’s America to me We have just completed a most exhausting and agonizing election. Things have been said that may never be forgotten, but it is over. What is not over is the fact that we are all Americans with the right to speak our minds. We are Americans enjoying
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freedoms that few in the world can truly understand.
Now is the time to join together in building an even stronger America. Two hundred forty years has taught us that only as one can we truly benefit from the many different opinions and solutions. Only as one can we overcome the vitriol that seems to have settled in our hearts and minds. Together, we succeed, separate, we fail. It really is that simple. The lyrics end with a startling reminder – “Especially the people, that’s America to me.” Stand next to a friend or relative and look at your reflection in the mirror. The only resemblance is that each has a nose and two eyes, two ears, a mouth. This is where the similarities end because if we look closer we see two different people. This is the strength of America – similar, but different. Now is the time to join with one another and know that through the tears, and the dreams, and the growing, we have developed a country that has never been duplicated, nor will it ever be. August 1945 may have been a different time, but the messages of those offerings are no different today. As we journey into a new chapter in our history perhaps it is appropriate to also remember that by the Grace of God do we flourish. Rabbi Irwin Wiener, D.D. Sun Lakes Jewish Congregation National Chaplain, Jewish War Veterans, USA
April 2017
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April 2017
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April 2017
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Life As A Caregiver Take care of YOU
In my last article, I wrote about long-term health care and that all of us should have it. I applied for it (and got it) when I first moved to Arizona. But let me prepare you for the process I experienced (in case it will be the same for you) because it can be a bit intimidating, which I didn’t know until the time of the interview. A nurse came to my home for an hour-long interview, which included learning about my health history, taking my vital signs (height, weight, blood pressure, temperature) and giving me an oral memory test! Yes….a MEMORY TEST!!! And that’s when I began to freak out. What if I can’t remember anything? What if I flunk the test? What if they don’t give me the insurance? Now, I was there when the doctor tested my mom for dementia. Her memory test included being asked to remember three words and to draw the face of a clock with the time showing 10:30 on
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it. To this day, I remember those three words (table, apple and penny). But, I digress. So now the nurse explains to me about the memory test. She’s going to tell me 10 words (10 words!!) to remember. Then we will chat. Then she will ask me to repeat the 10 words. Then we will chat again. Then she will ask me to repeat the words again…and so on for three times!
So we begin. I remembered eight of them the first time. That’s good… and a little aboveaverage. Then I remembered seven of them the second time. That was pretty average. Then I remembered seven of them again the third time, but a different seven. THEN she says she’s going to say a list of words and I’m supposed to tell her if any of those were among the original 10. I got those ALL correct!! So the interesting part here is that it is easier for us to distinguish the right words from the wrong words rather than having to recall the whole list of words on our own. This entire word process
lasted about 30 minutes….and I passed!!! But I was SO nervous. I guess I’ve always hated tests! So what does all this really mean? It means, as a caregiver, you not only need to be focused on your family member’s needs, but you also need to be aware of your own. Not just getting enough sleep and exercise, and eating right, and taking time for yourself, and developing interesting things to occupy your body & mind apart from the task at hand. But for long-term preparation, as well. As I mentioned in an earlier article: make sure YOU have a will and a health care directive, make sure YOU have long-term health care, make sure YOU have a Power of Attorney in case something happens to YOU. Because, what if it did? What if it did and your family member is still alive? Who would take care of them? Submitted by Kathy Linton, West Valley Resident
April 2017
Puzzles & Games
Sudoku for April
Sudoku Solution
Numbers from 1-9 must appear only once in each row, column and box. Good Luck!
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